We live in a time when identity feels endlessly fluid. From social media to advertising, from political movements to peer pressure, the world bombards us with messages about who we’re supposed to be. Be louder. Be bolder. Be more successful. Be anyone but who you are.

It’s no wonder so many feel lost.

But as Christians, we believe that our identity is not something we invent – it’s something we receive. It is grounded not in our achievements or feelings or circumstances, but in the unchanging truth of who we are in God: beloved sons and daughters, created on purpose, for a purpose.

This month, as we reflect on the theme of identity and the virtue of fortitude, we are invited to ask: Am I living from my identity in Christ, or chasing one the world tries to give me?

Identity That Lasts

When we root our identity in anything temporary – success, popularity, performance, appearance – it will eventually crack under pressure. What happens when the applause stops? When the plan changes? When you fall short?

But when our identity is grounded in God’s truth, it remains firm in every season:

• You are made in the image and likeness of God. (Genesis 1:27)
  
• You are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)
  
• You are chosen, called, redeemed, and loved. (Ephesians 1:4–7)
  

Living from this identity takes courage. It takes fortitude to say, “I will not let the world define me. I will let God define me.”

Fortitude: The Strength to Stand Firm

Fortitude is more than just pushing through difficulty. It’s the inner strength to stay true to what is right – even when it’s unpopular, even when it’s hard. In a culture where truth feels relative and values shift like sand, fortitude allows us to remain rooted, steady, and faithful.

We need fortitude to:

• Say no to peer pressure, at any age
  
• Live chastely and with integrity
  
• Keep the faith in hostile environments
  
• Speak the truth with love
  
• Persevere through suffering without losing hope
  

Fortitude doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it looks like quiet confidence, a calm no, or simply showing up day after day in a world that misunderstands your values.

How to Build Identity in Christ

Whether you’re trying to reclaim your own sense of self or help your children grow up with a strong moral foundation, here are a few simple ways to stay grounded:

1. Start with Scripture

The Word of God tells you who you are. Reflect on passages like John 15:15, Galatians 2:20, and Romans 8:14–17. Write them down. Memorize one. Let His voice be louder than the culture’s.

2. Choose Your Inputs Wisely

Social media, TV, friends, even podcasts shape our vision of ourselves. Ask: Are these voices lifting me up or making me doubt my worth? Replace anything toxic with sources that remind you of your identity in Christ.

3. Live What You Believe

Nothing strengthens your identity like practicing it. Go to Mass. Pray. Forgive. Serve. The more we live like Christ, the more we understand who we are in Him.

4. Talk About Identity at Home

Help your children know they are not defined by their grades, talents, or popularity. Encourage them to see themselves – and others – through God’s eyes. Praise their efforts, yes, but even more: remind them they are loved just because they exist.

In a Shifting World, Be Rooted

The world will always change. Trends will come and go. Opinions will differ. But your identity in Christ? That is unshakable.

This month, ask the Lord for the gift of fortitude – not just to endure the pressure around you, but to stand strong in who you are: a beloved child of God.