Most of us grew up with a fond image of angels. We always see images of angels as cute and soft, even kids love the idea of having beautiful angels watch over them. But, what do we really know about angels? The general knowledge is that they help God in watching over us, but what are they really? Do they really exist and what do they do?
What are angels?
According to 2 Peter 2:11, "Yet even angels, although they are stronger and more powerful, do not heap abuse on such beings when bringing judgment on them from the Lord."
Based on this verse, we can deduce that angels are stronger beings than us, but they don't use that strength to abuse man, rather, they use their power to help God.
Where do angels come from? Are they real?
Certainly, the angels didn't just form out of nowhere. They were also created by God, the ultimate creator. Colossians 1:16 says,<sup> "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
If God created them, they are real.
What do angels do?
The simple answer is that angels help God. The more detailed answer is that the angels help mankind in various ways. In Revelation 14:6-7, angels preach the gospel to men.
The verse says, " Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water."
Another way that angels help is written in Matthew 13:49, the verse says, "This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous."
This also means that the angels will fight wickedness side-by-side with Jesus.
The angels also protect the children of God. Hebrews 1:14 says, "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?"
What about guardian angels?
It's nice to believe that we have guardian angels who look out for us every step of the way. However, there is no mention in the Bible that God assigns a specific angel to every believer there is. While angels help with God's work, they cannot interfere with God's plans for us. They also cannot protect us from the problems and temptations we face. Remember, it is always through God that we can overcome challenges in life.
Angels are strong spirits who work with God. Yes, they're also God's servants. While it is great to appreciate the work of angels and be fond of them, one must always remember that we should not worship nor pray to angels – but only to God alone. But if you think that introducing angels to the kids will make being a servant of God more inspiring, there should be nothing wrong with that.
