Recently I witnessed a heated exchange between several people that genuinely grieved me. For those of you who are unaware of this, my Mother committed suicide. I'm not bringing this up as a poster-bashing but am merely imploring those who would resort to this level of diatribe to reconsider in the future what the consequences of such a thing COULD be.

One poster freely shared some things that were of such a personal nature...ie-that they had formerly attempted to commit suicide and had suffered much emotional pain in their life. Two other posters used these words from another thread, copied them and pasted them into another discussion and accused the original writer that they were (for all intents and purposes) an unfit mother because her (adult) daughter had expressed suicidal tendencies. (I am not aware of the validity of that claim about her daughter having suicidal tendencies, I'm merely sharing what was said).

I'm asking...not demanding, not extorting...but asking the two who used these painful experiences of another in a heated exchange (as a weapon) against them, to repent of this by publicly apologizing because the words they typed were in this public forum for all to see.

I'm presenting some of my history here because there are consequences when a loved one commits suicide, which some may not have considered when they typed the words they typed...as a means to allow them to put on another person's shoes (so to speak)....in the hopes that they will recognize that the issue of suicide should never be used as a weapon against another. Some may think that this was not the case (that the issue of suicide was used as a weapon)...but obviously these suicidal issues were not being brought forward in the hopes that the one who suffered this way in the past could be healed. It was brought forward to cause MORE HURT.

(also, I'm bringing this forward SOLELY because this issue is dear to MY heart, NOT because anybody else persuaded me to do this)
-----------------
My Mom died when I was 18 years old and a senior in high school. And because we had a tumultuous relationship (although we definitely, deeply loved one another), this caused me TREMENDOUS guilt. For seven, long, agonizing years I suffered as if I were in literal hell at times because I truly believed that I was just as guilty of my Mother's death as if I had literally pushed her off the 44 ft bridge (which she jumped from) to her death on a highway below. During this time period (especially the first three years after her death), I would gravitate to the bridge where she committed suicide, many times, day after day after day after day...and seriously contemplate joining her. My pillow at night (I nicknamed, "soggy-pillow) because I would cry myself to sleep (for hours) and cry when I woke up. I also used to cut myself to relieve pain...I used to imagine all the different ways that I could harm myself. I kept MOST of this, to myself because (although I didn't recognize this at the time), this was my way of honoring my Mother's memory. It may sound crazy to some, but many people suffer in this fashion after somebody dies...but especially when suicide is involved.

I'm telling you as God is my witness, if ANYBODY had even HINTED or INSINUATED that I had been guilty for my Mom's suicide, this would have driven me COMPLETELY over the edge. My own guilt was enough...sincerely. But to have the guilt affirmed would have seriously given me the final impetus to end my life.

I'm relating this truthfully because those who engaged in this behavior recently (of dredging up another poster's SERIOUSLY painful issues) should HONESTLY contemplate how this could end up affecting the person. Words are such powerful things. Please, I am appealing to you now, reconsider how this could affect another person!

When a person is SERIOUSLY considering suicide, it is not uncommon for them to "appear" as if nothing is wrong. Not only this, but those who are seriously considering suicide will many times, NOT TELL ANYONE because they are afraid that they will be persuaded NOT to do it.

It is also NOT uncommon for loved ones to recognize signs that a person MIGHT be contemplating suicide, BUT because NOBODY wants to imagine the worst case scenario for their loved one, many times these perceptions are pushed to the side....in the hopes that they misjudged the behavior of their loved one!

Not only this....but PLEASE consider this, IF anybody had told me BEFORE my Mom died that my behavior or (apparent lack of love) would be my Mother's undoing in the future....that would have HAUNTED me FOREVER because she DID end up committing suicide. (In other words, WHAT IF this person's daughter commits suicide in the future??? How will your words haunt them or bring undue GUILT AND ANGUISH to them???). That type of accusation would have haunted me so badly, I wouldn't have been able to take it ANY MORE...and I would have ended up dying in the same fashion that my Mom had died.

If you think I'm exaggerating...I'm not. I really CANNOT express to the fullest the huge amount of remorseful grief I underwent after her death! I CANNOT!

------------------

I'm appealing to you now....as CHRISTIANS first and FOREMOST...seriously consider the ramifications of your words. REGARDLESS of how justified you might feel (because you perceived that this person said something hurtful to you etc)....PLEASE REMEMBER the words of our Lord.....BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU, BLESS AND CURSE NOT.......RENDER NOT INSULT FOR INSULT, BUT RATHER PRAY FOR A BLESSING, FOR THIS IS WHAT YOU ARE CALLED TO....(for our Father sends rain upon the JUST AND THE UNJUST)...and we are His children IF WE WALK IN LOVE.

and even while our Lord died upon the cross, His words?

"FATHER, FORGIVE THEM FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO"

Thanks...The spirit of suicide is a powerful foe but the Lord of course is greater. When my friend shot herself in the head her 18 year old daught found her..

We look forward to the day when there will be no more tears. I'm greatful that you have recovered and speak out about such things.

Thanks so much for responding Miki. I'm sorry to hear about your friend and her daughter. Is her daughter ok now? I will keep her in my prayers.

It's also uncanny that you mention us looking forward to the day of no tears because (although I do not think about this very often), I had it strongly on my mind last night.

It has been almost 22 years since my Mom died. And although I have recovered greatly, there are many subtle issues which I still deal with to this day....primarily, taking on guilt that is not my own. Even though I do not "outright" blame myself for her death, I still have the ingrained issue of fear of irrepairably hurting someone else. This spills into receiving guilt that is not my own. It's a hard thing to overcome but God is my help.

thanks again and God bless you!
Kim

Praying your words are heard and that all those who are involved truly settle down now. There is no need for it other than to settle the score and that is of the flesh.

It is a sad day when Christians fight one another and use one another to gain self satisfaction. Yet again another fleshly action...

Yet, it is important to realize that there are actual people on the other end of the screen. Words do hurt and actions directed in the flesh do hurt. Except when it is in a forum, there is no recourse, or so the brain thinks. But we all know that God knows exactly what is being said in this place against one another...

One cannot say, "I give up my poor attitude," but go back into it for a jab or two OR speak about reconcilation with another but yet speak poorly about the person behind their backs....That is fence sitting and truly not taking the side of righteousness....

Again, I pray your words are heard and hearts truly move once and for all....

Pamela,
THANK YOU so much! Yes, this is my only desire...that the words are heard and hearts are truly moved....sincerely. I pray that the hurtfulness I've witnessed in this forum comes to an end (or at the very least, that we all would consider how our words can seriously affect or damage others).

love to you,
Kim

Dear Kim,

I admire your courage for sharing your story. The Lord brings His own through so many difficult times to perfect us, and bring us closer to Him.

And... He can use use these experiences as we see others needs and are able to minister our love to them. God's blessings to you!

"That there should be no schism in the body; but [that] the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. "
-1 Corinthians 12:25-26

"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
-2 Corinthians 13:5

"Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you."
2 Corinthians 13:11

"And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."
-1 John 3:23-24

Kim, thank you for sharing this TESTIMONY.


"I" Sentences:

I came back to edit this in. The REPROCUSSIONS of such acts against someone, is VERY REAL, and it has a lasting effect on the person that it was done to.

I have asked the moderator's to remove the guilty parties, from this forum.

I am praying that the ones that are guilty, also seek forgiveness.

I am also praying for the one, you are speaking of, here.

As Christians, we are to UPLIFT one another, not tear them down. Thank you for standing UP for her, and I am standing in agreement and in prayer, with you, on her behalf.

Let this be a reminder, that GOD doesn't like UGLY acts.

thanks for sharing Kim. I know i have been through the same kind of situation as you...sometimes i still do. i will be sending you a pm about someone who tried and failed just this week, and im looking for advice on how to go about it.

thanks again for sharing xoxox

A Christian Perspective on Suicide

The question of suicide produces divided and conflicting opinions even among Christians. The Bible itself remains almost silent on the subject. The Jews apparently had a strong prohibition against it, based on the Sixth Commandment and the prohibitions regarding the shedding of blood. While the Bible does not use the word suicide as such, it does prohibit killing, and suicide at the most basic level can be considered self murder.

Most theories of morality allow for suicide in certain specified cases, such as to save the lives or safeguard the well-being of others, to deliver oneself from a situation in which life would be intolerable, or to relieve others of duties which they would perhaps be unable to carry out, for instance, when an injured individual takes his own life in order to insure that other persons in an expedition can reach safety without being hindered by his care.

The fundamental principle of making ethical decisions is that we must treat ourselves and others as rational creatures. Thus, the question arises whether a person can be considered rational if he/she becomes so despairing of life that no solution seems possible. Since survival is the first law of human nature, the person who reaches a point of no longer desiring his/her own survival (except in situations such as described above) could in some sense be considered no longer rational.

Yet on the other hand we have the clear teaching of Scripture that God is the Author of all life. It is he who maintains control and it is not ours to take away the gift which he has given. This means that God alone has the right to decide when a situation is beyond remedy. Despair may lead a person to say, "My situation is beyond the reach of God's ability to save and redeem." With our rational minds, we know this cannot be so. But if a person is distressed by problems, fatigue, or illness, there may come a point at which the ability to perceive and trust God's saving possibility is no longer present.

Whatever the motivation or circumstances of the suicide, we do have the firm assurance of God's love and forgiveness in every situation. There has been a tendency among some groups to view suicide as something akin to the unpardonable sin. This appears to be based on the fact that after the act of suicide a person is no longer able to ask forgiveness. Yet it seems inconceivable that a God who loves humanity so much that he sacrificed his only Son as a means of reconciling persons to himself could snatch away salvation as the last breath left in a person's body, a person who may be gripped by despair, fear, pain, even mental or emotional imbalance. God assures us of his love and understanding, which takes into account our human frailty.

This is not to condone suicide nor to say that it does not matter to God. But there are other equally serious ways in which people abuse God's gift of life: driving recklessly, overeating, drug or alcohol abuse. The point is that all of these situations are within the scope of God's power to redeem and transform. "His mercy is from everlasting to everlasting." (Psalms 103:17)

This is the word of grace which the person who is contemplating suicide or has attempted suicide needs to hear. "Behold, the arm of the Lord is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear" (Isaiah 59:1). The loved ones who are left in grief can take comfort from knowing "it is not the will of the Father that any of these should perish" (Matt. 18:14). We have the promises, "He does not deal with us after our sins, nor requite us according to our iniquities" (Psalm 103:10) and "My Father is greater than all...and no one is able to take them out of the Father's hand" (John 10:29). In the face of these great mysteries, we can assure ourselves, "Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?" (Gen.18:25).

http://www.namb.net/site/c.9qKILUOzEpH/b.6...391/Suicide.htm

Voice,

Cut and Paste? No thoughts of your own? Didn't think so, after-all you are the one who believes in hitting hurting people over the head with the Bible. REPENT! REPENT! smack. Did you not learn that you can't force someone to repent?

to add on to what you just said Al, copying and pasting and using it for something could also be considered as plagerism

Kim,

This weekend on this forum left a sour taste in my mouth that won't leave. When Christians diagnose and then try to force that person to go for mental councilling was/is totally uncaring and unprofessional. To speak with a poster in an arrogant mentality, such as "I'm going to make her or break her," was totally heartless. There was a real life human being on the end of the screen that we could have ministered to and just loved and a couple of posters decided she just wasn't worth our time. (I'm glad that God doesn't feel this way) To actually call someone "crazy and in need of mental health" went beyond proper communication skills with someone hurting. These postings were way out of line and the posters involved should be banned.

Kim, I am so sorry about your mother. Somehow we live through some difficult days but in this life we never really get over the sadness we faced at that particular time. I still remember being a child home sick from school, my childhood diagnoses was eptilepsi. My mom was in the next room and I was in the living room watching, "McHales Navy." All of a sudden I heard my mother calling me, "Al, come here." I went into moms room and on her dresser was a can of beer and a bottle of pills. Mom said, "Do not get anyone, I am killing myself." My mother went on to say, "It's my fault you are always so ill." I stopped dead in my track and thought of all the meaness and all the beatings she meeted out and for a second I just thought about returning to the TV in the living room and just pretending that everything was okay. But then a voice said, "Al, get moving. Run next door to your neighbor. " This I did, ran like the wind to Ethels house. Ethel came running to our house and called the ambulance and I remember thinking, "Al, if only you were never born, everybody would be so much happier."

Memories, memories, memories....does one ever get over the memories? Never, not even Christians do in this life. The best we can do is to learn lessons while in our grief and some of the best lessons come from compassionate Christians. I am one of the lucky ones, people reached out to me. But still those memories. In fact last night during sleep I had so many nightmares. Nightmares that did affect my days work today.

I'll be back need to take a break.

In Christian Love,

Al

Pinky,

Thank-you, yes it can be considered plagerism. But then our little Christian boy break a rule? But wait isn't plagerism considered stealing? Yikes Voice, you have been breaking one of Gods laws.

Pinky, if you talk with Lisa please tell her I miss her and love her. Tell her that she has taught me some real lessons in love. I'm sorry.

Love,

Al

If you are too demotivated to read our words below, or if they don't seem to make sense to you, please click on this link for emergency advice - www.metanoia.org/suicide



Welcome... Please don't give up hope in life. I know from my own experiences that life can be absolutely horrific. However, at other times it can be gloriously wonderful. It can sometimes take a while to get from the bad place to the good, but I have never regretted sticking this journey out to get there. Please hear me out and give yourself a chance. Please do not end it all.

Though you may feel desperately alone and isolated, we are here to recognise your situation and to provide encouragement. Even though we do not know you personally, we know you are out there and we do care. Also, we know that God cares, which is why this web site exists. Because we believe God does exist and cares for everyone, we know that whoever you are and whatever your circumstance, there is always hope if you reach out to God and recognise His reality. However you feel about yourself, He knows you, and your situation, and He wants to help. He forgives whatever we have done wrong, and is present everywhere. He never turns down someone who calls on Him.



"Find the will to live"



As we have already said, if you feel suicidal, then you must be in a very difficult personal circumstance or state. It is not really possible to list all of the problems or situations that may have contributed to how you feel and why your situation is as serious as it seems. What I do want to do is to provide as much help and encouragement to you as possible. I hope that this web site will continue to be a source of hope and strength for you in the future, as you persevere and move forward in hope.

If you are a Christian, you already believe in God, and I trust have known [H]im as a friend and a source of meaning and strength to you in your life. Most sensible people know that knowing God does not exclude you from trouble and strife. The strife may or may not be in part of your own making. Perhaps you are a victim of wrong doing (for example, rape or bullying), which has had a profound negative affect on you. Because of your deep personal misery, and/or to get out of a difficult situation you have found yourself in, you may feel that you would be happier dead than living. Life is so terrible that you want an end to the suffering.

These feelings happen to a significant number of people. Anyone can be affected; rich or poor, young or old, Christian or non-Christian. Don't feel guilty if you a Christian and you feel suicidal. I know that there will be reasons. Whatever the reasons, the Devil is likely to be exaggerating your problems (and any areas of spiritual weakness), making things even harder. We deal with this spiritual dynamic a little more below. However, whatever the circumstance, and recognising that there will be valid reasons for why you feel the way that you do, this does not mean that you have a right to take your own life.

God gave you life so let Him take it at the right time. Whether you die from age or from an illness, or whatever, allow Him to be in control of your destiny. Trust Him. Meanwhile, take pressure off of yourself. Live for God, and try to find Him. When you get through this time, show kindness to others in need, and know the fact that God can use you. Also, realise how special you are to Him.

I want to acknowledge the deep feelings of pain and desperation that people can be subject to when they suffer. Perhaps you have always been unhappy, as long as you can remember. As well as neglectful or abusive parents, perhaps you were bullied at school. All that you have experienced is rejection, and even if you are a Christian and have regularly gone to Church, perhaps you found different types of abuse and rejection there.

Only God knows the fullness of your situation and how you feel about it. We want to offer two things; first of all some information about places that you can go to for help. Secondly, we want to encourage you to turn to God and to Christians and others (for example, a local doctor), who you feel you can trust, for help.



Getting Practical Help

Our page of contacts and links to organisations and people who may be able to help you is at the top of the page. As well as this, consider talking to a doctor about the basic things that are troubling you. It could be that there is a medical reason for you feeling depressed or suicidal. Professional counselling may be very beneficial in getting to the route cause of your problem, as you can carefully assess with your counsellor the reasons for your negative feelings. If you have helpful friends, use them to support you, and if you go to church, ask for help there.

Even if your church cannot provide proper counselling, it should be able to provide some form of support. Consider changing church if it cannot, and ask your new church how strong their pastoral ministry is and if they will provide some form of support. Sharing your problems with others may really help you. Their listening and perhaps their advice, may somehow "meet you where you need to be met".



Turn to God for help

As well as these practical measures, turn to God for help. Pray and fast, asking for the Lord to answer your prayers and lift off the heaviness that you feel. Also, believe in Scripture, that God is able to help you and heal you. Isaiah 53:1-12, is very useful. Verse 5 says,

"...He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that bought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."

Jesus died to heal us of the hurt that is caused by our own sin (wrong or immoral thoughts or actions), the sin done to us, and the effect of sin in the world. You should examine yourself before God, and truly repent of any sin if you have not already done so.

I would also like to add that as well as turning to God and drawing our strength from Him, we very much have to hold on to hope ourselves. God can and will help us, but survival will often require courage and an ability to valiantly stand. This is despite fear, suffering and perhaps confusion which all act to try to undermine.



Standing firm against the enemy

In my experience, the Devil can make matters much worse - when you are already suffering in some way. I feel that often he can have a direct contribution to the burdens of some people, troubling their minds and emotions with all sorts of negative and evil thoughts and feelings. There are several good books available about this area. To get to this information, as well as to some resources about mental disorders (which could be a significant contributory factor to cause suicidal feelings), please click here.

I would also like to make clear that there are many other, more natural, reasons why people can feel suicidal. Perhaps they have experienced intense loneliness and a lack of friends for some time. When a practical solution has been found to a problem like this, for example, a better social environment is discovered, then if the enemy has been exploiting the problem, his influence will be reduced as normality is restored. There is less for the enemy to "latch on to".

I would like to warn people that there are some Christian teachers and Christian ministries which over-emphasise, in my opinion, the part that the demonic can play in causing Christians problems. This can be very dangerous and negative to peoples' well-being. The attitude of some is that demons can be caught almost as easily as catching a cold. It is unhealthy to focus on demons. When they are causing us problems, we should recognise this and not deny it.

I feel that we should not assume that people are demonised. We should probe and challenge any darkness, but it is wrong to "place" demons on people. Perhaps the enemy could even use this sort of negatively-focussed environment as an opportunity to multiply any influence he does have on the ministered-to individual.

If you feel that you are in a serious spiritual battle against the enemy, use both fellowship support and also your own authority in Christ to stand against demonic oppression. You have the Word of God at your disposal, so use its truth to combat lies and other attacks. For example, you know from reading the Bible that "nothing can separate (you) from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:38,39). Neither angels nor demons nor anything in creation. However, it should be added at this point that this is true as long as we do not persist in any particular sin, and leave it unrepented. This puts us on shaky ground and leaves us exposed to enemy influence.



Bitterness and Unforgiveness

I want to say a word final word about bitterness. The hurtful actions and words of others may be at the root of some of your problems. Perhaps part of your suffering has been caused by the sin that others have done against you. A good example of this is when someone has sexually abused you as a child. It is so important to forgive people like this who have wronged us.

Even when this is incredibly hard, we must commit ourselves to forgive. This is often a process that takes time. You may begin by reaching a point where you are prepared to forgive someone in principal - out of obedience and fear of God (Matthew 5:21-25). Real forgiveness does need to come, however, even if it is released gradually.

If the person who has wronged us is still known to us, and perhaps seen by us regularly, this can make things all the harder. However, we must forgive to be reconciled with God, and to enable Him to heal us fully. As bitterness leaves us, hurt can be dealt with. Mary Pytches, a well-known Christian author, describes forgiveness as a key principal towards inner healing and wholeness. Please click here for the inner healing section, for more information.

Whatever the reason for your suffering, you are not alone. So many people, including many Christians, suffer in different ways around the world. Feeling anger towards those who wrong us is normal, but do turn to God for help to forgive people. He also offers us the hope that we can again - or for the first time- know real happiness and peace in our lives. I hope and pray that you know that peace and the true comfort of Christ. I also hope that Walking-Wounded.Net will be a source of continued encouragement to you.


Click for:

Testimonies about suicide


http://www.walking-wounded.net/html/christ...__suicidal.html

Continued...

Mental illness runs in families...past generations. My mother as she was dying spoke so highly of her grandfather who used to buy her candy and just take her to the movies. Mom loved her grand-pop with her whole heart. My mother claimed that her grandmother wasn't a nice person...but who knows there is no confirmation. But there was confirmation by my Aunt in how mean my grandparents were to mom. Mental and physical abuse and just neglect. My aunt claims "your mother had a lousy life." My grandparents loved to drink and would often leave the children at home without any food. My mother claims that she grew up in filth and that is why she got so stressed at any sort of dirt in the house. My mother was really never allowed to just be a kid but she was expected to be mommy for her two sisters...one mentally retarded and one adopted. If Mom failed at any of her tasks the wrath of her parents came down on her head. Mom had no self esteem or respect. In fact her diet must have been pretty poor because when she was a teenager her teeth were pulled and replaced with dentures. But the years passed and she barely tolerated her lot in life. Then my father came along, and out of a sense of goodness he wanted to remove her from her household. He wanted to save her from abusive parents so he offered to take her hand in marriage. Mom knew he didn't love her but unfortunately mom loved this man with her whole heart. It was the first time in Moms life that she came alive. My Father, was a good looking man and my mom was just an average jane. (Her thoughts.) Mom and Dad sat up housekeeping in New Jersey and had two kids. Now this is kind of the odd thing, Dad became Moms knight in shining armor in taking her away from her abusers but then dad tuned into one of her abusers. He beat her with an intensity. Mom murdered dad in self-defense and this you can read in my testimony in the anything else! section. But suffice it to say my mom always said, "If it weren't for Al, John would still be alive." And yep, got to agree with her on this. If only I hadn't of shown up at that particular time, my dad would have lived his natural life. Yep, heaps of guilt stacked on my insides until I couldn't breath anymore.

But poor Mom lived and died with such a weight of guilt on her that was bound to affect her daughters. Guilt, depression, and suicidal tendencies are passed from generation to generation. And yes, I was affected but then again I was one of the lucky ones. Jesus reached out to me by using one of his children.

And guess what folks? What I saw fellow Christians doing to a hurting individual made me not only angry but incredibly sad. What has happened to us Christians when we feel that it is okay for the strong to beat up the weak?

Got to get cleaned up. I'll be back.

Gods Blessings,

Al

What does the Bible say about suicide?











Are you feeling that life isn't worth living anymore? Do your problems seem too big to handle? Does it seem that no one cares? Sometimes these feelings of despair or apathy cause people to think about suicide. What does the Bible say?

Suicide is not a new idea. The Bible records seven suicides.

Abimelech Judges 9:52-54 Abimelech lacked personal identity.

Samson Judges 16:25-30 Samson died for a cause he believed in and for revenge.

Saul 1 Samuel 31:4 Saul was stressed out, unable to live up to certain expectations; felt rejected and a failure

Saul's armor-bearer 1 Samuel 31:5 Impulse, he wanted to die with his boss. 40% of teenage suicide is impulse.

Ahithophel 2 Samuel 17:23 Ahithophel was bitter because his advice was not followed.

Zimri 1 Kings 16:15-20 Rebellion; Zimri had a problem with authority.

Judas Matthew 27:3-5 Depressed, Judas felt trapped by materialism and guilt.


But what does the Bible say about taking your own life?

1. God has a great plan for your life. God has created us in His image (Genesis 1:26-27). He created us for a purpose. God has a specific plan in mind for everyone.
   
   

   For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

2. God's plan is for life, not death. The Bible teaches that both physical and spiritual death are the result of our sin and disobedience to God, but eternal life is a gift to those who receive it.
   
   

   For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23).

3. Jesus taught that death and destruction are the work of "the thief" (Satan). He said,
   
   

   The thief comes only to steal and destroy (John 10:10).

   John 8:44 says that Satan is a "murderer" and the "father of lies." The feelings of despair that lead to suicide are caused by some of his lies.
4. Jesus wants us to have life. He said:
   
   

   The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10).

5. Life belongs to God. It is never our place to take our own life or someone else's life.
   
   

   Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

IF SUICIDE ISN'T THE ANSWER, WHAT IS?

1. The solution to despair and hopelessness is not suicide, but faith in God.
   
   

   We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you (Psalms 33:20-22).

2. Christ promises that He will give us rest from our problems.
   
   

   Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).

3. Tell someone. Tell your parents, your brother or sister, your teacher or school counselor, your pastor or youth minister that you are thinking about suicide. If a friend tells you that he or she is serious about suicide, then you need to tell someone who is responsible and can help.
4. Accept Christ's free gift of eternal life and salvation, if you haven't already. Romans 10:13 says:
   
   

   For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

   John 1:12 says:
   
   

   Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

5. When we accept Christ, God gives us a brand-new life and sees us as completely holy and righteous.
   
   

   Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17).
   
   God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).
   
   

6. Because of God's salvation through the death of Jesus on the cross, we can have assurance of eternal life with God.
   
   

   I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. (John 5:24)
   
   

Copyright © 1997, Dawson McAllister Live!, All Rights Reserved - except as noted on attached "Usage and Copyright" page that grants ChristianAnswers.Net users generous rights for putting this page to work in their homes, personal witnessing, churches and schools.


More answers

• 
• Are there biblical examples of depression and how to deal with it? Answer
• Are you feeling depressed? There are answers. What should a Christian do if overwhelmed with depression? Answer
• How can I be and feel forgiven? Go...
• If God forgives me everytime I ask, why do I still feel so guilty? Go...
• I think I was sexually abused, but I'm not sure. What Is sexual abuse, and what can I do to stop the trauma I am facing now? Go...
• I'm ugly. Why was God so unfair to me this way? Go...
• If God knows I am hurting, why doesn't He help me? Go...
• If a Christian commits suicide, will they go to Heaven? Answer

http://www.christiananswers.net/q-dml/dml-y038.html

Continued...

Many of you know about the things I speak of. Many of you have some really bad memories. But first allow me to say to the cut and paste king of this forum, if you have something to say, say it. Stop the hurt, apologize for your role you played in further hurting a delicate flower.

But anyway...to continue. Mom raised us Catholics. As a child was always having those seizures which left me hospitilized for days on end. I got confirmed in the Catholic church while in sixth grade. In seventh grade I remember a lesson this old nun taught us about hell. How hot the flames were going to be and if anyone died with a mortal sin on thier soul the hell fires would be their fate forever. She described the hellfires withs such a mean gleefulness that I began to see colors...bright colors..an aura...colors so vivid and yet the aura came on to late. Had a seizure. That week mom was contacted and I was no longer allowed in Sunday School. It seems that seizures or "fits" come from satan and the priest just didn't want anything unholy in his classroom. (This is what they really believed back then so how can one fault them? They were trying to protect the multitude from me.) So I grew up believing that I the devil laid claims to my soul and that I disgusted God. I just figured that if God couldn't love me than I didn't love myself; felt that way althrough my adolesant years.

Kim, I was also a cutter. A cutter when cutting wasn't even known about. I would take that razor and draw blood out of my wrists or arms. The cutting felt good. Kind of took the place of love. I would rather feel the hurt than to be ignored by others. I just figured if God couldn't love me than I couldn't love myself. And loving myself was out of the question. I may have tolerated who I was but I did'nt love myself and I didn't love God. I was kind of a misfit. I wanted to belong somewhere but nobody really wanted me. One group called me a "demon" and the other group called me the "daughter of a murder."

The night is almost gone and I am really emotionally spent. Just allow me to add that I did have a nervous breakdown. Was in a psychiatric hospital for a spell. Went for councilling for a few years. And during that time period God came knocking on the door of my heart. I remember that time period very well. A caring and compassionate Christian minister reached out to me when I was at my lowest. Began to see and know God through studies. Began to attend church and met some cool Christian people who loved me with scars and all. I began to heal and yep I answered Gods knock on my heart. The funny thing is that during this span of time people did not throw my past in my face for to do so would surely have been mean spirited? If Rose is reading this then please remember this: When demonic influences remind you of your past then you remind them of their future. Tell them to take a hike; baby!

Gods Blessings,

Al

Christian Testimonies About Depression and Suicide

These Christian testimonies are true stories about people who have struggled with depression and thoughts of suicide. Each story reveals a life transformed by Christian faith. The testimonies are submitted by the members and visitors of this site. If you know someone with an interesting, life-transforming testimony, please refer them to this page.

Gwyn's Riptide Rescue

Gwyn began to wrestle with a violent current known as a riptide while swimming in the Pacific Ocean. At the same time her soul was battling an overwhelming wave of depression. The Lord's hand reached down miraculously to save her body from drowning, and then God spoke life to Gwyn's soul through his mighty Word, completing the rescue.

Isaac's Amazing Change

Even though Isaac was raised in a Christian home, he opened the door to sin at a young age. By 14 he was already traveling down a destructive road of drug addition, pornography, stealing, and dangerous thoughts of suicide. As Isaac's depression worsened, he took even greater risks, until one weekend he had an encounter with God. Since then, Isaac's life has undergone an amazing change.

Lisa's 180-Degree Turn

Lisa faced hard times as a single parent. When she could no longer find work she turned to drinking and drugs to avoid the depression that had set in. When Lisa's addiction caused her to lose her three kids, she still wouldn't quit. The same day she was arrested, Lisa picked up a Gideon's Bible and God spoke a strange message of hope to her heart.

Tonia's Rough Road

Tonia thought she knew the Lord. After hiding behind a facade, trying to please people and searching for love, Tonia ran away with the carnival. Her rocky road got rougher and love was always just beyond her reach, until one day Tonia realized she couldn't fool God. Now that she has received the love of Jesus, her life is finally moving in the right direction.

Denise's Healing Redemption

Denise rebelled from her church upbringing early in her teen years. Eventually guilt, depression and anxiety took over her life. In her late 30s, when Denise felt she could no longer go on, God began a process of healing redemption. Now she spends her time sharing this good news with others.

Broken Down to Bring Hope

After losing everyone she cared about, G.S began to experience an emotional and mental breakdown. One day while channel surfing, a Christian program about changed lives caught her attention. G.S. prayed to God that day, and her life began to change too. Now her dream is to bring hope to those who are broken down like she was.

Finding Something Real

Brendan was already falling for Jamie when she found out she was pregnant. He knew he needed to change and stop cheating on Jamie. But he needed a power greater than himself to resist the temptation — he needed something real. Eventually both Jamie and Brendan found that something real when they gave their lives to Jesus Christ.

Anne's Answer to Abuse

Beginning in infancy, Anne experienced severe abuse while being used by family members in Satanic rituals. When creative attempts to escape reality failed to ease her pain, Anne decided on suicide. But a kind stranger on a crisis hotline introduced her to a ministry that eventually led her to a relationship with God. Anne found the answers to her abuse in the healing power of God's love.

Sherly's Sweet Home

Sherly's life was miserable. Raised in a strict religious home, she grew up feeling dejected and hopeless. One day, in the midst of her misery and pain, God spoke to Sherly through a Christian radio program. When she accepted Jesus into her life, right away Sherly experienced peace and joy. Eventually her whole family accepted Christ and they began to enjoy a sweet home.

The Night God Pinned Me to the Floor

Joe was raised in a Christian home, but walked away from God at age 13. Against his parent's will, he enlisted in the Air Force, and began a career that would lead him even further from God. One night in a moment of raw honesty, Joe challenged God to prove his existence. God answered Joe by pinning him to the floor and proving to him once and for all that God is very real.

Sunshine's New Day

Sunshine's life had taken a sudden downward turn. In her mental anguish she tried to end it all. Taking a gun, a cooler full of beer and swallowing a whole bottle of pills, she set out on a drive with no intention of returning. Then God made himself known to her in a strange and miraculous intervention. Unexpectedly, a new day dawned for Sunshine and she now lives to make Christ known to others.

Laurie's Path to Heaven

Laurie was turned off by religion, but one day she had a very real encounter with God. Her search led her down a rocky course, through New Age doctrine and into the deepest darkness of drug addiction. When she felt the evil power of the drug's complete control over her life, she turned to God to save her soul. He set her free from drugs and showed her the path to heaven.

Kathy's Rays of Sunshine

After losing her brother to a terrible disease, Kathy began to question why God had not answered her prayers and healed him. She knew that God could have healed him. Depression overcame Kathy in her grief and she even attempted to take her own life. But God mercifully intervened with happiness like rays of sunshine, reminding her that her Heavenly Father was always there for her.

Sarah's Pain

Sarah hadn't had a sober day in 15 years. The emotional anguish and physical pain were becoming unbearable. One night she begged God to let her die. When she woke the next morning, a new Sarah began to live. Her cravings for liquor and cigarettes were gone. God's mercy had now replaced her pain and misery.

Paul's Answer from God - The Rain

At age 21, Paul was a confirmed Atheist. God had become just a myth in Paul's estimation. Yet when a paralyzing depression and phobia eclipsed his world, Paul began to seek God. With the help of a Christian friend and a divine answer from God, Paul became a believer.

Dara's Legacy

Dara shares a testimony of thanksgiving for the godly women in her life. Each one has passed down a legacy of holy living and genuine faith in God. Dara's prayer is to follow in their footsteps and leave a legacy of godliness that will eternally influence the lives of her own children and grandchildren.

Terri's Journey

Terri grew up being passed from home to home, guardian to guardian. After several encounters of physical and sexual abuse, Terri felt alone, unloved and rejected. She turned to drugs to numb the pain and quickly became addicted. Years later, after the loss of her two-year-old son, in desperation, Terri cried out to God and her life began to drastically change.

Jeff's Best Decision

Jeff was basically a good kid. He went to church every Sunday with his family and he stayed out of trouble, yet something was missing in his life. At age fourteen he experienced a time of great depression. What made the difference, helping him pull out of his depression were these three simple words, "Jesus loves me."

Something Bigger than this World

Read about a young girl whose drinking, drug habits and sexual promiscuity led to an early, unwanted pregnancy. When she miscarried, no one knew - except her boyfriend - who reacted in a violent rage. At her lowest point she began to search for reasons for her existence. Then her desires started to change and suddenly she discovered something much bigger than this world.

Dara's Wall

Dara had seen enough pain and abuse in her childhood to last a lifetime. In response she had built a protective wall around her heart. But "The Wall" kept out the love and acceptance she so desperately needed. When Dara turned to God and began to read his Word, "The Wall" began to crumble as God's unfailing love tumbled in.

Belinda's Question of Height

Belinda grew up with the stigma of being unusually tall. Negative attention, embarrassment, and scorn led to feelings of being unwanted and unaccepted by everyone, but especially by God. She was convinced she was "not supposed to be here." Then one day, while making a contract with Satan, Belinda received a wake up call from God.

Rhonda's Road

Rhonda had chosen a path that led her far away from God. Knowing her relationship with a married man was wrong, she still stayed with him, until he threatened her life in a violent rage. At that moment God came to Rhonda and spoke words of forgiveness and purpose.

Donna's Salvation

Donna hid behind a fragile shell for years, disguising the shame of abuse and burying her pain. But one day her world exploded into anguish and severe depression. Eventually suicide seemed her only way of escape. On the night Donna thought would be her last, her Savior spoke clearly the words she needed to hear.

God is My Shield

Thomas was earning a very high salary, yet still he suffered from an aching void within. He felt there had to be more to life than just making money and pursuing a career. Years of pain and anguish brought him to a dramatic suicide attempt, yet through it he discovered his Shield of protection.

My Baby Boy - A Double Love Story

Trudy, a single woman, pregnant and desperately alone, tried to have her unborn baby aborted. But her friend refused to help her. After giving birth to her baby boy, Trudy came close to ending her life, but instead she found Eternal Life filled with wonderful surprises from God.

Karenda's Miracles - From Sadness to Singing

Karenda carried the silent stigma of mental illness. In times of deep depression, and on more than one occasion, she attempted to take her own life. But the Lord spared her, and blessed her with miracles of love, children, and then at last, the acceptance of her illness.

BethAnn's Battle - From Darkness to Light

BethAnn, feeling hopeless and unloved, nearly lost her life to a massive drug overdose. In the midst of the battle for her soul, she cried out to God for help. At that moment God saved her and blessed her with a brand new hope for life.

Trudy's U Turn - From Desperation to Dedication

Trudy's young life seemed ruined. In her desperate situation she considered suicide, but first she called out to God. He led her to a man named John, who introduced her to his Savior. Through miraculous healing, Trudy discovered God's unexplainable - yet very personal care, just when she needed it most.

Jen's Joy - Testimony of a Life Transformed from Depression to Hope

Be encouraged by this true story of a grandmother's faith and hope reborn. While witnessing God's faithfulness throughout her daughter's difficult pregnancy, Jen reclaims the joy she once knew years ago.

Gwen's Search - From Worthlessness to Abundant Love

Gwen spent most of her life searching for the love she lacked in childhood. The void quickly filled with empty depression, until one day when she was suddenly diagnosed with a terminal illness. That was when she cried out to God and He intervened. Gwen was not only given a miraculous extension of years, but a heart fulfilled with unshakeable hope, joy and peace.

Abraham's Search - From Despair to New Meaning

Abraham was a loner from childhood. Severe feelings of inadequacy and intellectual reasoning eventually led him to total despair. Yet the persistent witness of the most unlikely Christian friend grabbed a hold of Abraham's interest, leading him to make a personal decision to trust Christ as his Savior.

Chris' Suicide Attempt

On April 5, 2002, after trying to fight off the torment of depression, overpowered and defeated, I finally threw in the towel. I made one more desperate cry out to God and said "Father, forgive me for I am a sinner, forgive me for not having the strength to continue." I then closed my eyes and drove into the arms of death.

http://christianity.about.com/od/depressio...and_Suicide.htm

Thanks so much IAMlives for justly bringing this issue up and speaking the TRUTH, because the WHOLE AFFAIR of the last week was EVIL and DESPICABLE; and we all know WHO those 2 WICKED CULPRITS are who TORMENTED our Sister in Christ using her words, her testimony, her pledge to God and her apologies as a WEAPON AGAINST HER and AGAINST CHRIST IN HER, and yet BRAZENLY one of the culprits dares to calmly cut and paste about suicide smugly washing his hands clean of the whole affair like Pontius Pilate as if we do not know his GUILT. Well, on the contrary, WE DO. And, the other has COWARDLY VANISHED (momentarily) from the forum and will return when the heat is off and people have forgotten being preoccupied by other issues, and she will put on a happy face once again for her next unsuspecting victim. Well, GOD, CHRIST and THE HOLY SPIRIT witnessed the ENTIRE dastardly persecution of our Sister in Christ and saw with Their Own Eyes, heard with Their Own Ears, and every word conspired against her was in reality said against Them; and those hurtful words will judge the 2 culprits, for "What is done to the least of Mine is done onto Me."

Our Sister in Christ came desperately pleading to me for help, and I was one of the FORTY PEOPLE who barraged ALL three moderators with several messages to extinguish this callus and cold demonic assault by the 2 prideful culprits attempting to disgrace her.

Her history of a past suicide attempt horribly concerns me for the safety of her life as the 2 culprits drove her to the absolute edge of harassment, to a frantic state of complete desperation and consequently she has subsequently chosen on her own accord to permanently leave this Forum. (I'm sure to the glee of the 2 culprits.) This whole thing is utterly TRAGIC. Fortunately, she gave me her personal contact information and I will be checking in on our Sister in Christ to make sure she is doing well and is safe. I earnestly pray to the LORD that she is fine and safe, least her blood be on the 2 culprit’s hands. LORD HAVE MERCY.

IAMlives, I don't really know if the 2 culprits can set their immense pride aside and bring themselves to do as you have asked, "I'm asking...not demanding, not extorting...but asking the two who used these painful experiences of another in a heated exchange (as a weapon) against them, to repent of this by publicly apologizing because the words they typed were in this public forum for all to see."

Blessings to you for standing up!

-7

Friends, why read Voices cut and paste messages when you have real people on this forum you can converse with on the "hows' to deal with a hurting heart? Can you really converse with Voice? Afraid not, after-all he hides himself very well and is the cut an paste king. Involved in the forum and in the lives of real people up to a point, but Voice really isn't avaliable or able to invest in the life of someone else. Folks it is religion that destroys and Christianity that saves. Kim, I am sorry I know that you can't watch Youtube but this song has special meaning for me,

"Hold me Jesus"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gBGGX3yvMo

As I watch this video it always gets me chocked up.

It's God that Saves, God that Holds, and God that Loves. If we call ourselves Christians than shouldn't we be building up one another instead of tearing down? Shouldn't we be in the business of bringing others into fellowship with Christ, instead of trying to ban them?

And yes, I still got blisters on my heart but guess what? I have been saved by the Grace of God and I thank God for those Christian People that decided to invest some time in me.

BTW- After my breakdown there were those that wanted nothing to do with me. Called me crazy and no good. Tried to get me fired from my job. Caused me anguish. But God found me and HE brought people in my life to encourage and love me for who I was. Folks Christians show mercy and compassion and it's so sad but religions show contempt for any sort of weakeness shown.

Gods Blessings,

Al

What About Christians and the Sin of Suicide?


n our day, we often hear Christians say, "..my friend committed suicide, but I'm sure he was a Christian and is now in heaven with all his mental pain gone". But is suicide really the pain-killer that so many Christians think it is, or is that just wishful thinking? The truth is, none of us can be absolutely sure that anyone (besides ourselves) is a true Christian. The cliché of someone "wearing his heart on his sleeve" is a colloquialism, not a truism. Despite our human desires and beliefs, exactly who is, and who is not a true Christian, only Sovereign God knows for sure. And indeed that is His business, not ours. We judge not, for it is not given to man to know the true state of anyone's heart (1st Corinthians 3:12-13). God looks upon the inward man, not on the outward appearance of a person, as mankind does. He is able to discern between soul and spirit, and between joint and marrow. He pondereth the heart (proverbs 24:12) and knows it's true intents and secrets, no matter how cleverly man may cloak it in his outward veneer, piety or love. And the sad fact is, there are a lot of pseudo-Christians, who think that merely professing Christ, constitutes salvation. And that is the root of the problem.

There are even a few who argue that since the word suicide is not in the Bible, there is no law that speaks against it. That's like saying there is no word embezzlement in scripture, therefore there is no law against it. That's nonsensical reasoning. Actually, the word "suicide" is from two Latin words. [sui], which means "oneself", and [cida], which means "to kill". In other words, killing oneself. So though the word itself may not be found in scripture, what the word represents is clearly found on the pages of scripture, and forbidden. Shedding man's blood in Killing yourself intentionally is murder, which God strictly forbids.

Exodus 20:13

• "Thou shalt not kill."

In fact, it would be astounding to me that anyone professing to be Christian would argue that suicide is not sin. Since clearly suicide is not what God wants for anyone, thus it is the transgression of His law. Self murder is none the less murder. So there is really no way of getting around the fact that suicide is a sin. But this is not the question at issue here today. So we will assume that all faithful Christians believe suicide is sin. The question at issue is, "can a professed Christian that kills him/her self, have been a true Christian?" I believe the answer is, "yes it's certainly possible, but given all God has to say, it's not likely". Of course I understand that this most certainly is not going to be a popular answer (in today's politically correct society), but it is an honest and Biblical one that pleases God rather than man.


How Do We Know It's Possible?

We know it's possible for them to go to heaven because all of the sins of God's Children were accounted for in Christ's completed work on the cross. Therefore, if a true believer (the keyword being, true) were to get to the point where God (for His own purposes) abrogated His normal way of strengthening and upholding someone in time of trial, and allowed them to lose all hope that they did somehow commit suicide, then that sin would surely not keep them out of heaven. Because all the sins of the elect were paid for in Christ Jesus. So no sin that we could commit could keep us from the Love of God. The key word here is "If" God were to do this. But what on earth would lead us to think that God would do that? Certainly not anything in scripture. Just the opposite, God in us, is our power or strength that we not lose hope this way.

Romans 15:13

• "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost".

The whole point is that we may abound in hope by the strength of the Holy Spirit in us. God doesn't abrogate that power in time of despair. His strength is made perfect in weakness. i.e., in times when we are low, our weakness only serves to show God's power more illustrious as an opportunity that reveals His helping power. And through this, we are strengthened. There are even some Theologians who point to Samson as an example of one who committed suicide and was saved. However, Samson's death was to bring vengeance on the enemies of the Lord, and Samson was a vessel used in the "purpose of God" to get this done. And remember, Samson asked God for the super-human strength to do this. Not to kill himself because he was without hope, as a suicide. God Forbid! But to take vengeance upon these Godless Philistines.

Judges 16:28

• "And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes."

Samson asked for remembrance (Jeremiah 15:15) of the LORD, that he be revenged of his persecutors and enemies. And by extension, the Lord's persecutors and enemies. In prayer He asked for strength to do a super-human task, and he left his life entirely in the hands of God. He wasn't hopeless, he had hope and he had faith. By contrast, those who commit suicide are without hope, and are intent on taking their own lives regardless of what God's intends or what His will may be. Clearly we see that Samson's object was not specifically to kill himself, but as a child of God, to be avenged by God in his killing of the Philistines. Thus, as this was in full accord with the purpose of God, He allowed it. Samson died as a solder or warrior in battle carrying out the will of God in bringing judgment upon God's enemies, not as a suicide. This verse, in no way, shape or form, has anything to say addressing the issue of suicide. It's like comparing apples and oranges. Samson did not fall on his own sword, or jump off a ship to drown himself in the sea, take poison hemp, or throw himself off a mountain, or take knife to his own throat. God honored his prayer because His prayer was not for suicide (a vain hopeless prayer), but to be avenged on the enemies of the Lord. God didn't give him strength to kill himself, God gave him strength that he would kill more philistines by his death, than he had in his life (Judges 16:30), and thus God's example and purpose would fulfilled through this. This in no way defends suicide, nor proves that God's people commit this act. Suicide is not really a trait of the faith that is found in the true believer. Would God inspire us to be hopeless that we think about suicide, or is it the Devil that scripture tells us was a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44)? Suicide and genuine faith and trust in God do not go hand in hand. Some theologians claim that the problem with this view is that it represents a misunderstanding of eternal security, which Scripture clearly teaches. But that is not the case at all. Just because someone claims they are a saved person, doesn't mean that they have really been sealed with the Spirit of promise wherein they actually are. So there is no conflict with the doctrine of eternal security and professed Christians who commit suicide not being saved. The real problem is in Christians thinking that everyone who says they are saved, actually are. Nevertheless, if a "true" Christian would, in a instant of weakness, decide to drive his car off a cliff, or shot himself, that instant of bad judgment would certainly not keep him out of the Kingdom, since all his sins were forgiven. And so while I certainly would have to agree that it is possible for a true Christian to commit suicide and have been saved, I also would have to ask "what would ever indicate to a Christian that God would abrogate His care over His elect in time of trial to allow this hopelessness and despair without solution?" Certainly not anything in scripture.

John 14:18

• "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."

Isaiah 41:10

• "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness".

These aren't just empty meaningless words, they are faithful promises to those who trust in God. A Christian committing suicide is an extremely unlikely occurrence since it is God who works within us both to will and to do (Philippians 2:13). Of course in the flesh (in our human emotions, desires, and will) we don't like to think of our loved ones as possibly not having made it into to the Kingdom, but the word of God is not as silent on the issue as some would like to believe.


How Do We Know It is Unlikely

It is a simple matter of believing everything that God says, and not allowing our own interests and emotions to cloud our thinking. As I said, we would all like to think that our loved ones, personal friends and acquaintances will be in heaven. It's just human nature for people to want to believe that. But we have to leave all that in the capable hands of the Lord, and surrender to the authority of His word. i.e., "Thy will be done O' Lord, not mine".

There are many things neglected, but which should be considered in this issue. The first being, a true believer is indwelled by the Holy Spirit of God. People like to think that someone is so depressed and distraught that they see no way out, and so finally kill themselves. But that inherently presupposes that God is busy elsewhere, or just dwelling there within that person (assuming they're Christian) idle, not as a help or doing anything to prevent or alleviate that hopelessness. Even many learned theologians have fallen into the snare of underestimating the working of the Spirit of God within us.

And the second point is, this would illustrate clearly that the person committing this act has forsaken his trust in the Lord, a trust that is supposed to be the evidence of true salvation. We take refuge from trials and tribulations in Him, not in our despair. He is the help of those who have faith, and faith is their strength.

Psalms 9:10

• "And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee".

Psalms 62:8

• "Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah".

Psalms 115:11

• "Ye that fear the LORD, trust in the LORD: he is their help and their shield".

And the third point is that a great many of these suicide victims have been told by (possibly well meaning) Christians ahead of time that, "..while it's not good to commit suicide, people are going to heaven anyway if they're Christian". This is a careless and reckless thing to tell anyone who is contemplating suicide. Especially since in their obviously emotional state, they are highly susceptible and impressionable. But this is done continually by many misguided souls under the guise of compassion. Murder is a horrible sin, and it should not be spoken of as anything less. No, there is no word suicide in the bible, because the word is "Killing" or committing "murder". But of course, who would think to tell someone who asked them:
"..If I go kill my next door neighbor, would I go to heaven?"
..Yes, you will you dear soul, because you are a Christian. That's nonsense! No God fearing person would tell anyone this, but that is exactly what some do to many contemplating suicide. Sure, they couch or phrase their words in the fine print of, "but you really shouldn't," yet this is hardly the counsel a Christian should be giving. They're really playing situation politics, where their human compassion clouds the central issue. Is it possible a believer will kill themselves? Yes, it is possible, but it is not only unlikely, it is highly unlikely, given all that God has to say in scripture. And that's what they never tell them, because (and this is the kicker) they don't want them to lose hope. They are telling them its OK for them to lose hope. Considering all that scripture says on the issue, faithful believers should give no one a cozy place to feel comfortable about killing themselves. Because you would do God (and them) a grievous disservice. More than that, history shows us that ninety-nine percent of suicide victims are simply feeling sorry for themselves, even though most are blessed far above the average person on earth. But they have their eyes on themselves, and not on Christ, and it is in this vanity that so many make their big mistake. Their thoughts are always, "Poor me, why is this always happening to me?" The Christian minister should counsel them on where the real problem lies. Ergo, they've made themselves the central figure and primary reason for their existence, rather than Christ. So how is that evidence of true salvation? How are they then destined for the Kingdom? We must exhort them to take their eyes off themselves and off the cares of 'this world' and put them on Christ. If they do this, their depression will always be relieved because you cannot feel sorry for yourself when you're not thinking of yourself. When we lift our hands in prayer and put our minds on Christ (if He indeed be present within us), He will be our help, our strength, and our refuge in time of weakness. We need but pour out our heart before Him.

Psalms 62:7-8

• "In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
• Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah".

Ephesians 3:16

• "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;"

There is that within us, which is the 'mind of Christ, and we should understand that we cannot be depressed about something that we are not pining over. We must be thinking about it in order to be brought low and depressed about it. But if we take the Biblical principles (something which the Church today has forgotten in their leaning toward the social gospel), we will have our minds on things more righteous than ourselves. Sadly, most Theologians today give out secular humanistic advice and philosophy about suicide, as opposed to Biblical counsel. Philippians 4:6-9

• "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
• And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
• Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
• Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you".

God says be careful [marimnao] or anxious about nothing! We are commanded not to be mindful about it, or in other words, take our minds off of it, or don't worry about it. The worries of this world, about this life, about our status or feelings, is not what the New Life in Christ is all about. We give it up, we surrender all, we sell all we have for the cause of Christ. When we do that God commands us, and He will give us all that is necessary to have peace of mind.

"Where God guides, He provides!"
-WiseManSay When God says, think on these things, and the God of peace shall be with you, it's not just words blowing in the wind to placate us. These are words of His divine truth. His words only seem without power when professed Christians ignore scripture and begin to give and take advice by what seems right in their own eyes. If we're true Christians, then we must resign ourselves to do it God's way. We think not on ourselves, our lot in life, or our troubles, we think on the thing which God prescribes. Not about "poor me, what can I do about poor me," rather we think on, "what can I do today to better serve God". God has promised that if we do, His Peace of mind will be with us. Do we believe it, or do we (as unbelievers) believe that these phrases are just words? If we think God's words are cheap, then what makes us think that we are true believers anyway? That is the real question? In a discussion with a friend of mine, he declared:

"I suppose the question would be whether or not God would allow a true believer to commit such a grievous sin. I would tend to think not, but I don't know.."

This is an excellent point. We don't know for sure, but judging from all the Biblical texts, we do know that it is highly unlikely. And so to tell someone that they're going to heaven if they commit suicide (and believe me when I tell you, many do say that) is at best a misnomer. For it assumes far too much. A Christian committing suicide is like rebelliously rejecting God's promises and saying, "God you have put more on me than I can bear in this life". That of course is a direct contradiction to what God has promised He would not do. Yet just another example of scripture constantly ignored in favor of humanistic reasoning.

1st Corinthians 10:13

• "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will NOT suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it".

These are the pertinent scriptures which are often avoided by those who substitute psychology, humanism, and philosophy for Biblical counsel. We can understand (though not condone) the grieving loved ones' neglect of such verses, but learned Theologians counseling potential victims should know better. God says He 'WILL NOT' put upon Christians more than we are able to bear, but only what is common to man. That is an unambiguous and clearly written promise, and who are we to call that an overstatement? Who are we to ignore that promise in our desire that we comfort others? Is God a faithful (truthful) God who will not suffer Christians to be tried [peirazo] above what they can bear, or is God someone whose words are untrustworthy and empty? Again, that is the question for the serious Christian. Can we be brought to the very brink of suicide, and God withhold us from committing it? Absolutely! For there are lessons to be learned in all our trials and tribulations. But God promises that with our trials, He is faithful to make a way out of it that we can bear it. Look at David as our example. He was in great despair, depressed, brought so low that he sorrowed all day. Psalms 38:6-7

• "I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long.
• For my loins are filled with a loathsome disease: and there is no soundness in my flesh".

He was troubled to the point off having great turmoil of his heart, and yet he never gave up all hope, but instead called upon the Lord, from whence came his help. This is the mentality of the true believer. That God is their only help, not death. Psalms 38:21-22

• "Forsake me not, O LORD: O my God, be not far from me.
• Make haste to help me, O Lord my salvation".

Did King David feel that killing himself was the answer? On the contrary, he turned to God for help to lift him up from his low state of depression. Always he depended upon God's promises, and that is where his trust and hope was. Psalms 119:25

• "My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word".

When David was laid low in the dust, he prayed for renewal of life, asking God to preserve his life according to His word of promise. And this is (generally speaking) the problem today. Christians, that is to say, professed Christians, are not really looking to God for their help. rather they are looking at themselves and saying "poor me, I am without hope, I have no hope". their eyes are not on the prize, they are always on themselves. The emphasis is always on them, and never on the power of God as their help, strength and hope. Psalms 42:5

• "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance".

In other words, David understood that this was the God of his strength. Christians will survive suicidal tendencies by doing two things. They reduce their mental anguish by laying those thoughts down at the cross (Philippians 4:8) and leaving them there. And they increase their ability to cope by leaning upon the strength (Psalms 19:14; Psalms 31:4; 2nd Corinthians 12:9) of Christ, rather than their own. We can give our burdens to Christ, or we can attempt to carry them on our own shoulders. The problem is that so many Christians burden themselves in trying to deal with this alone, without Christ as their help. Yet if they humble themselves, lay all their burden down, they then don't have a care in the world. The problem is, people will not do that. They would rather wallow in self-pity. 1st Peter 5:6-7

• "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
• Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you".

In prayer and supplication they must make their requests known to God, placing their eyes upon Him and not themselves. For faith in Christ is an integral part of being a true Christian. And that is what we must not lose sight of, nor minimize in our sorrow or compassion. The light of the body is the eye. So let us exhort them (as Paul did) to keep their eyes on the prize, for this world is not our comfort zone, it is a way station. Often in our depression, we forget that this is not our home and we are just strangers and pilgrims here, just passing through. We've got a job to do and we weren't promised a rose garden in doing it. Indeed what we were promised was trails, temptations, tribulations, being hated, and persecuted (John 16:33, Luke 6:26). 2nd Timothy 3:12

• "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution".

So it's not, "woe is me," it's "blessed am I". God said blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute you and say all manner of evil against you. We take up our cross and we follow him. And whosoever won't forsake all for the sake of Christ is not worthy of Him (Matthew 10:37-38). Because in our weakness are we made strong in Christ. These are the things that Christians of our day seem to have forgotten. Their first Love (agape) is to charity, the sharing the gospel message with others. Our weaknesses are not what we despair over, but joy in. 2nd Corinthians 12:10

• "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong".

There are many who call themselves Christian who don't really believe that God will help them (though they'll never admit it out loud), but then where is their faith or their evidence of true salvation. There is no opt-out suicide clause in the law of God. Moreover, I cannot comprehend how the Holy Spirit of God could guide us, without moving us to where He wants us to go. Seriously, even a guide dog moves the blind to safety, does he not? God is much more careful of those under His care than a guide dog. And to make the claim that God does not take that kind of action within Christians is to ignore all the pertinent scriptures, which clearly says that God does. Philippians 2:12-13

• "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
• For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure".

For it is God which worketh in you BOTH to will and to do of his good pleasure. That word translated do [energeo] is the exact same word translated worketh there. It means 'being active,' the one effectually moving. It's where we get the word energy. God is not an idle passive God, He is a God who works within us and is active moving us to both will, and to do (work). That's not what I say and it's not humanistic philosophy, that's what the divine God inspired written. If we're going to ignore all the passages of scripture that we don't like, of course we can believe anything we want. We can then come to any unbiblical conclusion. But if we're truly seeking truth and looking to what God desires and declares, then all scripture must be taken into account when formulating doctrines. There are some Theologians who understand these things, but who respond by saying that we can't take this type view because we all lack a trust in the Lord sometimes. This may be true, but are we to use our own weakness as justification for murder? Just because someone did not trust in the Lord at sometime doesn't equate to, "suicide victims are most likely saved". We may have at sometime not trusted in the Lord, but we didn't kill ourselves, did we? ..and why not? By the Grace of God, that's why! And that is what some Theologians cannot seem to comprehend. God is not idle in all this. We do not reach that point of total despair precisely because of the Grace of God in us to 'keep' His faithful promise, and not put upon us more than we can bear. Either that, or God was not truthful when He promised that He wouldn't. So again, who are we going to believe? Psychiatrists, philosophers, new age seminary graduates, or the word of God.

This world (and I'm talking about the professed Christian world) is so enamored by their own vanity and ability to solve every problem by thinking it out themselves, that God and His word is as an afterthought in everything. Things are always about me, or I, or what I do, what I did, What I can't do, how I chose God, How I must move because God won't force me, etc. But the 'I' is the real problem here. All is pride and vanity saith the preacher. Trust and belief of the word, and faith in the Lord to carry it out, is not insignificant in anything. It's an essential part of true Christianity.

Psalms 18:2

• "The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower".

Psalms 40:4

• "Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies".

These are the things that faithful ministers of the word tell Christians. They don't counsel them that they can murder themselves, have no hope, have no trust in the Lord, and still be saved. A Christian committing suicide is forsaking his God, His God's law, and his commission. He's throwing in the proverbial towel. In essence he's saying, I'm tired of the work Christ has given me in this world and I want to quit. And more often than not, he has never even been working for Christ in the first place, merely parroting the line that 'he is a Christian.' But a true Christian doesn't faint in well doing, He endures. That again is one of the evidences of true Christianity. If we lack this, what makes us think we are true Christians. 2nd Corinthians 4:16

• "For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day".

Our spirit within us is renewed and invigorated day after day because Christ dwells within us and gives us the strength to persevere. Are we to think that His Spirit abandons us or fail to renew us the day we need it most? God Forbid! That may be the implication in some Theologians words, but it is not what we would expect according to scripture. He will never leave nor forsake us. Is that become a meaningless phrase in our day? As true Christians we wait upon the Lord, we do not throw up our hands in despair, we endur