How can we apply the principle of restitution in our daily relationships? The Heart of Restitution “...he must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value to it, and give it all to the owner on the day he presents his guilt offering.” (Leviticus 6:5) Understanding Restitution in Leviticus 6:5 • Restitution is more than saying “I’m sorry”; it is restoring what was lost, plus extra. • The “fifth” added (20 percent) shows God’s concern for tangible justice and relational healing. • Scripture treats the command as timeless: wrongdoing requires concrete, measurable repair (see also Exodus 22:1). Jesus and Restitution: New Testament Echoes • Zacchaeus models it: “...if I have cheated anyone, I will repay four times the amount.” (Luke 19:8) • Jesus directs worshipers to fix offenses before bringing gifts to God (Matthew 5:23-24). • Paul urges, “Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love...” (Romans 13:8), pointing to lives free from unresolved debts. Practical Ways to Practice Restitution Today • Money: Return what you borrowed; repay hidden debts; add something extra to demonstrate sincerity. • Property: Repair or replace items you damaged; don’t settle for “good enough.” • Time: If lateness or absenteeism hurt others, offer extra hours or service to compensate. • Reputation: Publicly correct false statements; use the same platform where the damage was done. • Emotional hurt: Though pain isn’t quantifiable, tangible gestures—meals, help, thoughtful gifts—show you value the person’s well-being. Steps to Take When You’ve Wronged Someone 1. Confess the specific offense (Proverbs 28:13). 2. Calculate the loss honestly; ask the person if uncertain. 3. Add “the fifth”—a meaningful extra, reflecting Leviticus 6:5. 4. Deliver restitution promptly: “on the day” you seek forgiveness. Delays weaken trust. 5. Seek God’s cleansing (1 John 1:9) and walk forward in integrity. Receiving Restitution and Extending Grace • Accept genuine efforts without demanding revenge; remember God forgave you more (Ephesians 4:32). • If restitution is impossible (e.g., death, unknown victims), release the offender as Christ released your debt (Colossians 3:13). Promises Attached to Obedience • Restitution opens the door to renewed fellowship with God and people (Psalm 32:1-2). • Honesty invites divine blessing: “Whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13) • Restored relationships become living testimonies of the gospel’s power (John 13:35). |
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