Alma 40 - 42

I recall, as a seminary student reading the old testament, coming across the following scripture:

But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. (Proverbs 6:32)

consequently, it makes sense to me that Alma starts his discussion his son Corianton by first speaking about Corianton's moral sins and the consequent "spiritual death".   Elder Russell M. Nelson taught: 

But there is another type of separation known in scripture as spiritual death. (See 2 Ne. 9:12; Alma 12:16;Alma 42:9; Hel. 14:16, 18.) It “is defined as a state of spiritual alienation from God.” (Joseph Fielding Smith,Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols., Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954–56, 2:217.) Thus, one can be very much alive physically but dead spiritually.

Spiritual death is more likely when goals are unbalanced toward things physical. Paul explained this concept to the Romans: “If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (Rom. 8:13.)

If physical death should strike before moral wrongs have been made right, opportunity for repentance will have been forfeited. Thus, “the [real] sting of death is sin.” (1 Cor. 15:56.)

Continuing, Alma redirects Corianton to the Lord, saying "... turn to the Lord with all your mind, might, and strength". In much the same vein, Elder Nelson continues:

Even the Savior cannot save us in our sins. He will redeem us from our sins, but only upon condition of our repentance. We are responsible for our own spiritual survival or death. (See Rom. 8:13–14; Hel. 14:18; D&C 29:41–45.)

Alma then continues to expound on the matter of physical death, resurrection and the state of the spirit after death and prior to resurrection in chapters 41-42. Commenting on the significance of death, Elder Nelson stated:

Scriptures teach that death is essential to happiness: “Now behold, it was not expedient that man should be reclaimed from this temporal death, for that would destroy the great plan of happiness.” (Alma 42:8; italics added; see also 2 Ne. 9:6.)

Our limited perspective would be enlarged if we could witness the reunion on the other side of the veil, when doors of death open to those returning home. Such was the vision of the psalmist who wrote, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” (Ps. 116:15.)

President Gordon B Hinckley penned this reflective poem:

What is this thing that men call deathThis quiet passing in the night?’Tis not the end but genesisOf better worlds and greater light.

O God, touch Thou my aching heartAnd calm my troubled, haunting fears.Let hope and faith, transcendent, pure,Give strength and peace beyond my tears.

There is no death, but only change,With recompense for vict’ry won.The gift of Him who loved all men,The Son of God, the Holy One.

Speaking of an incident where he faced death, Elder Nelson concluded (watch video here):

Throughout that ordeal, though I “knew” death was coming, my paramount feeling was that I was not afraid to die.

As we complete our mortal probation, and attend to the welfare of our eternal souls, may we remember Elder Nelson's counsel:

We need not look upon death as an enemy. With full understanding and preparation, faith supplants fear. Hope displaces despair. The Lord said, “Fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.” (D&C 101:36.) He bestowed this gift: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27.)

... With that assurance, brothers and sisters, love life! Cherish each moment as a blessing from God. (See Mosiah 2:21.) Live it well—even to your loftiest potential. Then the anticipation of death shall not hold you hostage. With the help of the Lord, your deeds and desires will qualify you to receive everlasting joy, glory, immortality, and eternal lives.

Ponder and journal:  What are my reflections on this lesson and theme?  What are some of my concerns about death?  What would I not wish to leave unresolved at the end of my mortal probation?

Resources
Russell M Nelson : Doors of Death

Gordon B Hinckley : What Is This Thing Man Calls Death?

Gordon B Hinckley : What Is This Thing Man Calls Death? (Music/Tab Choir Video)
Rex E Lee : Where Much is Given : Some Thoughts on Appreciation
A Don Sorenson : Some Observations on the Law of the Harvest
Sterling W. Sill : Your Four Great Days
BYU Speeches : Death