This is where "Sola Scriptura" becomes the sticking point. I, along with most of the Episcopal church, which many protestant sects consider The Gay Loving Church, personally do not think of the book as the whole of the faith. Yes, it is a valuable source of insight and history, and yes, I revere the book and the machinations people have gone through to compile and preserve it. But I don't consider it to be infallible, and I don't view what's inside it in a vacuum.
When I was seeking, I was especially moved by what our priest said about the Episcopal approach to faith. They call it the "three legged stool," of scripture, tradition, and reason. Reason! Is okay! This was one of my first experiences with reason being a valid part of the spiritual walk, and not considered the devil's influence.
She also said something that still resonates with me today: "There's plenty of room at God's table." Exclusionary worship just doesn't sit well with me. People's private lives are their own to manage. It's not my job to sit in judgment. In a practical sense I can protect myself and my family and others from harm in whatever ways I can, but where there is no harm, it's officially "not my business."
