1. As with the non-Christian caller, determine as early as possible if the individual is really suicidal. Has he or she taken pills or poison? Is there a loaded gun which he or she threatens to use? As the conversation develops, try to obtain the person's name, address, and telephone number; the name of a relative living in his or her area; and the name of a pastor and a church. Always solicit information in a casual, friendly way in order to avoid arousing suspicion.
2. Remind the Christian that God always loves and cares: "For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5).
3. Remind him or her also that we are God's children (quote John 1:12).
4. Emphasize the truth that God still forgives. Share "Restoration," page 17, emphasizing Proverbs 28:13 and 1 John 1:9. Confession results in forgiveness and restoration of fellowship.
5. Encourage him or her to look only to the Lord and not at the present problems and circumstances (Matthew 14:27–32; Proverbs 3:5–6).
6. Suggest that it is important to get into God's Word: hear, read, study, meditate, and memorize.
7. Remind him or her that prayer is a valuable resource and an essential part of a Christian's life (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6–7).
8. Recommend becoming involved in a Bible-teaching church as an important step in recovering emotional stability. Such identity permits fellowship with caring people who worship and work together.
9. The telephone helper could at this point ask if the inquirer would like a call from a supervisor the following evening. This will give him or her something to look forward to. Please give the "Counselor's Report Form" to a supervisor so that the promise is not forgotten.
10. Pray with the inquirer that God will come to him or her with new meaning, with a new measure of hope and trust.
10. Pray with the inquirer that God will come to him or her with new meaning, with a new measure of hope and trust.
Scripture
Proverbs 3:5–6 Matthew 11:28 Matthew 14:27–32 2 Corinthians 5:17 Philippians 4:6–7 1 Thessalonians 5:17 1 Peter 5:7