Bisexual individuals face many challenges when it comes to their faith. This is because society tends to see people who are attracted to more than one gender as unfaithful or disobedient towards God.
Bisexual people can find ways to stay true to themselves while also remaining faithful to their religion. One way they do this is through cognitive strategies that help them maintain self-coherence in the face of pressure from others around them. These strategies involve recognizing the differences between culture and belief system, understanding how religious doctrine views same-sex attraction, and finding alternative interpretations for biblical passages that may seem condemning. By using these strategies, bisexuals can remain faithful to both their faith and their sexuality without feeling like an outcast or a hypocrite.
Recognize cultural norms vs religious doctrine
One way bisexual believers can stay true to themselves while still practicing their religion is by recognizing the difference between culturally accepted behavior and religious doctrine.
Some religions forbid sex outside of marriage. But there are still many different types of relationships that can occur within a married context - including ones involving multiple partners. Bisexuals often have multiple partners or feel attracted to members of both genders simultaneously. They need to be able to recognize the distinction between what society deems acceptable and what their religion teaches so that they don't feel conflicted about their desires.
Understand religious doctrine on homosexuality/bisexuality
Another strategy is understanding how your particular faith tradition views homosexuality and bisexuality. Different religions have different beliefs regarding LGBTQ+ individuals. Some view it as sinful while others see it as natural but immoral. Knowing where your religion stands on this issue will help you determine if there are ways you can reconcile your sexuality with your spirituality. If your religion teaches against same-sex attraction, find ways to adjust your lifestyle accordingly. This might mean abstaining from physical intimacy until marriage or only engaging in monogamous relationships with members of the opposite gender. It could also involve seeking out resources for support and community within your congregation.
Alternative interpretations of biblical passages
Bisexual believers should look at alternative interpretations of biblical passages that may seem condemning towards them. Many people interpret these passages literally without considering the cultural context in which they were written.
Some scriptures talk about "men lying down with men" in a way that implies anal sex. But other scholars argue that this passage refers specifically to rape rather than consensual homoerotic acts. By looking at these passages through a more critical lens, bisexuals can understand that God still loves them even though they experience same-sex attractions.
What cognitive strategies enable bisexual believers to maintain self-coherence under heteronormative religious pressures?
There are several cognitive strategies that can help bisexual people navigate their sexuality while still adhering to their religious beliefs. One strategy is to focus on the core tenets of one's faith rather than on any specific interpretations that may be exclusive or negative towards non-heterosexual identities. This can involve seeking out resources within one's community that support inclusivity, such as LGBTQ+-affirming ministries or congregations.