2. Help the individual to open up to the Lord in the manner of the psalmist:
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:23–24).
Some questions might help, for example:
• Why do you feel that God is disciplining you?
• Do you feel that there is some disobedience or sin in your life that God is dealing with?
3. In no way minimize the sin or disobedience the person admits. This is the basis on which you can ask him or her to repent, confess, and be restored to fellowship.
4. Go over the section on "Restoration," page 17, especially emphasizing 1 John 1:9.
5. Encourage the person to start and continue a daily devotional experience with God through reading His Word and praying.
6. Encourage seeking God's direction and discovering His purpose for life. After receiving God's discipline, one can go on to obedience and blessing and opportunities to live for and serve Christ.
7. Recommend finding a good church where there is a biblically oriented fellowship. Christian friends help to make us stronger!
8. Pray for complete restoration and renewal.
Scripture
Psalm 94:12–13 Proverbs 3:11–12 1 Corinthians 9:27