25 Bible Verses About Boasting (With Commentary)
Pride and boasting are often condemned in the Bible, as they reflect a self-centered attitude that exalts oneself above others and God. Instead, scripture encourages humility and gratitude, recognizing that all good things come from God. Let’s look into these verses and learn how to cultivate a humble spirit, acknowledging our dependence on God and giving Him the glory for every blessing and achievement in our lives.
Bible Verses About Boasting
Proverbs 27:2
“Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.”
This verse reminds us to not boast about our own accomplishments or seek praise from others. Instead, we should let our actions speak for themselves and allow others to recognize and praise our achievements.
Boasting often stems from pride and a desire for self-promotion. However, true humility seeks to honor and lift others up rather than drawing attention to oneself.
James 4:16
“As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.”
Boasting in our own plans and schemes is seen as arrogance in the eyes of God. This verse serves as a reminder that all our plans should be aligned with God’s will and purpose, rather than being driven by our own prideful desires.
When we acknowledge our dependence on God and seek His guidance in making plans, we are aligning ourselves with humility and submitting to His divine wisdom.
1 Corinthians 1:31
“Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.””
Instead of boasting in ourselves, this verse encourages us to boast in the Lord. When we recognize that all our accomplishments and blessings come from God, we shift the focus from ourselves to Him, giving Him the glory and honor He deserves.
By boasting in the Lord, we acknowledge His sovereignty and power, humbly recognizing that apart from Him, we can do nothing. It is through God’s grace and strength that we are able to achieve anything worthwhile.
2 Corinthians 10:17
“But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.””
This verse is a repetition of the previous verse in 1 Corinthians 1:31, emphasizing the importance of redirecting our boasting towards the Lord. By boasting in the Lord, we give credit where it is due and acknowledge that our achievements are ultimately a result of His grace and favor.
When we shift our focus from self-promotion to exalting God, we demonstrate humility and a heart that is aligned with His purposes and glory.
Proverbs 25:27
“It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep.”
This verse cautions against the temptation to boast about our knowledge, understanding, or insights. It tells us that seeking after deep and complex matters can be dishonorable.
While it is important to pursue wisdom and seek understanding, we should be mindful not to boast about our own wisdom or knowledge. Instead, we should approach learning with humility and a willingness to listen and learn from others.
Psalm 34:2
“I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.”
Here, the psalmist declares his intention to glory in the Lord. By choosing to boast in God, even in the midst of affliction, the psalmist encourages others who are also facing difficulties to find joy and hope in the Lord.
This verse reminds us that our boasting should not be limited to times of prosperity or success, but should extend to all areas of our lives, including times of trial and adversity.
Jeremiah 9:23-24
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’” declares the Lord.”
This passage from Jeremiah emphasizes that our boasting should not be centered around our own abilities, achievements, or possessions. Rather, we are called to boast in our relationship with God and our knowledge of Him.
True wisdom lies in knowing and understanding the Lord, recognizing His character and His work in the world. When we boast in Him, we align ourselves with His values of kindness, justice, and righteousness.
Galatians 6:14
“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
This verse speaks of Paul’s deep conviction to boast only in the cross of Jesus Christ. He recognizes that the cross is the ultimate symbol of selflessness, sacrifice, and redemption.
By boasting in the cross, we acknowledge that our salvation and our worth come solely from the work of Christ on the cross. We deny self-centered boasting and instead embrace the truth that our identity is found in Him alone.
1 Corinthians 3:21
“So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours.”
This verse reminds us to refrain from boasting about human leaders or putting our trust solely in their wisdom or abilities. Instead, we are called to recognize that all things belong to us in Christ.
When we understand that we are heirs and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), we realize that our ultimate allegiance and trust should be in Him alone. This shifts our focus from the limitations of human leaders to the boundless power and wisdom of our heavenly Father.
2 Corinthians 11:30
“If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.”
Here, Paul expresses his willingness to boast, but not in his strengths or accomplishments. Instead, he chooses to boast in his weaknesses.
By boasting in his weaknesses, Paul highlights the power of God that is displayed through his life. It is in our weaknesses that God’s strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9). This verse challenges us to revaluate our perspective on boasting and to find boasting opportunities in our areas of vulnerability.
Proverbs 30:32
“If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth!”
This verse portrays the danger of exalting oneself through foolish actions or evil plans. It advises us to exercise restraint and humility by refraining from boasting in our own wisdom or intentions.
Instead of seeking self-promotion or pursuing wicked schemes, we are called to submit ourselves to God’s will and align our actions with His righteousness. Boasting in our own greatness can lead to pride and destruction, whereas boasting in God leads to true fulfillment and purpose.
Proverbs 20:14
“It’s no good, it’s no good!” says the buyer—then goes off and boasts about the purchase.”
This verse speaks to the futility of boasting about material possessions or worldly achievements. It warns against the emptiness of finding significance and fulfillment in material things.
As Christians, we are called to seek after treasures that are eternal rather than fleeting. Our worth and value are not determined by what we possess, but by our relationship with God and our obedience to His commands.
Psalm 44:8
“In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.”
In this verse, the psalmist affirms his commitment to boast in God continuously and to praise His name forever. This declaration recognizes that our boasting and praise should be ongoing and extend beyond just specific moments or occasions.
When we make boasting in God a constant part of our lives, we cultivate a heart of gratitude and worship. It becomes a natural response to the goodness and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.
Ephesians 2:9
“Not by works, so that no one can boast.”
This verse emphasizes that our salvation is not achieved through our own works or efforts. It is a gift from God, given freely and undeservedly.
By recognizing that our salvation is solely based on God’s grace and not our own merit, we are prevented from boasting in our own righteousness or good deeds. Instead, we humbly acknowledge our need for a Savior and give glory to God for His saving work in our lives.
Proverbs 27:1
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”
This verse serves as a reminder that we should not boast or become prideful about our plans for the future. It speaks to the uncertainty of life and the reality that we have limited control over the events and outcomes of each day.
Instead of boasting about our future achievements or aspirations, we should trust in the providence of God and submit our plans to His will. This verse challenges us to have a humble and dependent attitude towards the future, recognizing that only God knows what lies ahead.
2 Corinthians 12:5
“I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses.”
In this passage, Paul speaks of a man who had an extraordinary experience of being caught up to the third heaven. However, Paul chooses not to boast about himself but instead focuses on boasting about his weaknesses.
By highlighting his weaknesses, Paul is reminding us that our flaws and limitations should not hinder us from living for God’s glory. God’s power is made perfect in our weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9), so our shortcomings can actually be a platform for His strength to be displayed.
Jeremiah 48:29
” We have heard of Moab’s pride— how great is her arrogance!—of her insolence, her pride, her conceit and the haughtiness of her heart.”
This verse describes Moab’s pride, arrogance, and haughtiness. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of pride and the consequences that come with an inflated sense of self-importance.
What Does The Bible Say About Boasting?
When it comes to the topic of boasting, the Bible provides us with clear guidance and teachings. The act of boasting is often associated with pride and arrogance, which are qualities that the Bible warns against. In fact, boasting is mentioned multiple times in Scripture as something that displeases God.
One passage that addresses boasting is found in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 27:2 states, “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” This verse teaches us the importance of humility and modesty. Instead of promoting ourselves and seeking recognition, we are encouraged to let others acknowledge our accomplishments and virtues.
The apostle Paul also addresses boasting in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 10:17-18, he writes, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” Here, Paul reminds us that our true source of worth and approval comes from God. Instead of boasting in ourselves, we are called to direct our praise and thanksgiving to the Lord.
Furthermore, in Galatians 6:14, Paul declares, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This verse emphasizes the importance of boasting in the redemptive work of Christ and His sacrifice on the cross. As Christians, our focus should be on the grace and mercy of Christ rather than boasting in our own achievements.
Overall, the Bible teaches us that boasting should be avoided. It promotes a self-centered mindset and neglects the recognition of God’s blessings and grace in our lives. Instead, we are called to be humble, giving credit to God for our abilities and accomplishments. By redirecting our praise and boasting to the Lord, we honor Him and recognize His sovereignty in our lives.
