My Prayers for Susan Smith


A convicted murderer was recently denied parole after spending thirty years behind bars. Susan Smith of Union, South Carolina, made national headlines in October 1994 when she claimed a black man carjacked her vehicle with her two young sons strapped in the back seat. For nine days, multitudes searched for the man, the boys, and the car. After investigators pointed out discrepancies with her story, Susan confessed to plunging her vehicle into a lake, drowning 3-year-old Michael and 14-month-old Alex. During a subsequent trial, prosecuting attorney Tommy Pope sought the death penalty. Instead, Susan was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison.

In a book written by the father of the two boys, David Smith revealed he and Susan had been unfaithful to each other. I also learned about Susan’s rough upbringing. Her father committed suicide when she was six. Her mother got remarried to a man who molested Susan. Susan herself attempted to kill herself a couple of times and almost drowned herself with her sons. Certainly, these factors do not excuse what she did. However, it caused me to have more compassion for her.


Susan professes to be a Christian. Even if she knows the Lord, I question her submission to Him. Susan has not been a model prisoner with numerous infractions. Pope stated, “Susan always focuses on Susan.” I pray she receives deliverance from her mental health issues. Regardless if Susan is freed, God could use her to minister His love to others. “Son of Sam” serial killer David Berkowitz became a believer ten years after his incarceration. Although he has parole hearings come up every two years, David has refused to ask for his release. He is content to continue ministering to fellow inmates. I pray Susan has a similar mindset. She might be safer behind bars. 


Some people consider murder an unpardonable sin. However, God has used murderers such as Moses, David, and the Apostle Paul. Years ago, I met a man who was once on death row but got released, and today is a pastor. To anyone reading this who wants to see Susan Smith rot in jail, what about the sins you committed? If you have hatred towards her or anyone else, the Lord equates that with murder (Matthew 5:21-22, 1 John 3:15). Jesus warned that He will not forgive us if we won’t forgive others. Thankfully, His mercy is much greater than man’s.


“And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” - Mark 11:25-26


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