Some find it difficult to understand the difference between punishment and consequence. Ian Hartley, in his book For God's Sake , explains that punishment is an arbitrary, forced action imposed by another, while consequence is a result of a course of action. Adam and Eve were free to choose, as was Lucifer. God did not compel. Rebellion was not to be overcome with force.
Compelling power is found only under Satan's government. . . .
I tried to explain the difference between punishment and consequences by telling him the story of a group of people who were visiting one of our lion parks in South Africa. One of the group in the car had something to drink that had impaired his judgment just a little. The pride of lions looked so beautiful and relaxed, yawning and lying in the shade of an acacia tree. The person wanted a good picture of this tranquil scene, and he got out of the car and walked a little distance toward the lions. His friends pleaded with him to come back.