This week, the U.S. Supreme Court is grappling once more with free speech issues, specifically focusing on whether Americans can discuss faith, morality, and truth in private practice without seeking government approval.
The case began in Colorado, where lawmakers enacted a ban in 2019 against what they label “conversion therapy.” This law prohibits licensed counselors from trying to alter a minor’s gender identity or sexual orientation, essentially targeting Christian counselors who wish to assist clients in navigating gender dysphoria without embracing transgender ideology.
The essence of this case isn’t just about treatment; it’s about silencing certain worldviews.
Interestingly, there’s an exception in the law. Counselors can “help” anyone align with the state’s progressive ideology, but not vice versa. It gets you thinking—can counselors even engage in discussions about behavior change? Isn’t that a core part of counseling?
One-sided freedom
Kaylee Childs, a licensed counselor from Colorado Springs, is one individual affected by this overt breach of the First Amendment. Her practice has focused on helping people with issues like addiction, trauma, and gender dysphoria grounded in Christian values.
Before 2019, she could offer guidance to minors according to her beliefs, discussing Biblical views on morality and identity. After the law was passed, she chose to step back and filed a lawsuit instead.
In her ongoing case, Chiles v. Salazar, the Supreme Court has already heard arguments. The central question remains: is counseling merely a regulated service or also a form of speech?
If the court rules against her, it could have broader implications, not only silencing therapists but potentially affecting pastors, educators, and parents who hold beliefs rooted in higher principles beyond government constraints.
Beliefs under fire
Personally, I hold that marriage between a man and a woman is divinely ordained. I think families made up of mothers, fathers, and children are vital to God’s design.
I believe humanity is created in God’s image, imbued with purpose and worth. Gender isn’t just a feature; it’s intrinsic to who we are.
I also believe that the directive to “be fruitful and multiply” still matters. The ability to create life is sacred and should occur within marriage.
When we disregard these principles—when sex becomes a mere diversion or families disintegrate—society begins to falter.
Are those views contentious? Perhaps. Yet, if the outcome of this case tilts against Childs, expressing such beliefs publicly could soon be prohibited.
Faith amidst challenges
In Colorado today, counselors aren’t allowed to tell a 15-year-old grappling with gender identity, “You were made in God’s image; God doesn’t make mistakes.” That’s deemed hate speech.
This is the “freedom” being offered today: a freedom to agree but not to question. It seems the very movement claiming to advocate tolerance now demands silence from dissenters. The core issue here isn’t about therapy; it’s about invalidating belief systems.
The true measure
No matter how the Supreme Court rules, we must continue to uphold the truth. These convictions aren’t just slogans; they stem from years of struggle, pain, and grace, revealing what truly brings peace. For many, these principles are essential to living a fulfilling life, and we must stand firm in defending our truth.
Maybe moments like these evoke a divine purpose, compelling believers to wrestle with key questions: What is truly real? What beliefs deserve our allegiance? What matters enough to fight for?
If we confront these questions sincerely, we will not only uncover truth but also unlock genuine freedom.
Unfortunately, the state does not grasp the concept of true freedom, particularly not as defined by the Colorado Legislature. Real freedom is a gift from God, and the moment we forget this truth, the First Amendment loses all meaning.
