Sadly, you have known someone, or of someone, who has taken his/her own life; and when suicide involves a young person, a whole population of youth are trying to function in a daze of questions and feelings. Coping puts harsh demands on their emotional maturity, and today’s media offers the kinds of condolences that often conflict with Christian values. Even while having faith in God’s sovereignty and goodness, you may need a method to help you sort through a huge load of swirling emotion pertaining to such a great tragedy.

Biblical Mourning

Cry with a desire to connect with Him and be comforted by Him.

Let the Psalms give you not only a language for your grief, but a framework to keep you pointed towards His purity and wisdom. It’s popular in some modern circles to be ever-angry with God. Instead, allow Him to gently restore your strength and faith after a season of hurt, doubt, and confusion. He is the only One who can give you peace when you don’t have all the answers.

Make sure every impacted kid and teen has at least one trustworthy adult actively ministering to him/her for a specific amount of time that adequately covers their grief.

Remind young people in your life that their lowest moments in life are not permanent, and teach them not to allow emotions of despair to convince them that there are no other options. On the contrary, discouragement (which can lead to hopelessness) is a sign that it’s time to seek help. Make sure each person grieving this tremendous loss is being well counseled.

Coach your soul to wait for Him and to have expectation from Him. He is good to the soul who seeks Him. Pour out your heart before Him; He is your refuge. As someone who is brokenhearted, He heals you and binds up your wounds. (Ps. 62:5, 8; 147:3; Lam. 3:25)