The Journey of Change: Understanding Same-Sex Attraction and Finding Hope

Same-Sex Attraction and the Journey of Change

Few concepts are more foreign to our culture than waiting. In today's fast-paced world, instant gratification has become the norm. We can take a picture of a check with our phones and deposit it into our bank accounts without leaving our La-Z-Boy recliners. We expect everything to happen quickly, even when it comes to personal change.

This expectation of instant change is often magnified when it comes to dealing with same-sex attraction (SSA). Many individuals facing SSA hope that by following a set of prescribed steps or therapies, their attractions will simply switch from same-sex to opposite-sex. However, the reality is often different, and this can lead to disillusionment and depression.

It is important to remember that our ultimate goal is not to change our attractions, but to pursue holiness. Our holiness is not contingent on the reversal of our attractions. Once we grasp this truth, our perspective on change begins to shift.

Change Is Not Promised

It is crucial to acknowledge that change in sexual attractions may not occur as we desire or expect. The Bible does not promise a specific outcome in terms of our attractions. Instead, it calls us to pursue a life of holiness and obedience to God.

Romans 12:1-2 reminds us, "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

This passage emphasizes the transformation of our minds rather than a specific change in our attractions. It encourages us to seek God's will and align our thoughts with His truth. Our journey is one of sanctification, where we continually grow in our relationship with Christ and conform to His likeness.

Waiting with Purpose

While waiting for change, we must remember that God works in His own time and according to His sovereign plan. Waiting does not mean inactivity or passivity. Instead, it is an opportunity to grow in faith, trust, and dependence on God.

Psalm 27:14 says, "Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!"

Waiting is an act of faith. It requires us to surrender our desires and timelines to God, trusting that His ways are higher than ours. It is through the waiting process that we learn valuable lessons and develop character traits such as patience, perseverance, and humility.

Finding Hope in Scripture

When we feel discouraged or impatient during our journey, we can find hope and encouragement in the promises of God's Word. The Bible is filled with stories of people who experienced waiting and saw God's faithfulness in their lives.

One such story is that of Joseph. Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph endured years of waiting before God's plan for his life unfolded. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph declares, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today."

Joseph's story reminds us that even in the midst of waiting, God is working for our good and His purposes. We can trust that He has a plan and that His timing is perfect.

The Role of Community

Walking the journey of change can be challenging and lonely at times. That is why it is important to surround ourselves with a supportive community of believers who can provide encouragement, accountability, and prayer.

Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Being part of a community allows us to share our struggles, joys, and victories with others who understand and empathize with our journey. It provides a safe space where we can grow spiritually, receive counsel, and experience the love and grace of God through the support of fellow believers.

Renewing the Mind

As we wait for change, it is essential to renew our minds with the truth of God's Word. Our thoughts and beliefs shape our actions and attitudes. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we allow God to transform our minds and align our thinking with His truth.

Philippians 4:8 instructs us, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

When we intentionally focus on what is true and good, we guard our minds against negative thoughts and temptations. The Word of God becomes our source of wisdom and guidance, equipping us to face the challenges of our journey with hope and resilience.

Embracing God's Plan

While waiting for change, it is important to remember that God's plan for our lives may not align with our own desires or expectations. His ways are higher and His thoughts are greater than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). As we surrender to His will, we discover that His plan leads to true fulfillment and abundant life.

Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

God's plan for us is ultimately for our good and His glory. It may involve change, but it is primarily focused on our holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. As we embrace His plan, we find peace and contentment, knowing that He is in control and working all things together for our ultimate good.

The Hope of Eternity

While change may not happen as quickly or as specifically as we desire, we have the hope of eternity to sustain us. Our present struggles and waiting are temporary in light of the eternal glory that awaits us.

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 reminds us, "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

As we fix our eyes on the eternal, we find strength and perseverance. We are reminded that our journey of change is part of a greater story, one that leads to eternal joy and fulfillment in the presence of our Savior.

Conclusion

The journey of change in regard to same-sex attraction is not a quick or easy process. It requires patience, faith, and surrender to God's timing and plan. While we may not see the exact change we desire, our ultimate goal is not the reversal of our attractions, but the pursuit of holiness.

As we wait with purpose, renew our minds with God's Word, and embrace His plan, we find hope, strength, and encouragement. We are reminded that change is a journey, and our focus should be on growing in our relationship with Christ and conforming to His likeness.

So, let us wait with faith, trusting in God's faithfulness and sovereignty. Let us seek the support and accountability of a community of believers. And let us fix our eyes on the hope of eternity, knowing that God is working all things together for our ultimate good.