Jacob 1

Having been consecrated by Nephi to be a priesthood leader and a teacher among the people of Nephi, Jacob seems to sense the magnitude of his calling as he tells us that his people have -

"...began to grow hard in their hearts, and indulge themselves somewhat in wicked practices, such as like unto David of old desiring many wives and concubines, and also Solomon, his son.
16 Yea, and they also began to search much gold and silver, and began to be lifted up somewhat in pride." (Book of Mormon | Jacob 1:15 - 16)

It seems the natural man continues to have the same major temptations or spiritual challenges with immorality, the possession of material things, and pride which seems be reflected in the desire for power, control, and unrighteous dominion. With this great burden, Jacob shares a very important thought and principle -

"Wherefore I, Jacob, gave unto them these words as I taught them in the temple, having first obtained mine errand from the Lord." (Book of Mormon | Jacob 1:17)

In my mind, the words "having first obtained mine errand from the Lord" would suggest that after pondering, praying, that the Lord revealed to him what His will was that should be taught to the people. In all we do, as I have recently blogged on the Doctrine of Christ and in receiving the Holy Ghost, it is by the guidance of the Holy Ghost that we receive our "errand from the Lord".