Hope for the Same-Sex Attracted: Biblical Direction for Friends, Family Members, and Those Struggling with Homosexuality

Hope For The Same-Sex Attracted: Biblical Direction For Friends, Family Members, And Those Struggling With Homosexuality, written by Ron Citlau, published by Bethany House, is a publication designed to bring direction and hope to those dealing with homosexuality and same-sex marriage.

This publication strives to help people rally around those who are struggling with same-sex attraction and their relationship with Jesus while helping them answer two questions: How can someone with same-sex attraction be faithful to Jesus?, and How can everyone else support and encourage them in this pursuit?

Citlau has personally dealt with same-sex attraction, thus it gives him a unique perspective on the topic. He encourages his readers to consider what the Bible has to say as well as the feelings behind the motivation of the individuals.

This book should be looked at with an open mind and a heart focused on the Word of God, thus it is a recommended purchase with caution.

Dr. Jeff Krupinski

There are a lot of books on the Christian market about homosexuality/same-sex attraction. I have read a lot of them, and feel this is one of the better ones out there.

The title of the book is "Hope for the Same-sex attracted, and that is what the author does. Often in discussions about this issue, the person dealing with SSA gets lost in the discussion. I can attest personally that it is a very difficult thing to deal with, but this author gets it and has put onto paper not just how others can help people with SSA, but shows that there is indeed hope for we who deal personally with SSA.

The first part of the book deals with the obstacles we face. The second section deals with the gifts we have that can be of help to us. The third section is final thoughts with a message for church leaders, and a last word of hope for the same-sex attracted.

This is an interesting and helpful book not just for the same-sex attracted, but also for those wanting to better understand the issue and be a help to those dealing with it. I highly recommend it,

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Hope for the Same-Sex Attracted by Ron Citlau is written by a pastor who has struggled with same sex attractedness during his own life. This book is a teaching book--more sermon than memoir, but filled with personal acknowledgements. It is different than other books I've read because it is more cut and dried, straight to the point. I appreciate the topics Mr. Citlau tackles such as marriage and whether it can be a help or a hinderance to someone who struggles with homosexuality. He cites Scripture throughout his book. He begins with tackling the primary issue at hand--one of identity. I think it is wise that he begins there because claiming that something is "my identity", or is "just the way I am" along with a belief that God wants me to be happy is the justification many people use for all sorts of bad decisions--from having affairs, to leaving their spouses, to using marijuana... I think this book starts in a good place and tackles some difficult topics that others don't.

If you're looking for a book on this topic that explains why homosexuality is a sin and how to love people who struggle with it, or if you are a Christian who struggles with homosexuality, this book may give you some food for thought.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers for review, but these opinions are my own.

I found "Hope for the Same-Sex Attracted" by Ron Citlau to be an enlightening and encouraging book about what many churches look at as a taboo subject. I've often heard in churches to love the sinner but hate the sin, but in reality, it often doesn't look that way. Not knowing how to respond to people who are struggling with homosexuality and how it relates to their faith can cause a lot of hurt for everyone.

I appreciated the author's insight from working through his own like challenges, and found that although his recommendations would be very controversial in our current liberal culture, he is working from Biblical perspective not cultural perspective.

This book would be beneficial for those struggling with same-sex attraction (and their families and friends), but only if that person desires change.

I received this book from the publisher for my honest opinion.

What a powerful and timely book. This addresses some very important topics that I think we have trouble putting into words. This will give you language to address some things that, as Christians, we know isnt Gods plan.

I do think the first step is admitting the homosexuality is a sin. If people arent there or dont believe that they wont even pay attention to this book. They may not have to even believe that its a sin but they need to be in a place where they are uncomfortable with that lifestyle. I feel if they are accepting that as their identity they wont care what this book has say.

With that being said, it does give those that do believe it is sin a place to start, a way to dialogue about this topic.

It does boil down to identity. In the very beginning Ron says something I underlined. Page 32 he says, Today, sexual identity seems to be tied up in sexual desire. If you have a desire for someone then that defines your sexual identity, and our work is to be true to ones self and pursue that desire. Hes not saying that is right but that is what the world has decided.

That would be like someone who is attracted to someone other then their husband saying, I am just an adulteress. I cant remain faithful to my husband so I am going to be with any man I chose. Most of the world, Christian or not, agrees that is not okay. That is called cheating on someone. Just because you desire something you dont have to make that your identity. Jesus can redeem that just as He can redeem any sin.

If you know someone struggling with same-sex attraction or you just want some things to think about regarding this issue this book is a great place to start.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.