Alma 39

"And now, my son, I have somewhat more to say unto thee than what I said unto thy brother; for behold, have ye not observed the steadiness of thy brother, his faithfulness, and his diligence in keeping the commandments of God? Behold, has he not set a good example for thee? . . .

"And I command you to take it upon you to counsel with your elder brothers in your undertakings; for behold, thou art in thy youth, and ye stand in need to be nourished by your brothers. And give heed to their counsel" (Alma 39:1, 10).

Alma the younger is speaking to his son Corianton, having already spoken to his older sons Helaman and Shiblon. Corianton has strayed quite a bit and Alma is trying to help him get on the right path by bringing to light what he did, why it is bad, the consequences of such action and how to repent.

I had never before noticed until this time around in reading the Book of Mormon that along with Alma explaining all those things to Corianton, he also advises him to follow in his elder brothers' footsteps, or follow their example that they have set. He also advises that he counsels with them in his doings.

Elder siblings are supposed to be examples to the younger ones. We are supposed to be able to advise and encourage and help our younger siblings. Older siblings aren't perfect, but if they've been trying their best and trying to follow God, then take their advice under serious consideration.