As praise and worship leaders it's important that we check our intentions, motives, etc for why we do what we do. I've been through countless churches in my lifetime and have had the pleasure of working with some of the most talented musicians in the world. But, I am writing this blog in hopes of communicating what being the best praise and worship leader in the world really means.

It's my belief that most of us forget and get more wrapped-up in the quality of production and drawing "star like" attention to ourselves vs. the quality of the "praise" and the "worship." Unfortunately, this concept has been lost to something we do 20 - 30 minutes before Pastor preaches the message vs. something that really is an everyday action. It's our jobs as Praise and Worship leaders to lead and teach those around us what it really means. It's my belief that the role of the Praise and Worship Leader can become extremely dangerous, not just to ourselves, but to everyone who rely's on our leadership if not approached with the right heart. Below is a brief characterization of Lucifer to read. I encourage you to check yourself and your intentions while reading it.

The name, Lucifer, means 'day star,' or 'son of the morning.' Many recognize it as an alternate name of Satan, the fallen angel. But prior to his downfall, Lucifer was a magnificent being with a unique ministry. Unfortunately, pride overtook his heart, and sin cost him everything.

Lucifer was one of three archangels mentioned in Scripture. He was created by God as all angels were, but his role was different from the other angelic hosts. Lucifer was referred to as the 'covering angel.' Just as the cherubim covered the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, Lucifer was established by God to be the angel of worship, one whose ministry surrounded the heart of heaven. Lucifer was created to dwell eternally in the throne room of heaven, in the very presence of God (Ezekiel 28:14).

According to Ezekiel 28:13, Lucifer truly was an amazing being to behold: "You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering: the sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold. The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day you were created."

To dwell in the awesome presence of a perfect and holy God as the covering angel, Lucifer had to be perfect. There was nothing ordinary or plain about his appearance. Adorned with gold and precious stones, he truly fit the name, 'son of the morning.' He was a step above the other angels, not only in appearance but also in intellect. Lucifer's wisdom far exceeded that of other angelic beings. He understood the ways of God; because of his wisdom, he was anointed to minister everlasting praise and worship due to God's name.

But Lucifer's splendor and beauty did not last forever. While ministering on the mountain of God, he began to consider his own position of prominence. Lucifer became prideful, believing that he deserved more than what he already had. He ministered so closely to the throne of God that he thought it would be a simple thing to take for himself a throne, and make himself like the Most High.

Isaiah 14 reveals the fall of Lucifer from the heights of heaven, which transformed him into the demonic creature that he is today:

"How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning...For you have said in your heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.'"

Lucifer had wisdom, beauty, musical ability, perfection, and yet he wanted more; he wanted to be worshiped like God. But God does not share His glory, nor does He permit another to receive worship. So before Lucifer had a chance to make his move, he was removed from the presence of God. Cast out of heaven like a bolt of lightning, Lucifer was stripped of his beauty, his position, and his rights to heaven.

Lucifer's name, 'son of the morning,' was given to a far more deserving individual, the Son of God. Jesus Christ is called the 'Bright and Morning Star' (Revelation 22:16). Today, Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, dwelling in the presence of the Almighty. Just as Jesus said: "whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:12).