Sunday Reflection: The Power of Value

This year has been undeniably special and valuable. At the bank, we’ve reinforced a focused team striving for excellence, inspired by a renewed commitment to culture and community. So goes our culture and community posture—to grow or not to grow, so goes our business. Did you catch that? This principle extends beyond our organization; it’s something everyone can reflect on. I’m grateful to work alongside such committed people.

As I approach my seventh year as leader, I find myself reflecting deeply. According to the Harvard Business Review, the median tenure for S&P 500 CEOs has decreased by 20%, dropping from six years in 2013 to 4.8 years in 2022. Privately held companies might have slightly longer averages, but the trend is clear. When you curate good people and empower them, they extend the life of leadership and enhance the value of the organization. Did you catch that? Get good people, equip them, and step aside—focus on the essentials: value creation. I’m more focused than ever on the few things that matter most to generate lasting value.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting not just on value in business, but in life. Isn’t it true that everything we engage with, we hope to enhance or enrich? When you meet with others, isn’t your desire for that time to be fruitful and valuable for everyone involved?

But here’s the deeper question—do you recognize the value in yourself and others? Often, the ability to add value starts by acknowledging the value we already possess. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Recognizing the worth in yourself and those around you creates opportunities for mutual growth and transformation.

Seeing and creating value is modeled by the Creator. In Matthew 10:31, Jesus says, “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” There is value in every experience. This year has been both rewarding and challenging. Even when outcomes didn’t align with effort at the bank, as leaders, we stood firm. I suspect many of you did the same in your organizations. What do we say in those moments? Don’t be afraid; we’ve got this. And the best part—we have the right people to “got this.”

You might ask—what is a sparrow? I remember wondering the same years ago. A sparrow is a small, common bird considered of little monetary value in ancient times. They were often sold for temple offerings or as food for the poor. Yet, Jesus uses the sparrow to deliver a profound reminder: if God watches over even the sparrow, how much more does He care for us?

I’ve always believed in surrounding myself with those who know how to struggle and overcome. Many workers in our collective organizations feel unseen by leadership—like just another cog in the machine. But let me remind you: without them, there is no machine.

Jesus reassures His disciples not to fear because their worth to God is immeasurable. That truth is timeless—we are precious to Him. Even if we feel insignificant or overlooked, God sees our worth and cares deeply. Let this truth ground you. And remember—value isn’t just about external recognition. It starts with recognizing the worth already within.

This year holds value for me in more ways than one. I completed a lifelong passion project—writing my first book. People often ask, “Orv, why do you call it your ‘first book’—are more coming?” Absolutely. I’ve been writing all my life. This is just the beginning.

Now let me ask you—what have you done this year that holds lasting value? Reflect on that. Maybe it’s a project, a new relationship, or personal growth.

It’s also been a significant year because I’ve started developing a curriculum aimed at helping professionals build the confidence to take their next step. And yes, I turned 50. That milestone alone is priceless.

As we move forward, let’s hold onto this: Value is something we create, something we recognize, and something we receive. Like the sparrow, we are seen, valued, and cared for. Now it’s your turn—recognize the value in yourself, and expect it from others.

If this blog resonated with you, I’d love to hear your perspective. Add your insights in the comments, share this with your network, and don’t forget to visit orvinkimbrough.com for more reflections and updates.