SELF HARM & SUICIDE
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE | 988
How does the Bible lead us through pain?
“Lament” is a way that people who experienced anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other kinds of pain in the Bible express themselves to God. To lament is to be honest with God about your experience and to direct your thoughts and your words in God’s direction. It’s a move of faith to be honest with God even when you’re mad at God or feel as if God isn’t there. The biblical writers were very familiar with lonely and painful experiences, and through their honest reflections and petitions—and even praises through the pain—we can find our voice and strength to come to God when life hurts.
More than a third of the 150 Psalms are “laments.” Most typically they follow a pattern in which they express pain, complain to God, affirm trust in God, and give praise to God in the middle of the pain. This pattern is instructive for anyone who suffers. A few of the many lament psalms are listed below, including 2 laments (Psalm 44 & 88) that “break the pattern,” meaning they don’t make the turn to praise God. And if we’re being honest, there are some moments when the most you can utter is a complaint. But if doing that brings you into conversation with God, then there is still hope. May these Psalms deepen your connection with the God who is always there even when He feels far away.
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Psalm 6
Psalm 13
Psalm 22
Psalm 25
Psalm 27
Psalm 31
Psalm 42
Psalm 44
Psalm 88
Psalm 130
Supporting Scripture
Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2 | NIV
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I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 | NIV
And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 5:5 | NIV
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Romans 15:4 | NIV
Apps and Resources
Bible Apps
YouVersion Bible App (free; iOS and Android)
Abide: Christian Meditation (free; iOS and Android)
LECTIO 365 (free, iOS and Android)
Glorify | Prayer & Devotional (free; iOS and Android)
YouVersion Bible App Plans
(7-day plan) Finding The Light In Suicide - Finding The Light Project
(6-day plan) Overcoming Thoughts of Suicide And Self Harm - Life.Church
(32-day plan) Teach Me To Pray - Time Of Grace
(3-day plan) Suicide – Eternity Matters With Norma
Mindfulness, Meditation, and Prayer Apps
Headspace (free trial, membership $12.99/; iOS and Android)
Calm (free trial, membership $12.99/Month; iOS and Android)
Centering Prayer App (free; iOS and Android)
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Additional Resources
Book | A Treasury of Prayers: A Collection of Classical and Modern Expressions of Faith, By Stephen Fortosis
Book | When the Darkness Will Not Lift, By John Piper
Book | Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, By Peter Scazzero
Book | Suicidal Christians: Help for the Broken-Hearted, By Nita Tarr
Music | No One Ever Cared For Me Like Jesus, By Steffany Gretzinger
Music | It’s Okay Not To Be Okay Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
Music | Isaiah 43:2 Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
DEPRESSION
No matter what we are going through, Jesus walks through it with us.
Depression can take on all different types of forms. It is not only the ones who outwardly express their pain, it could be the happiest of people. The truth is, Jesus knows us more than anyone and wants to hear from us.
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Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. - Philippians 4:8 | NIV.
Depression can hold us captive, or at least make us feel that way. The lack of motivation and energy to do just about anything keeps us from fulfilling our purpose in Christ. Now in the scripture above we can all agree that thinking of good things can help our moods and perspectives throughout the day. The hard part isn't agreeing on what this scripture can do for us, it’s about how we can get to that point. How can we start thinking that way? Start small. Every victory is worth celebrating. Both small and big, we rejoice. If you’re feeling like you're carrying a heavy burden, remember that you don't have to carry it alone. Jesus loves you and will lighten this load with you.
Supporting Scripture
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalms 34:18 | NIV
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7 | NIV
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
Revelation 21:4 | NIV
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And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 | NIV
Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.
Psalms 27:10 | NIV
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 | NIV
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.
Psalms 23:4 | NIV
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 | NIV
Apps and Resources
Bible Apps
YouVersion Bible App (free; iOS and Android)
Abide: Christian Meditation (free; iOS and Android)
LECTIO 365 (free, iOS and Android)
Glorify | Prayer & Devotional (free; iOS and Android)
YouVersion Bible App Plans
(7-Day Plan) Depression - Life.Church
(8-Day Plan) Armed Against Depression - Jenita Pace and Captain Karl J. Watje
(7-Day Plan) Finding God in Your Depression - American Bible Society
Additional Resources
Book | Learning to Walk In The Dark, By Barbara Brown Taylor
Book | My Name Is Hope, By John Mark Comer
Book | In the Middle of a Mess, By Sheila Walsh
Book | On Getting Out of Bed, By Alan Noble
Music | Refiner - Maverick City Music (feat. Chandler Moore)
Music | It’s Okay Not To Be Okay Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
Music | Isaiah 43:2 Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
LONELINESS
Everyone struggles with loneliness at some point. Whether you are going through something hard that you don't think anyone else understands or facing a change in life where you just feel alone, God's Word provides hope and strength. There is someone who is closer than a brother and is always with You - Jesus Christ is our friend and comforter!
Supporting Scripture
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 | NIV
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For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me in.
Psalm 27:10 | NIV
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Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Matthew 28:20 | NIV​
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6 | NIV
Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 | NIV
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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
1 Joshua 1:9 | NIV
Apps and Resources
Bible Apps
YouVersion Bible App (free; iOS and Android)
Abide: Christian Meditation (free; iOS and Android)
LECTIO 365 (free, iOS and Android)
Glorify | Prayer & Devotional (free; iOS and Android)
YouVersion Bible App Plans
(5-day plan) You Are Never Alone – Max Lucado
(7-day plan) Alone Sucks – Broadstreet Publishing
(7-day plan) Never Alone – Heart Church
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Additional Resources
Book | Finding God in My Loneliness, By Lydia Brownback
Book | Transforming Loneliness, By Ruth Graham
Book | The Path out of Loneliness, By Mark Mayfield
Book | The Loneliness Solution, By Jack Eason
Book | Find Your People, By Jennie Allen
Music | It’s Okay Not To Be Okay Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
Music | Isaiah 43:2 Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
WORRY & ANXIETY
Even Jesus’ disciples were afraid. They were worried. They were anxious. It says here that they were in great danger! We are not far from the disciples. Worry and anxiety can make us feel like we are in danger. But Jesus is here for each of us through the storms and all he calls us to do is put our faith in him. Embrace the waves, and do not be afraid. Jesus did not let the disciples down and he won’t let you down either.
Read below Luke 8:22-25, Jesus Calms the Storm:
One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So, they got into a boat and set out. As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so the boat was being swamped and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith,” he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement, they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.”
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Supporting Scripture
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here.
2 Corinthians 5:17 | NIV
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For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Ephesians 2:10 | NLT
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
1 John 3:1 | NIV
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1 | NIV
But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.
Isaiah 53:5 NLT
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In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
Ephesians 3:12-13 | NIV
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:6-8 | NIV
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 | NIV
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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 | NIV Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (See verses 25-34 for more) Matthew 6:34 | NIV
Apps and Resources
Bible Apps
YouVersion Bible App (free; iOS and Android)
Abide: Christian Meditation (free; iOS and Android)
LECTIO 365 (free, iOS and Android)
Glorify | Prayer & Devotional (free; iOS and Android)
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YouVersion Bible App Plans
(7-day plan) Anxious For Nothing - Life.Church
(5-day plan) Get Out Of Your Head - Jennie Allen
(5-day plan) Anxiety - LCBC Church
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Anxiety Apps
Sanvello (free; iOS and Android)
Mind Shift (free; iOS and Android)
notOk (free; iOS and Android)
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Mindfulness, Meditation, and Prayer Apps
Headspace (free trial, membership $12.99/; iOS and Android)
Calm (free trial, membership $12.99/Month; iOS and Android)
Centering Prayer App (free; iOS and Android)
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Podcasts
The Anxious Truth - Drew Linsalata
The Panic Pod - Joshua Fletcher
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Additional Resources
Book | Redefining Anxiety: What it Is, What it’s Not and How to Get Your Life Back, By Dr. John Delony
Book | Putting an “X” Through Anxiety: Breaking Free from the Grip of Fear and Stress, By Louie Giglio
Book | Get Out of Your Head, By Jennie Allen
Book | Anxiety: Anatomy and Cure, By Robert W. Kellemen
Book | The Anxious Christian: Can God Use Your Anxiety for Good? By Rhett Smith
Book | The Ruthless Elimination Of Hurry, By John Mark Comer
Music | It’s Okay Not To Be Okay Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
Music | Isaiah 43:2 Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
STRESS & BURNOUT
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28 | NIV
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The truth is most of us experience stress and burnout in a variety of ways. The good news is that you don't have to stay there! If you find yourself asking the question, "Why am I going through this God?" just remember that God didn't say "IF we have problems", He says "WHEN we have problems." The struggles we face are inevitable but the way we view them when we walk with Jesus is what makes the difference. So, take up your cross and fix your eyes on Jesus. When we seek first the kingdom of God, He will give us everything we need.
Supporting Scripture
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.
Hebrews 12:1-2 | NLT
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 | NIV
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 | NIV
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Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6 | NIV
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33 | NIV
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31 | NIV
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 | NIV
For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:9 | NLT
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:9 | NIV
Apps and Resources
Bible Apps
YouVersion Bible App (free; iOS and Android)
Abide: Christian Meditation (free; iOS and Android)
LECTIO 365 (free, iOS and Android)
Glorify | Prayer & Devotional (free; iOS and Android)
YouVersion Bible App Plans
(5-day plan) Finding Freedom from Stress - Life.Church
(5-day plan) How to Handle Burnout - Time of Grace Ministry
(3-day plan) Beating Burnout: Finding Hope and Health – Anne Marie Miller
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Health Apps
Virtual Hope Box - Mental Health Management Tools (free; IOS and Android)
Ada - Health Management App (free; IOS and Android)
Additional Resources
Book | At Your Best By Carey Nieuwhof
Music | Rest for Your Soul By Austin French
Music | This Is The Kingdom By Elevation Worship
Music | It’s Okay Not To Be Okay Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
Music | Isaiah 43:2 Spotify Playlist from Immanuel Church
HOTLINES AND SERVICES
Montgomery County Mobile Crisis | 1-855-634-4673
National Crisis Hotline | Text PA to 741741
Walk-In Crisis Services | Lenape Valley Foundation - 595 W. State Street, Doylestown, PA 18901
National Suicide Prevention Hotline | Call 1(800) 273-8255 or Text 988
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Women’s Center of Montgomery County (Domestic Violence) | 1-800-521-0983
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Laurel House (Domestic Violence, Women’s Shelter) | 1-800-642-3150
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National Domestic Violence Hotline | 1-800-799-7233
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National Sexual Assault Hotline | 1-800-656-4673
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North Care Women’s Clinic | 215-515-7708
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Morning Star Ministries Maternity Home | 215-723-8103
Bridge of Hope (Homeless Care) | 610-280-0280
Victim Services Center (Victims of Crime) | 1-888-521-0983
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Veteran Crisis Line | Dial 988 then Press 1
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National Alliance on Mental Illness | NAMI HelpLine: M-F 10 am – 10 pm ET
Call: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), Text: 62640
Click here to see a list of local counselors in our community. If you would like further assistance in selecting a counselor that's right for you, contact one of our Pastors and they would be happy to help you get connected!