The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 496

and in departing from it, Lucifer would dishonor his Maker, and bring
ruin upon himself. But the warning, given in infinite love and mercy,
only aroused a spirit of resistance. Lucifer allowed jealousy of Christ to
prevail, and he became the more determined.
Pride in his own glory nourished the desire for supremacy. The high
honors conferred upon Lucifer were not appreciated as the gift of God
and called forth no gratitude to the Creator. He gloried in his brightness
and exaltation, and aspired to be equal with God. He was beloved
and reverenced by the heavenly host. Angels delighted to execute his
commands, and he was clothed with wisdom and glory above them all.
Yet the Son of God was the acknowledged Sovereign of heaven, one in
power and authority with the Father. In all the councils of God, Christ
was a participant, while Lucifer was not permitted thus to enter into the
divine purposes. “Why,” questioned this mighty angel, “should Christ
have the supremacy? Why is He thus honored above Lucifer?”
Leaving his place in the