“Angels” is a subject that either gets talked about too much (“too much” meaning that folks sometimes say things that the Bible does not say) or not talked about much at all (perhaps because the Bible does not give us much information on angels in our world today). But, since the Bible is our only source of truth on angels, then we ought to consider what it does say.
What do we know about angels today? What are they doing today? Here’s what we know. Angels are “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” (Heb. 1:14). “Ministering” denotes that they are “engaged in special or holy service,” and “minister” emphasizes that service is caring for and serving God’s people. What are they doing specifically? When do they do it? How do they do it? We don’t know. We are simply told that they are continually sent forth by Jesus to continually serve those who faithfully serve Him.
Let’s see what angels did in the life of Jesus and see if there is not some application to us also.
Angels were there when Jesus was born (Luke 2:10-14). Is it possible that they are present at births today? Angels “came and ministered” to Jesus when He was tempted by the devil (Matt. 4:11). Is it possible that angels minister to Christians today when we are tempted? An angel came and strengthened Jesus when He was in agony and facing death (Luke 22:43). Is it possible that angels strengthen us in hard times, including being there with us through the process of dying? An angel rolled the stone away from Jesus’ tomb and announced His resurrection (Matt. 28:1-6). Is it possible that angels open doors of opportunity before us, when things look pretty bleak? Angels will accompany Jesus when He returns at the end of time (2 Thess. 1:7-8). Is it possible that angels will be with us all the way to the very end and accompany us to meet Jesus?
Notice that each question began with, “Is it possible?” There is much that we don’t know about what angels are doing today. But we do know that they are “sent out to render service” to those who belong to God. They are not doing their own work, but truly, they are doing the work of the Lord on His behalf.
God loves you! He “works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Phil. 2:12-13). He ensures that “all things work together for good” for His children (Rom. 8:28). He is always ready to “perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you” (1 Pet. 5:10). How does He do all of that? While we do not know entirely, is it possible that He uses His special servants to serve us, even though we may not be able to perceive it at all with our senses? The possibility is thrilling!
