Introduction
Are you looking to unlock the secret to success in your life? You’re not alone. Most of us want to become successful in life and achieve our goals. To become successful in life, you need to have a set of skills and behaviors that will help you achieve your goals. The seven biblical behaviors you need to know to become a successful life are faith, perseverance, wisdom, diligence, generosity, humility, and patience.
As the Bible says, “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.” (Joshua 1:8). This verse confirms that the foundation of success can be found in God’s word, and not in man’s wisdom, but God’s.
As the famous quote by Aristotle goes, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Becoming successful requires us to cultivate these habits and behaviors as our way of life. So, let’s explore how to cultivate these seven biblical behaviors to unlock the secret to success.
Faith - Believing in Something Greater than Yourself.
The Word of God tell us that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1). It is having complete trust or confidence in someone or something, that’s not measured by the senses, its man’s weakness leaning on God’s strength. In the context of achieving success in life, faith refers to believing in something greater than yourself. It's about having confidence in God’s ability and not your own abilities and understanding.
Having faith is essential because it provides a strong foundation for success. It gives you the assurance that you are not alone in your journey and that there is a greater purpose to your existence. When you have faith, you tap into a source of strength and guidance that surpasses your own limitations. It is the bridge that connects the uncertainty of today to the promises of tomorrow.
Faith pushes success God’s way. And success God's way is not just about personal accomplishments; it's about aligning your life with God’s Word, and guided by the Holy Spirit, living within the purpose to which you are called. Faith opens up a world of possibilities and opportunities that may otherwise remain hidden.
In the Bible, we find numerous examples of faith leading to extraordinary success. Think of Abraham, who believed in God's promise of descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. Despite his old age and his wife's barrenness, he trusted in God's faithfulness, and his faith was credited to him as righteousness. He became the father of many nations and a model of faith for generations to come.
In the same way, when you have faith and trust in God, you tap into a wellspring of strength and resilience. It gives you the courage to pursue your dreams and face challenges head-on, knowing that you are not alone. Faith allows you to step out of your comfort zone and take bold steps towards your goals.
But faith is not just about believing; it is also about taking action. It is about putting your trust into practice and aligning your actions with your beliefs. As James 2:17 says, "Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead." Your faith should inspire you to take positive action, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to love and serve others.
Perseverance - Never Giving Up on Your Dreams
Perseverance is the key to achieving success in life. It is the unwavering determination to never give up on your dreams, even in the face of obstacles and setbacks. When you have perseverance, you develop the mindset of a champion, always striving to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. It was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who famously said, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”
The Bible is a guide to success, and it teaches us the importance of perseverance. In Galatians 6:9, it says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This verse reminds us that our efforts will bear fruit if we persevere and stay committed to our dreams. “When obstacles arise, you change your direction to reach your goal; you do not change your decision to get there.” ~Zig Ziglar
When we look at successful leaders throughout history, we see that perseverance played a crucial role in their achievements. They faced numerous failures and rejections, but they refused to let setbacks define them. Instead, they used each failure as a learning opportunity and a steppingstone towards success. During the time Thomas Edison was developing the light bulb, he said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
Perseverance is not just about having a strong willpower; it is also about relying on God's strength and guidance. The Bible tells us in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our pursuit of success. We have the Holy Spirit within us, empowering us to persevere and achieve greatness.
Jesus is the ultimate example of perseverance and success. Despite facing rejection, betrayal, and ultimately crucifixion, he never wavered in His mission. He endured immense suffering because He knew that it was necessary to fulfill God's plan for salvation. His perseverance led to the greatest success story of all time – the redemption of humanity.
In our own lives, perseverance is essential for achieving our dreams. It requires a mindset shift from seeing failure as a setback to viewing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Each obstacle we face is a chance to become stronger, wiser, and more resilient.
So, when faced with challenges, remember that perseverance is the key to unlocking success. Keep pushing forward, even when it feels difficult or impossible. Trust in God's promises and lean on the Holy Spirit for guidance. With perseverance, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve the success you've always dreamed of. “Because greater is He that is in you, then he that is in the World.” 1 John 4:4.
Wisdom - Making Wise Choices for Your Future
When it comes to achieving success in life, wisdom is an invaluable asset. It goes beyond knowledge and intelligence; it is the ability to make wise choices that align with your long-term goals and values. As Proverbs 4:7 tells us, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."
In a world filled with distractions and temptations, it's easy to make impulsive decisions that lead us away from our desired path. However, wisdom allows us to see the bigger picture and make choices that will benefit us in the long run. It is the guiding light that leads us towards success.
Godly wisdom comes from seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and studying the teachings of the Bible. It involves seeking God's will and aligning our desires with His plans for our lives. By doing so, we tap into a source of divine wisdom that surpasses our own understanding.
When faced with important decisions, take the time to seek wisdom through prayer and meditation. Ask God for discernment and clarity, and trust that He will guide you towards the best course of action. Remember, God defines success in a way that is far greater than the world's standards. He wants what is best for you and will provide you with the wisdom to make choices that align with His purpose for your life.
As Christians, we can also look to Jesus as the ultimate model of success. His life was characterized by wisdom in every decision He made. He understood the importance of prioritizing God's will above all else. Even when faced with unimaginable challenges, Jesus relied on godly wisdom to navigate through difficult situations.
In our own lives, we can follow Jesus' example by seeking wisdom in our choices. Consider the long-term consequences and the impact they will have on your spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Seek advice from trusted mentors and seek to learn from the experiences of others. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and growth, always seeking to expand your understanding and gain wisdom in all areas of life.
Diligence - Putting in the Hard Work to Achieve Success
When it comes to achieving success, diligence is an essential behavior to adopt. Diligence refers to the act of consistently putting in hard work and effort towards your goals, even when faced with challenges and setbacks. It is the unwavering commitment to persevere and give your best in everything you do.
In a world that often promotes instant gratification and quick fixes, diligence is often overlooked. However, true success does not come overnight; it requires consistent and dedicated effort over time. As the saying goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day." The same principle applies to your goals and dreams. They require consistent and deliberate action to turn them into reality. Remember this, “work is doing it. Discipline is doing it every day. Diligence is doing it well every day.” – Dave Ramsey.
In the Bible, we find numerous examples of the importance of diligence. Proverbs 13:4 says, "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied." This verse reminds us that laziness and procrastination will only lead to unfulfilled desires and missed opportunities. On the other hand, diligent individuals are rewarded with abundance and success.
As Christians, we are called to approach our work with diligence and excellence. Colossians 3:23-24 says, "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." This verse encourages us to give our best in everything we do, knowing that our work is ultimately for God's glory.
Jesus himself exemplified the value of diligence. He devoted His life to fulfilling God's plan of salvation, even in the face of immense challenges and suffering. Jesus endured the cross, knowing that His sacrifice would bring eternal life to all who believe in Him. His diligence in completing His mission is a testament to His ultimate success.
In our pursuit of success, we must embrace diligence as a fundamental behavior. This means consistently investing time and effort into honing our skills, pursuing growth opportunities, and remaining focused on our goals. It means staying committed and dedicated even when obstacles arise or progress seems slow.
Diligence requires discipline and a willingness to push through the moments of doubt or fatigue. It means not settling for mediocrity, but continually striving for excellence in all areas of our lives. Diligence is what sets apart those who achieve their dreams from those who give up along the way.
Generosity - Giving Back to Others and Your Community
When it comes to achieving success in life, generosity is a behavior that often gets overlooked. However, giving back to others and your community is an essential part of living a successful and fulfilling life. It's not just about accumulating wealth or achieving personal goals; it's about making a positive impact on the lives of those around you.
Generosity can take many forms, whether it's donating your time, resources, or skills to help others. It's about being selfless and putting the needs of others before your own. When you practice generosity, you create a ripple effect of kindness and positivity that spreads far beyond your immediate circle. Rasheed Ogunlaru once said that “It’s not the depth of your intellect that will comfort you or transform your world. Only the richness of your heart and your generosity of spirit can do that.”
In the Bible, we find numerous examples of the importance of generosity. In Luke 6:38, Jesus tells us, "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." This verse reminds us that when we give generously, we not only bless others but also open ourselves up to receiving blessings in return.
Jesus Himself was the ultimate model of generosity. He gave his life as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, showing the ultimate act of selflessness. His generosity brought about salvation and eternal life for all who believe in him. As we strive for biblical success, we can look to Jesus as our inspiration and example of what it means to be truly generous. You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving, and Jesus gave His all.
When we practice generosity, we experience a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It reminds us of our interconnectedness with others and allows us to make a positive difference in the world. Generosity also fosters gratitude and contentment, as we realize the abundance of blessings we have been given.
So how can you practice generosity in your own life? It can be as simple as serving in your church, volunteering at a local charity, donating to a cause you believe in, or helping a neighbor in need. It can also mean using your skills and resources to uplift others and contribute to your community.
Remember, generosity is not limited to material possessions; it's also about sharing your time, knowledge, and love with others. Take the time to consider how you can give back in your own unique way. The rewards of generosity go beyond what money can buy – they create lasting impact and bring joy and fulfillment to both the giver and the recipient. So let's strive to be generous in all aspects of our lives and experience the true essence of biblical success.
Humility - Recognizing Your Strengths and Weaknesses
When it comes to achieving success in life, humility is a key behavior that often gets overlooked as well. Humility is not about thinking less of yourself; it's about thinking of yourself less - C.S. Lewis. It's about recognizing your strengths and weaknesses and acknowledging that you are part of something greater than yourself. Humility allows you to approach life with a teachable and open mindset, ready to learn and grow from every experience.
In a world that often promotes self-promotion and arrogance, humility is a refreshing and powerful quality. It keeps us grounded and reminds us that we are all created in the image of God. When we practice humility, we recognize that our talents and achievements are gifts from God, and we are called to use them to serve others. Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.
Jesus is the ultimate model of humility and success. Despite being the Son of God, he humbled himself and took on the form of a servant. He washed his disciples' feet, associated with the outcasts of society, and ultimately gave His life on the cross for the redemption of humanity. Jesus showed us that true success is not measured by wealth, power, or status, but by love and selflessness.
In our own lives, humility is essential for achieving true success. It allows us to recognize our strengths and use them to benefit others, while also acknowledging our weaknesses and seeking help and support. Humility fosters collaboration and teamwork, as we value the contributions of others and work together towards a common goal.
When we practice humility, we create a culture of respect and appreciation. We uplift others and give credit where credit is due. We celebrate the successes of others and genuinely rejoice in their accomplishments. Humility allows us to set aside our ego and truly connect with those around us, fostering meaningful relationships and creating a sense of community.
So, how can we cultivate humility in our own lives? It starts with self-reflection and a willingness to admit our imperfections. Take the time to acknowledge your strengths and talents, but also be honest about your weaknesses and areas for growth. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and improvement, seeking feedback and guidance from others.
Practice humility by actively listening to others, valuing their opinions and experiences. Recognize that you don't have all the answers and be open to different perspectives. Celebrate the successes of others and offer encouragement and support when they face challenges.
Patience - Waiting for the Right Time to Make Your Move
Patience is a virtue, they say, and it certainly holds true when it comes to achieving success in life. Patience is the ability to wait for the right time to make your move, even when faced with uncertainty or setbacks. It requires a steadfast belief that everything will work out in its own time, and that rushing or forcing things will only hinder your progress.
In a world that values instant gratification and quick results, patience can be a rare quality. However, true success often requires time, perseverance, and the ability to wait for the right opportunities to come along. As the saying goes, "good things come to those who wait." "Patience is not about waiting passively; it's the art of remaining positive and persistent while the seeds of your efforts take root."
Jesus is the ultimate example of patience and success. Throughout his ministry, he demonstrated unwavering patience, even in the face of adversity and opposition. He waited for the right time to perform miracles, to deliver his teachings, and ultimately, to fulfill his purpose on the cross. Jesus trusted in God's timing and knew that patience would lead to the greatest success of all - the salvation of humanity.
In our own lives, patience is essential for achieving success. It allows us to trust in God's timing and surrender control over the outcomes. Patience teaches us to embrace the journey rather than solely focusing on the end result. It helps us to persevere through challenges and setbacks, knowing that they are temporary and that something better is on the horizon.
Patience is not passive waiting; it is an active mindset that involves preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to seize opportunities when they arise. It requires a delicate balance of faith and action. Patience teaches us to make the most of the present moment while remaining open and adaptable to the future. It is the bridge that connects your dreams to reality, spanning the gap between intention and manifestation.
So, how can we cultivate patience in our own lives? It starts with shifting our perspective and embracing a long-term view. Instead of being consumed by immediate results, focus on the bigger picture and trust that everything will unfold in due time. Practice gratitude and find joy in the process rather than fixating on the outcome.
Developing patience also requires self-awareness and self-control. Be mindful of your impulses and urges to rush or force things. Take a step back, breathe, and remind yourself that waiting can be a valuable opportunity for growth and preparation.
In conclusion, patience is a key behavior that often gets overlooked when it comes to achieving success. By cultivating patience, we learn to trust in God's timing and surrender control. Remember, patience is waiting, not passively waiting. That’s laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow, that’s patience. “The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” – Leo Tolstoy