Natalie Grant Praised by Fans for Leaving Grammy Awards Early; Hits Back at Critics - 'You Clearly Did Not Read My Post'

Christian Gospel singer Natalie Grant revealed Sunday night that she left the Grammy Awards early, and many concluded that her early exit was a protest against the gay marriage ceremony that occurred during Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' performance of "Same Love." The singer then took to Facebook to set the record straight, and clarify that she never pointed to one specific incident.

The controversy kicked up when the singer posted on her Facebook Sunday night: "We left the Grammy's early. I've many thoughts about the show tonight, most of which are probably better left inside my head. But I'll say this: I've never been more honored to sing about Jesus and for Jesus. And I've never been more sure of the path I've chosen."

Immediately after her post, dozens of gay activists took to her social media page to condemn her actions. In contrast, hundreds of others supported her stance, and expressed admiration to her for upholding her morals and faith despite what took place at the Grammy Awards.

In response, the Gospel singer took to her Facebook page yet again to address the presumptuous rumors of her departure.

"I've tried to read all of the comments on my previous post but I can't respond to them all. Most of you have always been so supportive and encouraging to me & I'm grateful. It does sadden me when people argue, judge and hurl insults at each other from both sides of the fence," she stated due to the back and forth argument that took place on her page between some critics and the singer's fans.

"I'm not going to engage in arguments, but just have a few things I'd like to say: I NEVER said I left during any particular performance. I only said I left early," she posted. "I never pointed out any one particular performance, I only said I had many thoughts about the entire show, which were best left inside my head and that is where they will stay. So those who say I condemned one performance but then condoned others clearly did not read the post."

Clarifying her message she then went on to say how honored she is to be an artist in the Christian Community.

"I've had many people throughout my career ask why I never tried to go in to mainstream music and last night was a beautiful reminder that I love singing about Jesus and FOR Jesus."

Many of her fans praised her for being a true example of a Christian and credit her integrity to the fact that she did not bash any one thing in particular. 

"I've judged no one. I hate no one. And I believe that every person has been created in the image of God," she continued. "I will never stand on a street corner and wave a sign, I won't use my platform to engage in political arguments that will only divide and not unite."

She wrapped her message by dismissing any rumors of contention between her and the Grammy organization itself, "I was honored to be nominated for 2 Grammy awards last night. I'm so grateful that NARAS and The Grammys continue to recognize the contribution that gospel and Christian music make to the world."

Grant then concluded with a scripture that she felt encapsulated her entire post.

"I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus for it is the power of God who brings salvation to ALL who believe," a scripture from Romans 1:16.