Why Should I Not Commit Suicide?
Suicide is a tragic action that deeply impacts not only the person who takes their own life, but also their loved ones left behind. As Christians, we believe that life is a precious gift from God and that He has a purpose for each one of us during our time on earth (Jeremiah 29:11). Even in the midst of deep despair, there are always alternatives to suicide that allow space for hope and healing. Here are several reasons why suicide should be avoided from a biblical perspective:
1. Human life is sacred
The Bible teaches that human beings are created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27), which gives human life an inherent sacredness and value. As His creation, our lives belong first to God rather than to ourselves. Suicide is an act of rejecting God’s sovereignty over our lives and taking a matter of life and death into our own hands. However, Scripture reminds us that ultimately God is the author and sustainer of life:
“See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god beside me; I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand.” (Deuteronomy 32:39)
“In him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)
Therefore, we should view our lives as God’s possession and treat them with great care and reverence. Suicide closes the door on what God may want to accomplish in and through us.
2. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit
As Christians, our bodies serve as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). God’s Spirit resides within us to sanctify us, transform us into the likeness of Christ, and empower us to live for God’s glory. Since the Holy Spirit dwells in us, our bodies do not fully belong to ourselves. Willfully destroying this temple through suicide is an offense against God’s Spirit and mars His sacred image within us.
3. Suicide excludes the possibility of repentance and restoration
When facing trials, we can be confident that God promises to be with us and provide a way out from temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13). However, suicide permanently cuts short the possibility of renewal, redemption, and a changed heart moving forward. In contrast, if we turn to God in our pain, He can bring beauty from ashes and replace despair with hope. With God, it is never too late for repentance and spiritual restoration no matter how far we have strayed. But suicide leaves no room for God’s restorative work in our lives.
4. Suicide causes deep wounds for loved ones
Suicide often leaves family and friends haunted by pain, guilt, anger and unanswered questions. The grief experienced after a suicide is uniquely devastating and complex. As Scripture commands, “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). If we care for others’ wellbeing, we should avoid inflicting this kind of enduring trauma through suicide which can emotionally scar loved ones for years to come.
5. Life’s trials can be used for spiritual growth
God allows us to experience difficulties, disappointments and suffering for purposes of spiritual maturation, ministry to others, increased dependence on Him, and deepened capacity for empathy (James 1:2-4; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Paul himself experienced profound hardship yet testified that “for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). While suffering tempts us to escape pain permanently through suicide, God uses trying times to produce Christlike character if we persevere by faith.
6. God promises to be with us in the valley of shadows
When we walk through the valley of the shadow of death—whether through suicidal thoughts or other despairing trials—God promises to remain present with us (Psalm 23:4). He will never leave or abandon His people, no matter how dark the night. There is no pit so deep that God cannot reach us with His comfort, mercy and deliverance. He cares for our every need even when we cannot sense His presence.
7. Hope is available through Christ
Suicide is a permanent solution to often temporary problems. Through faith in Christ, there is always hope for redemption and renewed purpose. Jesus said “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10) and that He is personally the resurrection and the life (John 11:25-26). No matter how bleak circumstances may appear, God offers eternal life and abundant joy to those who trust in Christ. Suicide cuts short our experience of the spiritual renewal He graciously provides.
8. God has prepared works for us to accomplish
Scripture teaches that God created each of us with a special calling and good works that He has foreordained we should walk in during our lives (Ephesians 2:10). Every life has a God-ordained trajectory and purpose. By ending our lives prematurely through suicide, we close the door on what God has prepared for us to accomplish. Only He sees the full blueprint and potential of our life’s impact. We should faithfully walk in God’s will rather than step out of His intentions for us.
9. Death seals our eternal destiny
Suicide prevents us from fulfilling the Great Commission by sharing the hope of the Gospel with others who desperately need to hear. It cuts short our role as Christ’s ambassadors in this fallen world (2 Corinthians 5:20). Additionally, suicide may have eternal implications regarding one’s salvation. The Bible warns that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him (1 John 3:15). While the state of a suicide victim’s soul is ultimately known only to God, suicide rejects God’s gift of time and physical life to repent. For these reasons, ending one’s life through suicide is a dangerous spiritual decision.
In conclusion, Scripture offers several compelling reasons not to commit suicide. Life is a sacred gift from God, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves. God promises there is always hope in Christ, and He can redeem even the bleakest circumstances for our growth and His glory. If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to seek help from a doctor or mental health professional. God cares deeply and wants you to experience His overwhelming love. With Him, there are always reasons to choose life.