Do You Believe in Angels?

Years ago, while I was working in the insurance business with John Hancock, I decided to take a break (this was at a large shopping mall called Lloyd Center, in Portland, Oregon) and watch the skaters.  Insurance can be a very demanding business and taxing on the mind.

While I was watching the skaters, someone came up to me and said these words, "Jesus Christ is Lord!!"  I, being somewhat shocked, halting said, "Amen!!"  Now I wasn't hesitant because of my beliefs, I wholeheartedly agreed with the statement.  The shock was that you don't hear this declaration everyday and it took me totally off guard!!

Now, before you think I'm crazy and have lost my mind, consider this quote from St. Francis de Sales: "Make yourself familiar with angels, and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen, they are present with you."  It's now been over 30 years since that encounter happened and I truly believe I saw an angel.  I looked for that person immediately after that statement and couldn't find them anywhere!!

Is this a ludicrous thought?  No, I don't believe so--consider Heb. 1:14:  "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation." (NASB)  Besides, I believe I'm in good company--the disciples didn't believe either (when Peter was rescued from prison in Acts 12 and the angel of God caused his chains to fall off, Acts 12:7).  This is a story made popular by the Christian singer, Amy Grant some years ago in her song, "Angels." 

Remember the story?  Peter even was disbelieving before he saw the angel (vs. 11).  The disciples were dumbfounded too, and thought that Rhoda (a servant girl) was crazy!  See vs. 15 (Acts 12):  "You are out of your mind!"  But it truly was an angel sent from God... and it rescued Peter from prison.

My friend, are you in a prison today that you need to be set free from?  Oh, it's not a literal one, but perhaps the prison of a difficult relationship, a financial set-back, an addiction that has held its grip on you for years that won't let you go.  May I encourage you today--believe in angels...better yet, believe in God!!  He is for you, if you'll turn to Him.