needs, and that you are happy to share and pray with him or her.
NOTE: Some people tend to describe their ailments at great length.
You should be sympathetic and caring, but at an appropriate opportunity take command of the conversation.
2. After the inquirer has explained the problem, say that you would be glad to speak about the matter but you would first like to ask a very important question directly related to the issue: Has he or she ever received Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord? If not, explain "Steps to Peace with God," page 11, followed by "Assurance," page 15, and the chapter on "Assurance of Salvation."
3. Now, redirect the conversation to the emotional or physical problem. Is it due, possibly, to habits or excesses such as those mentioned in the "Background"? Some discussion may follow at this point. Help the person to realize that these habits, if involved, might be directly related to the problems. Encourage asking God for help in getting his or her lifestyle under control.
4. Pray with the inquirer for victory over the contributing excesses, if any, as well as for complete restoration to health.
5. If the caller is a Christian, try to determine if the illness is in any way related to a lack of harmony with God's will and plan for his or her life. Gently ask if there is any anger, bitterness, resentment, or some other unconfessed sin. If so, share "Restoration," page 11. Emphasize 1 John 1:9 and 2:1.
Encourage the inquirer to live in fellowship with Christ, seeking always to glorify Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). Following this, pray earnestly and in faith for healing, according to Matthew 18:19.
6. If the inquirer is a Christian who feels that he or she has been walking in God's will, go immediately to prayer, claiming God's promise according to the prayer of faith.
7. Following your handling of any of the above cases, always speak of the peace and completeness which can be experienced as we learn to depend on God's Word and prayer. These will provide the greatest encouragement in the face of illness or adversity. Offer to send Living in Christ, which will help get him or her started in Bible reading and study.
8. Recommend that he or she get involved with a Bible-teaching church. The fellowship, care, and prayers of God's people are a great strength. And counsel and encouragement from the pastor may be a definite asset.