Our Scripture reading today is 2 Corinthians 2:5-8.
Verse 7, "So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow."
The Apostle Paul introduces us to a new level of forgiveness to the Corinthian beleivers. They were not only to forgive, but they were to comfort. We might say that forgiveness is elementary level and comforting is graduate level. It will be impossible to do both without the help of the Lord. "There may be a judicial forgiveness which is hard, and leaves the soul always conscious of the past. Comfort takes the soul to heart, and forgets. That is how God forgives, and so should we who are His children." (Morgan) Paul is not minimizing sin, but he is maximizing forgiveness and restoration.
How would we want to be treated if we were the one who committed the sin or offence? Galatians 6:1, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." The love of God will always lead His children to forgive and restore.
Have a wonderful Monday!