Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:3-4

Hymn writer, Rhea F. Miller once wrote, “I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause; I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause; I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame; I’d rather be true to His Holy name.” The hymn written over 100 years ago is all about having Christ above anything this world can offer. Christianity is all about the central figure the Lord Jesus Christ. The Gospel message is about how God has reconciled sinners to Himself. We ought to glorify God, not ourselves.

Sadly, there are many people who think Christianity is all about them and what they can get out of God. This is a wrong spirit and view of Christianity. Those who promote themselves over the Good News of Christ are guilty of vainglory. We ought to be praising and lifting the name of Jesus Christ not sinful men and women. What are we, but mere flesh and blood.

Christ has done all the work. It was Christ that died on that cross. It is Christ that has made us right with God. Outside of Christ no man or woman can be declared righteous before Almighty God, the Creator and Judge. Without God we are nothing. We have what we have in life due to the grace and mercy of our loving Heavenly Father. We have done nothing to deserve life, luxury, and love from God.

However, God has seen fit to pour out his grace on sinful men and women. Consider and pray about the following. Be thankful for what God has done. Seek not praise and glory for yourself but give the glory and honour unto God. Give Him the homage due. Do you like to draw attention to yourself? Do you promote your own thoughts over Scripture? Do you always desire to win debates? Do you seek to be the centre of attention? Do you think of your own needs before the needs of others? Do you flaunt yourself, your wealth, and your achievements among other things?

God detests all forms of self-glorification and arrogance. If you sense God’s convicting grace on you today, immediately confess your sinfulness before Him. Embrace the changes you need to make to give God the glory. God is the only one we ought to worship and give glory to. The divine Godhead is worthy of honour. The things of this world are vain and will one day cease. Yes, even fine gold and the costliest jewels will be worthless compared to what we have in Heaven.