Life often throws us curveballs that leave us reeling and prompting us to ask “Why go on?” Life’s challenges can often weigh heavily upon us and leave some of us contemplating ending it all. The Bible doesn’t ignore this aspect of human experience. In its pages are stories about real people struggling so deeply they considered taking their lives themselves. Let’s learn from their lessons rather than be led astray by sensationalism or sensationalist media coverage of this issue today. You can survive suicide as a christian.
Judas Iscariot and His Heart-Shattering Guilt
Judas is now widely associated with betrayal; yet his complexity should never be undervalued. Imagine walking alongside Jesus, witnessing miracles first-hand and then handing Him over for execution! According to Matthew’s Gospel account of their story, Judas felt immense guilt after handing Him over for execution and tried in vain to undo his mistake by returning the blood money (an unsuccessful endeavor which resulted in suicide by hanging).
Judas’ life ended in deep despair due to the debilitating effects of his guilt. Sometimes feelings of guilt may be all-consuming, yet there are ways out. Rather than living out our days trying to sidestep consequences by finding redemption or forgiveness as Judas did, we should strive instead towards this path back towards life and hope through the grace and forgiveness we find in the living sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
King Saul; Pride’s Bitter End At one time
King Saul had it all, power, respect, and divine favor. Yet, he let it slip away through disobedience by offering a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel as God instructed. In order to escape defeat at the hands of Philistine attackers and avoid capture himself he chose suicide over capture. Saul died alone with only his sword by his side as companion on that final journey to eternity.
Saul’s loneliness was due to pride. His focus was more on maintaining his public perception than on building meaningful relationships with God or other humans which led him down an increasingly lonely path. If our focus shifts too heavily onto how others view us and social media likes instead of on making ourselves better people overall then that too can create isolation and loneliness in life.
Elijah: From Triumph to Exhaustion
Imagine challenging 450 prophets to a duel and winning. Then, finding yourself so emotionally drained that you pray for death. That was Elijah. Despite his monumental victory on Mount Carmel, a death threat from Queen Jezebel broke him. He found himself alone in the wilderness, begging God to end his life.
Elijah’s tale offers hope because an angel appeared that provided him with nourishment and strength despite his dire situation. This can serve as a reminder that, even when things look hopeless, life may surprise us by offering unexpected assistance that gives a fresh lease on life that gives a second wind for our journey ahead.
Samson: A Fallen Hero
Samson was one of history’s ultimate strongmen that proved weak when it came to relationships. His choices led to his capture and humiliation. Yet, in his darkest hour, blind and enslaved, he found a measure of redemption. He brought down the Philistine temple, sacrificing himself but regaining his honor – not for fame or glory, but out of sheer honor and for himself and honor alone.
Samson’s tale was heart-wrenching; yet in its conclusion he found some form of reconciliation. It’s an inspiring lesson about making better choices even at our most desperate moment–even if that means making one final effort at change.
Summary
In the heart-wrenching narratives of suicide documented in the Bible, we see the deepest realms of human despair. Yet, we live in a time graced by the teachings and redemptive power of Jesus, a force that extends a beacon of hope even in the darkest times.
At Grace Christian Counseling, we are dedicated to being a source of that hope, standing as a refuge for those grappling with suicidal ideations. Jaime Wieland, one of our remarkable team members, transformed her personal experiences with such despair into a life-affirming resource: the “Survival Guide for Suicidal Christian.”
Jaime’s guide serves as a compassionate companion, intertwining personal insights and biblical teachings to help forge a path to recovery. It’s a hand reaching out, urging you to hold on, to fight, to choose life infused with grace and renewed purpose.
If you find yourself in the shadows of desperation, remember that you don’t have to walk this path alone. Reach out to Grace Christian Counseling, and let us walk alongside you, guided by a spirit of understanding, professional expertise, and the kindling light of Jesus’ grace, helping you rediscover the joy and purpose that awaits.
