• Why are you fearful (about your job, your future, your family, etc.)?
• Why are you nervous? Why do you have headaches? Why can't you sleep?
• Describe the way you feel. Do you feel guilty? What might have caused such feelings?
• Do you think you may be running from something?
Again, these questions should be asked in a friendly, conversational manner. You are discussing these matters as an equal, not as one in the superior position of counselor or spiritual leader.
If the anxiety seems to have been brought on by true feelings of guilt, this could indicate wrong behavior that needs correction. Experiencing God's forgiveness in Christ can remove guilt and guilt feelings, which will contribute to healing. Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
Avoid telling people that if they think right they are bound to feel right. To the contrary, some people need to learn that right living produces right feelings. God alone is the source of positive thoughts. Facing the basic problem—sin—will eventually produce the kind of conduct which pleases God, and will result in better emotional health.
Anxiety about the future may reveal concern about death and future judgment. Again, this opens the door to present Christ.
3. Discuss the necessity of daily Bible study and prayer. We must not only read the Bible, but must assimilate its teachings in such a way that they begin to mold our life and character. Memorizing the Bible is most important. "Thinking God's thoughts" will take the place of worried, anxious concerns.
Prayer is the companion of Bible study. According to the Bible, we should "be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6).
4. Share some of the promises of God's Word. God can be trusted to keep His promises. See "Scripture."
5. Advise the inquirer to get involved with a Bible-teaching church. Thinking of and serving with others can be an antidote to negative and unhealthy introspection.
6. Pray with the inquirer for genuine solutions (see Psalm 34:4, next page).
If you detect deeper problems than you can deal with, suggest that the person consider counseling with a Christian psychologist.