The “DOWN-LOW ” Going on in the CHURCH! ~

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I must preface this by saying that the “Down-Low” is a rather controversial “taboo” subject. You may be offended by the contents before you. In general, this is preferably for adults only? It may ruffle your feathers a bit? However, I do think that having an open conversation with your mature teens should be a priority considered at your discretion… You might be quite surprised by their reactions? This helps to protect them from acquiring felonious information in regard to the “Down-Low” from an outside source as well as keeps the lines of communication open. They may know more than you think? If you are sensitive to the topic of sex; read no further!

The Bible has a lot to say about sex.  It talks about what is proper and it also talks about what is unacceptable as well as what is an abomination to GOD.   It is always my intention to encourage What God has to say from a Biblical spiritual perspective.

 

What is the “Down-Low”?

 

The “Down-Low” is a discreet sexual encounter between a so called straight married man as well as unmarried men who have sexual relationships with other men. They often have sex with their friends and other men without telling their spouse or partner! This happens within many races and cultures on every social economic level.  Often random one-night stands take place… Many who are professed Christians partake in this as well. This should not be. What is so very sad about this is absolutely nothing is hidden from GOD!  The fact that it is kept secret should tell you something. It is actually really another form of perverted homosexuality.

 

In this 21st century it becomes increasingly clear to me why God designed marriage in the way in which He did. One Man and one Woman for life is God’s design for marriage. Marriage is a sacred “Covenant Agreement” between one man, one woman and GOD!  He has not changed His design. His design for sex within marriage was to give us healthy sexual boundaries.  This keeps us free from STD’s, Herpes, HIV and AIDS!

 

The “Down-Low” is no doubt a homosexual act…  According to the Word of God homosexuality goes against one’s natural nature. God did not ever intend for a man’s anatomical exit to be an entrance point.  Intercourse in this manner is considered an indecent act. This is still in your Bible if you have not torn it out!

 

“Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchange the TRUTH of God for a lie, and worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator- who is forever praised. AMEN! Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged the natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.” Romans 1.

 

If you beg to differ. Take it up with GOD!

 

I believe all of God’s Word. Do as you please but nowhere in the Word does God condone any form of homosexuality, adultery, fornication or any sex outside of marriage. They are all sexual sins.  Is Deliverance possible; Yes! God is able! He did tell  the woman caught in adultery;  “To go and sin no more!” That mean to not continue to practice sin.

 

I realize that these may be chosen lifestyles for many? You can choose as you please… But it does not make it right in the eyes of God regardless of who says so.  Sex outside of marriage  does not have God’s blessings! We; meaning believers are supposed to be “in the world but not of the world.” John 17. World; meaning cosmos the devil is the ruler of the cosmos. We are physically present in this world, but we are children of the kingdom of God. We are children of the LIGHT! We are supposed to daily walk in the Light.  We are sanctified by believing and implementing the Truth of God’s Word within our lives.  We are not to practice walking in darkness. GOD SAYS; “Thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven…”

 

The enemy seeks to have you step outside of the Word of God! The Word of God always points us in God’s direction. It is a Light unto our path. It shines the Light on darkness and can point us back to the right path as well. We are to be “Narrow Road” travelers. This is why we all need Jesus as Savior and Lord to save us from the power and clutches of sin reigning within our lives!

 

I have counseled with some who have been ensnared into lifestyles of alternative sexual relationships. I have seen the aftermath of what it does to the soul, the person, spouse and family… In many cases it creates and ongoing cycle of distrust, rejection, selfishness and secretiveness that causes much ambivalence, despair, insecurity, resentment and anxiety for those involved.

 

Sexual misconduct should not be embraced, overlooked,  or excused especially so when you are called to  minister. To be a Minister means that you commit to preaching, teaching, proclaiming and living out the principles of God and encourage others to do so as well. We are supposed to present the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD regardless of what the world, the masses or anyone else says is okay.  Whenever you are experiencing extensive inner turmoil or conflict one must seek wise spiritual counsel and seek to resolve the issues that hinder you from confronting whatever the issue might be and reconciling yourself to the Lord.

 

The reason it is allowed to continue is no one wants to confront the offense. They seek to not address it but instead enable the participants. Leaving them on the “Broad Road” that leads to spiritual destruction. This is not loving them. It is sanctioning what GOD says; DON’T DO!

 

For an example a while back  Iyanla Vanzant on  one of her  “Fix my life” shows  presented an episode that depicts two different Ministers who have been involved in multiple secret homosexual affairs. They both preside over congregations. How can this be? The emotional turmoil and stress they are experiencing is candidly showcased. The consequences of this sinful  behavior choice has greatly impacted their  marital lives.  Both ministers have suffered as well  as their family life and the  congregations that they pastor.

 

Do you realize that this creates a cycle of sin?  Where many are being drawn in by a seducing ungodly spirit.   Some are aware but are paralyzed by a pseudo compassion.  This causes them to not want to have their spiritual eyes opened to see the harm that is being perpetuated.

 

The inner pain that both of these pastors are experiencing due to the shame and secret deception is quite evident.  Neither one cannot have inner peace apart from God. God is a compassionate caring and loving, but He does not condone or sanction any behavior that is contrary to His Word in anyone.  This is what His genuine Love is all about. Here lies the conflict. By what spirit are you ministering to God’s people or non-believers?  A seducing ungodly spirit of course. The call to ministry is not to adjust GOD’S WORD to make anyone feel comfortable in sin.  This is totally out of order!  God is clear;  Sin is what separates us from God.

 

When the man on the “Down-Low” is in ministry this can be devastating. This causes much conflict within the family as far as their belief system. For example; the woman may seek the comfort of another woman.  This goes against the Word of God.  You are also now out of the will of the Lord! This in turn leads to a confusing physical relationship that further complicates her life as well as further harm to the family.  This should not be.  A spiritual boundary is being crossed. This is the ultimate rejection so her self-esteem is at stake. She begins to question her own sexuality? To assuage her guilt she now also turns to drugs.

 

Denial big time is happening…

The various family members begin to act out rebelliously and justify turning to worldly living… In some cases, even becoming a lesbian, homosexual or bisexual…  This is not good or acceptable according to Biblical Standards.  Although it has become acceptable in the eyes of many in  the world… The children become confused as to what is right?  Now many children have been supported in questioning their gender? They begin to experiment and then can become promiscuous as they reach puberty… Which begins to perpetuate another vicious cycle of dysfunction?  What’s next? For now the world and its principles have  now entered and taken root within their home. The enemy has covertly shifted the entire focus of the family from God’s principles to his…  A stronghold has taken place.

 

It really boils down to spiritual warfare!!!

The Word of God is powerful and was given to help us navigate through this maze of life. We must proclaim the Truth of His Word and encourage others to draw closer to the Lord in these “Last Days. ” Rather than cosign behavior God does not sanction. Ministry is about encouraging others to learn to daily embrace God’s Way of living! Not making them comfortable in sin.  Making them feel comfortable enables them and leaves them without godly protection.

 

I know what it is like to be censored and oppressed for believing the Truth of God’s Word. But regardless of that I will STILL STAND upon the WORD OF GOD! We must stand on the Word of God. This is the requirement of the “CALL to Ministry!”

 

Many often compromise for fear of rejection or being thought of as judgmental. Or fear their congregation will fall off… However, by ignoring God’s Word they negate His principles.    Accountability to God is instead compromised for acceptance…  “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires. These men will divide you who follow mere instincts and do not have the Spirit. But you, dear friends, build yourself up in the most Holy Faith and PRAY in the SPIRIT.” Jude 1.

 

 

CONTEND FR THE FAITH!!!

 

When you see someone, drowning do you try to help them to keep drowning? The point is we are called believers for a reason. The world and its ways of manipulation have worked itself into God’s Church. I am not talking about the building! I mean the lives of many baptized believers. The world says, “do whatever you feel is right.” But The Word of God says “REPENT!” Which means to turn to God; not to continue to repeat the behavior? We are not to jump into the quicksand of life! “Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch them out from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear – hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.” Jude 1.

 

It is important not to compromise the Word of God even if it means being misunderstood.  You can or should deliver the Word in it’s proper context. It is much more important what God knows rather than what others think? Don’t give in to false doctrine that goes against what God says. We are supposed to influence the world not let it influence us! Spend time meditating on His Word; “Be still and know!”

 

It is so important that we personally know God’s Word for ourselves! We must develop and ongoing, growing intimate relationship with the Lord. This is about learning how to honor God with your bodies. In the Old Testament sacrifices were offered to God for the sins of the people. Now the world says do whatever feels right to you.”  Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world. Now we are to offer our body as a sacrifice to the Lord. As we do this our lives are transformed, and our minds can be renewed daily by the Word of God. Do you believe God knows what is best for us?

 

“Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God –this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer by the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12.

 

One must seek to rise above any behavior that is not pleasing to the Lord. This closeted homosexuality, adulterous, bisexuality is sinfully dangerous from God’s perspective The “Down-Low” is one of those patterns of the world, and it is inappropriate!

 

I realize that the Church is divided on the subject of sex. No one wants to talk about sex really, or address the growing issues? Do we continue to just bury our heads in the sand like an ostrich? absolutely NOT!  Many go to worship, sing, pray, dance, shout, fellowship and then go back to in many instances a lifestyle that is contrary to what God says is acceptable!  This is not to target simply homosexuals or lesbians. But to shed  LIGHT on the reality of what God was about sexual relationships…  It is important to know that you are living out of the will of GOD!  Worship really becomes a temporary distraction or just another social activity when  this  is ignored? Think for a moment; what if Jesus were to return today or  tomorrow? God is aware of the Truth… “True worshippers must  “Worship HIM in SPIRIT and in TRUTH.”

 

The idea of worship is to honor the Lord is it not? Are we not to learn to worship Him with our lives daily?  Or just simply make everyone feel comfortable and have an emotional charge  so they will come back.

 

To be entertained rather than “Worship God!”

 

Should we not be concerned?  Look around and see what has happened. things have gotten out of control…  Concerned does not mean you make someone feel comfortable in sin. For it is a slow day by day  death in process.  Bringing it to the forefront;  means that you care enough that you want to do something about it to help them… Many do not realize that they are looking for love in all the wrong places. The enemy just uses sex to win a stronghold over your life! He always perverts and distorts what God made for physical expression within the confines of marriage!

 

How to confront wisely

If you know that your spouse is indulging in a sexual relationship outside of marriage; I suggest stepping back. If you suspect this is so, be careful how you confront your spouse. Set aside some time when you both can talk. It is important that you get yourself tested? Prepare yourself. Keep in mind he may not be ready to confront his behavior. He may be offended if he is a leader in the Church… This makes it just that much more important! Talk about your relationship and how you feel. Allow him to talk about how he is feeling.  Time to get dangerously  untrapped from this behavior!  Ask him about his current sexual relationship with you before you approach his suspected infidelities if you are not sure?

 

When you find out this is so? Know you cannot change him; he has to want to change. Many women marry men thinking that they are going to change them? It won’t happen! Only God can do this! “HE IS ABLE!” You can and should always strive to  model godly behavior.  Embrace prayer daily. Seek and Consult with a godly couple that will reflect and reinforce the principles of God. You can intercede and “pray without ceasing” fervently all throughout your day!  Know that this is his problem and you are not the cause. He needs deliverance! It is important that he seeks help and you both get godly counsel as to how you go forward?

REPENT!!!

 

Homosexuality

Homosexuality

Today the world fervently proclaims homosexuality is an alternative lifestyle. Society disrespectfully disregards what God has to say in regards to the matter. We as Christians often take a neutral position fearfully dreading being persecuted for being unloving and judgmental. What is homosexuality? Webster defines homosexuality as relating to or exhibiting sexual desire towards one’s own sex… By the way there is no factual medical data to substantiate homosexuality as an inborn trait. It is a learned behavior. The scriptures tells us homosexuality is an abomination in the sight of God. I Kings 14: 24. ” Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman that is detestable.” Leviticus 18: 22 (NIV).

Homosexuality is not something we as Christians should passively overlook. Especially when it obviously raises it’s head in the assembly of the Lord. It is the sin that literally destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. We have an obligation to enlighten others in regards to the pitfalls of sin that God has clearly defined as forbidden territory. Roman states “Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator who is forever praise, Amen.. Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even the women exchanged natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. Futhermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over to a depraved mind to do what ought not to be done” Romans 1: 24-28 (NIV)). This is GOD speaking. This passage of Scripture is quite clear. To those who have an ear let him/her hear.

We should really be about our Father’s business daily. Instead we select to entangle ourselves in a web of bureaucracy. We have allowed immorality to permeate our worship services. Appointing known practicing homosexuals, bisexuals as well as adulterers to highly visible positions. All in the name of Jesus. Know that there is a seducing spirit in operation here. Creating a multiplicity of carnally based programs and positions patterned after the standards of the world. What kind of example does this set for the children? Many teenagers are finding themselves confused and not knowing who they are. Now to the point that some are confused about their gender? This should not be! They are having an identity crisis and beginning to venture further into homosexuality. Young girls and boys need positive Christian role models as well as some one to discuss their inner feelings! The world continues to blur the sexual lines and many are getting trapped! The Bible is clear on its position of “same sex relationships!”Christ is the head of the body, the church, He must have the preeminence in all things.

You don’t have to allow sin to reign in your life. A few moments of lustful pleasure could possibly result in eternal damnation. God does not always stop us from choices that are against His will. Just know whatever gifts He has bestowed you with are greatly hindered if you choose to indulge in sexual sin. The sexual sins carry a stronger penalty. Don’t be seduced by that seducing spirit. Be truthful with yourself. You won’t have inner peace unless you repent. If you know someone who is trapped in homosexuality immediately begin to intercede for them. If you have the faith God has the power. James says “My brother, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins” James 5:19-20 (NIV.)

Jesus is coming back and although He is coming as a thief in the night He tells His children that we should not be surprised at His sudden return. We definitely know He’s coming we just don’t know when! “Finally brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please GOD, as in fact now you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. It is GOD’S WILL that we should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality: that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God; and that in this matter no one should wrong his brother or take advantage of him. The Lord will punish men for all such sins, as we have already told you and warned you. For GOD did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but GOD, who gives you His HOLY SPIRIT. I Thessalonians 4:1-8 (NIV)

Whenever anyone chooses to indulge in destructive or immoral behavior consistently that is in a position of leadership they should opt to “sit down” until they have gained self control over the impending behavior. In ministry our first desire should be to live to please the Lord. When under the influence or engaging in behavior that the LORD has deemed unacceptable it is difficult to help others break free of the shackles of sin. We must daily check ourselves to see if we are operating in the Faith. When we submit to the WILL & WAY of the LORD we are in a better position to help those we are called to minister to. As we empty ourselves we can ask the Holy Spirit to Fill us so we can go forth in JESUS NAME! God knows what is best for each of us have given us instructions for living in HIS WORD! Live everyday to the GLORY of GOD!

Today in the world where there is a multiplicity of “alternative lifestyles” know that GOD has NOT changed HIS design for marriage. Readily “REPENT!” of anything that is not like GOD in your life. Spend some time in His Word and draw closer to Him daily. He will and can lead you in the “Path of Righteousness” for HIS Namesake and get you back on the straight and narrow. Have FAITH in GOD!

God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. He wants us to have a companion helpmeet but not of the same sex. We must daily contend for the faith in these Latter Days! We must not walk in darkness and claim ourselves to be children of the Light. We must like the salmon swim against the current to get upstream! We must go against the grain when necessary We must take a stand for righteousness… Look back to learn from where you have been and what has happened. But press forward and consistently reach to the Lord to take you higher in HIM! Move up higher a little more each day. Christ is coming back for a church without spot or wrinkle. Don’t be left behind. Will you be there? Will you be caught up in the clouds to meet Him in the air?