A Prayer Against Suicide
By Emma Danzey
"Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows."- Luke 12:7
We sat there in the women's retreat for college students, and after doing an activity to reveal our struggles, many began to share vulnerably that they have dealt with suicidal thoughts. My heart sank. I did not know. Within each young woman's personal life stories, somewhere along the way, life got so difficult for them, so overwhelmingly depressing that they had the thought to end their precious lives. Suicide is glamorized in culture. When celebrities take their lives, it trends. When tv shows come out on Netflix about suicide as a viable option for teenagers, it popularizes the horrific act. Today, we will take the time to pray against this horrible decision and those it affects.
Let's Pray:
Jesus,
By Your strong hand and powerful arm, nothing is too hard for You. You tell us all that we are made in Your image. You say that You created us and called us very good. Today we cry out on behalf of humanity in a sin-filled world. God, we ask that You protect the minds of those who are dealing with thoughts of depression and suicide. Life is so valuable, and we only get one here. Help them see the beautiful plan through Jesus You have for their lives. Father, help them to know that their lives are worth living because You gave Your life for them to have hope. Remind them that You are their living hope and that nothing in all creation can separate them from Your love.
Lord, we pray against the enemy's attacks and ask that You surround those who love You with Your armor. For those who have not accepted You as Savior and who deal with suicidal thoughts, open their eyes to the truth of Your gospel. For those who have fought many years and are weary from the constant battle, renew their hope in You today. Remind them that this is the day You have made, and they can rejoice and be glad. Give them the ability to see past their sadness and hopelessness. Reveal Your strength and goodness in their lives. You say that we are all more valuable than the ravens and the lilies and how well you care for them. We pray that the joy of having You as their Savior will be greater than the trials and suffering they face.
God, we pray a special prayer for the loved ones of those who struggle. Will you please help them to know that you care for them too? Would you provide them with support from the church body? Give them grace for the day and confidence in You. Father, remind them they are not alone, and You see them. Help them not to carry this burden alone but to allow you to come in and give them your yoke because it is easy and light. Remind those with thoughts of fear and worry that You are the Good Shepherd. You tell us that we lack nothing. You make us lie down in green pastures; You lead us beside quiet waters; You refresh our souls. We claim this truth today. We pray those who have kept quiet in shame will be broken free from this and share their challenges. God, prevent the enemy from silencing them in their pain. We pray for healthy boundaries within relationships. We ask for Your Spirit-led wisdom. We pray for those who have already lost loved ones due to suicide. Give them comfort and a voice to make an impact to help others. God, thank You for making us all in Your perfect image. Thank You for giving us a purpose and different skill sets in this life. We pray against the trauma and the oppression which can cause such devastation. We thank You for giving victory and that even in our losses and loneliness, we can find great comfort in You and your Church. Amen.
Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Sasha Freemind
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