Biblical Truths Part 2

The goal of a Bible study to help a friend struggling with suicidal thoughts is to help him understand how God sees us so that he or she can begin to see himself or herself that way. He or she needs to learn and believe three very important biblical truths:

1. God sees us as lovable, giving us a sense of belonging: See Part 1.
2. God sees us as valuable, giving us a sense of worthiness: See Part 1.
3. God sees us as useful, giving us a sense of competence

Paul was not boasting when he said, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (Phil. 4:13). He simply saw himself as God sees him: gifted and empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve God and others. God wants all believers to realize that He has given us certain physical, mental, and spiritual abilities and has equipped us to use those abilities successfully. God is so confident in our competence that He has called us to fulfill His Great Commission (see Matt. 28:18-20). Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). But like Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit we can do everything. What a sense of competence!

Do you see the importance of helping your friend see himself or herself through God's eyes? The scriptural understanding of our identity in Christ may be a lifesaver. The more your friend realizes that he or she is lovable, valuable, and useful to God, the less likely he or she will be to consider suicide.