Do angels really exist? How do we know, since we never see them? I've wondered if maybe when the Bible talks about "angels" it is just referring to people who are exceptionally good and thoughtful, like when we say to someone, "You're an angel for being so helpful." — G.R.

Yes, angels definitely exist; they aren't simply good people, and they are greater than we are. The Bible says, "What is man that you are mindful of him? ... You made him a little lower than the angels" (Hebrews 2:6-7).

Angels are a separate category of spiritual beings, created by God as His special messengers or helpers. They have many responsibilities, but one of their major tasks is to watch over God's people: "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). Although they seldom take visible form, they are constantly involved in the ongoing conflict between good and evil. In the last days, Jesus said, "The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous" (Matthew 13:49).

While the Bible doesn't give us details about their origin, it seems that angels existed before the world was created, and through all eternity they will continue to serve and praise God. We are not to worship them, however, for only God is worthy of our worship (see Revelation 22:8-9).

Thank God for His angels, and for their watchful care over us; they are a sign of God's continuing love. But the greatest sign of God's love is Christ, for He alone went to the cross for our salvation. Is your hope in Him?