Inside The Bible’s Ban on Suicide
Many have wondered: What does the Bible say about committing suicide? As it turns out, the Bible speaks extensively on many of the challenges and suffering we face in life. Included in its teachings are those on the topic of suicide. According to the Bible, suicide is a sin that’s strictly forbidden. This prohibition applies to any and all forms of suicide under any circumstances.
Suicide is seen as violating the two greatest commandments in the Bible as set out by Jesus himself — to love God with all our heart and to love our neighbors as ourselves. The Bible teaches us that all human life is created by God, thus suicide is seen as defying God’s authority.
In the Old Testament, one of the Ten Commandments states “You shall not murder.” This was a direct prohibition against ending a life on purpose. While the term “murder” might not always be associated with suicide, it’s a biblical view of suicide as a crime. It implies a great disrespect for those in authority or for our creator, both of whom we are commanded to honor.
In the New Testament, Jesus taught us to “love your enemies” and that “the meek shall inherit the earth.” This reinforces the idea that everything in life, even hardships, is something we are to face with courage and faith that ultimately serves to strengthen our relationship with God. Suicide doesn’t honor either of these principles.
The story of Judas, one of Jesus’ apostles, serves to further illustrate the Bible’s stance on suicide. Judas betrayed Jesus and felt so guilty afterwards that he committed suicide. The Bible criticises Judas for his sin and expresses sadness over his choice to take his own life.
It’s also important to note that even though the Bible very clearly and strongly opposes suicide, it doesn’t judge those who have attempted and/or considered it. The Bible mentions that God is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” and that He forgives any and all sins.
Compassionate Care for Those Struggling
In light of the Bible’s firm stance against suicide, it is important to be aware of the myriad of alternative approaches that the Bible offers for those feeling the deep pain and despair that can lead to considering this extreme act.
The Bible says that as humans, we belong to God and it’s our purpose to glorify Him in all we do. Human life is precious because it has been given by God. So life is something we must treasure and not discard. We must, instead, seek to care for it — both mentally and physically — by distancing ourselves from the very things that can compromise it, such as destructive and unhealthy habits.
The Bible also speaks of the need to draw close to God in times of suffering, as God can provide a pathway out of our pain and despair. He is the one who we can turn to for strength. The Bible says we can cast our cares and worries on the Lord, because He is the one who cares for us deeply and is closer than a brother.
Improving Mental Wellbeing
The Bible encourages us to seek help from experts. Mental health awareness, although still in its early stages of development, was a concept that began to take off in the 1970s. This coincided with the introduction of psychotherapy as a tool to help those suffering from mental illness. Through psychotherapy, individuals are given the necessary tools to cope with their pain and suffering, and the guidance to help build better connections and relationships with the people around them.
The Bible also speaks of the need to forgive ourselves and others. To forgive someone is to free ourselves from the chains of our own pain and anguish. This is something the Bible has taught us to do, as it is an integral part of the healing process.
At the same time, Jesus also encourages us to be unashamed when it comes to our pain, since it is something we will inevitably experience in life. We can draw comfort from the fact that God is in control of our lives and that He will never put us in a situation too big for us to handle.
Living In The Present Moment
The Bible speaks of the importance of staying grounded and mindful of the present moment. It’s often easy to get caught up in the past or the future, but we should focus on living one day at a time. This means accepting our current circumstances and dealing with them in the best possible way, instead of running away and trying to escape.
The Bible also encourages us to live with a sense of purpose and mission. It teaches us to be ever mindful of our goals and to take honest inventory of our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It also informs us to make our decisions in accordance with God’s truths, and to accept our mistakes and setbacks.
Finally, the Bible speaks of the importance of loyalty and faithfulness, especially when it comes to relationships. Through the example of the disciples, we are taught to support and encourage one another in times of walking through dark valleys. This can help uplift each other and provide a safe space for those in despair or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Accepting The Struggle
The life we are given by God is temporary and yes, hard. It requires us to take on immense suffering and tragedy at times, but these are experiences that are meant to shape us, teach us, and strengthen us. It is in those moments that we are able to turn to God for guidance and solace.
The Bible advises us against worrying about the future and gives us peace in knowing that our lives and paths are already known and already set by God. Trials and tribulations will come and go, and it is through faith and trusting in God’s plan that we are able to endure it all and come out on the other side as a better and stronger person.
Valuing Life As A Gift
For those considering suicide, the Bible promises hope if they will hold on. It reminds us that our individual lives and the trials that come with them have a purpose. It is a reminder that no matter what the circumstance, life is something to be valued and treasured, because it is a gift from God.
The Bible explains that our calling is to use our lives to bring glory to God and to make the world a better place. It teaches us that although things can become tough, we are never given more than we can handle. If a person feels overwhelmed, the Bible says to turn to God — to put our trust in the Lord and allow him to lead the way.
God’s Heart For Those Who Feel Alone
The Bible teaches us that even in the darkest of times, God is there with us — even when we feel completely alone. When we hurt and struggle, God is right there, feeling our sorrow and holding us up. The Bible tells us that we cannot always get to where we want to go on our own, but that if we trust in God and open ourselves up to His love, He can help us through anything.
God himself is a companion to those in need. He never abandons those who are lost, hurting, or lonely. He is constantly present in our lives, always seeking us out and helping us in our time of need. In Him we can find unlimited love, comfort and strength.
Rebuilding Our Relationship With God
The Bible tells us that if we ask for forgiveness from God, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We can always go back to Him, no matter what we have done or how far away we have wandered. He always awaits to mend that relationship and provide us with hope. He never turns His back on His children.
The Bible speaks of a deep longing in God’s heart for us to return to Him and be close to Him again. This includes those who have considered suicide in the past and those who may consider it in the future. God is a loving, forgiving, and compassionate God. He can help us understand and manage our emotions and feelings, and bring us peace.
Finding Long-Lasting Happiness
The Bible offers hope that our suffering and struggles are not in vain — there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We must all strive for a balance that recognizes and validates our pain, while also recognizing that life, despite its difficulties, is a beautiful and important gift.
The Bible encourages us to find joy in joyous moments — to remember that happiness is not the absence of hardships, it is found in the day-to-day life, in the moments of simple contentment and gratitude.
The Bible tells us to stay humble, because in our best and worst of days, we are more powerful and influential when we are walking with God. When we remember to give God the glory and honor due to Him, we can continue to stay grounded and find comfort in Him in all areas of our lives.
Trust In God’s Plan
Suicide is a complex topic, and understanding what the Bible says about it isn’t always an easy task. However, the truth is clear: Suicide is a sin that’s strictly forbidden. But, that doesn’t mean that the Bible condemns those who consider it or those who are struggling with thoughts of it. Instead, it implores us to place our full trust in God, to remember that life is a gift, and to find hope and comfort in knowing that because of God, everything is possible.
The Bible also teaches us that although life can offer tremendous pain and heartache, it is in those moments that we can turn to God for guidance and solace. Ultimately, it is essential to remember that God allows suffering in this life, but that He also provides a way out and ultimate peace if we will first turn to Him and trust in His plan.
