What If Your Partner Turns Out to Be Bisexual

You’ve just finished your daily couple’s devotional, and your partner clears their throat in that peculiar way that makes your stomach twist with uncertainty. They lean in and, mustering up the courage you didn’t know they had, they confess: “I’m bisexual.” Now you’re hit with an unexpected plot twist in your love story that you didn’t see coming.

Would you believe this could change the dynamic of your relationship, both emotionally and spiritually? Yes, it can be a road bump, or if you’ve never been on this terrain before, more like off-roading in a sedan. But don’t worry, your car – I mean, relationship – has got a great suspension. This article is here to be your emotional GPS, to help you navigate this journey while holding on to empathy and open-mindedness tighter than your grandma’s grip on her purse at the farmer’s market.

This isn’t about fixing something that’s broken – it’s about understanding something new. Because in this expedition, you’ll find the crossroads of faith and sexual orientation, and boy, do they make for a fascinating view.

Making Sense of Bisexuality and Faith

Are you familiar with the term ‘bisexuality’? It’s not a fancy dance move or a new diet trend. It’s a sexual orientation where someone feels attracted, both romantically and emotionally, to both men and women. Yes, it’s as simple as that. No magical spells, no superpowers, just a human capacity for love that doesn’t discriminate based on gender.

“Wait a minute,” I hear you say, “but isn’t bisexuality just a pitstop on the highway to Gayville, or a wild child’s promiscuous phase?” No, dear friends, those are myths as outdated as flip phones and VCRs. Bisexuality is a legitimate and stable sexual orientation. It’s not a sign of confusion or unrestrained desire, just like your love for both chocolate and vanilla ice cream doesn’t mean you’re confused or greedy.

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Now, let’s take a pit stop at the intersection of Bisexuality Boulevard and Christian Church Street. It might surprise you, but Christianity’s views on sexual orientation are as diverse as the shades of the rainbow. Some Christian denominations are more like your judgmental Aunt Gertrude, shaking their heads and waving their Bibles. Others are more like your cool Uncle Bob, who shrugs his shoulders and says, “God is love, right?”

Remember, in Romans 14:1, the Bible says, “Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.” Everyone interprets their faith differently, and it’s not our job to be the orientation police. Instead, we should strive to embody the love and acceptance that Jesus modeled in his life. Now that’s a #ChristianLifeGoal, don’t you think?

The Art of Straight Talk in a Rainbow World

It’s about time we chat about the importance of open communication. You know, that thing you do when you’re not scrolling through your phone or binge-watching the latest Netflix series. If your partner identifies as bisexual, it’s crucial to transform your relationship into a judgment-free zone. Think of it as a cozy couch where you can kick off your shoes, prop up your feet, and talk about the real stuff.

Consider this, how good would it feel to pour out your heart about your latest existential crisis or your most obscure fears without the fear of judgment? That’s the level of safety and openness we need when talking about faith and sexuality. And no, rolling your eyes or muttering under your breath doesn’t count as ‘open dialogue’.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 reminds us that sharing emotions and fears is not just about clearing the air; it’s a Biblical directive.

You might say, “But talking about feelings is about as fun as watching paint dry!” Well, my friend, this is where the magic of empathy comes into play. Expressing your fears and concerns about your partner’s bisexuality, or about the faith implications, isn’t just a heart-to-heart talk. It’s about building a bridge of understanding, brick by emotional brick. It’s not a monologue; it’s an exchange. As you listen to your partner’s experiences and fears, you’re not just opening your ears, but also your heart. And that’s a win-win in any relationship book!

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Cruising Through Faith and Sexuality

Ever tried fitting a square peg into a round hole? That’s what it can feel like when trying to reconcile faith with sexual orientation. It’s like being on a spiritual rollercoaster – thrilling, scary, and potentially nausea-inducing. But fear not, fellow thrill-seekers, Christianity isn’t a one-size-fits-all faith.

Just as there are many rooms in your Father’s house (John 14:2, anyone?), there are many interpretations of faith when it comes to LGBTQ+ issues. From the fiery brimstone brigade to the love-thy-neighbour crew, Christianity spans the gamut. It’s not about picking the ‘right’ belief, but the one that brings you closer to God while staying true to yourself.

“But how can I make sense of it all?” I hear you ask. Good question. If you’re feeling like a sheep without a shepherd, seeking guidance from spiritual leaders might be a good move. Just remember to choose leaders who will uplift, not condemn, and who encourage dialogue, not dictate doctrines.

But let’s not forget what’s at the heart of our faith – love and acceptance. No matter what your partner’s sexual orientation is, remember that they’re still the same person who leaves you the last slice of pizza and tolerates your singing in the shower. Let’s focus on that love, and let it guide us on this journey.

After all, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8, folks! It’s not about who your partner loves, but how you love each other in the light of God’s love. Now, isn’t that a comforting thought?

Battling the Silent ‘Stigma’ Monster

We’ve all got a few skeletons in our closets. You know, those self-deprecating thoughts we push to the back of our minds, hoping they’ll eventually disappear. But when it comes to sexuality, these skeletons can take on the form of a Godzilla-sized stigma, causing unnecessary shame and guilt. Talk about an unwelcome house guest, am I right?

Sometimes, these feelings might not be about your partner’s bisexuality, but your internalized stigma towards it. If you’re wrestling with this Godzilla, remember that the wrestling ring isn’t a place for your partner to be. It’s something you have to grapple with, preferably with a good therapist in your corner.

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Now, you may be thinking, “How can I help my partner tackle their stigma monster?” You can’t go around slaying other people’s dragons, but you can definitely cheer them on from the sidelines. Encourage them, support them, but don’t try to fix them. They’re not a project; they’re a person.

In a world where we’re constantly measured by external standards, self-acceptance can feel as elusive as a mythical unicorn. But believe it or not, self-compassion isn’t a fairy tale. It’s about being okay with not being okay, about acknowledging that you’re a work in progress, not a final product.

As Romans 8:1 reassures us, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Remind your partner that God’s love is unconditional, and they should aim to extend the same love to themselves. Let’s face it, you can’t control your partner’s self-acceptance, but you can set the example by embracing your own identity. Love yourself, warts and all, and watch that love spread like wildfire.

On the Hunt for Rainbow-Colored Steeples

My friend, do you ever feel like you’re playing a never-ending game of hide and seek with like-minded communities? You know, those who combine their love for God with their LGBTQ+ identity? If your answer is a resounding “Yes!”, then don’t despair, because these communities exist, and they are as awesome as they sound.

Remember the classic ’90s sitcom, “Cheers”, where everyone knows your name? Imagine a place like that, but instead of a bar, it’s a church, and instead of Norm and Cliff, you meet other LGBTQ+ Christians navigating similar experiences. Now, you might be wondering, “Where can I find such a haven?” Online platforms like Queer Theology, the Reformation Project, and the Q Christian Fellowship are excellent starting points to connect, learn, and find acceptance.

The nitty-gritty of support networks, my friend, lies in their ability to normalize what others might deem unusual. Think of them as a group hug from a distance, a reassuring pat on the back that says, “Hey, you’re not alone!” In these spaces, your story, no matter how unique or complicated, is met with understanding, not raised eyebrows.

Remember, in Matthew 18:20, Jesus said, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” So, gather, connect, and find solace in shared experiences. And who knows, in these communities, you may not only find people who understand your journey but also people who can guide you in strengthening your relationship with your partner and with God. After all, a shared burden is a light burden.

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Bisexual 101: Crash Course for the Uninitiated

Well, my friend, here’s a fun fact: empathy is like a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it gets. So, buckle up and flex those empathy muscles because it’s time for a crash course in bisexuality. It’s just like reading the manual before assembling that IKEA bookshelf, only more important because we’re talking about human beings, not flat-packed furniture.

In the simplest of terms, bisexuality means that a person can feel attracted – romantically, emotionally, or physically – to both men and women. But it’s not always a 50/50 split, nor does it mean they’re in a constant state of indecisiveness. And, hey, guess what? They can also choose to be in a monogamous relationship. Surprised? Don’t be, they’re humans, not some exotic species!

Privilege Checkpoint Ahead!

Now, let’s address the big, invisible elephant in the room – privilege. No, it’s not about living in a posh neighborhood or owning the latest iPhone. We’re talking about heterosexual privilege here. It’s that unearned advantage you get just because you’re attracted to the opposite sex, like not having to worry about which bathroom to use, or the freedom to hold hands in public without receiving judgmental stares.

Learning to acknowledge this privilege is like getting new prescription glasses – suddenly, the world comes into focus, and you see things you’ve never noticed before. You realize that your experience is not the universal norm.

Remember that good old Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12, “Do to others what you would have them do to you”? Now’s the time to live it out. By educating ourselves and checking our privilege, we can cultivate a deeper understanding, foster empathy, and create a safer, more inclusive space for our partners. So put on those empathy glasses and see the world from a new perspective. It’s more colorful than you can imagine!

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Shattering Stereotypes: They’re Not Playing the Field

All right, let’s kick some old, rusty, hurtful stereotypes to the curb. Yes, I’m talking about the misconception that people who identify as bisexual are likely to be unfaithful or discontent in monogamous relationships. Brace yourselves, here comes a mind-blowing revelation: Bisexual people, just like anyone else, can commit. That’s right. Just because they’re attracted to both men and women doesn’t mean they’re going to run off with the mailman or the barista. Bisexual folks can resist the siren call of an attractive human just like anyone else!

Remember when Apostle Paul told us, “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth” (1 Corinthians 13:6)? It’s time to rejoice in the truth that bisexuality doesn’t equate to infidelity. So let’s kick this stereotype to the curb, along with other relics of misguided thinking.

Trust is a Two-Way Street, Folks

On to more pressing matters: trust and communication. These are the bread and butter of any relationship. But if your partner just shared that they identify as bisexual, this dynamic duo becomes even more vital.

Start by being honest with each other. It might be as simple as sharing your favorite ice cream flavor or as complex as discussing your insecurities. When in doubt, remember Proverbs 16:24, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” So speak with kindness and listen with intent.

Strengthen trust through actions. It’s not enough to say you trust your partner; you need to show it. Be there for them, support them, love them in all their complex beauty. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about sexuality, it’s about the person you love.

Remember, building trust and communication isn’t a marathon, it’s an ultra-marathon, with ups and downs, rough patches, and moments of pure joy. But trust me, it’s a race worth running.

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Boundary Lines in the Love Sand

Have you ever played that game where you draw a line in the sand and dare the other person to cross it? Well, when it comes to relationships, boundaries aren’t for daring someone to cross them; they’re for keeping everyone in their happy, comfortable zones.

As much as we love the “two become one” verse in Ephesians 5:31, remember we’re still individuals with unique needs and desires. Our partner isn’t a mind reader (if yours is, get them to share their secret). You need to voice your needs and expectations – from who puts the cap back on the toothpaste, to who cooks on Thursdays, to more profound stuff like emotional and sexual needs. Honesty, as they say, is the best policy.

Monogamy: Not as Bland as Toast

The misconception that a bisexual person can’t be satisfied in a monogamous relationship is a notion as stale as two-week-old bread. Honestly, it’s about as accurate as saying all millennials live on avocado toast and cold brew.

Newsflash: a monogamous relationship can be fulfilling, rewarding, and yes, exciting. Just because a person is attracted to both men and women doesn’t mean they’re incomplete if they’re in a relationship with just one person. Let’s give love a little more credit, shall we? As our old friend 1 Corinthians 13:7 reminds us, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

When it comes down to it, the key is understanding that both partners’ needs for intimacy, emotional connection, and yes, even adventure, can be met within the confines of a monogamous relationship. But like any other relationship, it takes work, communication, and a whole lot of love. So, who’s ready to roll up their sleeves?

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You, Me, and the Label Between Us

Sexuality, much like a love for black coffee, is just one part of who we are. Would you stop being friends with someone just because they like their coffee black and you like yours with cream and sugar? Of course not! So why would it be any different with bisexuality? Now, I’m not equating sexual orientation to coffee preferences, but I am saying that labels are often sticky, annoying, and not entirely representative of the package’s contents.

Remember that the person you fell in love with is still the same person – the one who leaves you sweet notes, or who knows your McDonald’s order by heart, or who even prays with you every night. That’s the person you’re in a relationship with, not a label. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” So let’s guard our hearts, not from love, but from the labels that can distort our view of the people we care about.

Judging Others: The Least Cool Pastime

Judging others is a dangerous hobby – trust me, I tried it once and burned my fingers. It’s easy to think we know best and judge others for how they live their lives. But we’d do well to remember that old saying: “Let the one without sin cast the first stone.” Oh, wait, that’s not an old saying; that’s Jesus in John 8:7!

When it comes to our partners, judgment and love mix about as well as water and oil. The key is to practice love – unconditional love, the same kind that Christ showed us. And you know what? That kind of love has a funny way of breaking down prejudices and opening hearts.

After all, in the words of the Beatles (because who says you can’t quote the Beatles in a Christian blog?), “All you need is love.” And they were on to something because love, not judgment, is the greatest of all commandments. As we read in 1 Corinthians 13:13, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

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Ending Notes: The Bible Didn’t Say it Would Be Easy

So, we’ve traversed some wild terrain today, haven’t we? But like Moses leading his people through the wilderness, we’ve made it out, hopefully a little wiser and a lot more empathetic. To sum it all up, in a relationship where one partner is bisexual, the name of the game is understanding – understanding bisexuality, understanding stigma, understanding love.

Remember, this is about growing closer as a couple, like two peas in a God-loving pod. And you know what? You might just find that this journey strengthens your bond. Romans 5:3-4 says, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Swap out the ‘suffering’ for ‘struggles’, and you’ve got the recipe for a stronger, more resilient bond.

This journey might have its bumps, but remember, Christ is in the passenger seat, right there with you, for every twist and turn. And that’s more comforting than the fluffiest of emotional airbags.

God bless, Amen.

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