One of the powerful yet often overlooked principles in Scripture is restitution—the act of making amends for a wrong committed. In Leviticus 6:1-5, God commands that anyone who has stolen, defrauded, extorted, or lied must return what was taken and add an additional 20% as restitution. This principle isn’t just about correcting financial wrongs; it is about restoring relationships, integrity, and justice.
Why Restitution Matters
Restitution teaches us that genuine repentance requires more than just saying, “I’m sorry.” It involves action—an intentional effort to right a wrong. This aligns with God’s heart for justice and righteousness. Throughout the Bible, we see that when people take responsibility for their actions, it leads to healing and reconciliation.
Take Zacchaeus in the New Testament as an example. In Luke 19:8, after encountering Jesus, he declared: “If I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus affirmed his repentance, saying, “Today salvation has come to this house.” Zacchaeus didn’t just confess—he demonstrated true change through restitution.
Key Lessons from Biblical Restitution
- Taking Responsibility for Wrongdoing
- Whether intentional or unintentional, the Bible calls us to own up to our mistakes and not ignore the damage done.
- Restoring What Was Lost
- Making things right isn’t just about feeling sorry—it involves returning what was taken and ensuring the person affected is whole again.
- Going Beyond the Bare Minimum
- The additional 20% (or more in some cases) shows that restitution isn’t just about repaying—it’s about demonstrating true repentance and generosity.
- Integrity in All Dealings
- God’s law covers theft, fraud, and even keeping something that belongs to someone else (Leviticus 6:3-4). It teaches us that righteousness involves honesty in all aspects of life.
- Rebuilding Trust and Relationships
- Restitution isn’t just about financial compensation—it helps heal broken relationships and communities.
Practical Application Today
- If you’ve wronged someone financially, materially, or emotionally, consider how you can make amends beyond just an apology.
- In leadership, business, or ministry, practice integrity and accountability in all dealings.
- Teach your family and community the value of restoring what is lost rather than just seeking forgiveness.
True repentance is always followed by real action. When we commit to making things right, we reflect God’s justice, mercy, and grace. Are there areas in your life where restitution needs to take place? If so, take that step today and experience the freedom and peace that comes with making things right.
