Lehi’s appreciation for the Lord’s guidance and protection is demonstrated in 1 Nephi 2:7: “He built an altar of stones, and made an offering unto the Lord, and gave thanks unto the Lord our God.” This is the first of several instances in the Book of Mormon when faithful followers of Christ offered sacrifices and burnt offerings to express thanks to God (see, for example, 1 Nephi 7:22; Mosiah 2:3–4). Sincere expressions of gratitude and obedience to Heavenly Father are necessary for all His children if they are to please Him (see D&C 59:21).
“Obedience is the first law of heaven. All progression, all perfection, all salvation, all godliness, all that is right and just and true, all good things come to those who live the laws of Him who is Eternal. There is nothing in all eternity more important than to keep the commandments of God” (Bruce R. McConkie, The Promised Messiah: The First Coming of Christ [1978], 126).