Angels are God’s messengers working in His Kingdom at His direction. Hebrews 1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. [1] The world we live in consists of the visible and the invisible realms. Although angels can appear in the visible realm, most of their ministry is in the invisible realm beyond human detection.
The Bible mentions angels 250 times. Angels are spiritual beings created by God who have intelligence, emotions, and will. Scripture tells us that the ministry of angels is significant to the children of God. We may not know what angels do around us as they protect and minister to us. What an excellent thought to know you are never alone and that God’s angels are always watching over you. Like a mother watches over a small child, God’s angels watch over you.
An Angel Gave a Message to Zechariah
As Zechariah served in the Temple in Jerusalem, the Lord sent His angel Gabriel with a special message. Luke 1:12 Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. 13 But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.[2]
Although the Lord can speak to us in many ways, He chose to communicate with Zechariah on this day through an angel. Luke 1:15He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth. 16 And he will turn many Israelites to the Lord their God. 17 He will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. [3]
The child born to Zechariah and Elizabeth in their old age would play a significant role in preparing people’s hearts for the coming of the Messiah. Through this angelic communication, Zechariah and Elizabeth became aware of the importance of their son and his role in God’s Kingdom.
Angels Among Us
There are several examples in God’s word of angelic encounters, so we know God uses angels to accomplish His plans. In Genesis, we see angels giving instructions. Genesis 16: 9 The angel of the Lord said to Hagar, “Return to your mistress, and submit to her authority.”[4]
When Herod imprisoned Peter, an angel rescued him. Acts 12:7 Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, “Quick! Get up!” And the chains fell off his wrists. [5] You may never have an angel appear and speak to you, but angels are active around every believer.
To learn how angels are God’s messengers, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/an-angel-surprise
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.