Few tragedies are as far-reaching in their pain as someone taking their own life. Not only is there the loss of a loved one, but the Christian must also grapple with the spiritual realities associated with this manner of death.
Statistically, suicide rates have increased in the United States over 32% since the year 2000. Over 49,000 Americans die from suicide every year (over 720,000 worldwide). 80% of suicide are committed by men. It is the leading cause of death among ages 10-34. Among the High School aged: girls are more likely to attempt suicide than boys, but boys are four times more likely to die from suicide than girls. Rates of suicide, attempted suicide, and suicidal thoughts are 19.7% in the LGBTQ+ community while only 6% among heterosexuals. The suicide rate for U.S. military veterans is roughly 57% higher than for non-veteran adults. It is estimated that 22 U.S. veterans commit suicide each day.
The Bible does not avoid this subject. Most people know that Judas Iscariot hanged himself in remorse after betraying Jesus (Matt. 27:3-5). King Saul fell on his sword rather than allowing himself to be captured. His armor-bearer did the same (1 Sam. 31:4-5). Ahithophel and Zimri both took their lives when they believed they would be killed (2 Sam. 17:23; 1 Kings 16:18).
The Bible also records men of faith who wished they could die. Moses asked God to kill him (Num. 11:11-15). Elijah prayed that he might die (1 Kings 19:4). Jonah asked God to take his life (Jonah 4:1-3). Please note, these men expressed a desire to die, but they didn’t take their own lives.
Unfortunately, it is common for people to reach such low points in their lives, even men and women of great faith. Sometimes physical pain can take its toll on individuals (think of Job who wished he had never been born – Job 3). Sometimes people get into situations with no apparent means of escape. Sometimes people feel hopeless. These seasons of life can come to all of us. When they do, we need to lean on our faith. “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved” (Ps. 55:22). Such suffering is temporary when eternity is kept in view. Suicide never makes things better. It is a permanent solution to a temporary problem that leaves loved ones to suffer unimaginable loss and casts us immediately into eternity with our own blood on our hands, facing the God who gave us the life we just chose to throw away. No right-thinking person would ever take this action.
Consider that for a moment: a right-thinking person. Research has found that 46% of people who died by suicide had a known mental health condition. Analysis from the CDC indicates that one in five people who die by suicide had alcohol in their system at the time of death. Drugs and alcohol impair judgment.
What is the eternal fate of individuals who take their own lives? We know God will always make the proper judgment (Gen. 18:25). The Bible teaches some people are not in a state of accountability. This is true of young children (Is. 7:16; 8:4; Jonah 4:11). Wouldn’t it also be true of those who have not matured or progressed mentally? Wouldn’t it also be true of those who are suffering a “mental breakdown” or episode when they are not responsible for their actions? God will have the final say in all things. Such matters need to be left in His hand. We don’t want to give false hope, but our God has perfect understanding of every situation and abounds in mercy.
Think about it.