5 Bible Figures Whose Success Was a Failure Before God (And How You Can Avoid Their Mistakes) - May, 2025

Success.
It’s one of the most celebrated words in the world today — and even among Christians. But here’s a sobering truth: Not every success is approved by God. In fact, some people in the Bible were wildly successful by human standards but were ultimately rejected, exposed, or forgotten by God.
Today, at Deliberate Christian, we’ll walk through five powerful examples and show you how to pursue success that heaven applauds.

(Related: How to Attain Good Success)

What Is Success in God’s Eyes?

Before we dive in, let’s define success from God’s perspective.
Success in God’s eyes isn’t just about achievements, wealth, or fame. It’s about obedience, faithfulness, and a heart that honors Him.
In Joshua 1:8, God told Joshua:

“Then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (NKJV)

Good success comes only by aligning with God’s Word and Spirit.
(Need help staying consistent with God? Join our Prayer Chain to build spiritual strength!)

5 Bible Characters Whose Success Was a Failure Before God

King Saul — The Rejected King

King Saul had popularity, military victories, and public approval.
Yet because he disobeyed God — sparing King Agag and keeping forbidden spoils (1 Samuel 15:9) — God said:

“I regret that I have made Saul king.” (1 Samuel 15:11, ESV)

Saul teaches us that partial obedience is disobedience. You can have earthly success but lose everything if your heart drifts from God.

How to avoid Saul’s mistake:

• Obey God fully, not halfway.
• Value God’s approval above human applause.

(Need prayer for full obedience? Visit our Prayer Bank for powerful prayers!)

2. Solomon — Wisdom That Went to Waste

Solomon started with unmatched wisdom, wealth, and influence.
Yet later, he turned to idol worship because of ungodly alliances (1 Kings 11:4).
God tore the kingdom away from his lineage as a consequence

Even God-given gifts can be wasted if we turn from Him.

How to avoid Solomon’s mistake:

• Stay humble no matter how blessed you are.
• Guard your heart from compromise.

(Feeling overwhelmed by success? Our Virtual Assistance Services for Clergies can help free your time for spiritual focus!)

3. The Rich Fool — A Barn Full of Nothing

Jesus told the story of a rich man who expanded his barns but ignored his soul’s condition (Luke 12:16-21).
God called him a fool and took his life the very night he celebrated his riches.

Keyword: Rich fool’s failed success.

This parable reminds us:

You can be rich in possessions and poor in what truly matters.

How to avoid the rich fool’s mistake:

• Prioritize your spiritual life.
• Invest in eternal things, not just earthly ones.

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4. The Pharisees — Religion Without Relationship

The Pharisees had religious success — respect, influence, and knowledge of Scripture.
Yet Jesus called them whitewashed tombs (Matthew 23:27).

Keyword: Pharisees’ religious failure.

They show us that external religion without internal transformation is empty.

How to avoid the Pharisees’ mistake:

• Focus on an authentic relationship with Jesus.
• Let your heart match your words and actions.

(Watch videos that encourage Good Success on our Youtube Channel : Deliberate Christian YouTube.)

5. Judas Iscariot — The Costly Betrayal

Judas walked with Jesus, performed miracles, and managed the money bag.
Yet he betrayed Christ for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

Judas had an inside seat to greatness but sold his soul for cheap.

How to avoid Judas’ mistake:

• Value your relationship with Jesus above material gain.
• Repent quickly when you fall into temptation.

(Need daily encouragement to stay close to God? Visit our Prayer Bank and join a community of believers!)

Common Questions About Success (And What the Bible Really Says)

Q: Does God want me to be successful?
A: Absolutely — but by His definition. He wants you to succeed in purpose, character, and spirit (Jeremiah 29:11).

Q: What is the difference between good success and bad success?
A: Good success is God-led, fulfilling, and eternal. Bad success is self-led, fleeting, and hollow.
(Related: How to Attain Good Success)

Q: Can worldly success destroy my faith?
A: If unchecked, yes. That’s why spiritual discipline and community are essential.
(Get deliberate about your growth by joining our Prayer Chain today!)

How to Pursue God-Approved Success Today

• Prioritize God’s voice over public applause.
• Stay rooted in His Word (Joshua 1:8).
• Serve others with your gifts, not just yourself.
• Regularly check your motives: Am I building my kingdom or God’s?
• Stay connected to a Christ-centered community.

(Need help staying on track? Check out our Virtual Assistance Services for Clergies and lighten your load so you can focus on your real assignment.)

Prayer for God-Approved Success

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for showing me that not all success is pleasing to You.
I choose today to seek good success — the kind that honors You.
Help me obey Your Word, stay humble in every blessing, and prioritize Your kingdom above my ambitions.
Teach me to value my soul over worldly gain.
Make my life a living testimony of true success in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Let’s Hear From You!

Which of these 5 Bible figures challenged you the most?
Are there areas where you need God to redefine your view of success?
Drop a comment below or share this post with a friend who needs encouragement!

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