48 Case Studies 29: Confessing Less Than They Know

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Biff is seeking counseling after his wife, Mable, discovered inappropriate searches on their home computer. Initially, Biff denied any wrongdoing, claiming ignorance. However, the browser history revealed hundreds of ungodly links, leaving no room for doubt. Since they are the only ones with access to the computer, the responsibility clearly rests on Biff.

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After a discussion with their pastor, Biff reluctantly admitted to looking at inappropriate sites but downplayed the frequency, insisting it had only occurred a few times over the past six months. He attributed these slip-ups to work pressures and assured everyone he could control his behavior. What Biff didn’t know was that Mable had already discovered his secretive searches two years earlier and stealthily installed accountability software on their home computers.

During counseling, when Biff repeated his minimized version of events, Mable produced a history of reports showing two years of extensive activity. Biff was speechless, unable to deny the overwhelming evidence. At the request of their pastor, Biff and Mable are now seeking counseling to address his problems and the deep fractures in their marriage. Both hope to find a path toward restoration and accountability as they work through these challenges.

Case Study Questions

1. What would be your primary concern about Biff, and how would you work through it?
2. What potential concerns would you have for Mable, and how would you counsel her?
3. Name three possible heart issues that could be going on with Biff. Why did you name these?

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).