So why do we get punished for using it?Free will. That is what God gave us.I firmly believe that when one takes his own life, that one is ultimately rejecting God's authority. That doesn't mean that God is unforgiving, but it does mean that God was not allowed to turn depression into joy for that person. It also is the chicken's way out that disregards family/friends and God's will. I believe Judas could have been forgiven by God, but he took matters into his own hands as he always did. I believe it is far better to persist with a hope of God's revelation than to end one's life in utter despair and self pity.