Man-Made vs Spiritual Value: What Really Defines Your Worth?
Examples of Man-made values
A deep dive into the different ways we measure value and what truly matters in life
Introduction
Value is one of those concepts we think about every day without really thinking about it. We make decisions based on what we value, judge ourselves and others by different standards of worth, and often struggle with questions of our own significance. But what really defines value? Is it the money in your bank account, the achievements on your resume, or something deeper?
In this exploration, we'll break down the fundamental difference between man-made value systems and spiritual worth, examining how each shapes our understanding of what matters most in life.
The Context Behind This Conversation
Sometimes the biggest questions start with the smallest observations. While working in a small city, Isaiah noticed something that seemed like a missed opportunity: the local government was buying back floodplain properties (rumor) and leaving the land empty. Instead of letting these lots sit unused, why not transform them into community gardens or urban farms? These could provide fresh food for residents while creating jobs and generating revenue for the city.
That simple idea opened the door to much deeper questions: What kind of value does our community really bring to us? What value do we bring to others? How do we measure worth in our society?
The conversation took on added weight following the tragic loss of Charlie Kirk, a controversial but passionate advocate who brought significant value to many people's lives through his dedication to engaging young minds and standing firm in his convictions. Regardless of political alignment, his death reminded us that every person represents immeasurable value to their family and community.
Levi noted from recent Army National Guard training on suicide prevention: "22 soldiers commit suicide a day." Behind that statistic is a crucial truth - every life has value, regardless of what the world thinks you're worth.
Man-Made Value Systems
1. Economic Value
This is the most straightforward measurement - how much something is worth in terms of money, trade, or productivity. A $20 bill is worth exactly $20. A farmer values a cow for both its milk production and resale price. Your hourly wage reflects your perceived economic value in the labor market.
Consider the diamond industry: a raw stone worth $500 becomes a $5,000 ring after cutting, branding, and marketing. That's economic value in action - the transformation of basic materials through human processes.
World's mindset: "You are what you earn."
2. Status/Social Value
This measures worth based on fame, power, appearance, or social position. People pay $1,000 for sneakers because celebrities wear them. Driving a luxury car boosts social standing even when it's impractical. A blue checkmark on social media creates perceived credibility.
Many of us remember the high school pressure to wear name-brand clothing - Nike, American Eagle, or whatever was popular. You worked hard to afford these items, thinking they would make you fit in, but often you were just putting up a shield, pretending to be wealthier than you actually were.
World's mindset: "The more you are seen, the more important you are."
3. Intellectual Value
Worth is measured by knowledge, degrees, or mental ability. A PhD has intellectual value that often translates to higher income. A scientist's groundbreaking discovery may not have an immediate economic payoff but carries high intellectual worth.
Here's an important truth: you don't need a college degree to be intelligent about a topic. As one advocate famously argued, "Anybody can pick up a book. Anybody can study something. You don't have to go to college to be smart on a topic."
Consider trade schools and apprenticeships - there will always be a need for mechanics, plumbers, electricians, and construction workers. These skilled trades often provide better job security and income than many four-year degrees.
World's mindset: "Smarter people are more valuable."
4. Utility Value
The value of something is based on how useful it is in solving problems or making life easier. A Swiss Army knife is valued for versatility. An old, reliable pickup truck is prized for hauling, not looks. Duct tape is cheap but useful in countless situations.
This is why you might choose a 30-year-old Toyota over a shiny sports car - the Toyota simply gets the job done and will likely outlast many newer vehicles.
World's mindset: "If you're not productive, you're not valuable."
5. Aesthetic Value
Value based on beauty, design, or sensory appeal. A Van Gogh painting has aesthetic value far beyond its canvas cost. The Eiffel Tower is valued for its beauty and symbolism. A handcrafted guitar is prized for both sound and visual design.
This extends to personal appearance and the makeup industry, which can dramatically alter perceived attractiveness. While there's nothing inherently wrong with enhancing one's appearance, it's worth questioning whether we're valuing authentic beauty or artificial enhancement.
World's mindset: "Beautiful things and people are more desirable."
6. Achievement Value
Worth is tied to accomplishments, milestones, or personal victories. Olympic gold medals represent years of discipline. A diploma symbolizes effort and success. Someone running their first marathon treasures the medal more than its material worth.
It's the story behind the trophy that makes it priceless - every sacrifice leading up to that moment of achievement.
World's mindset: "Your worth is in your wins."
7. Influence Value
The ability to sway opinions, inspire action, or shape decisions. Social media influencers get free products because their followers trust them. Teachers and pastors carry influence value in guiding others. Historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. wielded influence that reshaped society.
Influence has become a new form of currency - brands pay millions not for products, but for the voices that make people care about them.
World's mindset: "The more people you control, the more valuable you are."
8. Possession-Based Value
Worth is tied to ownership, often linked to rarity or exclusivity. A rare Pokémon card worth thousands. A first-edition book prized for rarity, not readability. Collectors are paying millions for Michael Jordan's game-worn shoes.
Sometimes that "junk" in your attic might have more possession-based value than your car.
World's mindset: "Net worth equals self-worth."
9. Cultural/National Value
Worth is derived from heritage, tradition, or shared identity. The American flag is valued as a national symbol. Traditional family recipes carrying cultural significance. Indigenous artifacts are preserved as treasures regardless of practical use.
This explains why tearing down historic statues creates such controversy - it's not about stone or metal, but cultural value and collective memory.
World's mindset: "You're more valuable if you're from the 'right' culture."
The Problem with Man-Made Value
These systems create immense pressure to "keep up with the Joneses." When you see your neighbor buy a new car you can't afford, it can trigger feelings of inadequacy, stress, anxiety, and depression. The constant comparison leads many to feel worthless when they can't measure up to society's standards.
This pressure contributes to serious mental health struggles. The flex culture mentality - trying to appear wealthier or more successful than you actually are - can be financially and emotionally destructive.
Growing your tree!
Spiritual Value: A Different Foundation
1. Intrinsic Value (Human Worth)
Every human has inherent worth simply by existing. This worth is not earned or contingent on status, ability, or productivity. The concept stems from the belief that humans are created in God's image (Imago Dei), giving each person inestimable and irrevocable worth.
"So God created man in his own image..." - Genesis 1:27
We are not defined by achievements, prosperity, or approval, but by the simple fact that we bear divine image. This gives hope, dignity, and purpose to every life, regardless of circumstances.
2. Moral & Ethical Values
True worth is measured by character, righteousness, and moral integrity - not just actions, but the heart behind them. This transcends cultural, ethnic, or social barriers.
"There is neither Jew nor Greek... for you are all one in Christ Jesus." - Galatians 3:28
Character qualities like humility, righteousness, and integrity unite us in ways that superficial differences cannot divide.
3. Spiritual Value
Spiritual pursuits - faith, wisdom, spiritual disciplines - are more valuable than material wealth or temporary pleasures. Just as God provides for birds and flowers, He cares infinitely more for human beings.
"Are you not much more valuable than they [the birds]?" - Matthew 6:26
If God loves and cares for birds, how much more will He care for you? This perspective encourages investment in spiritual treasures where worry fades and faith grows.
4. Economic/Material Value (Spiritual Perspective)
Wealth and possessions should be stewarded wisely, not idolized or treated as ultimate security. The goal isn't to accumulate earthly treasures but to store up treasures in heaven.
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?" - Matthew 16:26
This doesn't condemn wealth but puts it in proper perspective. When you die, you can't take earthly possessions with you, but your character and spiritual investments have eternal significance.
5. Redemptive Value
God brings purpose and value out of suffering, sorrow, and trials. Even our worst experiences can be transformed into sources of growth, testimony, and service to others.
"In all things God works for the good of those who love him..." - Romans 8:28
Levi’s personal story example: A DUI that initially seemed like pure devastation later led to starting a nonprofit helping others with automotive needs. What appeared to be a dead end became a new beginning with greater purpose.
6. Relational Value
Love, forgiveness, and community are divine priorities. True love is defined not by emotion alone but by sacrificial action and commitment to others' well-being.
"For you were bought with a price; glorify God in your body and spirit." - 1 Corinthians 6:20
The ultimate demonstration of relational value is God's willingness to sacrifice His son for humanity, showing how precious each relationship is to Him.
7. Covenantal Value
Commitments and covenants are sacred and binding. When you make a promise, keep it. Let your "yes" mean yes and your "no" mean no.
"Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much..." - Luke 16:10
A covenant isn't just a contract - it's a sacred bond. Faithfulness in small matters demonstrates character that can be trusted with greater responsibilities.
8. Sacrificial Value
True value is revealed through what you're willing to give up for God or others. Love is measured not just in words but in sacrifice.
"...to give his life as a ransom for many." - Matthew 20:28
Parents exemplify this daily, giving up personal dreams and resources to provide for their children's needs and futures. Christ's sacrifice sets the ultimate standard for demonstrating love through self-sacrifice.
9. Kingdom Value
Heavenly values - justice, mercy, humility - outweigh any earthly status or prestige. God's kingdom operates by different principles than worldly power structures.
"...shall he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?" - Matthew 6:30
Earthly anxiety fades when viewed from an eternal perspective. God cares more for you than even the flowers of the field, so seeking His kingdom brings lasting peace.
The Key Difference
The comparison of man-made value versus spiritual value highlights two fundamentally different ways of defining worth:
Man-made value is based on money, status, knowledge, usefulness, beauty, achievements, influence, possessions, and culture. It's external, temporary, and competitive.
Spiritual value declares every person has worth as an image-bearer of the divine, with true value found in faith, character, love, sacrifice, and eternal perspective. It's internal, permanent, and inclusive.
Living with Proper Values
This doesn't mean abandoning all earthly concerns or achievements. Rather, it means putting them in proper perspective. You can work hard, earn money, develop skills, and enjoy beautiful things while remembering that these don't define your ultimate worth.
The goal is balance - being faithful stewards of earthly responsibilities while investing primarily in eternal values. Whether you're struggling financially or experiencing success, your fundamental worth remains constant because it's based on who you are, not what you have or achieve.
Questions for Reflection
As you consider these different value systems, ask yourself:
What does value mean to you personally?
What value do you bring to your household, family, friends, and community?
What does your heart truly desire?
Are your deepest desires temporary, or do they point toward something eternal?
How might understanding spiritual value change your daily priorities?
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between man-made and spiritual value can transform how you view yourself and others. While society will always have its measures of worth, remember that your true value isn't determined by your bank account, achievements, or social status.
You are valuable simply because you exist. You matter to your family, your community, and to God. Your worth isn't contingent on performance or possessions - it's inherent and unchanging.
If you're struggling with feelings of worthlessness or inadequacy, remember that those feelings are often based on temporary, external measures that don't reflect your true significance. Seek support from trusted friends, family members, counselors, or spiritual advisors who can help you see your authentic value.
Living fruitfully starts with recognizing what truly matters. Choose to invest in values that last, relationships that matter, and purposes that extend beyond yourself. That's where real fulfillment is found.
This blog post was adapted from The Fruitful Three Show podcast episode on value. For more content on living with purpose and meaning, visit icedentertainment.net.
