From our infancy, we are taught that upon receiving a gift from any source we are to respond with gratitude. “What do you say?” is a commonly repeated phrase by parents to elicit a simple “thank you” from a child.
In the introduction of the Book of Mormon, it is made clear that this book is not a work of modern writing, but rather a work of translation of ancient writers done by “the gift of God.”
“The interpretation thereof by the gift of God” - Title Page
“In due course the plates were delivered to Joseph Smith, who translated them by the gift and power of God.” - Introduction
“And we also know that they have been translated by the gift and power of God, for his voice hath declared it unto us; wherefore we know of a surety that the work is true.” - The Testimony of Three Witnesses
“The ancient record thus brought forth from the earth as the voice of a people speaking from the dust, and translated into modern speech by the gift and power of God as attested by Divine affirmation, was first published to the world in the year 1830 as The Book of Mormon.” - The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith
We all may be grateful for the gift delivered to Joseph Smith by reading the work he was given.