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Understanding God’s Compassion in Times of Loss – Scott Duffy
Hey, everyone, it’s Scott. Today, I’m opening up about something close to my heart that I deeply need to share. Recently, I lost my good friend Charlie to suicide. I was devastated, heartbroken, and, frankly, overwhelmed with questions. Growing up in the church, I’d heard things like “If someone dies by suicide, they go to hell.” But something in my spirit just couldn’t settle with that belief. Today, I want to clear up that misconception and share the truth I believe God has revealed to me about His endless mercy and love.
Challenging Old Views on Suicide and Salvation
This message is personal to me because I know what it’s like to be told things that just don’t align with God’s nature. When I lost Charlie, I poured out my grief to God, asking Him where Charlie was. I’ll never forget how God spoke to me in that moment, assuring me that Charlie was with Him, right by His side. It was a transformative moment, one I know wasn’t just for me but for anyone grappling with questions about loved ones they’ve lost. I believe with all my heart that our God is not a God who condemns His beloved children when they’re hurting; He is the God who rescues, who wraps us in His mercy.
The Higher Call to Love and Compassion
I think about Matthew 5:43-44, where Jesus says, “You’ve heard it said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy,’ but I tell you, love your enemies and pray for them.” Jesus isn’t just giving us good advice here—He’s teaching us a new way of seeing others, of going beyond judgment. It’s a reminder that our God is not confined to a list of “rules” but calls us into a higher understanding of love. How much more, then, does He love those who are hurting or feeling lost?
The Parable of the Lost Sheep: God’s Heart for the Hurting
One of the most comforting scriptures for me is the parable of the lost sheep in Matthew 18. If one sheep goes missing, God is like a shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to go find the one. And that’s what I feel He did for Charlie. That’s what He does for all of us when we’re struggling. Just because someone makes a tragic choice doesn’t mean God abandons them. Instead, He pursues them, even into the depths of their pain, and brings them back to Himself.
Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment
James 2:13 says it best: “Mercy triumphs over judgment.” If God teaches us to show mercy, I believe He lives by this truth Himself. God’s mercy isn’t reserved for those who have it all together; it’s extended to each of us, especially when we’re hurting or make mistakes. I truly believe that God looks upon those in pain with love and compassion, ready to bring them into His presence, not cast them aside.
Understanding Sin as Missing the Mark—And Learning from It
I want to reframe how we think about sin. The Greek word for “sin” literally means “to miss the mark.” It’s like shooting an arrow that falls short of the target. When I miss the mark, God isn’t up there, shaking His head or giving up on me. Instead, He’s like a patient coach, gently correcting my aim, helping me get closer to the bullseye. Our mistakes don’t define us; they’re part of our journey with God as He guides us to a fuller understanding of love, forgiveness, and peace.
Pressing On Toward the Bullseye of Love, Joy, and Peace
For those of you seeking peace, joy, or a deeper experience of God’s love, I want to encourage you to keep aiming for the bullseye. We may not always hit it perfectly, but each step brings us closer to a life filled with God’s grace. I truly believe that with His guidance, we can find the peace and joy that seem just out of reach.
A Final Encouragement to ‘Fight On’
I’m ending this message with a song that captures the heart of what I’m sharing: “Fight On, Fighter” by For King & Country. No matter what you’re facing, keep pressing forward. God’s mercy is deeper than our struggles, His love more powerful than any judgment we fear. Let’s keep aiming for that bullseye together, trusting that God’s love will carry us through, all the way to His heart.