If there is a passage in Nephi's chronicle with an authentic, personal feel to it, Nephi's Psalm is probably it. In 2 Nephi 4:12, Nephi's father Lehi "died, and was buried." Not a word on funeral observances, a bit surprising. Then, after a falling out with his brothers, Nephi resolves to leave the group, taking with him those of the party who sympathized with him. The following verses represent his 'cri de coeur' at this difficult juncture, borrowing various biblical phrases, but touching, nonetheless (2 Nephi 4:17-35, selections with slight edits):
O wretched man that I am!
My heart sorroweth because of my flesh,
my soul grieveth because of my iniquities.
When I desire to rejoice,
my heart groaneth because of my sins,
Yet I know in whom I have trusted.
Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin.
Rejoice, my heart! Give place no more for the enemy of my soul.
O Lord, wilt Thou encircle me around in the robe of Thy righteousness!
Wilt Thou make a way for mine escape before mine enemies!
Wilt Thou make my path straight before me!
O Lord, I have trusted in Thee, and I will trust in Thee forever.
I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh.
My voice shall forever ascend up to Thee,
my Rock and everlasting God.
10:41:18 PM 
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