HOW TO MINISTER TO A GAY FRIEND

An increasing number of Christians have within their circle of friends,

someone who is struggling with homosexuality. Usually, there is a

conflict: a desire to help, but the feelings of not knowing what to do or

say. Realize that the Lord has placed you in this situation for a special

reason: you do have something to share. You don't have to be a

professional counsellor or come from a homosexual background to be

effective. Your life can make a difference!

It will be the quality and depth of your Christian walk, not your studied

words or polished technique, that will win your friend. The following

thoughts should help ...

Your friend is a whole person, not just a "homosexual".

There is more to him than his sexual sin. He has value as a person since

he was made in the image and likeness of God. Christ died for him and will

continue to love him no matter what. This must also be your attitude. Any

attempt to help your friend without this unconditional love will fail.

Examine your own behaviour and motives. Before you attempt to help, be

certain that your relationship to Christ is firm. Ask Christ to bring to

your mind and to change any areas of your own life (especially your

sexuality) that are inconsistent with His will. Find out whether or not

your friend is a Christian.

If he is not, your first priority is to introduce your friend to the Lord.

Stick to the issue -- not his homosexuality, but his need of God. Remember

that we are all sinful and come short of the glory of God. The homosexual

is not a special case. Homosexuality is not the "biggest sin".

Ask him how he feels about himself If your friend is already a Christian

and is still struggling with homosexuality, ask him how he feels about

himself and his relationship to Christ. Don't limit your conversations to

homosexuality. Remember your friend is a total person, not just a sexual

being.

Homosexuality is an expression of unfulfilled needs.

As you talk, keep in mind that homosexuality (like other sins) is just

another expression of unfulfilled needs and unresolved hurts. As these

basic needs are filled and the hurts resolved, homosexuality will gradually

lose it's power and appeal. Establish Trust.

Be a true friend. This is your duty as a Christian. Don't play

"psychologist". Be yourself. Respect your friend's confidence as you

would expect him to keep yours.

Love your friend enough to be honest with him.

Don't back down on God's standard that homosexuality is sin. God hates

sin, but loves the sinner. Don't be afraid of such loving confrontation.

Share experiences.

As you would with any friend, share trials that you have experienced in the

past or are going through now. Convey hope. Tell how God helps you.

Realize that you will not have all the answers.

Be willing to admit your limitations. It is God who will bring about the

changes, not you. You are the instrument, God is the Source. If your

friend becomes too dependent on you, remind him of this fact. Be patient.

God is at work. Don't judge your friend's progress, your own ability as a

helper, or God's power to change us according to your own ideas of how and

when things should happen. God is still in control. Don't become

discouraged.

If, after all of this, your friend rejects God's help and yours, don't

become discouraged. Don't blame yourself, and most of all, don't lose your

confidence in God. Be available to your friend, love him, and keep him

continually in your prayers. We're here to help!

If we can be of further service to you as you seek to help your friend,

feel free to write or call us. We're here to help!

For further information about homosexuality or about other areas of sexual

brokenness, please contact:

LOVE IN ACTION

G.P.O. Box 1115

ADELAIDE SA 5001

Phone (08) 371-0446

This article is reprinted by permission from:

Melodyland Hotline Center

PO Box 999

Anaheim CA 92805 U.S.A.



MINISTRY TO HOMOSEXUALS

Database Listing - Ministry To Homosexuals.
Christian Resources on Homosexuality on the web


These documents are free from BelieversCafe.com
the complete christian resource site with more than 5000 webpages.