September is Suicide Prevention Month
“…so that I prefer strangling and death, rather than this body of mine." Job 7:15
For some of you, this devotion may be difficult to read. I only write this because September is suicide awareness month.
Yes, the pain of suicide is something I am unfortunately familiar with. This topic is not one my family takes lightly, nor should anyone. If this tragedy has touched your family or a dear friend’s, I am so sorry.
The fear of it can be paralyzing, and the aftermath devastating. It can feel like a category 5 hurricane has ripped apart your soul, leaving you changed forever.
If you have followed me for any time at all, you know our family has been impacted by mental health challenges. Out of that journey, I’ve had the opportunity to speak and encourage other families with similar struggles.
I struggle sharing about the topic when May and September roll around, as both are recognized as awareness months. I wonder what to share and how to sensitively draw attention to a topic that touches so many people, yet no one likes to talk about. It is important to maintain our family’s dignity and yet be vulnerable for the purpose of helping others.
I share because so much harm is created by misconceptions and hastily passed judgements. Though it seems culturally more acceptable to share about Breast Cancer Awareness in October, Parkinson's Awareness in April, or promote Pancreatic Cancer Awareness in November, SUICIDE awareness carries an inherent stigma. However, suicide also affects so many families.
The Bible actually talks openly about the topic and sheds light on this “taboo” part of life. The Psalms contain expressions of people losing hope and wondering if death would be a better solution. (Importantly, God answers as a refuge, our protection and a place of safety.)
When Elijah lost hope and felt far from God, he asked God to take his life. "While he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. 'I have had enough, Lord,' he said. 'Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.”” (1 Kings 19:4-8) In this story, we see God sent an angel to encourage Elijah and feed him. This strengthened him.
Jonah was exhausted and decided death would be better. "Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live." (Jonah 4:3-5) God sent protection for the purpose of ministering to Jonah.
David’s emotional distress was often expressed in the Psalms (13:3, 31:9-10, 69:1-3)
I also found seven different bible characters who ended their lives by suicide.
Abimelech-Judges 9:54
Samson-Judges 16:29-30
King Saul-1 Samuel 31:4
Saul's Armor Bearer- 1 Samuel 31:
Ahithophel–2 Samuel 17:23
King Zimri-1 Kings 16:18
Judas-Matthew 27:5
The Bible doesn’t shy away from discussing suicide—why should we? Will we make ourselves available for God to work through to minister others who are suffering? What do we do with the topic of suicide and mental illness?
Pray.
Be present.
Be open and ask God to lead you.
Seek our resources.
There are so many great organizations and seeking help makes a difference.
Embracing Faith and Mental Illness
Find someone to pray with or seek counseling services in your area.
If a family you know suffers this tragic loss, don't shy away, instead reach out and be a source of support and love.
If I can pray for you or answer any questions, I’m here. Remember God sees you and He loves us more than we can imagine.
“Dear Lord, Your faithfulness is forever, you never leave us or forsake us. I pray for the one who is reading this today and is struggling, maybe deeply themself or has a loved one in the depth of depression or hopelessness. Lord send help, move in a way that this person knows You are near. You alone are our refuge and we can trust You. In Jesus name, Amen.”
If this devotion has spoken to you, I would love to hear how by leaving a comment below or emailing me tracyarntzen@gmail.com.