Sexuality and The Church

For years I have been dealing Hope to those who are a product of the broken criminal justice system or to those within it. I receive many messages and comments on social media postings that my words inspire others. I have decided that every week I will blog about a topic that I feel could help others. The beauty about hope is that it is universal, we can all stand to have a little. It is the cousin of faith and with it anything is possible. I want to put a disclaimer out there that the following blog isn't backed by scripture this is solely spoken from someone who has dealt with being a Christian and homosexuality. That said please don't throw at me what you've been taught or told. Thank you in advance. For anonymity we will call the subject of this posting "Jane". In the wake of same sex marriages being recognized across the country with the recent Supreme Court Ruling in June. Homosexuality is being more accepted and tolerated nationwide in every institution except the church. We are told early on that we will pay for our sins. This notion alone leaves a lot of people who love God in fear of being themselves in order to avoid condemnation. "Jane" has been a very active member of the church. She has battled with the issue of wanting to be happy vs. being accepted by the church and her family. Eventually she had to go to counseling because she was so unsure of herself. She says "It takes a person from the outside to tell you about yourself". Her counselor asked her "Do you think the sin is not being honest with yourself"? In the church we are taught that living a homosexual lifestyle is a sin. The black church especially and those within it are not accepting of this lifestyle. From a non biblical standpoint as a case manager I see young people battling depression, suicide and unhappiness in exchange for being accepted by those they love rather than being happy being themselves. For Jane this caused her to overeat. She would find herself in relationships with men where she was being used. I asked her if she could give advice to those who may be going through similar circumstances, to parents who may not be accepting and to the church. Below are her responses..... To those dealing with this issue: When you put God at the forefront you see him in all that you do. For me he has been graceful and merciful. Be honest with yourself! Trust your judgement and live it out! Advice to Parents: You've done your part as a mother or father. What makes an individual unique is once they make a decision to be who they are you can't be depressed or take blame you have to accept them. To the Church: LOVE CONQUERS ALL! Until Next Time P.S. Never Give Up Hope.............