I’ve waited before writing anything about the recent tragedy of Mr. Williams’ suicide. I won’t evaluate his event, but rather present for the reader a few links that might be of help. I’ve had more experience with depression and suicides as a pastor than I care to remember (In one congregation I did 10 suicide funerals in 11 years).
This is what Redemption Ministry is all about… helping those who are struggling. I can be contacted HERE.
There is no way to understand why a person commits suicide, even when there is a note. Depression IS real… I know from experience. I don’t agree anymore that suicide is the most selfish act a person can do, but it is not a commendable thing in any way. If a friend or family member has committed suicide, please don’t blame yourself… there is nothing you could have done. With those things said…
As one who has struggled with depression for over two decades, I present a few of my reflections for rumination.
Defeating Depression from 2004. As a Christian pastor who is convinced of the power of God’s Holy Spirit to encourage and comfort THROUGH SCRIPTURE, I gave passages I have relied upon from God in my dark days.
“Dealing With Depression” 7/24/2007.
A message I delivered in 2008 about a suicide at a church I served. This message was mainly to help the congregation begin to contemplate the Biblical perspective.
“Struggling With Depression?” 2/3/2011
“Depression And Spiritual Desserts” 8/10/2011. This is my own personal struggle with depression.
“An Apostle’s Struggle With Depression” 6/11/2012
“A Pastor’s Son’s Suicide” (Rick Warren)” 4/16/2013
“The Minister’s Fainting Fits” (C.H. Spurgeon). This is an excellent article I highly recommend! Written by a pastor who struggled severely with depression.
I included the above links in hopeful prayer that there might be something that encourages someone who reads them. I close with this… 1 Peter 5:6-8
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
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