In recent interviews with Oprah Winfrey and Vanity Fair, Ellen Page opened up about her decision to live as a man. Page now goes by the name “Elliot,” and teared up while describing the gender dysphoria that led to her decision. “The most significant difference is that now that I’m really able to just exist,” she said.

From the significance of biological realities to laws that put children at risk, the stakes in the cultural debates over gender are huge. Page’s interview is a reminder that caught up in these issues are hurting souls, longing to be comfortable with who they are, feeling real pain.

Contrary to the hollow ideas about reality and our identities being self-determined, a Christian worldview gives solid ground for our value and dignity, and offers us the rest we need by knowing the God who made us in His image.

Even as we stand for truth in this confused cultural moment, God’s love must always shape both our message and our motive.