The world of faith is often described as a battleground, a constant struggle between good and evil. But we are not alone in this fight. Scripture reveals a powerful, unseen force working alongside us: God’s angels. This sermon explores the nature of angels, their role in our lives, and how we can cooperate with their divine assistance. From protecting us in unseen ways to delivering profound messages of hope, the presence of angels is a source of strength and encouragement for every believer.
Image: Pastor Kerry Shook discussing the role of angels in our lives.
Messengers of Hope: Understanding the Role of Angels
The word “angel” comes from the Greek word “angelos,” meaning “messenger.” Throughout the Bible, angels serve as God’s emissaries, conveying His messages to humanity. From the angel Gabriel announcing the birth of Jesus to countless other divine pronouncements, angels are instrumental in communicating God’s will. They bring signs, offer guidance, and provide encouragement, especially during times of struggle and uncertainty. These “mini-miracles” may seem small to others, but to the recipient, they are powerful reminders of God’s presence and love.
More Than Messengers: The Ministry of Angels
Hebrews 1:14 describes angels as “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” Created by God before the world began, angels are dedicated to serving Him and assisting believers. It’s important to remember that while we appreciate their help, we worship only God. Colossians 2:18 warns against worshipping angels, emphasizing that our adoration belongs solely to the Creator, not His creation. While some may worship nature or even themselves, true faith directs our worship towards the one true God.
The Cosmic Battle: Angels in Spiritual Warfare
Revelation 12 paints a vivid picture of a war in heaven, where Michael and his angels battled against Satan and his fallen angels. This cosmic conflict continues on earth, a spiritual battle raging around us. The good news is that Jesus assures us, “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” Through the Holy Spirit and the presence of angels, believers have access to a power that surpasses the enemy’s influence. Satan is a defeated foe, but as long as we remain on this earth, we will face spiritual battles. These battles may manifest as conflicts with others, challenging circumstances, or personal struggles, but at their core, they are spiritual confrontations.
Shields of Protection: How Angels Guard Us
Psalm 91:11 promises, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” This divine protection surrounds believers like an invisible shield. While Satan’s “flaming arrows” of temptation and hardship constantly barrage us, God’s angels deflect them, often without our awareness. Sometimes, God may allow a hardship to penetrate this protection for His glory and our ultimate good, although it may be difficult to understand in the moment.
Personal Guardians: Angels Assigned to Watch Over Us
Matthew 18:10 speaks of “personal angels” who are “constantly in touch with my Father in heaven.” This concept of guardian angels offers comfort and reassurance. These angels are specifically assigned to protect and guide us, offering constant companionship through life’s joys and sorrows, even unto death and our entry into heaven.
Seeking Direction: Angels as Guides
Genesis 24:40 recounts how Abraham assured his son Isaac that God would send an angel to guide him in finding a wife. This story highlights how angels can direct our paths, leading us to the right people and opportunities. When we pray for guidance, God often sends angels to open doors and illuminate our way.
Opening Our Eyes: Recognizing Angelic Influence
To fully appreciate the work of angels in our lives, we need to cultivate spiritual awareness. Praying for God to open our spiritual eyes allows us to see beyond the immediate challenges and recognize the unseen forces at work. This spiritual perspective helps us perceive God’s protection and direction, diminishing the perceived size of our problems.
Image: A depiction of angels watching over individuals, symbolizing their protective presence.
Welcoming the Unseen: Entertaining Angels Unawares
Hebrews 13:2 encourages us to show hospitality to strangers, “for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” This verse reminds us to treat everyone with kindness and respect, recognizing that even the most unassuming individual could be a messenger from God. By opening our hearts to serve others, we may unknowingly be ministering to angels.
The Ultimate Message: Angels and the Resurrection
The most powerful message ever delivered was shared by an angel on Easter morning. Matthew 28 describes how an angel rolled back the stone from Jesus’ tomb and announced, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” This declaration of the resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith, offering hope and victory over death and sin.
The Promise of Return: Angels and the Second Coming
After Jesus ascended to heaven, two angels appeared to the disciples, assuring them that Jesus would return in the same way He left (Acts 1:10). This promise of Christ’s return with a host of angels is a source of hope and anticipation for believers. While His first coming was humble and marked by suffering, His second coming will be glorious and triumphant.
Living with Angelic Awareness
The knowledge that angels surround us, offering protection, guidance, and encouragement, is a source of immense comfort. As we navigate the battles and struggles of life, let us remember that we are not alone. God’s unseen army fights alongside us, carrying messages of hope and leading us toward ultimate victory.
