This and the adjacent chapters of 3 Nephi contain the priceless instructions of the Savior on gospel fundamentals: how to ponder, pray, and prepare our minds with regard to spiritual matters; being worthy of the blessings of the sacrament of the Lord; the doctrine and power of using prayer daily; and how to teach the people and minister to them in love. In all of these things the Lord is the ultimate model and exemplar.
The Lord loves us. He wants us to be happy and partake of the blessings of eternal life. His joy lies in our growth as we become even as He is. He wants to help us understand the doctrines, principles, and covenants that will help us return to the presence of our Heavenly Father. This is why He takes time to teach us and commissions others to do the same. He realizes that it is a process and that we have to do certain things through our own agency in order to partake of the blessings of His gospel teachings. If we draw on the powers of heaven through prayer, we will be protected and blessed in all that we do.