Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18
June has been designated as Pride Month, and it can be very difficult for those who seek to follow the biblical narrative for sexuality. It can also be hard for parents and friends of those who struggle with their sexuality. If their child or loved one is struggling to pursue God’s ways instead of what they feel, they are rightly concerned with the month-long campaign to normalize alternative lifestyles. Whether it is on television, radio, social media, print media, in the workplace, or even in stores and community gatherings, there is a constant elevation of the supposed wonderfulness of embracing and acting on their feelings. Even if the struggler knows from personal experience that this is a slanted perspective, the marketing is persuasive and nonstop. Friends and family should pray for those whom they know are vulnerable to this message and make opportunities to speak words of truth and encouragement to them.
June is also difficult for friends and family of those who have already embraced the message promoted by Pride Month. The same marketing message doesn’t need to convince someone who has already believed the message, but it can reinforce and deepen their belief that they had no choice but to act on their feelings. It may also stir up a desire to become combative with friends or family members who have not embraced their choice to identify as LGBTQIA++. Pray fervently for those who are deceived to see beyond the glitzy messaging and realize that true joy and happiness are not to be found in pursuing a life that is in opposition to God’s truth.
Some helpful verses in 2 Timothy offer great wisdom for those who are unsure how to respond to someone who attempts to pressure or coerce agreement with their choices.
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” 2 Timothy 2:23-26
The best response to pride of any variety is one of humility; gently and kindly holding to the Truth and then trusting God to do the work that only He can do, to change their heart. No amount of arguing will be productive, so refrain from getting drawn into debates. This is a spiritual battle that is best fought with prayer. Only God can change someone’s desires. Make it your aim to pray fervently for all those who are trapped in this deception, especially during Pride Month. God can do what we cannot, so trust Him to be at work, whether you see quick results or not. Commit to stay faithful in prayer with your hope in our faithful God until that change happens.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12