What the Bible Says About Suicide: Hope in the Midst of Darkness

Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."

Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to thoughts of despair and hopelessness. The Bible does not explicitly mention suicide in many passages, but it speaks clearly about the sanctity of life, the consequences of sin, and the unfailing hope found in God. When people struggle with deep sorrow, God offers healing, restoration, and peace—calling His children to trust in Him rather than giving up.

1. Life Is a Gift from God

The Bible teaches that life is given by God and is meant to be cherished. Since He is the Creator and Sustainer of life, only He has the authority to determine its beginning and end.

Genesis 2:7 – "And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul."

God personally gave humanity the breath of life, showing that life is a divine gift meant to be protected, not taken away by human hands.

Job 12:10 – "In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind."

God holds every life in His hand, reminding us that our existence is valuable in His sight.

2. God Offers Comfort in Times of Pain

Many figures in the Bible experienced deep despair, but instead of taking their own lives, they turned to God for help. The Scriptures encourage those struggling with overwhelming emotions to seek comfort in the Lord.

Psalm 34:17-18 – "The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."

God never abandons His people, no matter how heavy the burden may feel.

Isaiah 41:10 – "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee."

His presence is constant, offering strength to those who feel weak and weary.

3. Biblical Examples of Those Who Faced Despair

David’s Cry for Help

David endured betrayal, loneliness, and great sorrow. He often cried out to God, refusing to let despair consume him.

Psalm 42:11 – "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God."

Rather than giving up, David placed his hope in God, trusting that the Lord would restore him.

Elijah’s Moment of Hopelessness

Elijah, after facing intense persecution, became so discouraged that he wanted to die. However, God did not abandon him—instead, He comforted and strengthened him.

1 Kings 19:4 – "But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die."

Despite Elijah’s despair, God provided care and reassurance, showing that even in our lowest moments, He intervenes with love and mercy.

4. Suicide Is Not the Answer—God Offers Restoration

Suicide cuts off the opportunity for God’s healing and renewal. Instead of turning to despair, Scripture calls believers to place their trust in God, who turns pain into purpose.

Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."

God has a future and a hope prepared for every person, even in times of darkness.

Romans 8:28 – "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God."

No matter how painful the present may feel, God is working behind the scenes to bring redemption and joy.

5. Finding Strength and Healing in God

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of despair, the Bible provides clear steps to find healing and renewal in God’s presence:

Cry out to God in prayer – Share your burdens honestly with the Lord.

Seek encouragement in Scripture – God’s Word strengthens and renews the mind and heart.

Stay connected with believers – Fellowship provides support, comfort, and accountability.

Trust in God’s promises – Every season, even suffering, has a purpose in His divine plan.

Psalm 55:22 – "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

Your Life Has Purpose

If you are facing overwhelming pain, know that God sees you, loves you, and desires to restore you. Suicide is not the solution—God has a plan, even when life feels unbearable.

Psalm 30:5 – "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."

Your life is valuable. You are not alone. God’s love will sustain you, offering hope and renewal.

If you need prayer, guidance, or encouragement, seek the support of spiritual leaders, trusted friends, and the presence of God. Your journey is not over—God is not finished with you.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

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The Tragedy of Suicide: A Biblical Perspective on Self-Murder

Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."

The Bible teaches that life is sacred, given by God, and that He alone holds authority over life and death. While it does not explicitly use the term suicide, it does address the concept of self-murder—the act of intentionally ending one’s own life. Scripture affirms that life belongs to God, and taking it prematurely rejects His sovereignty, mercy, and healing power.

Despite this, some biblical figures struggled deeply with despair and hopelessness, including Judas Iscariot, who committed suicide after betraying Jesus. His story serves as a warning that unchecked guilt, isolation, and rejection of God’s forgiveness can lead to devastating consequences.

1. Judas Iscariot’s Suicide: A Lesson in Hopelessness

Judas was one of the twelve disciples, yet he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Overcome with guilt, he attempted to return the money, but rather than seeking forgiveness, he allowed despair to consume him.

Matthew 27:5 – "And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself."

Instead of repenting and turning to God, Judas ended his own life, illustrating the dangers of succumbing to hopelessness. His actions stand in contrast to Peter, who also betrayed Jesus but sought forgiveness and was restored.

Judas’ suicide demonstrates that self-murder is not the answer—God offers healing, redemption, and the opportunity for renewal even after grave mistakes.

2. What Does the Bible Say About Self-Murder?

The Bible consistently affirms that murder, including self-murder, is against God’s commandments. Taking life—whether one’s own or another’s—violates His divine authority and reflects a rejection of His power to restore hope.

Exodus 20:13 – "Thou shalt not kill."

While some may argue that this commandment applies only to harming others, self-murder is also a form of killing and thus falls under this command.

Additionally, Scripture teaches that our bodies belong to God—not to ourselves.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price."

God has a purpose for every life, and ending it prematurely denies His plan and love.

3. Suicide Is Not the Answer—God Offers Hope

Many biblical figures faced intense struggles, sorrow, and despair, yet instead of giving up, they turned to God for strength. The Bible repeatedly offers hope and encouragement to those who feel lost.

Isaiah 41:10 – "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee."

God promises to uphold His children, even in moments of deep pain.

Romans 8:38-39 – "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life... shall be able to separate us from the love of God."

No matter how broken someone feels, God’s love remains constant.

4. How to Overcome Despair and Seek Healing

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, the Bible provides clear steps to seek healing and restoration:

Turn to God in Prayer – Cry out to Him with honesty; He hears and answers.

Surround Yourself with Support – Seek godly counsel, pastors, or trusted believers.

Immerse Yourself in Scripture – Reading God’s Word renews hope and strength.

Trust That God Has a Plan for Your Life – Even in trials, His purpose prevails.

Psalm 55:22 – "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

Final Encouragement: Your Life Has Purpose

If you are struggling, know that God sees you, loves you, and wants to restore you. Suicide is not the solution—God has a future and a hope for you.

Psalm 30:5 – "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."

Your life is valuable, and you are not alone. If you need help, support, or prayer, reach out to a pastor, friend, or counselor.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

All Rights Reserved

Will you go to heaven if you commit suicide?

The Bible teaches that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works. If a person has genuinely accepted Christ as their Savior, their salvation is secure in Him. However, suicide is a tragic act, and it is not God's will for anyone to take their own life.

The Scriptures affirm that life is a precious gift from God, and self-murder is against His commandments.

Exodus 20:13 – "Thou shalt not kill."

While this verse applies broadly to all forms of murder, it includes taking one’s own life. Suicide cuts off the opportunity for God's healing, restoration, and purpose.

Romans 8:38-39 reminds believers that nothing can separate them from God’s love:

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life... nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God."

Even in moments of deep suffering, God's love remains present. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help—talk to a pastor, counselor, or trusted friend.

Suicide is not the answer—God desires to heal, restore, and provide hope.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

All Rights Reserved