Both Alma and Nephi testified that they had received knowledge directly from God which they could not have gained on their own. These testimonies encouraged their listeners to open their hearts and receive the knowledge that only God can give.
Bridle and Repent
To Shiblon, Alma counseled, "Bridle all your passions." To Corianton, he said, "Repent and forsake your sins." It's better to prevent than to detect and correct it, but identifying sins and repenting quickly is better than leaving them unattended.
Shiblon’s Challenge
Alma's admonitions to Shiblon have a common denominator: Be more self-aware. Recognize when you are motivated by pride. Channel your energy in more positive directions. Be careful not to substitute other people's perceptions for reality.
Born to Know
Alma told Helaman and Shiblon that he could not have understood the gospel without being changed, born of God. God can not only give us knowledge, but He can also transform us and elevate our consciousness, so that we can understand what He is teaching us
Prayers and Pride
Alma lamented the memorized prayer of the Zoramites, which was an expression of pride. We can make our prayers more humble by thinking of others, acknowledging our weakness, recognizing context, focusing on service, and being receptive to guidance.
Mercy
1. God is merciful. 2. He extends "arms of mercy" toward us. 3. The Savior's bowels are filled with mercy because of what He suffered. 4. He earned the right to offer us mercy. We claim that mercy by repenting. 5. Mercy is central to God's plan for us.
No Greater Joy
John says, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." If our greatest joy comes from the spiritual growth of our children, then we should put our greatest efforts into strengthening, encouraging, and guiding them.
Developing Christlike Attributes
Peter listed a number of attributes that we should strive to develop with God's help: faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. The Book of Mormon provides insight into each of these Christlike attributes.
“Forbearing One Another”
The apostle Paul urged the Ephesians to be kind to one another, to forgive each other, and to "forbear" one another, which means to give each other a break. As Alma taught Shiblon, we must bridle our passions to be fillied with love for one another.
Flee Fornication
Paul urged us to run away from sexual immorality. He didn't say to avoid it or to resist temptation. He said "flee." Why? Because chastity in action, word, and thought is an affirmation of loyalty to your most important and permanent relationships.