The Vine News

I received more than a few comments regarding last month’s column. A few thought I said the right things, but, most seemed to feel that my responses were too harsh. It would be easy to say that people don’t like the truth, no matter how it’s given. I thought about this old, hard bench I love to sit on when the weather is beautiful. It’s more comfortable when I place a nice cushion on top of the wooden slats. The cushion does not change the fact that I’m sitting on a hard bench. It just makes it easier to experience. So, I promise to add the cushions, if you promise to experience the bench.

Q: What drives good people to make bad decisions?

A: The terms “good” and “bad,” are both subjective. I don’t think anyone intentionally makes a “bad” decision. It’s the result of the decision that leads a person to determine if the original decision should have been something else. Knowing what motivates us to make the decisions we make is a more important issue. When decisions are made impulsively or based upon hurt and pain the results are rarely profitable. The decision to learn from our mistakes is a “good” way to turn a negative into a positive. The Message Bible says distress that drives us to God turns us around; but, if we allow it to drive us away from God, we are left full of regrets. (2 Corinthians 7:10)

Q: Heaven or hell asks: If a born again believer commits suicide do they still go to heaven?

A: Only God determines who enters Heaven or hell. However, scripture states that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit and we do not belong to ourselves (1 Corinthians 6:19). To me, that means that we do not have the right to determine when or how we should die. When a person takes on that decision, I believe he is saying that he does not trust God to handle his concerns. I also believe that suicide is a permanent decision for a temporary problem. Parents, teachers and spiritual leaders should talk about suicide as much as possible. Supervisors and others in positions of leadership should ensure suicide prevention workshops abound and are attended regularly. Talking about it is one of the best ways to prevent it.

The opinions and views provided in Sargent Says, are not intended as psychological, spiritual or therapeutic advice.  Opinions contained herein are those of the writer, and not to be used as a substitute for medical attention, diagnosis, treatment, or other professional mental health or medical services, or as legal, parental, spiritual, health, or mental health advice.

Beverly Sargent, NCC, LGPC, is a licensed pastoral therapist and founder of A Servant’s Heart Ministries, offering counseling services for pastors and their families, teens and adults. Email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .