What do you think of Robert Lowery?
Do you feel sorry for him?Money/marital problemsDistraught/depressedOverwhelmed/inadequateSelfish?Do you wonder why?Do you think he is unusual?Statistics
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.2nd leading cause of death for 10-34 years old4th leading cause of death for 35-44 years old5th leading cause of death for 45-54 years oldThere are 2.5x more suicides than homicides in the United States.In 2019, suicide rate was nearly four times higher in males than females.What does the Bible say about suicide?
Nothing direct, but there are principles.Six characters that committed suicide:Abimelech – Judges 9:54Saul – I Samuel 31:4Saul’s armor bearer – I Samuel 31:4-6Ahithophel – II Samuel 17:23Zimri – I Kings 16:18Judas – Matthew 27:5Samson? – Judges 16:26-31God gave lifeGenesis 2:7; Acts 17:28; James 1:18; Genesis 9:6Our purpose is inconsistent with suicideI Chronicles 6:11; John 8:12; 7:38; I John 3:16I Corinthians 6:20 – Glorify God in your body!Why do people commit suicide?
Mental illness (depression)Traumatic stress (sexual abuse, rape, physical abuse, war trauma)Substance abuseLoss/fear of loss (academic, job, imprisonment, financial, relationship)Chronic pain, terminal illnessFeeling like a burden to othersSocial isolationAll of these basically relate to hopelessness.Are you or your family at risk?
Warning signsWhat to doTalk to a respected church member.I Corinthians 15:1-15, 50-58 – Consider the value Christ puts on your life.Focus outside yourself, do good for others
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