The word “angel” means messenger or ambassador. In the past, angels had been sent to earth by God to execute His commands and make His purposes known to men. You can read about some examples in the Old Testament where angels appeared to Abraham, Hagar, Jacob, Moses, Sampson's mother, Elijah, David, Daniel and Zechariah. In the New Testament angels announced Jesus' birth (Luke 2:8-15), assisted during his ministry (Matthew 4:11) and proclaimed his resurrection (Matthew 28:2-6). They also gave instructions to Joseph about Jesus’ birth (Matthew 1:20-23) and opened the way for specific conversions expanding the scope of Jesus' following (Acts 8:26-29 and Acts 10:3,7). Additionally, they were instrumental in delivering the Apostles from prison (Acts 5) and repeated the process for Peter in Acts 12.
Although the visible presence of angels is no longer needed as it once was to assist the early Church in the days of the Apostles, angels have, nonetheless, invisibly ministered throughout the Gospel Age to all those who have made a consecration to do the will of God and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. We often refer to these angels as “guardian angels.” “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14) “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” (Psalm 34:7)
Does everyone have a guardian angel? As was mentioned above, we believe that only those who desire to follow in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus and have sacrificed their wills in order to do the will of God have guardian angels. These angels help and protect us in unseen ways. If we are among those who have a guardian angel, one of the great joys we will have in heaven will be to meet that angel. We will then learn just how often we have been shielded, protected and assisted by him without even knowing it! How blessed each of us is to have a protecting spirit being beside us at all times!
