Suicide:Don't Throw Your Life Away!

One of my favorite movies is, "It's a Wonderful Life" starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. The overriding theme of the movie is that, even with all the struggles, pain and trials, life is a gift from God, not to be snuffed out by our own hand when things get tough! Many would argue that that is a no brainer, but sadly suicide is becoming all too common, not only among teenagers, but in older age groups as well.
I believe there are many reasons for this. One thing that I believe has contributed to a much higher rate of suicide than in times past is the departure from a Christian world view that was allowed in schools when I was growing up. We now teach as fact in the public schools and universities that we "evolved" from lower life forms over billions of years. This leaves one with little cause for feeling like they were created by God with a divine purpose for their life which only they can accomplish! Also, there is often no belief in needing to give an account to a Holy God who gave them life in the first place. Also in such a world view, there are often no moral absolutes other than what the individual comes up with on his own. If things get too tough or miserable, then just "check out". You are in control, the captain of your ship so to speak. This is what Timothy McVeigh believed.

But, even Christians, who believe in the God of the Bible can and have been at risk for severe depression and tragically some have taken their own lives. So what is the solution to this tragedy and the cutting short of God's destiny for one's life? I believe the answer is found in having our identity in Christ and in Christ alone! Anything else is sinking sand! If we are beautiful, that can change with age or an accident. If we are healthy, that can change with an illness. If we are rich, that can change with investments failing. If we have a good marriage, that can change with our spouse betraying us. If we have a good career, what happens if we can no longer practice it or get laid off? If we have a good reputation, what happens if it gets smeared through no fault of our own?

Romans 8 talks about the love of God. It says that neither tribulation, distress, persecution, or famine, or nakedness, peril or sword shall separate us from His love. Also, neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us frome the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I would say that pretty much covers all the bases!

The greatest gift God has given us besides His Son is the gift of free volition. With that free will, we can accept or reject God's gift of eternal life found only in His Son. I John 5: 11-12 states that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in Jesus. He who has the Son has life, and he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. So, you can choose to endure your trials like a brave soldier knowing your ultimate destiny is heaven, or you can do it your way and make your own way of escape rather than waiting for God's way of escape. I Corinthians 10:13 states that no temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

What I do know is that the devil's greatest power is that of the "lie". If he can convince you that you are no good and that there is no hope, then he has won and you will act accordingly. Instead, endure suffering patiently and commit your soul and life to Him. He can save to the uttermost all that come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them(Hebrews 7:25).

Then, you will find that it truly is a "Wonderful Life"!
Lori

In this article I have addressed the spiritual implications of depression, but depression can be chemically induced or caused and should be medically treated until the person is "out of the woods" and can get through it to see things and life more clearly.
Lori