Is my grandson filled with Lucifer's pride?

on Jan 2, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I love my little grandson. His parents are faithful Christians, but I have to say I’ve gotten an education about how sin reigns in us. This little 6-year-old has a real devilish temper and is quite prideful, which causes me to remember that Lucifer was filled with pride, right? That’s scary! – D.O.

A: A human being is a contradiction. On one side is hatred, depravity and sin; on the other side is kindness, compassion and love. No wonder the Apostle Paul spoke of sin as the mystery of iniquity.

Some people don’t like the word sin. They believe it’s for the other person, not them. But it isn’t hard to see that the human race is sick. In fact, the human race is born in sin.

Sin is anything contrary to the will of God. The Bible tells us that sin originated with the angel known as Satan. This was no ordinary angel, but the most magnificent of creatures! The prophet Ezekiel describes him this way: “You were the anointed cherub … you became filled with violence within, and you sinned. … Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor; … you have become a horror” (28:14–19, NKJV).

The Prophet Isaiah gives us another hint of the origin of evil: “How you have fallen from heaven, [Lucifer], son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the earth, you who have weakened the nations” (14:12, NASB1995)

Lucifer fell and became Satan because of his undue ambition – he wanted to be like God. He wanted to be equal with God. This is a glimpse of the sin of pride, and this is a warning to those who become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil (see 1 Timothy 3:6). Only the Spirit-filled Christian can have victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)