Humility in success is a biblical principle that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a modest and humble attitude even when experiencing prosperity and achievements. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the value of humility, warning against the dangers of pride and self-exaltation.

Biblical Examples:

1. Joseph: Joseph's life is a profound example of humility in success. Despite rising to a position of great power in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh, Joseph remained humble and attributed his success to God's providence. In Genesis 41:16 , Joseph says to Pharaoh, "I myself cannot do it," Joseph replied, "but God will give Pharaoh a sound answer." Joseph's acknowledgment of God's role in his success exemplifies humility.

2. King David: David, a man after God's own heart, demonstrated humility throughout his life, even as king. In 2 Samuel 7:18 , after God promises to establish David's throne forever, David responds with humility, saying, "Who am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far?" David's recognition of God's grace and favor, rather than his own merit, underscores his humble spirit.

3. Jesus Christ: The ultimate example of humility is found in Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:6-8 describes how Jesus, "being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Jesus' life and sacrificial death exemplify humility in its purest form.

Teachings on Humility:

1. Proverbs: The book of Proverbs frequently contrasts humility with pride, emphasizing the blessings of a humble spirit. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse highlights that true success is accompanied by humility and reverence for God.

2. New Testament Epistles: The apostle Paul often wrote about the importance of humility. In Philippians 2:3 , he instructs, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This teaching encourages believers to prioritize humility over self-promotion, even in times of success.

3. James: The epistle of James warns against pride and emphasizes the need for humility. James 4:6 declares, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This passage underscores the divine favor that accompanies humility and the opposition that pride incurs.

Warnings Against Pride:

1. Nebuchadnezzar: The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride. After boasting about his achievements, Nebuchadnezzar is humbled by God and loses his sanity until he acknowledges God's sovereignty. Daniel 4:37 records his confession: "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all His works are true and all His ways are just. And He is able to humble those who walk in pride."

2. Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector: In Luke 18:9-14 , Jesus tells a parable contrasting the pride of a Pharisee with the humility of a tax collector. The tax collector's humble plea for mercy is commended by Jesus, who concludes, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

Humility in success is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reminding believers to attribute their achievements to God's grace and to maintain a posture of humility, recognizing their dependence on Him.