In the past couple of years, the conversation about gay marriage has taken several turns. First there was mass criticism of Kirk Cameron and Dan Cathy of Chick-fil-A, followed by a string of dust-ups and legal battles. With the steady stream of noise, the conversation seems to be shifting almost daily; so if you need a little solid ground to rest on for a minute, remember:

• God’s way is best-Instead of getting trapped in the quicksand of an “equality” debate, consider how Biblical marriage is superior to counterfeit models. God formed Eve specifically to complete Adam. A man and woman fit together in every way. Physically, emotionally, and psychologically, God designed us to complement each other. It doesn’t take much observation to see how boys and girls are wired different. We augment each other’s weaknesses, and keep one another’s extremes in check. It’s an amazing process of two lives merging together into something greater than the sum of two parts. Anything else; pre-marital intimacy, living together outside of marriage, or same-sex relations, fall short of God’s design. He made us “male and female” (Genesis 2:27), and declared; “a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24). It’s an earthly picture of a heavenly truth; Christ and His Bride, the Church.
• Discernment is key- Our core problem as humans is struggling against God’s authority. The attempt to recalibrate His design is actually rebellion and the desire for peer validation is a symptom, not the “end-all”. As followers of Jesus, we need to discuss sin in the full context of scripture, not selectively. There are no special categories of sin or sinners. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” While some sins have far greater consequences, we all need God’s grace and forgiveness equally. The truth of scripture should be spoken in authentic love at Spirit-led times. There is forgiveness and acceptance to any who trust Christ as Lord (Romans 5:8 & 8:1, II Corinthians 5:17), resulting in a changed life.
• It helps to relax-When Jesus said in Matthew 28:18, “…all authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” He actually meant it. Mark 16:19 says that Jesus sat down at the right hand of God, meaning He’s there now with absolutely nothing happening beyond His sight and awareness. Think about what it means; no person, group or political force will ever be able to strong-arm their way to ultimate victory. It may appear so at times, but our King has already won.
• Prayer isn’t a small thing-don’t forget the most precious resource we have; the ability to enter His throne room. There we can share our hearts, ask for forgiveness & strength, get guidance and have our thoughts reset. What’s happening around us is spiritual in nature and prayer should always be part of the process…always. Pray to understand scripture, pray before sharing, pray before posting, and pray for those who need Christ. As Paul said:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” -Philippians 4:6-7