In recent years, my wife Pam and I have experienced the loss of two friends to suicide. One was our son’s best friend, and the other an old family friend. Both of these individuals had professed faith in Jesus.

Some early church fathers, including Augustine, taught that suicide prevented a person from entering heaven, and doomed them to eternal punishment because the person would not have a chance in life to repent from the sin of self-murder. I've also heard in contemporary churches that while suicide does not disqualify a person from salvation, the person may be limited in their ability to enjoy heaven and the presence of God, because they entered heaven with that sin unconfessed.

All of this teaching is based on the wrong belief that Christians must somehow confess and / or repent of each and every sinful act. But the Bible teaches that our sinful nature is forgiven when we are born again. It is not necessary to confess every single wrong act or thought - in fact, it is impossible to do so. What Jesus did on the Cross took care of all our sins - including any future sins. A Christian who commits suicide is already forgiven.

Suicide is a terrible option that no one should consider. It has horrifying consequences for the one who dies, and for those who are left behind. Family members and friends will contend with pain, sorrow, and loss for years to come.

If you have lost a Christian friend or loved one to suicide, be comforted. Their Father has never stopped loving them, nor has He turned His back on them or you in any way. If you yourself are contemplating suicide, know also that His love for you is profound and be comforted. While our eternal life in heaven will be wonderful without bounds, our life here on earth is very precious. Please don’t discard it. God has joy and fulfillment to give you before you go to be with Him. Regardless of your situation, He has a plan and will turn it around. Don't take your life - receive His life instead.