Surrounded by Angels

17 FEBRUARY

The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them. Psalm 34:7

SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: 2 Kings 6:8-19

Though the faithful are exposed to many dangers, they may be assured that God is the faithful guardian of their life. The power of God alone would be sufficient, but in mercy for our infirmity God employs angels as His ministering spirits to protect us. It helps confirm our faith to know that God has innumerable legions of angels that are ready to serve as often as He is pleased to help us. What is more, the angels that are called principalities and powers are always intent on preserving our life because they that this duty is entrusted to them.

God indeed designates with propriety the wall of His church and every kind of fortress and place of defense to her. But in accommodation to the measure and extent of our imperfection, He shows us His power to aid us through the work of His angels. Moreover, what the psalmist says about one angel can be applied to all other angels, for they are "ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation" (Heb. 1:14). In other places Scripture teaches us that, whenever it pleases God and whenever He knows it to be for our benefit, He appoints many angels to take care of His people (2 Kings 6:15; Ps. 41:11).

So, however great is the number of our enemies and the dangers by which we are surrounded, the angels of God, who are armed with invincible power, constantly watch over us and array themselves on every side to deliver us from all evil.

John Calvin

FOR MEDITATION: How often we forget about God's armies of angels that surround us to protect us! How could this change the way we face each day? Ask God to open your eyes to this blessing, and thank Him for it.

365 Days With Calvin 

Selected and edited by Joel R. Beeke