What does the Bible say about humility and mercy?

In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus shares the parable of the Pharisee and the publican, emphasizing the importance of humility in approaching God. The Pharisee, who boasted of his good deeds, was rejected, while the publican, who recognized his sinfulness and begged for mercy, was justified. This illustrates that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). To receive mercy, one must acknowledge their own unworthiness and rely solely on the grace of God, exemplified by the publican's plea for mercy.