How can we apply the principle of restitution in our daily relationships? Key Verse “he must confess the sin he has committed. He must make full restitution for his wrong, add a fifth of its value, and give it all to the person he has wronged.” (Numbers 5:7) What Restitution Meant in Israel • More than “sorry”—wrongs were put right, tangibly. • Full repayment plus 20 % showed sincerity and protected the victim. • Confession was made first: the heart turns, then the hands repay. Why the Principle Still Stands • God’s character: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne” (Psalm 89:14). • Jesus affirmed it: Zacchaeus offered four-fold repayment and heard, “Today salvation has come” (Luke 19:8-9). • Reconciliation precedes worship: “First be reconciled to your brother” (Matthew 5:23-24). • New-covenant ethics echo it: “Let the thief steal no more… so he may have something to share” (Ephesians 4:28). Steps to Practicing Restitution 1. Examine: Ask the Spirit to spotlight any loss you have caused—financial, material, relational, reputational. 2. Confess: Admit the wrong without excuses to God and the person harmed (1 John 1:9). 3. Calculate: Determine what will truly set things right—sometimes more than face value. 4. Act Quickly: “Do not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). Delay deepens damage. 5. Add Grace: Israel added a fifth; today we can add generosity—interest, a gift, extra help. 6. Maintain: Keep short accounts. Make restitution a lifestyle, not a one-off emergency. Everyday Scenarios • Money: If you underpaid someone or withheld a debt, repay with interest. • Property: Return borrowed items promptly; repair or replace any damage. • Workplace: Misused company time/resources? Restore value—additional hours, equipment, or a financial equivalent. • Reputation: Slandered someone? Publicly correct the story and speak well of them (Proverbs 22:1). • Emotional Harm: Ungracious words can’t be “un-said,” but you can apologize, listen, and invest time rebuilding trust. • Family Promises: Broken commitments to spouse or children call for honest apology and concrete follow-through. Blessings of Restitution • Clear Conscience: “I always strive to maintain a clear conscience before God and man” (Acts 24:16). • Restored Fellowship: Healing flows into relationships; walls come down. • Witness to the World: Tangible integrity showcases the gospel (Titus 2:10). • Deeper Joy: “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). Restitution turns painful history into testimony of grace. |
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