Risk Management

In Galatians 6.1, the Apostle Paul instructs church members concerning the proper way to involve themselves when they witness an event, or series of events, that suggest a serious matter is occurring or is about to occur in the life of another member:  "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."  Since every church member is already engaged in spiritual conflict at various levels of intensity, it must be considered what additional conflict will result (and at what level of intensity) should you speak to that other Christian concerning his fault.  This risk assessment is rarely performed by believers, with some so risk averse that they never speak to what they see, and others never assessing risk but always speaking boldly where no man should speak.  To be sure, we are to bear one another's burdens, Galatians 6.2.  However, some burdens are simply too great to bear considering your present maturity and spiritual strength, especially if you are not successfully bearing your own burdens, Galatians 6.5.  Much grace is needed to live this Christian life.  Thankfully, great grace is available.