may be needed, along with a commitment to be responsive and obedient to God's will (Romans 12:1–2).
C. Suggest a recommitment to the disciplines of Bible study and prayer
(Proverbs 3:5–6; Isaiah 26:3).
D. Encourage faithfulness in worship and service through the church.
Billy Graham has written: "Discouragement is the very opposite of faith. It is Satan's device to thwart the work of God in our lives. Discouragement blinds our eyes to the mercy of God and makes us perceive only the unfavorable circumstances. I have never met a person who spent time in daily prayer, in the study of the Word of God, and who was strong in faith who was ever discouraged for very long."
2. A Christian may also be depressed because of spiritual disobedience and unresolved sin in such areas as anger and bitterness, jealousy, grudges, a divorce, or immorality:
A. As the problem is revealed, assure the inquirer that he or she is right
to seek a solution—that the first step back to wholeness is spiritual renewal.
B. Share "Restoration," page 17, emphasizing Proverbs 28:13 and
1 John 1:9.
C. As the person responds to the Scriptures in "Restoration," point out
that other steps may be necessary beyond recommitment. For example, he or she may need to mend fences broken down as a result of such things as gossip, criticism, envy, or immorality. In cases where things such as theft or fraud were involved, restitution should be considered.
D. Encourage a serious commitment to Bible study. Learning to think
God's thoughts is a valuable aid to spiritual recovery (Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8).
E. Suggest becoming involved in a Bible-teaching church where
worship, fellowship, and opportunities for service are available.
F. Suggest a serious commitment to professional counseling with a
qualified pastor or Christian psychologist until all issues involved in the depression are resolved in the light of Scripture.
3. A Christian may also be depressed because of setting standards and