Forgiveness vs. Restoration

Confusing and combining forgiveness and restoration can slow or hinder forgiveness, but does not need to. 

Forgiveness does not mean the instant restoration of trust. Forgiveness can be instant. Trust must be rebuilt over time.

Forgiveness is based on grace. Trust is built on actions. You earn trust. You don’t earn forgiveness.

Forgiving someone does not mean you have to trust that person again. It just means that person has a higher probability of earning your trust again. 

Forgiveness and a restoration of a relationship are two different things.

Forgiveness is only your part, whether they respond or not, whether they ask for it or not, whether they even recognize they need it or not. You forgive for your sake.

Restoration of a relationship takes far more than forgiveness. It takes repentance. It takes restitution and a rebuilding of trust. It takes the help of God’s spirit. 

And it often takes much more time! Confusing and combining forgiveness and restoration can slow and hinder forgiveness, but does not need to. 

“…And forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” -Matthew 6:12