Every Wednesday, Pausing With God Ministries’ Early Morning Prayer Group pauses to pray for children all over the world.
Today, our regular Wednesday prayer focus for children and See You at the Pole came together on the same day. We thought the day was the perfect opportunity to refresh and reshare one of our previous posts about suicide prevention, hope, and the importance of staying connected.
Our children are facing pressures that we may not always see or fully understand. Some may be smiling on the outside while silently struggling on the inside.
“All of us can play a role in efforts to save lives and reverse the rise in suicide deaths.”
WE CAN BE THE MISSING LINK
How can we recognize when someone may be at risk for suicide and help a child, family member, friend, or loved one?
Here are five important steps:
1. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK.
If you’re concerned about someone, ask directly:
“Are you thinking about suicide?”
Research has found that asking someone about suicidal thoughts does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. Asking directly can open the door to an honest and potentially lifesaving conversation.
2. HELP KEEP THEM SAFE.
If someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help reduce their access to things they could use to hurt themselves. If you believe there is immediate danger, seek emergency assistance.
3. BE THERE AND STAY CONNECTED.
Listen without judgment. Don’t dismiss what they’re feeling or assume they’ll “get over it.”
Call. Text. Visit. Listen. Pray. Stay present.
Sometimes knowing that someone genuinely cares and is willing to listen can make an important difference.
4. HELP THEM CONNECT WITH SUPPORT.
Prayer is important to us, and we also recognize when someone needs additional help.
Help connect them with a parent or trusted adult, counselor, health-care professional, pastor, mental-health professional, or crisis service.
Anyone in the United States who is experiencing emotional distress, a mental-health crisis, or suicidal thoughts can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
5. FOLLOW UP.
Don’t stop checking on someone after the immediate crisis has passed.
Ask again:
“How are you REALLY doing?”
Continue calling. Continue listening. Continue encouraging. Continue praying. Continue helping them stay connected to appropriate support.
TODAY, WE ARE PRAYING
As we pause today, we’re praying for all the children God sends across our paths—our children, grandchildren, students, neighbors, church family, and children around the world.
Lord, help us recognize the child who is hurting but hasn’t said a word. Help us notice changes in behavior. Help us listen without judgment. Give us wisdom to know when prayer should be accompanied by professional intervention and additional support.
Give our children safe people they can talk to and remind them that their lives have value, their voices matter, and there is help available.
We can be the missing link.
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally or experiencing suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
If someone is in immediate physical danger or has made a suicide attempt, call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.
Today we pause.
Today we pray.
Today we listen.
Today we pay attention.
Today we stay connected.
Stay in the loop for all the exciting things coming in 2027 with Pausing With God Ministries! From fun and meaningful events for The Littles to inspiring gatherings and activities for adults, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss what’s coming next—pause, subscribe, and stay connected! 2027 is on the way, and we’d love for you to journey with us!
#PrayingForOurChildren #SeeYouAtThePole #EarlyMorningPrayer #SuicidePrevention #988Lifeline #BeTheMissingLink #ChildrenMatter #MentalHealthMatters #PauseAndPray #PausingWithGod #PausingWithGodMinistries
