3 principles: from the verses in Matthew 14-18, Mark 6-9, Luke 9, John 6-10

Matthew 15:8- they draw near unto me with their mouth, but their heart is far from me

The principle I believe is being taught here is that actions speak louder then words. Because many times we have desires to show that we are faithful and so we profess to believe all things and promise to do many things to improve or change without putting the effort forth. I think this happens quite often, that we say that we want to read the scriptures more, but instead we are focusing on school work, jobs or other things and never actually get around to really studying the scriptures. This principle shows that it isn't in what we say we shall do, but it is in the true intent of our heart to do what we promised. I think that sometimes it is better to simply do the correct thing then saying that we will do it and not complete it. I also think this covers the fact that God judges on the heart and he knows what our true intent is. Because sometimes there are people with desires to do good but they are incapable of completing a specific task, but they tried and had a deep desire to complete it. (Word count: 192)

Mark 9:23-  If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. (v24) Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief

I love this scripture because it really shows the principle that with faith all things are possible, which includes being strengthened in our belief. What I love about this scripture is how the Lord first let the man know that with faith that the miracle could occur. Then this man had the great desire and had faith that it could occur, but then realized that he was weak and wasn't sure if he had enough faith. There are many times when I know that something is possible, yet I still need the strength from the Lord to truly believe that it will occur according to the Lord's will.

John 7:24- Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment

Something that I really like about the principle to judge not, which ties into the principle of treating others the way we want to be treated. This is because we all are going through trails and difficulties and therefore other people may struggle with things that may seem easy to us. I think the Savior is a perfect example of this to us, showing the importance of reaching out to the poor and the needy and by not judging harshly. I think we should be able to use good discernment to decide what type of people we spend time with, but we shouldn't be thinking harshly of them or be quick to point out fault. I really love the Savior's example with the lady who was caught in adultery, because he chooses to forgive her and judge not even though he is perfect. Because sometimes I think people are misled to think that as long as they are doing what is right then it is okay to judge, but that isn't the case. We should love others and always want to support and uplift them. Also in judging righteously we should hate the sin not the sinner, and recognize that people who struggle need more of our help not less. (Word count:210)