MCB CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. --
“Therefore Saul took his own sword and fell upon it. And when his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell upon his sword and died with him.” – 1 Sam. 31:4b-5 (ESV)
“There is only one really serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide. Deciding whether or not life is worth living is to answer the fundamental question in philosophy. All other questions follow from that.” – Albert Camus
Life can be painful, disappointing, and traumatic, and even godly people can and have had suicidal ideations. Elijah wanted God to take his life (1 Ki. 19:4) and both Jeremiah and Job cursed the days they were born (Jer. 20:14; Job 3:1). However, scripture promises that, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Ps. 34:18).
The church has not historically liked to talk about suicide because depression has been wrongly viewed by many as sin. Consequently, the most frequent lie told every Sunday morning is, “I’m fine.” Nevertheless, the Apostle Paul dealt with many struggles and had a “thorn in his flesh” that some think was depression. Yet, Paul was able to hear Jesus say to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). Paul also affirmed that he could do “all things through him [Christ] who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).
In addition, even though Jesus was fully God, he was also fully human and he suffered and felt enough pain on the cross to cry out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me” (Mt. 27:46). Thankfully, Jesus overcame that pain (and death), obeyed the Father’s will, and now promises to be with his people always, regardless of what they are going through, even to the end of the age (Mt. 28:20). He also sent his Holy Spirit to comfort us as well.
Regardless of the depth of one’s faith, no one is 100% safe from becoming depressed or experiencing suicidal ideations. Therefore, God’s people need to be willing to talk about their mental health struggles with the Lord and with one another. Scripture teaches believers to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2). It’s not easy to admit our weaknesses and to be vulnerable, but that is the road to healing.
If you are struggling with serious depression and/or suicidal thoughts, then please talk to someone that you trust. You are not alone and do not have to suffer by yourself. There is always someone available to talk to at the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). In addition, the Veterans & Military Crisis Line is available at 1-800-273-8255 and they can also provide help and resources.
“By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicide and save lives.” – www.SuicidePreventionLifeline.org. Please don’t be afraid to discuss the subject of suicide. Unfortunately, it’s not an issue that is going away anytime soon.
The Chaplain’s Corner covers everything faith related. Facts not attributed are purely the opinion of the writer.