Counsel #7 — God’s Grace Is Sufficient

Picture: Counsel #7 — God’s Grace Is SufficientCI 64.1

God calls us to live in conformity with His will. When temptation to live outside His will seems overwhelming, His grace empowers us to do and be what we cannot on our own (2 Corinthians 12:9). And as God extends grace to those with gender incongruence, so should the body of Christ provide a haven of safety and love.CI 64.2

All transgender people should be treated with love and respect. It is not a sin to struggle with gender ambivalence. Abuse, ridicule, bullying, and judgment have no place in the church of God. Social studies indicate that large numbers of transgender people (and others struggling with gender identity) attempt suicide.^{[63]See “Suicide Attempts among Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Adults: Findings of the National Transgender Discrimination Survey,” The Williams Institute, September 2015.} It’s crucial that the community of faith extends fellowship, hope, care, and understanding to transgendered people.CI 64.3

“One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life…for in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle.” Psalms 27:4, 5 NKJVCI 64.4

“In all your transactions with your fellow men, never forget that you are dealing with God’s property. Be kind; be pitiful; be courteous.” Ellen White in God’s Amazing Grace, p. 65CI 64.5

Reflect: How would you demonstrate God’s love to a transgender person visiting your church?CI 64.6