Vain things are shallow, hollow, empty, and worthless. They offer glitter and sparkle and pizzazz, but can promise no lasting reward.
So many people of this world crave popularity, praise, and public acclaim; such persons never know the security and sacred satisfaction which come from divine approval, nor, ironically, can they appease the inner hunger for celestial sociality, the need for caring friends and loved ones.
So many people of this world lust after money and exhaust their strength in their quest for this world’s goods; such persons never know the quiet prosperity of the Spirit, the wealth of wisdom that comes from seeking first the kingdom of God, or the riches of eternity that are available to the single-minded disciple (see D&C 6:7; D&C 38:39).