What is the ruling on feeling superior to others in obedience despite one's shortcomings, and is that considered blameworthy self-admiration (ʿujb)?

You must sincerely repent from sins and observe the Sunnah, for in that lies much good, answered prayers, eased affairs, and abundant provision, as Allah the Almighty says: "And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him ease in his affair." Strive in obedience while bearing in mind that it is a grace from Allah, and beware of belittling people or thinking that you are better than them; for self-admiration (ʿujb) is one of the most dangerous afflictions that can nullify deeds. The cure for self-admiration is to witness Allah's grace upon you, and to contemplate the flaws within yourself and your actions. If you see Allah's favor upon you and your own shortcomings, this will engender humility and brokenness within you, and you will see your deeds as meager, unfit for drawing closer to Allah. The gnostics are unanimous that success (tawfīq) is that Allah does not abandon you to yourself, and failure (khidhlān) is that He abandons you to yourself. The closest door to Allah is destitution (iflas), where you see no power or strength for yourself except by Allah.