Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one’s own death or deliberately killing one’s self. Research shows that approximately 90% of people who have died by suicide were suffering from a mental illness at the time. The most common mental illness reported is depression. Also, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship break-up or chronic pain and illness. In addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, and so on), discrimination or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour. Intense sadness and/or hopelessness; not caring about activities that used to matter; withdrawal from family, friends, sports and social activities; substance (drug, alcohol) abuse are some of the common signs of suicide .
THESE ARE BIBLICAL VIEW OF SUICIDE
The Bible views suicide as equal to murder (self-murder). God is the only one who is to decide when and how a person should die. We should say with the Psalmist, “My times are in thy hand…” (Psalm 31:15). God is the giver of life. He gives, and He takes away (Job 1:21). The Bible mentions six specific people who committed suicide: Abimelech (Judges 9:54), Saul (1 Samuel 31:4), Saul’s armor-bearer (1 Samuel 31:4-6), Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:23), Zimri (1 Kings.16:18) and Judas (Matthew 27:5).
Suicide,is the taking of one’s own life, is ungodly because it rejects God’s gift of life. No one should presume to take God’s authority upon them to end his or her own life. Some people in Scripture felt deep despair in life. Solomon, in his pursuit of pleasure, reached the point where he “hated life” (Ecclesiastes 2:17). Elijah was fearful and depressed and yearned for death (1 Kings.19:4). Jonah was so angry at God that he wished to die (John.4:8). Even the apostle Paul and his missionary companions at one point were under great pressure that resulted in despair (2 Corinthians 1:8).
However, none of these men committed suicide. Solomon learned to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Elijah was comforted by an angel, allowed to rest, and given a new commission (1 Kings.19:5,15). Jonah received admonition and rebuke from God (John.4:1-3,8-11). Paul learned that, although the pressure he faced was beyond his ability to endure, the Lord can bear all things (2 Corinthians 1:9).
ANTIDOTES TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS/ATTEMPTS
According to the Bible, suicide is a sin (Ex.20:13). Therefore, if you or anyone around you expresses suicidal thoughts or exhibits self-harming behaviours, seek pastoral and professional help. In addition, the following steps may help to rescue anyone having suicidal thoughts.
Take a few moments to consider letting God prove His love to you (Romans 5:5).
Know that Jesus identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation (Isaiah 53:2-6).
Jesus Christ endured suffering and shame so that you might have all your sins forgiven and your weight of guilt removed (Romans 5:7-8; Romans 8:32).
Know that Jesus will forgive and repair your brokenness and restore your joy if you humbly receive Him as your Saviour (Isaiah 1:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
Be assured that Jesus will always come to your rescue whenever you are in trouble if only you cry to or call upon Him (Psalm 61:1-2; Jeremiah 33:3; Psalm 50:15).
According to the Bible, suicide is a sin (Exodus 20:13). Therefore, if you or anyone around you expresses suicidal thoughts or exhibits self-harming behaviours, seek pastoral and professional help. In addition, the following steps may help to rescue anyone having suicidal thoughts.
Take a few moments to consider letting God prove His love to you (Romans 5:5).
Know that Jesus identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation (Isaiah 53:2-6).
Know that Jesus will forgive you and repair your brokenness and restore your joy if you humbly receive Him as your Saviour (Isaiah 1:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
