Depression, Suicide, and Salvation

Many people in our society today suffer from Major Depressive Disorder, myself included. We need the help of God and others to cope with the illness. Mental illness is just like any other physical illness. It requires both treatment and prayer. Some of us have contemplated suicide. And some have actually committed suicide. An act that grievously wounds the loved ones left behind.

I see three key things that can help someone suffering from Major Depressive Disorder. Treatment by a physician, treatment with a psychologist, and of course prayer. It helps if one realized that Satan has his hand involved in all of it. And he will do whatever he can to separate you from God. Whether we live or die is not supposed to be our decision. It is up to God to make that decision. Sadly, there are far too many who are either untreated, or not properly treated. The suicide rate among military veterans is especially high.

Dealing with any mental illness is never an easy thing. And it is more difficult for some people than it is for others.  

Followers of Christ are saved regardless. At the time they accept Christ as their Savior, they are guaranteed eternal life. (See John 3:16) Suicide is the only sin that cannot be repented of, or confessed. Non-believers will still go down to destruction. Suicide will only hasten the process.

With all of this being said, I think there are several Scripture passages that can shed some light on this subject. Here are just a few.

Romans 8:38-39 says:

“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

1 John 5:13 says:

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life”.

Psalm 43:5 says:

“Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”

My hope is that these passages will provide hope to those who struggle with Depression. As well as for those who know someone who does.

Thank you for reading, and God bless!