None of us really know and we can only speculate. I do believe the notion of "burning in a physical fire for eternity" is a bit much. I believe that concept of hell was invented by man thousands of years ago so as to keep his fellow brethren in line. By instilling the fear of eternal hellfire and an all-seeing, all-knowing God, well that is a sure-fire way to maintain order in an undeveloped society. Now that's not entirely a bad thing. If people felt there were no consequences for bad behavior, we would have had a barbaric society indeed and likely we would never have developed civilization to where it is today.
So do I believe that hell is an eternal fire in which souls are condemned to burn forever and ever? No, I do not believe that at all. Like you, I think that God would be more merciful than that. Perhaps hell is more like a purgatory where you are given a chance to eventually redeem yourself of previous sins. Sometimes I wonder if our life here on Earth is not some kind of purgatory (or even hell) in itself where we are sent to work out some issues from a previous existence. Of course, that does not explain why many of us die in the womb or as children. Unless there is a purpose for that I am not aware of.
Again, I can only speculate and attempt to reason logically with the brain that God has provided me. Perhaps I will find out different when I exit this particular mortal coil.
This is your first mistake, assuming that you can redeem yourself. If you could, what would be the point of Jesus's atoning death on the cross? Or are you saying that He can only save you 90%, 95%... and the rest is up to you? I believe that when He said "it is finished" He meant it.
I can only speculate and attempt to reason logically with the brain that God has provided me
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. (Isa 55:8)
Refreshing enlightened thought on this thread!!