Finding True Identity: A Christian Perspective on Gender Dysphoria
For survivors of abuse and trauma gender dysphoria and confusion can be looked at as the only issue when deep down there is a need for healing for the wounds that caused the confusion and identity distortion in the first place.
Sharri Burggraaf
3/30/20252 min read
Finding True Identity: A Christian Perspective on Gender Dysphoria
Walt Heyer's journey began in childhood when his grandmother encouraged him to wear dresses, planting seeds of confusion about his gender identity. This early experience led to years of internal conflict, culminating in his decision to transition to a female identity. However, after eight years living as a woman, Heyer realized that his gender dysphoria stemmed from deeper psychological wounds, including childhood trauma and undiagnosed disorders.
I believe that God created humans as male and female, each fearfully and wonderfully made as stated in Genesis 1:27: "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." As someone who has overcome extreme organized abuse, I understand that gender dysphoria can be seen as a profound struggle, often rooted in past traumas or abuses that have caused individuals to question their identity.
Heyer emphasizes that many individuals seeking gender transition may have co-existing psychological issues that remain unaddressed. He encourages those experiencing gender dysphoria to seek comprehensive psychological and psychiatric assessments to uncover and address any co-existing disorders before considering irreversible medical interventions.
Through my healing and deliverance from darkness and evil, I have come to understand that our true identity is found in how God created us. Jesus came to heal the brokenhearted and set the captives free as promised in Luke 4:18: "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free."
I believe Scripture emphasizes that altering one's external appearance does not resolve internal conflicts. Instead, transformation comes through the renewal of the mind and embracing one's identity as created by God. In Psalm 139:14, David writes, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
The adversary seeks to distort and destroy what God has designed, as Jesus warned in John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." But God's love remains steadfast. He invites individuals to draw near to Him, promising to draw near in return as stated in James 4:8, offering healing for wounds that have led to confusion.
In my experience, those who grapple with gender confusion often have histories of abuse, trauma, and deep emotional wounds. They need healing and the truth of their identity as beloved creations made in God's image. As someone who has experienced profound healing and deliverance, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of God's love.
I encourage those struggling with gender identity to seek healing, to uncover the root causes of their struggles, and to find solace in the unwavering love of their Creator. Recognizing oneself as made in God's image is foundational to understanding true identity and experiencing genuine healing.
It's essential to approach this topic with compassion and understanding, acknowledging the profound struggles individuals face while also upholding the belief in God's perfect design and His desire for each person to live in the fullness of their true identity.