Psalms 91:11 - Homiletics

The angels.

"He shall give his angels charge," etc. The restful spirit of absolute trust in God rises in this psalm to its loftiest height. It is a glorious commentary on Isaiah 26:3 . The Divine answer at the close ( Isaiah 26:14-16 ) shows how near the Lord is to the soul that trusts him. Compare, as an equally glorious New Testament parallel, Romans 8:31-39 . St. Paul defies "angels and principalities" of evil to harm God's children. Here holy angels are declared to be their watchful helpers and guardians.

I. HIS ANGELS . Angels sustain a most close, happy, exalted relation to God, of nearness, love, service ( Psalms 103:20 ; Luke 1:19 ; Revelation 5:11 ).

II. THEY ARE OUR FELLOW SUBJECTS AND FELLOW SERVANTS IN THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM OF OUR RISEN LORD . ( 1 Peter 3:22 ; Revelation 22:8 , Revelation 22:9 .) Jesus, who received their ministry on earth ( Matthew 4:11 ; Luke 22:43 ), commands it now ( Revelation 22:16 ).

III. THEIR MIGHTY POWERS ARE WILLINGLY AND OBEDIENTLY EXERCISED IN MINISTERING TO THE WELFARE OF GOD 'S CHILDREN . ( Hebrews 1:14 .) Note: They minister to God for his children. Their power is inconceivably great. One angel was able to destroy Sodom and the other guilty cities. The same angel gently, though firmly, led Lot out. One angel smote the firstborn (comp. Matthew 28:2 , Matthew 28:5 ; Acts 11:7 , etc.; Matthew 26:53 ).

IV. ANGELS ARE TO BE OUR FELLOW WORSHIPPERS AND ASSOCIATES IN THE ETERNAL HOME . ( Luke 20:36 ; Hebrews 12:22 .)

REMARKS .

1 . This case is minute as well as mighty ( Romans 8:12 ). One false step may be fatal. Angels are examples of that thorough obedience which is "faithful in that which is least."

2 . It is our Father's care we are to recognize. " He shall give his angels charge." All their power, wisdom, care, love, flow from him as their Source. His care and love are over each one of his children every moment. "Over thee to keep thee. "