Proud vs. Broken

Continuing in my blog about brokenness, I want to include some traits that Nancy Leigh DeMoss lists for us in her book about broken vs. proud people. I won't list them all, but you will get the general idea. These items have impacted my life, but I want them to continue to impact it. Pride can so easily edge its way back in when we don't live in a constant state and attitude of humility and surrender. Lord, help me to see the world through broken eyes, and see myself only in light of your grace.

Proud people focus on the failures of others and can readily point out those faults.
Broken people are more concious of their own spiritual need than of anyone else's.

Proud people have a critical, fault-finding spirit. They look at everyone else's faults with a microscope but view their own with a telescope.
Broken people are compassionate - they have the kind of love that overlooks a multitude of sins; they can forgive much because they know how much they have been forgiven.

Proud people have an independent, self-sufficient spirit.
Broken people have a dependent spirit; they recognize their need for God and for others.

Proud people claim rights and have a demanding spirit.
Broken people yield their rights and have a meek spirit.

Proud people desire to be known as a success.
Broken people are motivated to be faithful and to make others successful.

Proud people crave self-advancement.
Broken people desire to promote others.

Proud people have a drive to be recognized and appreciated for their efforts.
Broken people have a sense of their own unworthiness; they are thrilled that God would use them at all.

Proud people feel confident in how much they know.
Broken people are humbled by how very much they have to learn.

Proud people are concerned about appearing respectable; They are driven to protect their image and reputation.
Broken people are concerned with being real; they care less about what others think than about what God knows - they are willing to die to their own reputation.

Proud people keep others at arm's length.
Broken people are willing to take the risks of getting close to others and loving intimately.

Proud people are unapproachable or defensive when corrected.
Broken people receive correction with a humble, open spirit.

Proud people have a hard time saying, "I was wrong; will you please forgive me?"
Broken people are quick to admit their failure and to seek forgiveness when necessary.
Proud people are blind to the true condition of their hearts.
Broken people walk in the light and acknowledge the truth about their lives.

Proud people don't think they need to repent of anything.
Broken people realize that they need to maintain a continual heart attitude of repentance.

Proud people don't think they need revival, but they are sure everyone else does. (In fact, right about now, they are making a mental list off the people they think need to read this book!)
Broken people continually sense their need for a fresh encounter with God and for a fresh filling of His Holy Spirit.