Confidence vs. Arrogance

“I really like his confidence. He’s a good man.”

“Wow, what an arrogant guy! Such a jerk.”

What makes the real difference in these two statements? In these two men? Let’s take a look, because it’s an often misunderstood area for us as guys.

1—Confidence tends to be quiet, while arrogance is usually loud.

Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel. —Proverbs 13:10 MSG

Getting loud—however that looks for our personality—usually means we leave confidence and move on to arrogance.

2—Confidence allows others to speak, while arrogance interrupts.

Pride first, then the crash, but humility is precursor to honor. Answering before listening is both stupid and rude. —Proverbs 18:12-13 MSG

Confidence actively listens to what others are saying. Arrogance appears to be listening, but is actually just looking for the next place to speak.

3—Confidence waits for others to recognize his victory, while arrogance announces the score to anyone who will listen.

Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude. —1 Corinthians 13:4 CEV

Praises sung always sound best from another mouth.

4—Confidence is like a good offense, while arrogance is like a bad defense.

But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. —1 Thessalonians 5:8 NLT

Anytime we find ourselves acting arrogantly, it is always a defensive tactic. Confidence is pro-active. Arrogance is counter-active.

5—Confidence is found in Christ, while arrogance is focused on self.

Christ now gives us courage and confidence, so that we can come to God by faith. —Ephesians 3:12 CEV

Arrogance and pride—distinguishing marks in the wicked— are just plain sin. —Proverbs 21:4 MSG

Gaining the understanding that our identity and hope are in Christ is a daily battle, but one that is worth the fight for what He can produce in us.

My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. —Psalm 57:7 NLT




1 comment

Frankie Rainey April 23, 2013

Excellent, Robert! I am on my way to my Journey Group and plan to share it with them. Frankie




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