Administrations of the Spirit

David Edwards

Angels are assigned by God to assist His children in fulfilling divine purposes and life assignments. Their ministry includes helping believers move from one phase of God’s dealings into another and supplying what is necessary for God-ordained purposes to be accomplished. Because a divine vision can exceed an individual’s natural resources, supernatural provision may accompany the assignment. Hagar and Ishmael illustrate this principle: when water was needed for Ishmael’s preservation, angelic intervention accompanied the provision necessary for his continued journey and future.
Angelic ministry also operates at critical moments when the purposes of God require preservation, strengthening, direction, or transition. Paul received angelic assurance during the storm that preserved confidence in God’s purpose for his journey, while Jesus was strengthened by an angel during the intense transition toward His death. Recognize that God has made provision for the fulfillment of His purposes, and do not approach divine assignments as though their accomplishment depends entirely upon personal strength or resources. Expect the ministry God has ordained rather than living unaware of the supernatural assistance connected to His purposes.
Cultivate anticipation of angelic ministry by acknowledging what God has provided and giving voice to that expectation. At significant seasons of spiritual transition, angelic activity may serve God’s purpose by strengthening, awakening, directing, or assisting believers through His dealings. Yet angelic ministry must never be separated from the Holy Spirit: angels operate under His oversight, and Scripture demonstrates that the Holy Spirit can accomplish aspects of His administration through them. Therefore, receiving the ministry of angels as God ordained it is ultimately part of recognizing the supernatural provisions available under the government of the Holy Spirit.