With all of the opinions and freedom of speech being exercised by Americans in every walk of life from government leaders to private citizens, how does Chic-fil-A, a single restaurant chain, become the center of so much controversy?

It began with an interview recently published in the Baptist Press (www.bpnews.net). The company’s president, Dan Cathy, said, “We are very much supportive of the family — the biblical definition of the family unit. We are a family-owned business, a family-led business, and we are married to our first wives. We give God thanks for that.”

Cathy continued, "We operate as a family business ... our restaurants are typically led by families; some are single. We want to do anything we possibly can to strengthen families. We are very much committed to that.”

The chain of 1608 restaurants has 61-thousand employees and is closed on Sundays.

Cathy ended the article by saying, "We intend to stay the course," he said. "We know that it might not be popular with everyone, but thank the Lord, we live in a country where we can share our values and operate on biblical principles."

It wasn’t long before Chic-fil-A became embroiled in a firestorm of publicity, some in favor of the company, and some against. Some politicians in Boston and Chicago reportedly even told the company it’s not welcome to do business in their towns.

An article in the Christian Chronicle has drawn a lot of responses that should serve as great reminders for Christians on how we choose to deal with these kinds of controversies. You can read the entire article and responses at www.christianchronicle.org.

One reader noted that Christians should respond differently to hot button issues than how the world reacts. He quoted the apostle Paul who said, “When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly (1 Corinthians 12-13, NIV).” Paul makes a similar statement in 2 Timothy 2:23-26

Others said it is important to stand up for God’s word so Christians will not lose the right to express it at all. Daniel knew what it was like to be persecuted for siding with God. He wrote, “The people who know their God will display strength and take action (Daniel 11:32, NASB).”

As Christians, we have a responsibility to “Do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers (Galatians 6:10, NIV).” But we must always remember that any truth we speak, must be done in a spirit of love (Ephesians 4:15).

The fact is, biblical truths have already been inspired by God’s Spirit, and written down for us by man (2 Timothy 3:16). Truth cannot be changed by anyone. God is our Creator and He decided long ago how appropriate relationships are defined. The consequences have also been set for disobedience (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

So, as Christians defend our faith, let’s make sure we do not do more harm than good. We must show others the joy of living the Christian life, and show that even though we hate sin, we love the sinner. Remember, we all fall short (Romans 3:23) and depend on God’s grace and forgiveness as we model a repentant life. Have a great week!