Not Having Rivalry and Vainglory

Bible Verses

Phil. 2:3  Doing nothing by way of selfish ambition nor by
way of vainglory, but in lowliness of mind considering one
another more excellent than yourselves;  (4) Not regarding
each his own virtues, but each the virtues of others also.

Words of Ministry 

Paul's word about rivalry and vainglory may indicate that the 

dissenting Philippians were doing things out of rivalry or 

vainglory, both of which cause dissension among believers. 

Rivalry and vainglory may lie hidden among us. Even when we 

testify in the church meetings, there may be rivalry. Perhaps 

when you share, not many saints say amen. But when someone 

else shares, the saints are very responsive, and there are 

many amens. Disappointed by the situation, you may decide 

never to share again in the meetings. Thus, in giving 

testimonies there may be rivalry. Even when we share our 

experiences of Christ, a feeling of rivalry may be hidden 

within us.

Rivalry and vainglory are often found together. Where there 

is rivalry, there is usually vainglory. Why are you unhappy 

when the saints do not say amen to your testimony? Because of 

vainglory. Why do the brothers not feel pleased when a 

certain brother is appointed an elder and they are not? Also 

because of vainglory.

In 4:2 Paul says, "I beseech Euodias, and I beseech Syntyche, 

to think the same thing in the Lord." I believe that there 

was rivalry between these two sisters, perhaps competition 

over who would be the leading one. As a result, they were 

doing things in the way of rivalry and vainglory. It is not 

easy to get rid of rivalry and vainglory, for we have a 

natural tendency to compete with others. In certain countries 

children are encouraged strongly to compete. In society 

competitiveness is found everywhere. However, we should not 

compete in the church life. Instead of competing with one 

another, we should count others more excellent than 

ourselves.