Christian bookstore to obtain an easy-to-understand translation of the Bible. Ask if we may send Living in Christ to encourage him or her in starting to study the Bible.
4. Suggest that the person seek a Bible-teaching church for fellowship, worship, and opportunities for service. If the church has a singles group, this may provide a setting where he or she can find encouragement and understanding, and build new relationships.
5. Pray for healing of emotions, peace of mind, restored confidence, strength, and spiritual understanding.
6. Suggest special counseling if he or she feels the need for it. A pastor or a Christian psychologist may be helpful.
Points to Remember as You Talk with the Divorced Person
1. What has been done is past. Start where your inquirer is now and go on from there.
2. Try to guide the conversation so that he or she won't feel it necessary to engage in any "postmortems" of the experience. Try rather to direct attention to God, who can help the divorced person reach real solutions.
3. Remain neutral. Do not assume that your inquirer is either guilty or innocent. A judgmental or "holier than thou" attitude will close doors to witnessing.
4. If your inquirer is truly a Christian, encourage him or her to:
A. Confess any bitterness, anger, or other sin and, if necessary, face
realistically any wrong attitudes that contributed to the divorce. Share "Restoration," page 17. Emphasize 1 John 1:9.
B. Develop a new interest in reading and studying the Bible and in
prayer: "Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).
C. Establish or renew a relationship with a church, in spite of feelings of
guilt or fear of criticism. He or she needs the church now more than ever. Perhaps the church has a singles group which would be helpful.
D. Pray with the person for healing, peace of mind, and the ability to
make the necessary adjustments to a different lifestyle.