In America, same-sex marriage became legal across the states. I’ve kept my thoughts quiet on this matter because I was torn between the views of two opposing sides. I’ve been part of the world for a long time and now being part of the Christian community, I completely understand both sides of arguments. I prayed and asked the Lord to grant me His understanding and wisdom on this matter.
It is from my five years of experience following Christ in my marriage that has taught me the only way you can soften a unbelieving, hostile heart is with love. Loving those who are not likeminded is probably one of the hardest thing to do. Judging and arguing leads to division and death of dialogue and relationship. If I don’t have a relationship, then what good is my conviction if I can’t be influential to unbelieving hearts? If I’m not near to those who don’t believe, then what good is the Holy Spirit that resides within me to convict the world of sin?
Besides, Jesus commanded us to not judge and to leave judging up to God. It’s my observation that Jesus doesn’t want us to judge because it must open a door for the enemy. I’ve noticed whenever I criticized and judged someone harshly and vocally, a similar fate would come upon my life sooner or later. That’s just my personal observation over the years living on earth whether I follow or not follow Jesus. Perhaps it’s a universal spiritual law. Well, I don’t need to research and write a thesis about it. I’ll simply follow the command from Jesus to not judge and to love my neighbors – by the grace and power of God who enables me daily.
What about sharing the views of God to bring conviction for repentance? It’s my experience that when I’m living my life for Christ, unbelieving people near me seem to know what I approve and disapprove of without me convicting and arguing. They choose on their own whether to follow or not follow the convictions of the Holy Spirit.
Sometimes I feel that I’m not vocal or doing enough for God but when I closely evaluate the fruit in my life, it’s very good. God has placed me securely within the Jewish family and community. I’m gaining their respect, favor and love more and more as God gives me opportunities to serve, love and lead. I’m certain God is using and will continue to use my position to bring His purpose and influence in their hearts and minds. They won’t listen to a TV preacher or socialize with strong believers but they can’t run away from a loving family member. Even my dad who’s an atheist can’t run away from his loving daughter, me! 🙂
I’m not sure how I started receiving this pastor’s blogs, maybe it came through biblegateway.com? I’ve been subscribing to his blog and I enjoyed reading his thoughts on same sex marriage. His country in Canada is ten years ahead of America on this issue. Please check it out:
Let’s pray for one another in this complex world we live in. I need all the prayer and grace of God to love and live in peace. Thank you so much! -With love from the heart.
Journal of Faith 