What You're Worth

Mandisa's “What You're Worth,” a duet with Britt Nicole, is an energetic pop anthem for women who feel pushed down. It begins with a pep talk, “Come on, ladies,” and a warning that if you have to bend too far to please other people, you are going to break. The singers say that others may drag you down and leave you low, but they can't take your soul.

The chorus tells listeners to fight, stand up strong, let the fire burn on and show the world what they are worth. It ends with “Ain't gotta blend in, go on and stand out.” Britt Nicole's verse takes up the theme of innocence, saying that dark deeds may try to hide behind a veil, but the light shines in and innocence has never been for sale. Mandisa's rap-flavored section brings the main claim into focus. She says the confidence she carries comes from her designer, that she has been created for a purpose that is solely his, and that she is not sensitive to what others think. The name of Jesus appears as the one who sticks closer than a friend and keeps the fire inside from dying. The track is full of humor and groove, with laughter left in at the end, which gives it a sense of friendship. It is a good choice for teen and women's gatherings that want encouragement rooted in who made them.

Being fearfully and wonderfully made is Psalm 139:14. Being God's workmanship is Ephesians 2:10, and a friend who sticks closer than a brother is Proverbs 18:24.