I have thoughts of ending my life. Where can I find help?

First of all, let us impress upon you the fact that you are important in the sight of God. He says, "You are precious to me ... and I love you" (Isaiah 43:4, TLB). The very reason Jesus Christ came to earth to offer Himself in sacrifice is so that we might have life in all its fullness, and it is His desire that we be set free from depression, fear, frustration, and hurt so that we might experience this abundant life.

The most important step you can take is to anchor your life solidly to Jesus Christ by committing your life without reserve to Him. God loves you, and He wants you to be part of His family. All you have to do is turn to Christ and ask Him to come into your heart as your Lord and Savior. Have you made that commitment to Christ? Turn to Him now—and then you will have a new desire to live a life with purpose.

Thoughts of taking one's own life do not come from God but from the evil one. Jesus said, "The thief's (Satan's) purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness" (John 10:10, TLB). We are warned in 1 Peter 5:8-10, "Be careful—watch out for attacks from Satan, your great enemy. He prowls around like a hungry, roaring lion, looking for some victim to tear apart. Stand firm when he attacks. Trust the Lord ... He personally will come and pick you up, and set you firmly in place, and make you stronger than ever" (TLB).

It is important that you determine to give all your problems to Jesus and "cast all your anxiety on him" (1 Peter 5:7). Refuse to listen to the devil, who is the "father of lies" (John 8:44), and make a total surrender of your life to Christ as Savior and Lord. Then center your attention upon His love for you and His wonderful plan for your life, and rest in the assurance that Jesus will "never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5b, NKJV).

Also, remember that God often uses other people to help us. Many who struggle with suicidal feelings benefit from talking with someone who can pray with them and help sort things out. We would urge you to counsel with a gospel-preaching pastor in your area. You may also benefit from the advice of a professional Christian counselor. For referrals to individual Christian counselors near you, you may contact the following: Focus on the Family, telephone: (719) 531-3400.

Arranging an appointment with a medical doctor would also help to determine whether feelings of depression and discouragement have a medical basis.