This is a bizarre form of pride in which a person actually feels superior to others because of their weakness or inferiority in a particular area. If this sounds impossible, take a moment to think about how often you hear someone say the following:
– I’m better because I didn’t grow up being given things.
– I’m better because I’m more down-to-earth.
Does that seem far-fetched to you? Consider the probing spiritual counsel of the 19th century revivalist, Charles Finney:
“Look at the cases in which you were envious of those whom you thought were above you in any respect. Or perhaps you have envied those who have been more talented or more useful than yourself. Have you not so envied some, that you have been pained to hear them praised? It has been more agreeable to you to dwell upon their faults than upon their virtues, upon their failures than upon their success. Be honest with yourself; and if you have harboured this spirit of hell, repent deeply before God, or He will never forgive you.”