Al-Matalib al-'Aliyah 3005 — Dislike of self-praise

It is narrated from Alqamah (may Allah have mercy on him) that a man said in the presence of Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) (definitively about himself): "Indeed, I am a believer." Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) said to him (taking him to task for this claim): "(If your claim is correct) then also say: 'Indeed, I am in Paradise'" (that is, if you are so certain of the perfection of your faith and its outcome, then also declare definitively that you are of the people of Paradise). The man said (in explanation): "I believe in Allah Almighty, His angels, His Books and His Messengers."
This report is sahih (authentic), and Ahmad bin Mani' (may Allah have mercy on him) narrated it; it points to the cautious approach of the Companions regarding faith.