Happy Sabbath, friends! September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and given the alarming number of suicides each year, this is a conversation we cannot afford to ignore. The topics that are often whispered about need to be spoken about more – because awareness can save lives.
I’m passionate about mental health. I believe we must talk about it, because the more we understand, the more we can recognize the struggles our loved ones, our friends, and even we ourselves may be facing. Awareness helps us show compassion and extend love – not just to others, but to ourselves.
I know none of us want to see those we care about go through dark seasons. And I know without a doubt that our Heavenly Father does not want that for us either.
What is suicide?
To bring awareness, we first need to understand what it means.
“Suicide is defined as death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with intent to die as a result of the behavior.”
(National Institute of Mental Health, 2025)
Now that we have a definition, let’s talk about the warning signs. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, warning signs can show up in talk, behavior, and mood:
Talk:
- Talking about killing themselves
- Feeling hopeless, like a burden, trapped, or in unbearable pain
Behavior:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Withdrawing from activities
- Isolating from friends and family
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Saying goodbye, giving away possessions
- Aggression, extreme fatigue
Mood changes:
- Depression, anxiety, irritability
- Loss of interest
- Feelings of shame or humiliation
- Sudden calmness after extreme distress
Understanding these signs helps us step in – with compassion and love – before it’s too late.
If You’re Struggling or Know Someone Who Is
Please read this: God is NOT done with you. God wants you here. He has a plan and a purpose for your life – even if you can’t see it right now. If you’re reading this, it’s proof that He’s still writing your story.
If someone comes to mind as you read this, share this with them. Be the reminder that they are deeply loved – not only by you but by the One who created them.
God Sees You and Wants a Relationship With You
If you’re battling suicidal thoughts, know this: those thoughts are not from the Lord. They come from the enemy, who seeks to separate you from the God who loves you beyond measure.
“You are the God who sees me.” – Genesis 16:13
“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me… Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.” – Psalm 139:1-4
“Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine… and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?” – Luke 15:4-6
God sees you. He knows you. He pursues you.
The Greatest Way to Help Someone
There are many ways to help someone in crisis – but the most powerful is sharing the everlasting love of God.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…” – Ephesians 2:4-5
God’s love is everlasting and unconditional. Suicidal thoughts do not come from Him because He only wants what is best for us:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above…” – James 1:17
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
God has a plan for you – a plan full of hope:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Life Will Have Trials – But God Will Carry You
God never promised a life without hardships, but He promised His presence through every storm:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.” – Isaiah 43:2
So hold on. Cling to Him. Let Him guide you through the darkness into His light.
A Prayer for You
Heavenly Father, I lift up every person reading this. Fill them with discernment to see when someone is hurting – and when they themselves are struggling. Surround them with Your love and comfort. Remind them they are never alone. For those battling depression, anxiety, or thoughts of suicide, I pray Your peace and presence over their life. Help them choose You, Lord, and hold tightly to the hope You offer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988 – the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s available 24/7. You are not alone.
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Risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2024, August 9). https://afsp.org/risk-factors-protective-factors-and-warning-signs/
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2025). Suicide. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide
Saved By His Grace 
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