In 2 Corinthians 7:9-11, the Apostle Paul writes about the importance of godly sorrow that leads to repentance. He emphasizes that the sorrow experienced by the Corinthians was not just a feeling of guilt but led them to take action towards repentance, which ultimately brings about salvation and forgiveness.
To obtain forgiveness, according to this passage, one must experience genuine godly sorrow for their wrongdoing, which motivates them to repent—that is, to turn away from their sin and change their behavior. This process is marked by various aspects, such as earnestness, a desire to clear oneself, indignation towards the wrongdoing, fear of the consequences, longing for reconciliation, zeal, and a readiness to punish the wrongdoing, reflecting a complete transformation and commitment to change.
In summary, 2 Corinthians 7:9-11 suggests that to obtain forgiveness, we must express sincere remorse for our sins that leads to repentance and a change in our actions.