not so wonderful life

“I wish I’d never been born.”

George Bailey, “It’s a Wonderful Life”

Have you ever wished that? Come on, you can admit it. I won’t tell anybody. Have you ever—even fleetingly—wished you had never been born?

I thought so. I appreciate your honesty and won’t tell anyone. Promise.

So what sparked that thought? Relationship problems? Money problems? Health problems? Something else?

Whatever it is, it hurts. Whatever it is, it’s real. And whatever it is, it’s so debilitating it has a stranglehold around you right now. In fact, my hunch is you’re having trouble thinking about much else.

My friend, if that describes you then you’re depressed. But then, you already know that, don’t you?

What to do?

First and foremost, depend on the Lord your God and dump all your problems and troubles on Him. But then you already know that, too, don’t you? In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me to hear that you’ve already done that, tried that.

And the thought is still hanging around, like a bad dream.

Now what to do?

Talk to a close friend and tell him/her what you’re feeling and get another perspective and the person’s advice. Another option is to talk with your pastor or seek out a Christian counselor. No matter what you decide to do, be completely honest with the person—nothing is gained if you hold back.

If you need immediate help and there’s no one around to help, please go your nearest emergency room or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

Unfortunately, I’m here and you’re there. I yearn to help you, my friend, but I cannot because of the distance between us.

But I do know this: God loves you very, very much and will do everything in His power to help you.

“For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.”2

Did you hear that? You’re precious in the sight of God. You.

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”3

1  George Bailey, “It’s a Wonderful Life”

2  Psalm 72:12-14

3  1 John 3:1