Galatians 5:26 Meaning and Explanation

Paul names the conceit that poisons fellowship. Let us not be desirous of vain glory — empty self-importance, the craving to be thought greater than others. It is glory with nothing real beneath it, a hunger for esteem that has no substance.

And he shows where it leads: provoking one another, envying one another. The proud person stirs up rivalry in those below him and burns with envy toward those above. Conceit always breeds these two — challenge and resentment — and both tear at the bonds of love. Against the gentle fruit of the Spirit, Paul sets this last warning: do not let empty pride turn the family of God into a contest.