Angels Among Us
Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Matthew 4:11 (NIV)
Satan, our worst enemy, knows the best time to ambush us is when we’re physically weak. We’re particularly vulnerable to his attacks when ill or tired.
Jesus had fasted 40 days in the wilderness, “and when they had ended, He was hungry. And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”” (Luke 4:2-3 NASB)
This was a shrewd attack, as Jesus was physically drained from his long fast. We can be sure that the devil will be just as devious when tempting us.
Jesus resisted the devil’s temptations using scripture as His shield. The devil then left and immediately angels came to strengthen Him.
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?“ (Hebrews 1:14 NIV)
There are two angels specifically named in Scripture, Gabriel and Michael. Gabriel told Mary, “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.“ (Luke 1:31-32 NIV)
Michael waged war with Satan: “Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.“ (Revelation 12:7: 7-8 NIV)
Angels are also sent by God in answer to prayers, to protect us, and encourage us. Listen to the Psalmist: “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways“. Psalm 91:11 (NIV)
Even little children have guardian angels watching over them. “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.“ Matthew 18:10 (NIV)
When death approaches, angels are also near. “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side.“ Luke 16:22 (NIV)
Angels drew near when our Lord was born. They attended Him during His earthly life. They ministered to Him in the hour of His death. “An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.“ Luke 22:43-44 (NIV)
The Lord has these heavenly messengers with you at all times and in all places. Be confident, therefore, that you’re being well cared for in the daily battle of life. The child of God never walks alone.
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.“ (Hebrews 13:2 NIV)