“Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, ‘So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.’ Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.
“But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, ‘It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.’ And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, ‘Arise and eat.’ And he looked, and behold, there was at his head a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water. And he ate and drank and lay down again. And the angel of the Lord came again a second time and touched him and said, ‘Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.’ And he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mount of God.” 1 Kings 19:1-8
“Jesus said to him, ‘Be gone, Satan! For it is written,
“You shall worship the Lord your God
and him only shall you serve.”’
“Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.” Matthew 4:10-11
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:14
Exhausted, depleted, and overwhelmed, faithful Elijah despairs of his life, wondering if it is even worth living under Jezebel’s threat. Memory of the recent fantastic fire from heaven and the supernatural strength to run to Jezreel in a God-given downpour has disappeared under this dark royal intimidation. But at exactly when he needed it most, gracious God appeared by way of an angel to nourish and rejuvenate him. God always cares for His own. (1 Kings 18:36-46)
Ministering spirits sent from God are one of His sweetest gifts. Our Maker knows all about us, every pang of heartache, fear of the enemy, wave of desperation. And He meets us where we are to give grace, mercy, protection, or sustenance in time of need. His angels are not bound by space and time, and always do His bidding. (Psalm 139:1-3,5,7-12; Hebrews 4:16)
When and where has an angel of God brought specific supply by way of caution, direction, encouragement, or deliverance? Particular ministry through rest, relief, or restoration? Are we too caught up in self-sufficiency to look for and recognize God’s intervention? Are we quick to thank Him for these marvelous expressions of love? (Exodus 23:20; Psalm 34:7; 91:9-12; Matthew 1:20; 2:13)
How might I help another to see and seek God’s angelic handiwork? To whom will I testify to His divine concern and ministry? How can His sufficiency for me bring glory to His name and character? (Psalm 105:1-5)
Father, thank you for the manifold ways Your angels care for me. Make me alert to Your heavenly involvement in my earthly living, and always grateful, giving You the thanks and honor You deserve.
As the rain and snow 