Can I keep the software I pirated until I can pay the companies back?
Question:
I've pirated plenty of software. I have stopped, but I need some of the software to get a certification. Is it possible that once I get a job, I could pay back the companies and replace the software with legitimate software?
Answer:
If a person stole money and they repented, would you expect them to keep the money? When Zaccheus repented, he told the Lord, "if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much" (Luke 19:8). Zaccheus didn't intentionally defraud anyone, but he offered that if it happened, he would pay back four times what was lost. In other words, Zaccheus did not want it to be said that he profited from sin.
While it will be difficult, you need to do the same thing. Find legitimate ways to get your certification. Most schools provide the software needed as part of the course for certification. If necessary, get a part-time job and save up for the software that you need.
