And when closeted black lesbians and gays continue to deceive themselves with unsuccessful marriages and families, it is homophobia, not homosexuality that threatens the survival of the African-American family. As long as there is a fear of self-acceptance and lack to embrace one's sexual identity in a spiritual fashion, then homophobia will continue to be the Enemy's stronghold over the Black same gender loving community. Think about it. In order to overcome this fear, God wants you to begin to draw closer to Him. The second type of fear being considered is the fear of an imperfect past.
Many people are uncomfortable with the bad sides or sins of their past.
Such discomfort could lead one to hide one's past. One becomes afraid that the knowledge of such acts could be used as weapons to demean one's character or blacken one's reputation. As a second example, suppose you're one who really appreciates the beauty of men of African descent. In turn, you overcome the fear of people knowing one's burdens by living a life that expresses faith and love of God simultaneously and above one's burdens. Finally, when someone tries to use your past against you, remember that God insures you not to worry about such actions.