the fine line

i have to admit, there is a fine line between confronting a person who is not doing right with God and judging a person for falling. it is a very fine line, but one we still need to stand on; but never cross. here is an example:

you know a friend is doing wrong - stealing, cheating, hurting someone, or other wrong as you know - what do you do? confront? but that seems so judgemental. let go? but then you are approving of the acts - so, what is one to do?

i think timothy had the same issue, because paul gives some very good advise. paul, in his first letter to timothy writes:

"if anyone falls into sin, call that person on the carpet. those who are inclined that way will know right off they can't get by with it. [1 timothy 5:20]"

now, that does not mean "jump on the person" and "condem" them for what they have done. because, if you read what leads up to that you will know that paul spoke in love and that the "calling on the carpet" is not based on judgement, but love. so, we are to treat everyone like a brother and sister, and support them through the hurts of their lives and be ready to pick people up, and not kick them while they are down.