Self Harm & Suicide
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts call the
National Suicide Prevention Hotline | 988
You're Not Alone... Truth Against Self-Harm & Suicide | Part 3 | Weeds in My Garden (Mental Health)
How does the Bible lead us through pain?
“Lament” is a way that people who experienced anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other kinds of pain in the Bible express themselves to God. To lament is to be honest with God about your experience and to direct your thoughts and your words in God’s direction. It’s a move of faith to be honest with God even when you’re mad at God or feel as if God isn’t there. The biblical writers were very familiar with lonely and painful experiences, and through their honest reflections and petitions—and even praises through the pain—we can find our voice and strength to come to God when life hurts.
More than a third of the 150 psalms are “laments.” Most typically they follow a pattern in which they express pain, complain to God, AND also affirm trust in God and give praise to God in the middle of the pain. This pattern is instructive for anyone who suffers. A few of the many lament psalms are listed below, including 2 laments (Psalm 44 & 88) that “break the pattern,” meaning they don’t make the turn to praise God. And if we’re being honest, there are some moments when the most you can utter is a complaint. But if doing that brings you into conversation with God, then there is still hope. May these Psalms deepen your connection with the God who is always there even when He feels far away.
Suicidal Thoughts W/ Matthew Richardson
There is a beginning, middle, and end to every emotion. Don’t make a permanent decision over a temporary emotion
Positive Affirmation
As you go about your week, hold tight to these words. Repeat them as needed to eliminate negative or unhelpful thoughts that may be holding you back.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found
was blind, but now I see.
Supporting Scripture
Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2 | NIV
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 | NIV
And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 5:5 | NIV
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Romans 15:4 | NIV
Bible Plans
(7-day plan) Finding The Light In Suicide - Finding The Light Project
(6-day plan) Overcoming Thoughts of Suicide And Self Harm - Life.Church
(32-day plan) Teach Me To Pray - Time Of Grace
Care Groups
Care Groups | Need help carrying burdens of grief, pain, addiction…? There is help and hope in the Mountain community.
Apps
Meditation
Breath Prayer
Breath Prayer Practice Verses
Additional Resources
Book | A Treasury of Prayers: A Collection of Classical and Modern Expressions of Faith, By Stephen Fortosis
Book | Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, By Peter Scazzero
Music | No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus, By Steffany Gretzinger
Music | Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace), By Hillsong Worship
Music | Weeds In My Garden Playlist resource from Mountain Worship