*If you or someone you know is at risk, please use the resources at the bottom of this page.*
The topic of suicide is deeply complex and sensitive, intertwining mental health, spiritual beliefs, and personal struggles. Both the Old Testament and New Testament provide various perspectives and teachings that can offer comfort, guidance, and hope to those grappling with thoughts of suicide or supporting someone who is.
Biblical examples, such as the stories of King Saul and King David, highlight the sanctity of life and the consequences of straying from God’s word. This article explores Bible verses that address the sanctity of life, God’s love, and His promises, aiming to offer a biblical perspective on the issue of suicide.
Through these scriptures, individuals can find strength and hope in God, the gift of life, and the support of the Christian community. Seeking confidential support from a mental health organization or a support group and understanding that one’s own life is a precious creation in the sight of the Lord are vital steps. Trusting in the word of God and the promises of God, even in the darkest times, can help guide individuals toward a healthy awareness of their special place in the lives of their friends and family.
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This commandment underscores the sanctity of life, reminding us that life is a precious gift from God. While it directly forbids taking another’s life, it also implies the importance of preserving our own lives. In moments of deep emotional pain and suicidal thoughts, this verse can serve as a reminder that God values each life and has a purpose for every individual. It points to the importance of seeking confidential support and turning to the love of God for strength and hope.
Job 3:20–23
“Why is light given to one in misery, and life to the bitter in soul, who long for death, but it does not come, and dig for it more than for hidden treasures?” (NRSVue)
Reflection: Job’s lament reflects the profound despair that can lead to suicidal thoughts. His honesty about his suffering after losing all his children, all his wealth, and his wife allows us to see that feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges is not new. Job’s story encourages us to express our pain openly and seek God’s compassion and understanding. Despite his suffering, Job’s journey ultimately leads to restoration, illustrating that hope can emerge from the darkest times.
Psalm 30:5
“For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This verse offers a message of hope and endurance. It acknowledges that while we may experience profound sorrow and suffering, these feelings are temporary. God’s everlasting joy and favor are constants that we can rely on. For those battling suicidal thoughts, this promise of eventual joy can provide the strength to hold on through the night, trusting that a brighter morning lies ahead.
Psalm 139:13–16
“For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In your book were written all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This passage speaks to the intimate care and purpose with which God creates each person. Understanding that we are wonderfully made by God can reinforce our inherent value and worth. For those feeling insignificant or overwhelmed by a suicidal crisis, these verses can remind them of their unique place in God’s plan and His loving attention to every detail of their lives.
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: Jesus extends an invitation to those burdened by life’s hardships to find rest in Him. This verse reassures us that we do not have to carry our struggles alone. By turning to Christ Jesus, we can find relief and support. For anyone experiencing severe depression or mental illness, this promise of rest and relief is a powerful reminder of the peace of God available to them as they seek help.
Luke 18:1
“Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This verse emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and not losing hope. In times of deep emotional pain, continuous communication with God can provide solace and strength. It encourages us to maintain faith and hope, trusting in God’s timing and plans. Persistent prayer puts us in communion with Christ, opening another avenue for His peace to calm our minds and spirits as we seek help for the things that deeply trouble us.
Romans 14:7-8
“We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: These verses remind us that our lives and deaths are in God’s hands. Recognizing that we belong to God can bring comfort and perspective, especially in times of despair. It emphasizes the sanctity of life and our connection to the Lord in every aspect of our existence- that once we are His, He accepts us as His own. This understanding can help us seek God’s grace and trust in His love, even amid life’s darkest moments.
1 Corinthians 6:19
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own?” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This verse highlights the sacredness of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Recognizing that our bodies belong to God can encourage us to honor and care for them. For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, this verse can serve as a reminder of their divine worth and the responsibility to preserve the life God cares so deeply about. It calls us to seek the power of the Holy Spirit for strength and healing.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This verse speaks to the transformative power of faith in Christ. Embracing the identity of a new creation in Christ can bring hope and renewal. For individuals feeling trapped by past mistakes or who are overwhelmed by circumstances, this promise of a fresh start can inspire a renewed sense of purpose and possibility and encourage leaning on God’s promises for a new beginning.
Philippians 4:6–7
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: These verses encourage us to bring our anxieties and needs to God in prayer. The assurance of God’s peace, which transcends human understanding, can provide comfort and stability during times of turmoil. For those experiencing suicidal thoughts, this passage offers a pathway to peace through prayer and trust in God, reaffirming that God’s peace can guard their hearts and minds.
1 Peter 5:6–7
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: These verses remind us of God’s care and the importance of humility. By casting our anxieties on God, we acknowledge our need for His help to make it through tough times and His willingness to support us. For those burdened with suicidal thoughts, this passage offers reassurance of God’s care and the promise that He will lift them up in due time. It encourages us to turn to God for support and trust in His compassion.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: This verse assures us of God’s good plans for our future. Even when life feels overwhelming, God’s promise of a hopeful future can provide comfort and direction. For individuals facing suicidal thoughts, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that God has a plan for their lives that is filled with hope and a sense of purpose that urges us to hold on and seek help.
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: Jesus contrasts His life-giving mission with the thief’s destructive intentions. His promise of abundant life encourages us to embrace the fullness of life He offers. Jesus desires us to experience life in abundance, reinforcing the value and potential of our lives. It calls for seeking the life-giving presence of Christ.
Hebrews 4:15–16
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (NRSVue)
Reflection: These verses highlight Jesus’ empathy and understanding of human struggles. Christ was once fully human and is no stranger to the struggles we face. Knowing that Christ sympathizes with our weaknesses should provide comfort and encouragement. This passage invites us to boldly seek God’s mercy and grace, trusting that help can be found in our time of crisis, emphasizing the compassionate nature of God’s support.
1 Kings 19:4
“But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a solitary broom tree. He asked that he might die: ‘It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my ancestors.’” (NRSVue)
Reflection: Elijah’s plea to God under the broom tree reflects a moment of profound despair, showcasing his vulnerability and deep emotional pain. Even the most faithful among us can experience overwhelming feelings. We are not alone. Yet, Elijah’s story also highlights God’s compassion, as He provides Elijah with nourishment and rest, leading to renewed strength and purpose. God hears their cries and responds with care. Though it may have felt like he was alone, God was with Elijah. And so, we need to be careful not to isolate ourselves but instead turn to God’s grace and compassion for healing and restoration.
In addressing the sensitive issue of suicide, the Bible offers many verses that can provide comfort, guidance, and hope. These verses remind us of the sanctity of life, the power of God’s love, His presence, and His eternal promises. We are encouraged to seek the compassion and support of God and others while we trust in His plans for a hope-filled future. The reflections and insights drawn from these scriptures can offer solace and encouragement, helping individuals find strength in their faith and the enduring presence of God’s grace and mercy.
United States
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- The Trevor project: (212) 695-8650
Canada
- Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 988
- Talk Suicide: 1-833-456-4566
United Kingdom
- Samaritans: 116-123
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): 020-3854-2161
India
Snehi: +91 95822 08181
AASRA: 91-982-046-6726
Australia
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Christian Hotlines
United States
- The HopeLine: 1-800-442-HOPE(4673)
- The 700 Club Prayer Counseling Center: (800) 823-6053
Canada
- Focus on the Family Canada: 1.800.661.9800
United Kingdom
- Premier Lifeline: 0300 111 0101
Australia
- Crossroads Christian Crisis Hotline: 1300 720 044
General International
- Rapha Suicide Prevention Ministries: Various international numbers available on their website
These helplines provide support from a Christian perspective. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, it is important to seek help from local emergency services immediately.
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