THE FALL OF LUCIFER

A description of Lucifer whose name means Bright Star can be found in Ezekiel 28. In verses 1-10 of this chapter, Ezekiel describes the Prince of Tyrus, who became arrogant because of his military prowess, commercial prosperity, and intellectual ability. These assets became his downfall when he declared himself to be a god. Like Herod in Acts 12 and Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2, God judged him for his lofty thoughts, and his life ended in shame, disgrace, and defeat. Many commentaries likened the behavior of Lucifer to this prince.
Commentaries also believe verses 11-19 describe the outward appearance and character of Lucifer who was created by God, called a cherub, and whose assignment was to cover/guard the throne of God. Lucifer was clothed in a nine jewel-bespangled robe. He had a musical voice superior to all the other created beings, and he was perfect until he became corrupted in his thoughts and actions.
Further details of the events that led to the fall can be found in Isaiah 14:12-14. Enamored by his countenance, wisdom, and capabilities, Lucifer became infatuated with himself resulting in the Spirit of Pride possessing his very being, and causing him to make five erroneous “I will” attempts.
First, he wanted to move out of his assigned place/territory and ascend into heaven.
Secondly, he wanted to change his position and elevate himself above the other celestial beings. He wanted to be their boss.
Thirdly, he wanted to redirect God’s plan and purpose for his life. He wanted to rule over the universe.
Fourthly, he overestimated is potential in thinking he could rise above the glory and majesty of God.
Fifth and final, he became delusional in his thinking and thought he could be like God. He was not omnipotent, nor omnipresent or omniscient. He was a deceived created being.
Consequently, these actions caused him to be cast out of heaven and unfortunately as recorded in Revelation12:4 he took one-third of the angels with him. With the fall came a name change from Lucifer to Satan which means Adversary.
Job 1 shows us that presently, Satan still is permitted access to God. However, Revelation 12:7-10 tells us during the tribulation he will be restricted to earth. Revelation 20 shares he will be placed in a bottomless pit during the millennium reign of Jesus and after his release from the pit and final conquest against God he will be cast into the lake of fire for eternity.
As I thought of the fall of Lucifer and the Spirit of Pride, I realized how subtly this spirit creeps into the lives of believers. Discontentment is bred from feelings of inferiority or superior, which both originate from the Spirit of Pride. Inferiority makes us dissatisfied with ourselves and makes us desire to be like someone else rather than be the best you that God has ordained us to be. Discontentment with our present situation can also cause us to be envious or jealous of others. Superiority makes us arrogant, lofty, and thinking since we are better than everyone; we should be in charge. Also, the Spirit of Pride opens the door to other spirits that are displeasing to God and causes chaos in our lives.
Finally, throughout the Bible, those that exhibited a Spirit of Pride were humbled and some even destroyed. So I close repeating the sayings of Peter, “Be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God.” This is my confession and prayer for you and me.