Angels All Around Us
Billy Graham preached at revivals all over the world and led thousands to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. He wrote inspiring books that have been translated into multiple languages. One of his books is called “Angels. “ A few years ago, a friend taught on angels, referencing Billy Graham’s book. It was surprising to learn about the importance of angels to both God and us. The Bible is full of references to angels in both the Old and New Testaments. Angels guarded the entrance to the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24). An angel found Hagar by a spring of water in the wilderness (Genesis 16:7). “The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands” (Psalm 68:17 NIV). “For He will give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11-12 NKJV). Numerous scriptures illustrate the importance of angels, including Ephesians 1:21, Colossians 1:16, 2 Peter 2:11, Matthew 28:2, Revelation 12:7-8; 20:1-3, and Hebrews 2:7.
Both my children have encountered angels from a young age. When our son was in third grade, he climbed a three-story tree while waiting for his carpool. The tree was unhealthy, with some weak, dead limbs. He scampered up the tree, and at the top, he stood on a branch that broke. Teachers and parents gasped as they watched him fall. Right before their eyes, his body spun from head down to feet first. A huge boulder sat at the bottom of the tree, and everyone feared he would hit it. He landed just inches away from the boulder, and the only injury he sustained was a small cut on his forehead. I asked him what happened as he fell, and he replied that it felt like someone had placed their arms beneath him and turned him feet first. We believe it was an angel.
Billy Graham says, “We face dangers every day of which we are not even aware. Often, God intervenes on our behalf through the use of His angels.” My husband and I have also experienced the presence of angels many times in our lives; some were seen while others were not. When my husband was dying in a Russian hospital, many people witnessed the appearance of an angel. This angel, sent by God, delivered a message that saved my husband’s life. We all encounter angels, but most of the time, we never realize it. As Hebrews 3:2 says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing, some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 3:2 NIV).
What are some of the things angels do?
Angels model worship for us. There are “thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand” angels circling the throne, continually worshipping and proclaiming with loud voices, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” (Revelation 5:11-12 NIV). Isaiah 6:1-3 describes the seraphim angels singing, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.” I envision the great myriad of angels singing the words to this song. Close your eyes and picture all the angels circling the throne, with you among them, singing worship songs to the Almighty God.
Angels demonstrate perfect obedience. “May Your Kingdom come soon. Your will be done here on earth, just as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 NKJV).
Angels serve. “Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him” (Matthew 4:11 ESV). “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14 NIV).
Angels often convey God’s messages (Luke 1:11-19; Acts 8:26, 10:3-8, 22, 27:23-24). Numerous examples in the Old Testament illustrate angels delivering messages from God. As His children, we should also share His word when He directs us.
Angels are powerful beings who use their strength to fight against Satan and demonic forces. Michael, the archangel, came to Daniel’s assistance in his battle against demonic forces (Daniel 10:13). Other scriptures that reference warring angels include Psalms 103:20; Colossians 1:16; 2 Peter 2:11; and Revelation 12:7-8, 20:1-3. We should call upon the Lord when we engage in battle against the enemy, as He may send an angel to assist us.
Angels possess knowledge that humanity lacks, yet they should never be worshiped. They are not omniscient. An angel warned John not to worship him but God alone. God created angels for His purposes, and Scripture states that we should worship nothing but Him.
Angels rejoice when a sinner repents and accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10 NIV).
Angels guide and protect: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone” (Psalm 91:11-12).
Amy Grant sings a song called “Angels.” The song speaks of angels being all around us, protecting and guarding us. May we each be aware of the angels that God sends into our paths to guide us toward Him.
Let’s pray:
Lord, You are the Creator of all. You are worthy of my praise and worship. I join the angels in singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty. " Thank You for creating and sending Your angels into my life. Open my eyes to recognize when You send angels my way. You supply all my needs many times through Your angels. I give You all the glory for what You do in my life. Amen.
