As faithful followers of Christ Jesus, we must never affirm homosexual practice. But we can at least affirm the fact that the individual struggling with same-sex attraction has tried to be honest with us and has taken quite a risk in telling us, knowing it is not what we wanted to hear.

How well I remember disclosing my own battle with same-sex attraction and giving my family every reason to write me off.

Frankly, there was no reason for my family to ever think I would repent and turn completely away from the ‘gay is good’ notion.

Thankfully, sometimes when God calls us to release a family member or friend through a prayer of relinquishment, that doesn’t mean He is releasing them as well.

Dealing with the discovery that someone you love has same-sex attraction issues is a difficult stewardship. But the God who gave us this stewardship has also equipped us to handle it and maintain a Christ-like attitude.

When any individual discloses their battle with same-sex attraction, their confession enables an intriguing and powerful opportunity to the family and really to anyone that becomes aware.

“Can I truly continue to love him for who he is and not for what he does?”

As a Christ-follower, if we are becoming effective in not putting unrealistic expectations on “anyone,” we are in line to accept them for who they are, not for what we wish they were.

It is God’s part to give those that struggle with same-sex attraction abhorrence for the behavior – an abhorrence that will bring them to a place of complete surrender to the sovereignty of God in their lives and a desire to change.

While there are no specific verses in the Bible telling us under what circumstances, if any, we should adopt this or that policy toward a homosexual loved one, let’s consider a few specific communications that need to be offered with the hope and endeavor of keeping the lines of communication open.

What the Bible says and why you disapprove of homosexuality every time you are with your child, friend, co-worker, neighbor or fellow brother or sister in Christ, is not necessary to state.

However, do make sure the individual knows the following:

* You understand that he/she did not ask for these feelings.

* You appreciate their honesty and transparency in disclosing their issue with same-sex attraction.

* Your belief regarding homosexual practice as sin is not going to change.

* You want to protect your relationship through mutual respect and understanding.

While you may never agree on the subject of homosexuality, you are committed to not letting that disagreement destroy your relationship.

“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” (Romans 15:4)

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

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