Do Christians Ever Wish for Death?

If you've ever struggled with depression, know this: God loves you. God has a plan for you. God loved you so much he traded his only Son for your redemption. If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, talk to your pastor right away. ELS pastors are trained in biblical counseling and can help you navigate finding psychological and medical treatment.

1 Kings 19:4

Watch on YouTubeWatch on Facebook

Does the Christian ever wish for death? Did you know that one of the Old Testament prophets once wished for death? In 1 Kings chapter 19 verse 4 we read of the prophets Elijah.

But he himself went to day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough! Now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers!” (1 Kings 19:4)

Elijah was beaten down. He was persecuted. He felt that he was all alone. He felt that his life was a failure. He wanted to die.

The fall into sin has many consequences. The oppression of such thoughts, even suicidal thoughts, is one of those consequences. So yes Christians can and do suffer from such things. This might be due to circumstances or biological or psychological reasons.

The Lord comforted Elijah with the assurance of his presence and care and he also reminded him that there were yet many fellow believers in Israel. Elijah had worth as a child of God and the Lord had a plan for his life.

The same is certainly true for you.

Christ Jesus has dealt with the problem of the fall into sin FOR YOU. He has lived and died to give YOU eternal life. In the forgiveness of your sins. In your baptism the Lord claimed you as his own dear child. In the word and in the supper Christ comes to you personally. At God’s house you also gather with fellow believers.

The Lord is with you and he does have a plan for your life. If you are wrestling with thoughts of wanting to die or even suicidal thoughts please talk to your pastor right away. Our pastors are trained in biblical counseling and they can also help you navigate finding psychological and medical treatment. The Lord cared for Elijah, the Lord cares for you. Amen.

David Locklair
David Locklair
Articles: 2