When suicidal thoughts come

“Be not overly wicked, neither be a fool. Why should you die before your time?” (Eccles. 7:17 ESV)

When Life Feels Too Painful

Suicidal thoughts can come when pain, depression, loneliness, illness, rejection, or circumstances seem unbearable. In those dark moments, a person may believe there is no way out.

But there is hope. Do not make a permanent decision during a temporary season of darkness.

I Understand That Darkness

I understand some of this personally. When I was young, I experienced severe bullying and periods of deep depression. The pain became so overwhelming that I attempted suicide twice and was hospitalized.

That was more than sixty years ago. Looking back now, it is difficult to believe I was ever in such a dark place. But I still remember the anguish. At the time, everything looked so black that I could not see beyond it.

But what I could not see then was the life God still had ahead of me.

Had I died then, I would have missed more than sixty years of life, family, ministry, friendships, opportunities, and experiences that I could not possibly have imagined.

Your darkest moment does not determine the rest of your story.

Judas and Peter

The Bible tells us about two disciples who failed Jesus terribly.

Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Overcome with remorse, he returned the money and then took his own life (Matt. 27:3-5).

Peter also failed Jesus. He denied Him three times and afterward wept bitterly (Luke 22:54-62). But Peter lived to experience Christ’s forgiveness and restoration. Jesus restored Peter, and God later used him mightily.

Failure does not have to be the end of your story. Pain does not have to be the end of your story.

God is still able to restore, forgive, heal, and give you another chapter.

Therefore

If suicidal thoughts come, do not face them alone. Tell someone immediately—a family member, friend, pastor, counselor, doctor, or another person you trust. Get away from anything you could use to hurt yourself and stay with someone until the crisis passes.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 ESV)

“When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17 ESV)

Hold on. Ask for help. Give tomorrow a chance. God is not finished with your story.

Prayer

Lord, when everything seems dark and I cannot see a way forward, help me hold on. Remind me that You are near to the brokenhearted. Give me courage to reach out for help and strength to make it through this moment. Protect my life, restore my hope, and help me trust You with the days ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Quotes

“Take care of your life and the Lord will take care of your death.” — George Whitefield

“Let God have your life; He can do more with it than you can.” — Dwight L. Moody