The pursuit of success is a universal aspiration deeply ingrained in human nature. Throughout history, societies and individuals have sought to define and achieve success, often looking to various sources for guidance and inspiration.
The scriptures within the Bible provide profound principles and teachings that offer a unique perspective on what constitutes true success and how it can be attained.
These verses speak to the essence of success in various aspects of life, emphasizing the significance of aligning one’s actions, thoughts, and aspirations with God’s will and purpose.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Surrender (with Explanation)
Bible Verses for Success
Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Joshua, following Moses, was given a monumental task—leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. The Lord’s instruction to him emphasizes the importance of wholehearted devotion to God’s law. Success, according to this verse, is intricately linked with obedience and adherence to God’s precepts. By immersing oneself in God’s word, internalizing its principles, and putting them into practice, one finds the path to true prosperity and success.
Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
Proverbs offer timeless wisdom. This verse underscores the significance of entrusting one’s endeavors and plans to God. Success, according to this passage, stems from committing one’s actions, goals, and aspirations to the Lord’s guidance and direction. By acknowledging God’s sovereignty and seeking His will in all pursuits, individuals find assurance that their plans will be established according to His purpose.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV)
“Blessed is the one…whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
The psalmist illustrates success through a metaphor of a flourishing tree. Success, according to this passage, is intricately tied to a deep relationship with God’s Word. Delighting in and meditating on God’s law results in a life firmly rooted in His wisdom and guidance. Such individuals bear fruit in due season and experience prosperity in all their endeavors.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Paul’s statement to the Philippians embodies a profound affirmation of reliance on God’s strength. Success, according to this verse, is attainable through Christ’s empowerment. It signifies the capability to endure challenges, accomplish tasks, and achieve goals by drawing strength from a relationship with Christ.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah’s prophecy brings forth God’s assurance for His people. This verse highlights God’s plans for His children—plans for prosperity, hope, and a promising future. Success, as outlined here, involves trust in God’s providence and confidence in His benevolent designs for His followers.
Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Isaiah’s prophetic words offer assurance to those who place their hope and trust in the Lord. Success, as depicted in this verse, involves a renewal of strength and endurance provided by God. By anchoring one’s hope in Him, individuals gain resilience and stamina, enabling them to overcome challenges without weariness.
Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
In His teachings, Jesus emphasizes priorities. This verse signifies the importance of seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness above worldly concerns. True success, according to this passage, lies in prioritizing God’s rule and righteousness, with the assurance that God will provide for needs and desires.
Deuteronomy 8:18 (NIV)
“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.”
Moses reminds the Israelites of God’s role in their prosperity. Success, as highlighted in this verse, involves acknowledging God as the ultimate provider. It speaks of God’s empowerment for attaining wealth and emphasizes that success is a result of God’s faithfulness and fulfillment of His promises.
Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
Paul’s counsel to the Colossians addresses the attitude towards work. Success, according to this passage, is rooted in wholehearted dedication to tasks, considering them as service to God. It emphasizes that genuine success stems from a perspective of serving the Lord in all endeavors.
James 1:25 (NIV)
“But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.”
James, the brother of Jesus, speaks about the transformative power of God’s Word. Success, as mentioned in this verse, involves active engagement with God’s law, leading to freedom and blessing. It underscores the notion that adherence to God’s teachings brings blessing and prosperity in all undertakings.
Psalm 20:4 (NIV)
“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.”
This verse from the Psalms portrays a heartfelt prayer for success. It signifies the hope for God to grant the desires and plans of the heart. The essence of success in this context revolves around God’s benevolence and His ability to bring fulfillment to one’s aspirations through His divine intervention.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs offers wisdom on trusting in God’s guidance. Success, according to this passage, involves complete reliance on God rather than one’s understanding. It signifies that trusting God with unwavering faith and submitting all aspects of life to His direction leads to a straight and prosperous path.
Luke 6:38 (NIV)
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Jesus’ teaching in Luke emphasizes generosity. This verse signifies the principle of reaping what one sows, encouraging a giving heart. Success, according to this passage, involves the act of giving generously, with the promise that blessings and abundance will be returned in kind.
Psalm 118:25 (NIV)
“Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!”
The psalmist’s cry for help and success signifies an earnest plea for God’s intervention. This verse illustrates the recognition of God as the ultimate source of success. It reflects a reliance on God’s grace and intervention in achieving desired outcomes and prosperity.
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Paul’s assurance to the Romans emphasizes God’s sovereignty over circumstances. Success, as depicted in this verse, involves trust that God orchestrates events for the benefit of His beloved. It signifies that even challenges contribute to the ultimate good for those aligned with God’s purposes.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NIV)
“Blessed is the one… whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
The opening Psalm paints a vivid picture of a successful life. It describes success as being deeply rooted in delighting and meditating on God’s Word. Those who immerse themselves in God’s teachings and remain connected to Him are compared to thriving trees—steadfast, fruitful, and unshakable.
Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
God’s directive to Joshua underscores the correlation between success and devotion to His Word. The key to prosperity and success, according to this verse, lies in consistently studying, internalizing, and obediently living out the principles laid down in Scripture.
Proverbs 21:5 (NIV)
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
This proverb highlights the importance of diligence and thoughtful planning. Success, in this context, stems from careful and diligent preparation. It contrasts hasty actions that lead to failure with deliberate and thoughtful planning that ultimately brings profit and success.
Matthew 16:26 (NIV)
“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”
In this passage, Jesus challenges the conventional understanding of success tied solely to material gain. He emphasizes the value of one’s soul over worldly achievements, highlighting that true success isn’t measured by material possessions but by spiritual riches and eternal significance.
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Paul’s exhortation in Corinthians encourages steadfast dedication to God’s work. Success, according to this verse, involves unwavering commitment and wholehearted effort in serving the Lord. It reassures that labor expended in service to God never goes unnoticed or unrewarded.0
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah’s prophecy reflects God’s assurance to the Israelites during their exile. This verse signifies God’s intentional plans for His people, emphasizing His desire for their welfare and a promising future. Success, as indicated here, involves trusting in God’s overarching plan, which is geared towards prosperity, hope, and a positive destiny.
Psalm 37:4 (NIV)
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
The psalmist extols the joy of finding contentment in God. Success, according to this verse, emerges from delighting in God, aligning one’s desires with His will. It signifies that when individuals find their pleasure and satisfaction in God, their desires become aligned with His, leading to fulfillment and success.
Matthew 25:21 (NIV)
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’”
Jesus’ parable of the talents underscores the reward for faithful stewardship. Success, according to this passage, is tied to faithfulness in managing what God entrusts. It illustrates that responsible handling of small responsibilities leads to greater opportunities and shares in the master’s joy.
Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
Proverbs offers wisdom regarding the virtue of humility. Success, according to this verse, emerges from a humble reverence for God. It signifies that honoring God with humility leads to spiritual riches, honor, and a fulfilling life.
Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
“And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
The author of Hebrews emphasizes the role of faith in pleasing God. Success, according to this passage, involves having faith and trust in God’s existence and His willingness to reward those who earnestly seek Him. It emphasizes that genuine success is intricately linked to unwavering faith and earnest pursuit of God.
Psalm 90:17 (NIV)
“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.”
This verse from Psalm 90 serves as a prayer for God’s favor and blessing upon one’s endeavors. It signifies a request for God’s guidance and success in the work undertaken. It emphasizes that true success comes from God’s favor and the establishment of efforts by His grace.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV)
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.”
Ecclesiastes offers insights into diligence and dedication. This verse signifies the importance of wholehearted commitment and effort in all endeavors. Success, according to this passage, involves giving one’s utmost effort in the present, as there’s no opportunity for action beyond this life.
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Paul’s instruction to the Romans emphasizes transformation through renewing the mind. Success, according to this verse, is intricately tied to a renewed perspective aligned with God’s will. It signifies that a transformed mindset leads to discerning God’s perfect will and experiencing success in accordance with His plan.
Luke 12:31 (NIV)
“But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.”
Jesus’ teaching highlights the priority of seeking God’s kingdom. This verse signifies that true success isn’t found in the pursuit of worldly possessions but in prioritizing God’s kingdom. It emphasizes that when individuals prioritize God’s rule in their lives, all necessary things will be provided.
1 Timothy 6:17 (NIV)
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”
Paul’s advice to Timothy addresses the attitude towards wealth. This verse signifies the transient nature of earthly riches and the importance of placing hope in God. Success, according to this passage, involves trusting in God’s provision and finding contentment and enjoyment in His blessings rather than in material wealth.
A Prayer for Success
Heavenly Father,
As we come before You, we humbly seek Your guidance on the journey toward success. Grant us the wisdom to discern what true success means in Your eyes—a success that transcends earthly achievements and resonates with spiritual fulfillment and alignment with Your divine will.
Help us to understand that success, as You define it, involves walking in righteousness, showing kindness, and seeking justice. May our pursuits be anchored in faith, humility, and unwavering trust in Your providence.
Grant us the strength to persevere in times of challenges, reminding us that setbacks are opportunities for growth and lessons in resilience. May our hearts be filled with gratitude for the lessons learned along the path to success, both in moments of triumph and in trials.
Lord, teach us to seek Your kingdom above all else, recognizing that true success lies in aligning our lives with Your purpose and serving others selflessly. Guide our ambitions and aspirations, steering them towards endeavors that honor You and benefit those around us.
Help us to remain grounded in Your Word, drawing inspiration from the wisdom found within its pages. Let Your Word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path as we navigate the complexities of life in pursuit of success that reflects Your glory.
May our accomplishments bring glory to Your name, O Lord, and may our definition of success always align with Your divine plan. In all our endeavors, may we strive for success that not only blesses us but also spreads Your love and goodness to the world.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Also Read: Good Friday Bible Verses (With Commentary)
What Does the Bible Say About Success
The Bible, through various verses and teachings, offers a comprehensive view of success, emphasizing trust in God’s wisdom, diligence, spiritual wealth, humility, servanthood, and reliance on God’s plans and guidance as key components of true and lasting success.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): True Success Involves Godly Wisdom and Obedience
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
This verse emphasizes trust in God and submission to His will, highlighting that true success comes from relying on divine wisdom rather than solely depending on human understanding or ambitions.
Proverbs 21:5 (NIV): Success is Tied to Diligence and Faithfulness
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
The Book of Proverbs stresses the importance of diligence and faithful commitment to one’s endeavors, highlighting that success often follows earnest effort and careful planning.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV): Prioritizing Spiritual Wealth Over Material Gain
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Jesus’ teachings in the Gospel of Matthew underline the transient nature of earthly possessions and urge prioritizing spiritual treasures over material wealth, indicating that true success involves investing in eternal values rather than temporary gains.
Success Lies in Humility and Servanthood:
Mark 10:45 (NIV):
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus’ life exemplifies servanthood. This verse teaches that true success involves adopting a servant’s heart, putting others before
oneself, and serving with humility and compassion.
Success Through God’s Providence and Guidance:
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV):
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah’s prophecy reveals God’s intentions for His people, assuring them of His plans for prosperity and hope. It signifies that genuine success comes through aligning one’s life with God’s purpose and trusting in His guidance and provision.