What Does The Bible Say About Suicide?

In this blog, we will see what the Bible says about suicide and how we can pray for those affected by the loss of a loved one. We’ll also look at how we can help those around us who may be facing suicidal thoughts.

Suicide is the leading cause of death in the United States and in 2020, 46,000 people die by suicide; that is every 11 minutes. Every suicide is a tragedy, but suicide is never inevitable.

The right strategies can help

Some things can increase the risk, such as having lived with domestic or child abuse, but having a good support network and access to mental health support will reduce this risk.

The good news is that suicide is preventable with the right strategies in place. Some of those strategies might be making an action plan for when you have suicidal thoughts, having a good support network, and accessing professional support.

If you are contemplating suicide, call or text 988 nationwide. This will take you to the Suicide and Crisis Hotline, which you can also access online here.

What does the Bible say about suicide?

As Christians, we are assured that we were born with a purpose, that we were fearfully and wonderfully made, and that God has a plan for our lives. This is not to say that mental health problems will not affect us, but we can rest assured that God has a vision of hope for our lives.

If you feel like you’re facing insurmountable problems today, try to remember that you don’t always feel this way. There is a way out. Whatever your situation, God is the God of second chances.

Do you remember Moses at the Red Sea in Exodus 14? He thought there was no way out, but God created a way out, through the impossible: the sea opened up in front of him.

Although the Bible contains examples of people committing suicide, we know it was never part of God’s plan. The scriptures invite us to trust God in all circumstances, even in times of despair and despair. King David, who has struggled with grief and depression, admits in Psalm 31:15, “My days are in the hands of the Lord.”

What the Bible Says About Suicide: Towards Hope

When we are contemplating suicide, we can turn to God, the Lord of all comfort, to lift us out of the depths of despair.

“Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I am not afraid of the devil,
for He is with me.” Psalm 23:4

“I praise Thee because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Your work is great,
I know that well.” Psalm 139:14

“I waited patiently for the Lord;
He turned to me and heard me cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud;
He put my feet on a rock.” Psalm 40:1-3

“Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercy and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles. abounding through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)

Even young people are tired and weary,
and the youths stumble;
but those who trust in the Lord
will restore their strength.” Isaiah 40:28-31

What can you do if you are having suicidal thoughts?

Remember that there is always hope. Cheer up because you don’t always feel that way. Contact professional help here – and you can find coping strategies and a safety net here.

How can we support family and friends who are contemplating suicide?

If a loved one is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it can be difficult to know how to support them, but we can listen to their concerns and offer support in practical ways. We can help them focus on the core values ​​of good mental health: exercise, eat right, sleep well, spend quality time with loved ones, be in nature However, learn new and existing skills.

Bethe1to.com is a really helpful site with guidance on how you can help as a friend or family member of someone who is contemplating suicide.

How can we support those affected by suicide?

Suicide leaves behind grief and confusion. There are so many unanswered questions from family and friends who perhaps didn’t see it happen or who are trying to be as supportive as they can and still have lost a loved one.

We can support those affected by being there for them. We can help in practical ways, such as helping them get groceries and giving emotional support, by being willing to listen to their thoughts. Helpguide.org provides helpful guidance for dealing with a loved one’s suicide.

Struggling with mental health

Finally, if you are struggling with your mental health as a Christian, then remember the great promises from the verses above. Remember that you are a beloved child of God and that He has a good plan for your life. And be sure to contact qualified professionals for the help you need.

A prayer for times of suffering

Heavenly Father, I surrender my life to You now. Fill me with Your peace that surpasses all understanding, so that I may gain the perspective of heaven in my life. Father, thank You that I am Your beloved child. I can carry the knowledge of this through every day of my life. Father, fill me with Your peace, love and joy. Lord, I give all my worries to You and ask You to help me through this difficult time.

Amen.

Be sure to check out the Glorify App for more mental health blogs.

Camille Minouflet’s photo on Unsplash

Tim Bogdanov’s photo on Unsplash