This passage in Isaiah is very similar to the one we read yesterday in Ezekiel. The picture here is of a mighty monarch whose pride has brought him to destruction. “Lucifer” (another name for Satan) is Latin for “morning star” (v. 12) and suggests that this king’s glory did not last very long. Satan is considered the “prince of this world” (John 12:31; Ephesians 2:1–2), but his glory is temporary. Satan’s intention was to usurp the throne of God (v. 13) and capture for himself the praise and worship from all creation … the praise and worship that only belongs to God (Matthew 4:8–10).

Many scholars link this passage to Jesus’ description of Satan in Luke 10:18 where He states, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” Look at the several “I” statements Satan makes. “I will ascend to heaven,” “I will set my throne,” “I will sit on the mount of assembly,” “I will ascend above the heights of the clouds,” and “I will make myself like the Most High.” These five statements are dripping with pride. We tend to have these thoughts even though we may not vocalize them. Our tendencies are to live out our own agenda for our lives instead of falling in line with the purposes and plans God has set for us in Scripture.

What actions do you think are appropriate to fight against an “I will” mindset like that of Satan?