“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way…I desire then that in every place the MEN should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling…” (1 Timothy 2:1-2,8)

A major issue has been brewing in our country for some time now concerning the preservation of the Bible’s definition of marriage. You probably know the story: one side views marriage from a “traditional” perspective, i.e., between one man and one woman; the other side takes the “liberated” position and believes that marriage should be defined, basically, in whatever way any particular individual(s) should choose to define it, i.e., man and man, woman and woman, polygamy, etc. There isn’t much middle ground in this argument; it’s very difficult to be neutral.

Life has a way of bringing individuals and societies to a place of reckoning…defining moments or crossroads, if you will. We are at a crossroads and the long-term welfare of our society depends on a God-honoring stand against changing the Bible’s definition of marriage (see Genesis 2:24).

So what can we do?  Pray MEN!  Pray!  Pray for the politicians and judges who have the power and authority to make these decisions. And in case you’re thinking, “But what difference will it make. I mean, they’re in charge.” No, no…the Lord God is in charge and He laughs when world rulers and public officials set themselves against Him (Psalm 2). God wants His people to do something, and the most effective action I can think of is to call on Him and ask Him to defend the sanctity of marriage.

This is not primarily an executive issue. This is not primarily a legislative issue. This is not primarily a judicial issue. This is not primarily a Democratic or Republican issue. This is not primarily an American issue. But this is an issue of a country that finds itself at a crossroads. MEN, let’s cry out to God together and ask Him to override every political agenda that sets itself against Him. Let’s plead for the definition of marriage in this country to remain as being between one man and one woman. Let’s trust God for enough votes to uphold a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage the next time the vote goes before the Senate. Amen and Amen.

Disclaimer: This is in no way a personal attack on gay men and women in America. Surely, we can all agree that some choices and behaviors are not in the best interest of our society. God’s Word is clear that His definition of marriage is one man, one woman, for a lifetime. That said, God’s love, mercy, and grace is available to everyone. He desires a relationship with all people, regardless of past or present circumstances. And that relationship begins with knowing Jesus Christ: “…we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20)