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For What It's Worth

Writer: Michelle A. JamesMichelle A. James

Everything in this world has some worth... a certain amount of value upon which it is placed.


  • The food we buy has some degree of value, for its grade and content (non-organic or processed versus raw or organic.)

  • The cars we drive have a certain value, in terms of the brand name and manufacturer.

  • The homes in which we invest have value, based upon the building type model, square footage and area location.

  • The clothing and accessories we wear has value, depending on the designer name and quality in product material.


We tend to place value on the company we keep: our associates, friends, co-workers, business partners and even family members. These relationships have value based upon the quality, time and investment that is placed by the parties involved.


Much value is given to the things and people we have around us, but what is the value that we place on ourselves?


What is your Self worth?


These days, it seems as though folks have lost their sense of self; their identity. They seek identity in the things they possess and the jobs they perform. They desire the acceptance of others to fulfill the inadequacy in themselves.


For those who have been belittled and rejected, ignored and scorned, this is an issue that needs to be addressed. These outcasts need to know that they were born for a reason and a purpose. They need to understand that they are just as important as any other human being on the planet.


The code words, D.E.I (diversity, equity and inclusion), have been prominent in many online discussions recently. Eliminating this organizational framework within society would be best described as inhumane.


In God's eyes, we are all valuable. As Creator of not only the universe but of all humankind, He Himself said, when He made man, that it was not good for him (man) to be alone. That man needed a helper, a partner, a sidekick; hence, the creation of womankind. Women are of significant value although, in certain countries, we see them treated as less than such by their counterparts. Because of this, the female gender has lost their sense of dignity and true identity.


God made all nations, culture groups and races of people. (Diversity)

God desired that we love each other (neighbors) as we love ourselves. (Equity)

God intended that His creation live together in peace and harmony. (Inclusion)


Value, Worth, Identity


These words are important and are all connected aspects of how we define ourselves. They are based upon how we live our lives in this temporary space called Earth.


On what foundation do you identify yourself? How much value do you place upon yourself?


If I looked in a mirror, what would I see?

What is that image looking back at me?


We are made in the image of God. So, when you look at yourself, see your reflection in Him. Once you know who He is: His attributes, His nature, His character and His essence, you will begin to unlock the mystery surrounding your identity.


We need to discard the notion that our value and our worth are enveloped in and around people and the things that we accumulate in the world.


We need to realize that even if we have nothing of value in this world system, our inherent value will always be based upon what God Himself thinks about us:

  • We are fearfully and wonderfully made.... a masterpiece formed by His hands.

  • We are precious in His sight... the apple of His eye.

  • We are priceless... royalty, gems, diamonds cut from a special Stone: His Son, Jesus.

  • We were worth dying for.... Jesus gave up His life, sacrificially, to save our own.


Facts versus Feelings


One may feel unworthy or have low self-esteem, but feelings are fickle. Facts stand on truth; truth which is cemented in the words which God speaks, because His Word is true.


~Delve into the biblical scriptures and get to know the truth about just how valuable you are.

~Spend some time extracting those truths and getting them ingrained in your mind and heart.

~When you discover your true identity, you'll be thrilled to see how different your life will be.


Challenge yourself today, for what it's worth....

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© 2024 Michelle A. James 

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