As a Christian, one of the hardest things that I have had to figure out is how to love others without condoning their sin. This has been especially hard for me when it comes to my friends who are in homosexual relationships.

I hate talking about homosexuality because it is the most talked about sin and everyone picks at it as if it's the worst sin, which is not true. All sins are equal in the eyes of God. But lately I've been forced to think about it more because of the discrimination laws that states are passing. Certain states have decided to not protect people of different sexual orientations and gender identities mostly because of bathroom situations. Many people are afraid that people who are transgender or transsexual are going to hurt them while they're going to the bathroom. Or maybe they're even more afraid that someone who is not transgender will dress differently and will pretend to be just so they can get into the ladies' restroom. I understand where they are coming from, but really?

The purpose of the anti-discrimination laws is to protect people of different sexual orientations from being assaulted, abused or killed. That's the reality, folks. Thousands of people have died because of identifying as a homosexual or transgender person. So here's a little hint guys: publicly allowing people to be assaulted isn't going to bring anyone to Jesus. Sorry to ruin it for you, but that's the reality. Yes, freedom of religion is very important, and you should be able to exercise your faith. I also understand that you may feel that you are condoning a sin by supporting an anti-discrimination law, but helping to protect millions of individuals does not mean that you are supporting what they are doing behind closed doors. Isn't it our obligation as American citizens to help our fellow men and make them feel comfortable so they aren't afraid to go pee? It just makes sense.

I firmly believe that if Jesus were here, he would want to love and protect them, because after all, He created them and wants them to run after Him, not be publicly shamed and then hate Him. I understand that we all have our personal convictions and many of us will not agree on this subject, but what are we doing if we are not loving people to Jesus? Be a good example of who Christ is. No one should be turned off to God because the people who claim to be His followers are ingracious and unforgiving hotheads.