Restitution

Restitution comes spontaneously as a response to the new birth experience. It means to restore things you stole, apologies to people you wronged either by slander, lies, accusation, falsifying or cheating. Some pay back either by act of charity, commitment or returning things. It is saying I am sorry and making up.

Paul was not ashamed to own up that he persecuted the church. 1 Corinthians15:9-10 KJV

Restitution authenticates our salvation. When Zacchaeus encountered Jesus, he told Him he will restore fourfold everything he had taken falsely from people. Jesus responded that indeed salvation has come to his house. Luke 19:8-10 KJV.

It helps us to hold the truth in good conscience. Paul said exercised himself to be void of offence toward God and men. Acts 24:16 KJV. Things you have notsettled will be a wedge to your spiritual growth. Imagine going to pray for somebody and the bag you have is stolen from her. It doesn't matter the power of your prayers, she wants her lovely bag back. You may ask if restitution contradict justification. The answer is no. The key thing here is not to hold the truth in unrighteousness Romans 1: KJV.

Satan will keep reminding you that the pen you are writing with is stolen, the person you are ministering to is hurting because of your accusations. If you restore, the voices will cease and nothing holds back your prayers and worship.

Joshua enquired of the Lord when they lost so many soldiers in a battle. The Lord told them Achan has an accursed thing. When he owned up, victory came. Joshua 7 KJV.

Some argue that restitution is the law and not relevant today. Exodus 22:1-7, Leviticus 6:1-7 and Numbers 6:6-8. People who find it difficult to obey the leading of the Holy Spirit on certain truths call it an Old Testament teaching, yet they go to Psalms and Isaiah to claim promises.

It has been before the law. Kings Abimelech was told by God in the dream to restore Sarah back to Abraham. He took Sarah for wife because both Abram and Sarah told him they were brother and sister for fear of Abraham being killed Genesis 20 KJV.

Our Lord Yeshua Jesus endorsed it with Zacchaeus and confirm his salvation.

Jesus commanded to leave our gift on the altar and go to reconcile with our brother and then come back. Matthew 5:23-24 KJV.

Paul apologised to the high Priest when Paul reacted to his slap, not knowing he was the high Priest. Acts 23:1-5 KJV.

Consider a church, a family, a workplace and school where people are happy to say ‘I am sorry’ when they offend or step on each other's toes. There will be no war on earth.

Restoring things builds trust, relationships, dispels malice and offence, strengthens the church, sheds light and Satan cannot take advantage. It is freedom.

Restitution should be taught and encouraged in the church; however, some will need counselling and wisdom. In such case, please ask question especially when it is sensitive and involves other people.