Are there guardian angels?
Question:
A lot of Christians say that there is such a thing as guardian angels whom God assigns to people. Is this true? I've heard many people say it has biblical evidence but wasn't sure.
Answer:
The concept of guardian angels is derived from:
"Are they [angels] not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14).
"Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 18:10).
"For you have made the LORD, my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place. No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and cobra, the young lion and the serpent you will trample down. 'Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation.'" (Psalms 91:9-16).
However, notice that the full concept of guardian angels are not expressed in the New Testament passages. What we find is that angels are serving God's people, but exactly what they do and how they do it is not mentioned. I often wonder if the things we referred to as God's providence -- the strange coincidences that happen that makes things work out for us -- are not at least in part carried out by angels behind the scenes. But I can't prove that is what is being meant in Hebrews 1:18.
Matthew 18:10 is a warning that angels are watching over the little ones and so when evil happens, angels are able to petition God directly on their behalf. Jesus is not saying the angels prevent all harm from happening; otherwise, there would be no need for the warning.
The passage from Psalms 91 contains more details. This is not a promise that nothing bad will ever strike a true follower of God. Job was protected by God (Job 1:10), but disaster was allowed to strike Job in order to test his faith. This passage was even quoted by Satan and applied to Jesus when Satan was trying to tempt him; yet, Jesus was crucified on the cross. Thus, the meaning of this Psalm is more a promise that no lasting harm will strike the righteous.
See: Angels for more information.
