Mosiah Chapter 9

9:1 - "...I was desirous that they should not be destroyed..."
Zeniff was desirous that the Lamanites should not be destroyed.  It's probably a good thing they got the conflict over with at that time...because if the kingdom had been established, this "austere and bloodthirsty" man could have caused much more damage, both among themselves and also with the rest of the Nephites.  Granted, fighting in any situation is undesirable.  We should all live our lives so that we are inviting the Spirit, and not driving him away, as well as our associates, friends and family.

9:1 - "...when I saw that which was good among them I was desirous that they should not be destroyed..."
It's about understanding.  When we have an understanding of the character of God and our ability to become like Him, then we want to help others to lift themselves up to come unto Christ.
 
9:17-18 - "...for I and my people did cry mightily to the Lord that he would deliver us out of the hands of our enemies...and God did hear our cries and did answer our prayers; and we did go forth in his might..."
God wants us to succeed, and when we ask for His help, He will help us.  But if not, we should act in faith anyways, knowing that any righteous choice will eventually bring us happiness.