OVERCOMING SUICIDAL TENDENCIES

By Rev.Michael Benson Ajayi

Acts 1:17-18 KJV“For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.”

      This is the account of Judas Iscariot one of the leaders of the early church. He was close to Jesus and considered the most trustworthy given that he was in charge of the treasury (John13:29).Judas had built his security around money and social status therefore, whenever his finances were threatened his will to live diminished.

      Judas was often cynical and hypercritical of divinely constituted authority (Matt.26:6-8) This is the breeding ground for suicidal tendencies and when he eventually came to his senses the damage had already been done. He was left with no true friends and was filled with despondency. True friends never encourage us to live outside God’s will.  With no sense of security, Judas proceeded to take his life. 
       Ignorance of God's word leads to deep despair .This is the first step towards committing suicide.  The word of God gives hope to the hopeless. Judas was preoccupied with money other than the ministry of the word. Acts 1:17-18 says Judas obtained part of the ministry of Christ, he was partly committed thus the word of God did not have deep roots in him. The first thing Satan does before destroying a Christian is to convince him or her to keep away from the reading of God’s word. He uses our unhealthy cravings for money, sex and lust for social influence resulting in a heightened sense of anxiety and renders the word of God in our hearts unfruitful. The scriptures in Rev.3:17 describe such persons as being wretched, pitiable, poor in spirit, naked and spiritually blind. This leads to the second stage of being suicidal: isolation- a deep sense of loneliness and feeling being left- out. They become very moody and detached from others. It is at such times that Satan starts selling the idea of taking one’s life.I have been there before, therefore, whenever we notice this trend in a friend or relation, we should be quick to share God’s word of hope with them with prayers. Regular visits, phone calls, messages really helps at such times.Tell them how much they're loved and they should be taught on how to trust God for provisions (Phil.4:19)and nobody can truly say what  God's judgment is for committing suicide: asking for forgiveness before committing a sin is far more risky than after. Suicide does not give one the opportunity for amendment after death considering that after death comes the judgment (1Cor.3:16,17,19,Heb.9:27)It is a lack of faith in God's saving grace. 

        We are enjoined to let the word dwell richly in our hearts, think less about ourselves ,sing christian songs ,psalms and hymns, this helps in lifting the human spirit. Phil 4:4-7 TLB  says “Always be full of joy in the Lord; I say it again, rejoice! Let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate . .. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don't forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this, you will experience God's peace., which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand…”

     Finally , stay away from negative news from friends ,relations especially on social media at all cost.This keeps your faith alive. Phil 4:8-9 TLB says "Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about. .. and the God of peace will be with you. “ happy words and thoughts leads to a happy  and prosperous life. As you receive Jesus Christ as lord and saviour and read this now, receive grace to overcome depression in Jesus name.                            

Free  prayer/counseling. +2348035536911,+2348098536911 email:michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
pics credit: pixabay