What does Deuteronomy 8:17 teach about the source of our success?

What the verse says

“You might say in your heart, ‘The power and strength of my hands have made this wealth for me.’” (Deuteronomy 8:17)

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The warning God delivers

• Israel was about to enjoy settled homes, abundant harvests, and prosperity in Canaan.

• God foresaw the temptation to credit personal effort for that prosperity.

• The verse exposes a silent, internal boast—“in your heart”—showing that pride can thrive even when unspoken.

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The root issue identified—pride in self

• “Wealth” and “success” are not condemned; the self-congratulatory spirit is.

• Pride shifts glory from the Giver to the gift-recipient, violating the first commandment (Exodus 20:3).

• Left unchecked, this attitude leads to forgetfulness of God (Deuteronomy 8:11–14) and eventual downfall (Proverbs 16:18).

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God alone grants ability and opportunity

• Deuteronomy 8:18 answers 8:17: “Remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you power to gain wealth.”

• Every breath, idea, skill, open door, and favorable circumstance comes from Him (Acts 17:25; James 1:17).

• Success therefore is stewardship, not ownership.

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Key supporting passages

• Proverbs 10:22 — “The blessing of the LORD enriches, and He adds no sorrow to it.”

• Psalm 127:1 — “Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.”

• 1 Corinthians 4:7 — “What do you have that you did not receive?”

• John 15:5 — “apart from Me you can do nothing.”

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Living it out today

• Cultivate daily gratitude: verbally thank God for every success, big or small.

• Redirect compliments: acknowledge God’s provision when others praise your achievements.

• Practice generosity: share resources as a practical confession that God is the real Owner (1 Timothy 6:17–19).

• Stay in the Word: regular Scripture intake keeps the heart aware of its dependence on the Lord.