Helaman 8

"Except ye repent:" a phrase from verse 8 and a repeated phrase in all of Nephi's preaching. This impresses me because the Nephites had done so much wickedness. In the first place they once embraced, then forsook the true Church and faith of God and altogether turned from their righteousness to the grossest wickedness. Mercifully however, Nephi here assures the people that God's hand was stretched out still if they would turn away from their wickedness and back to Him. This illustrates God's mercy in a powerful way I think. 

I think it is significant also that Nephi's words did in fact touch the hearts of some of the people. The word of God was powerful enough to sway the minds of even some individuals whose lives were totally out of harmony with the teachings of the Church. 

Always keep hope alive as long as you have breath to testify. Never underestimate the power of your testimony. Remember that the Spirit of god is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword. But the Spirit doesn't cut flesh like a sword, it pierces the deepest confines of the soul, even to the very heart. The power of the Holy Ghost can pierce any barrier.