Gender identity is a topic more and more families are talking about, especially as kids and teens encounter questions about who they are. Whether it is in a conversation at school, at home, or even at church, it is something people of all ages are trying to understand. Moments like these can leave parents feeling unsure and young people feeling confused.

We believe that God is not silent on this. Pastor Josh Baird has helped guide us through what Scripture says, and we want to share a clear, faith-filled response. This is not about winning arguments or shutting people down. It is about understanding what God has already spoken and learning how to hold to that truth with love. Today, we are focusing on what the Bible says about gender identity, how it connects to our everyday lives here in Gainesville, Virginia, and what it means to walk with others in grace and confidence.

God’s Design for Identity and Gender

From the beginning of the Bible, we see that God created people on purpose and with purpose. Genesis 1:27 says that God made humans in His image, male and female. That was not a mistake. It was part of His perfect design.

Our gender is not something random or changeable. It is part of how we were made and known by God. Psalm 139 says we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and that God knit us together. That includes our bodies, our purpose, and yes, our gender.

At Love Church, we believe God’s design for every person is intentional, and our purpose is best found in relationship with Him. Knowing that God created us as we are, with care and detail from the very start, gives real meaning to the way we were born.

What the Bible Says About Confusion and Truth

Sin has broken a lot in our world. It is not hard to see the ways people feel lost or uncertain about who they are. That brokenness started long ago and continues to show up in different ways, including how we view ourselves.

God has not left us without help. The Bible gives us truth we can stand on, no matter how confused the world becomes. John 8:32 reminds us that the truth of Jesus sets us free. When we hold tight to Scripture, we do not have to feel like we are lost in the swirl of opinions or changing beliefs.

When someone feels confused about identity or gender, we do not dismiss their feelings. These feelings may be real and painful. We also hold firm to what God has already said. Feelings do not define truth. God’s Word does. We can keep turning to it, knowing it will never shift or change.

Loving Others While Holding to Truth

Jesus was the perfect example of holding truth and love at the same time. He did not ignore sin, but He never used it as a reason to push people away. Instead, He got close to the broken and spoke hope to their hearts.

We are called to do the same. We can speak truth without being mean. We can be kind without compromising what God says. These conversations may not be easy, but they matter. When we are talking to someone who does not agree, our tone and posture matter just as much as our words.

Here are some ways we can love others, even in tough moments:

• Listen before we respond.

• Stay calm and grounded in Scripture.

• Refuse to shame or embarrass someone, even if we disagree.

Love is not agreeing with everything someone says. It means wanting what is best for them, and what is best is always walking closer to Jesus.

Talking to Kids and Teens About Gender

A lot of questions about gender identity come up at young ages. It can be tough to know when to speak and what to say. As parents or guardians, we do not have to know every answer, but we do need to be present and open.

Start conversations early and keep them steady. Kids feel more secure when they know they are safe to ask hard questions. Use simple, clear language that lines up with what God’s Word teaches. Remind them that their identity is not something they have to search for; it is something they receive from their Creator.

At our Gainesville, Virginia, location, Love Church offers kids ministry from birth through grade 5 during both Sunday services at 9AM and 11AM. Our team is committed to supporting parents as they help their children navigate challenging conversations with a foundation of biblical truth and belonging.

Our church community can be a source of support when those hard discussions come up. We can reach out for help, share with one another, and point our kids back to the truth in love.

Standing Strong in Faith and Community

At the end of the day, identity is not something we create. It is something we receive from a good, faithful God. When the questions feel big or overwhelming, the answer does not change. We are known, seen, and loved by Him.

There is peace in anchoring our lives to the truth of Scripture. When we trust Jesus with every part of who we are, we do not have to fear change around us. We are shaped by Him, not by labels or opinions. Holding onto truth does not mean we stop showing love. Showing love does not mean we let go of what is true.

We are called to both. Truth and love, together, light the way forward for all of us.

Questions about gender and identity can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in sorting through them with your family. At Love Church, we walk with families in both truth and grace as we hold to what Scripture teaches. Whether you are new to Gainesville, VA, or searching for a church that stands on the authority of God's Word and values real connection, we are ready to welcome you. Discover more about our church in Gainesville, VA. Reach out today, we are here to support you on the journey.