To have a "contrite spirit," as expressed in Helaman 8:15, is to be humble, repentant, and receptive to the Lord's will. Why is this attitude essential as we look to the Savior?
In the Nephites experience, being left to their own strength meant losing battles and lands. What "battles" might we lose if we do not have the Holy Ghost with us?
What do these verses teach us about having faith even when we feel we are in a place of desolation? How can we act in faith believing that things will get better?