Ohun Tí A Ní Là ń Gbé Lárugẹ: A Reflection on Self-Worth, Honor, and Intentional Living

Ohun tí a ní là ń gbé lárugẹ is a Yoruba proverb I have heard many times, but this year, it spoke to me differently. It means that what we have is what we cherish, what we lift, and what we give value to. Yoruba proverbs often do this—they meet us at the right time, becoming exactly what we need for the season we are in.

As the year began, I found myself reflecting deeply on my journey—my choices, my growth, and the areas where I had unintentionally diminished myself. While praying and thinking about the message I wanted to carry into the new year, this proverb kept resurfacing. It felt like a gentle reminder from God: value what I have placed in you.

Scripture affirms this truth:

“We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” (Ephesians 2:10)

Self-Worth

That reflection led me to think about self-worth. I realized that self-worth is not just a confidence issue; it is also a spiritual responsibility. How I see myself is closely tied to how I honor the work of God in my life. When I undervalue myself, I am indirectly questioning the intention and care with which I was created.

“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14)

I have learned—sometimes the hard way—that the way we carry ourselves teaches people how to treat us. There is a familiar saying, “we dress the way we want to be addressed,” and while it often sounds like a comment about appearance, it reaches much deeper than clothing. It speaks to posture, presence, boundaries, and intention.

When I neglected my boundaries, my appearance, or even my voice, I noticed how easily I was overlooked. But when I became more intentional—about my behavior, my presence, and how I showed up—I saw a shift. Not because people changed, but because I did.

How we carry ourselves sends a message long before words are spoken. When that message aligns with self-respect and purpose, it invites honor in return.

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Honouring Others

This principle also applies to how we treat people—especially our family and friends. The way you honor those close to you often determines how others respond to them. If you treat or speak of a family member or friend with disregard or irrelevance, that same energy is mirrored by those around you. On the other hand, when you speak of them with respect and value, people are more inclined to treat them with the same honor.

Scripture is clear about this:

“Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)

When you truly treasure something—or someone—it naturally reflects in how you speak of them and how you protect their dignity. Honor is contagious.

Prioritising Self

This new year, I want us to be intentional about taking care of ourselves. Our appearance, our words, and our actions all matter. Investing in yourself is not selfish; it is necessary.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit…? Therefore honor God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20)

Pour into yourself. Take time to truly get to know yourself. It may sound uncomfortable, but the truth is that some of us have learned to move through life with very little regard for our own worth.

It’s time to begin seeing ourselves through God’s eyes—through the lens of who He has called us to be. You are not ordinary; you are special. Each of us carries something unique, something God-placed in us, something that sets us apart.

If you haven’t discovered it yet, let this be the year you do. Find it. Nurture it. Nourish it. And as you do, watch it blossom. Watch yourself grow.

Whether spiritually, physically, mentally, or emotionally—choose areas that give you leverage and help you grow. Take better care of your health. Move your body. Read books that nourish your mind and spirit. Learn new skills. Step up in ways that stretch you. Take yourself out. Invest in yourself fully.

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

No one knows you like you do, and no one can root for you the way you can. Don’t wait for permission or validation before making the move to become better. Start now.

You can do it, my friend. I wish you nothing but the very best.

Here’s to an intentional, elevated, and purpose-filled 2026.

Aunty Lulu

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