Godly Sorrow and Restitution Part 2

As discussed in the previous post, godly sorrow brings about a change in heart which in turn motivates the offender in restoring or making restitution to the offended. Translation: if you are repentant and sorrowful as God would have you be, you would want to do whatever you could to make it better for the one  you hurt.

In the book, "The Miracle of Forgiveness," it states that it is a requirement of the repentant sinner to restore and make restitution to the one they hurt.  It's not optional. It says, "As a rule there are many things which a repentant soul can do to make amends. 'A broken heart and a contrite spirit' will usually find ways to restore to some extent. The true spirit of repentance demands that he who injures shall do everything in his power to right the wrong." And goes on to say, "In the process of repentance we must restore completely where possible, otherwise restore to the maximum degree attainable. And through it all we must remember that the pleading sinner, desiring to make restitution for his acts, must also forgive others of all offenses committed against him. The Lord will not forgive us unless our hearts are fully purged of all hate, bitterness and accusation against our fellowmen."

Sheesh, that's a lot to take in. I have not done everything in my power to make restitution to all the many people I have offended throughout my life, but I now have something to work toward.

So what are some ways to right the wrongs...

• work at fulfilling your word
• if you gossiped about someone, make sure you only speak positive and start to build the reputation of the person you damaged
• if you stole something, return it fourfold like the scriptures talk about
• serve those you have damaged
• if you lied, tell the truth and repair any damage from the lies and work at serving the offended
• if  you have hurt someone and kids are involved, do what's right for the kids
• have your heart aligned with God's and true sorrow felt for the sin and it will direct you to want to love, serve, and protect the hearts of those you have offended
• if you have dishonored someone, honor them through deed, word, and thought
• ask forgiveness
• stop blaming others
• have an increased love for those you've offended

I strongly believe I am making some strides with my weaknesses because of my trials. I hate to admit that because no one wants trials but I am stretching because of them.