Dear Ellen, I’m struggling with how to process the messages in Lil Nas X’s new music video. I feel so much sadness and anger about how sex, sexuality, and gender are being distorted in our world. As a Christian parent, I feel helpless and overwhelmed. How do I protect my children from this while also teaching them God’s truth? Sincerely, Concerned and Searching
Dear Concerned and Searching,
Thank you so much for reaching out. I truly feel the weight of your concern—this is a complex and emotional challenge. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the distortion of God’s design for sex, sexuality, and gender. I feel a similar mix of righteous indignation, sadness, and grief when I see how far the world has drifted from God’s perfect and beautiful intention. It can be especially heartbreaking to wonder how we can protect our children from these influences.
At the same time, I try to remind myself that Jesus’ response to these distortions was profound: He willingly went to the cross for the very people who distort God’s design—like you and me … and Lil Nas X. That perspective shifts my heart, grounding me in humility and compassion, even amid my frustration.
When I feel helpless, these truths help center me:
God is above this.
This is His fight, not mine.
While I have a role—raising children to love Him, growing in personal righteousness, and loving those around me—I’m not responsible for the ultimate victory. That was already accomplished on the cross.
When I can’t see a way forward, I move closer to God. The path becomes clearer when I lean into Him.
You’re not powerless in this. You can’t shelter your children from everything in a spiritually polluted world, but here are a few practical ways to navigate this journey:
Create open and honest communication in your home, so your children hear about these topics from you first, not from the world.
Set healthy boundaries regarding friendships, media consumption, social media, and peer groups.
Cultivate regular, intentional connection times with your children, so they feel safe coming to you with their questions instead of turning to Google or peers.
Educate yourself on God’s intention for sex, sexuality, and gender, so you can guide your children confidently.
Model a humble, loving posture. When your children see you approaching these topics with grace, rather than judgment, they learn to respond to others with the same love.
Check out Love Covers Over or one of my online courses to learn more about teaching your kids about some of these tender topics with a God-centered lens.
I know the fear and frustration you’re feeling are real, and I’m praying for you as you navigate through them. God’s love for your children—and His ability to guide you—are greater than any cultural trend.
