Guilt is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can be both rational and irrational. On one hand, guilt can be a healthy response to wrongdoing, serving as a motivator to change behavior and make amends. When we have sinned against others, it is natural to feel guilty, and confessing our wrongdoing to God and others can be a powerful step towards healing and restoration. However, guilt can also be an unrealistic and debilitating emotion that can prevent us from living authentic and compassionate lives.
In some cases, guilt can be a subjective experience that is not necessarily tied to objective wrongdoing. For example, a person may feel guilty for being scammed, not because they have done anything objectively wrong, but because they feel ashamed or embarrassed. In these cases, guilt can be a hindrance to healing and growth, and can prevent us from moving forward in a positive and constructive way. Furthermore, guilt can be a form of self-punishment that can lead to self-deception and destructive consequences. As the Bible says, "If we personally misrepresent a product or cheat on a law, we will feel bad about what we have done. If, however, we are stockholders in a company that does the same thing, we will probably have much less difficulty with guilt" (1 Corinthians 4:2). This suggests that guilt can be a personal and subjective experience that is not necessarily tied to objective moral standards.
Ultimately, whether it is wrong to feel guilty for being scammed depends on the motivations and intentions behind our feelings. If we are feeling guilty because we have sinned against others or have acted in a way that is contrary to God's will, then guilt can be a healthy and constructive emotion. However, if we are feeling guilty because we are trying to punish ourselves or because we are stuck in a cycle of self-deception, then guilt can be a hindrance to healing and growth. As the Bible says, "If you have sinned, confess it to God and others, give thanks because of God's delight in you as you confess, and ask for power to change" (1 John 1:9). This suggests that guilt should be a catalyst for growth and change, rather than a source of self-punishment and destructive consequences.