For he will command his angels concerning you

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.

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Psalm 91:11

In Luke 4:9-12, Satan quoted from Psalm 91 when tempting Jesus to prove Himself the Son of God by jumping off the temple pinnacle. Jesus resisted the temptation by quoting Deuteronomy 6:16, saying not to test God. Likewise, believers are not to take unnecessary risks, believing God’s angels will rescue them. However, God does send angelic help in response to prayer. Two outstanding examples can be found in Daniel 10 and in Acts 12.

In Daniel 10, Daniel fasted and prayed for his people. An angel appeared and told him that God had heard him three weeks prior, but he was delayed by demonic forces. The archangel Michael assisted him. The angel greatly encouraged Daniel before he prophesied.

In Acts 12, Peter was arrested and most likely would have been killed like John’s brother James was. But many believers gathered at Mary’s house and prayed. An angel set him free, walking with him through the city gate, which opened by itself. After the angel had gone, Peter knocked on the door where the believers were staying. The servant girl Rhoda was so excited that she forgot to let him in.

At times, God does send messages, rescue, and protection through angels. In these two cases, there were periods of prayer and fasting. God calls His people to intercede concerning these troubled times with prayer and fasting. As you pray, ask for God’s will to be done. Ask Him to protect His people and provide a way of escape for those being persecuted for His name.