Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:26
I had to smile when I received email messages from some of the people I worked with, and noticed the titles and responsibilities listed at the bottom of the message. Some of these people are pretty proud not only of where they work but what qualifications they have and what departments they control. In some cases, some of these people set themselves up as experts, even in areas where they have no training or certification. It’s funny to see the efforts they exert to let people know how great they are. I suppose maybe some of that attitude has its place in the business world, but it has no place among God’s people.
Note how Paul refers to that attitude as vain glory. It’s not even real; it’s vain and empty. All the glory of the earth is vain and will fade as do flowers. Any attempt to seek glory among our Assemblies is carnal, and vain. Some young man might desire to have a position on the Assembly oversight. Sorry, there are no positions on the Assembly oversight. There are responsibilities and there is work, but no positions. Another brother might desire the prestige that comes with being a commended worker. Prestige? Ask a preacher how much prestige he feels when only three people show up for a Gospel meeting and nobody gives him any fellowship! Our Assemblies are no places for egos. There is only one Lord, and none of us are qualified to take His place.
Sometimes, a brother or sister who has done outstanding service receive high accolades. These people are praised for what they have endured, accomplished, or provided. But not one of them ever set out to receive the praise of any but their Lord. It’s good to recognize such saints, but it is also good to know that praise on earth is only temporary. True praise will be accorded at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
Paul’s plea for Christians to not be desirous of vain glory comes just after he speaks of walking in the Spirit. If you and I are spiritual, we will have no time or interest in the glory of men. -Jim MacIntosh