Glory or Vainglory?
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Paul said, ALet us not be desirous of vain glory (Strong= s #2755)@ (Gal 5:26) and Alet nothing be done through...vainglory (Strong= s #2754)@ (Philippians 2:3).  In scripture, vain describes something which is empty, fruitless, futile, and without effect.  Glory speaks of the opinion, estimate, or view of someone or something in the eyes of others.  Thus vainglory identifies a self-ward preoccupation with one= s image that results in groundless self esteem, empty pride, and conceit.

Vainglory is linked with selfishnessB the kind of self-seeking, self-willed, selfish ambition (eritheiaB Strong= s #2052) (Philippians 2:3) that is rooted in pride and that elevates self over others, resulting in oppression, confusion, disorder, and Aevery evil work@ (James 3:16).  Vainglory also challenges and provokes others in a competitive way, and seeks opportunity, with ill-will, to detract from them for the sake of elevating and serving self (Galations 5:25).  As a result, it is blind to the opportunity to restore others in meekness (Gal 6:1-4).

Instead of vainglory, we ought to seek real glory.  Genuine glory comes through humility and the obedience of faith.  The wedding guest who sat in the lowest room was told, AFriend, go up higher,@ concerning which Jesus said, AFor whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted@ (Luke 14:7-11).  Jesus Himself walked out this truth: AOught not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?@ (Luke 24:26).

Real glory comes from above.  Jesus said, AIf I glorify Myself, My glory is nothing; it is My Father who glorifies Me@ (John 8:54 NAS).  And He said, AI do not receive glory from men@ (John 5:41 NAS).  AHe that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him@ (John 7:18).

If we are focused on getting the honor, praise, regard, and glory that comes to us from men (including from ourself), our very ability to believe God concerning His word and promises to us in Christ Jesus will be hindered.  AHow can you believe, when you receive glory from one another, and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?" (John 5:44 NAS, italics added).  May we all set our eyes and our affections on the things above, where Christ is seated, so that Awhen Christ, who is our life, is revealed [both at His return, and also daily as we behold Him], then [we] also will be revealed with Him in glory@ (Colossians 3:1-4 NAS).