“For some, faith is not understood and consequently not used to full advantage. Some feel that any discussion of religion and the guidance one can receive through robust faith have no rational basis. However, faith is not illusion nor magic but a power rooted in eternal principles. One day a janitor entered while we were experimenting. In a spirit of disgust he said, ‘You are all liars, pretending that you are doing something important, but you can’t fool me. I know that if you can’t see, hear, taste, smell, or touch it, it doesn’t exist.’ That attitude ruled out the possibility of his learning that there is much of worth that can’t be identified by the five senses” (Scott, “Sustaining Power of Faith,” 76).
“Many principles are not stated directly by the scriptural writer but are instead implied. Implied principles may come from an entire book of scripture, a chapter, or a single verse and may be couched in the scriptural story line, events, or parables. Identifying implied principles includes recognizing the truths being illustrated in a scriptural account and stating them clearly and succinctly. This often requires time and careful thought. Elder Richard G. Scott taught, ‘It is worth great effort to organize the truth we gather to simple statements of principle’ [‘Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge,’ 86].
“Implied principles can often be discovered by looking for cause-and-effect relationships within the scripture block. By analyzing the actions, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals or groups in the scriptural account, and identifying the blessings or consequences that came as a result, gospel principles become more apparent.
“Implied principles can also be identified by asking questions like:
“• What is the moral or point of the story?
“• Why do you think the writer included these events or passages?
“• What did the author intend for us to learn?
“• What are some of the fundamental truths taught in this passage?
“Some examples of implied principles include:
“From the events in the lives of Alma the Younger or Paul: A person who accepts the truth and repents of his sins can lead others to the blessings of the gospel (see Alma 36:10–21; Acts 9:4–20)” (Gospel Teaching and Learning, 27–28).