And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings.”
Luke 1:19
Recommended Reading: Daniel 10:12-14
Everybody has a name—even God, who is Yahweh (“I AM”). Three angels are identified by name in the Bible: Michael the archangel, Gabriel, and Lucifer (Satan). Whether human or spiritual, names serve to identify and communicate one’s characteristics.
Michael means “Who is like God?” meaning that he represents the majesty and power of God. In Scripture, Michael serves as the leader of heavenly armies, the defender of God’s righteous purposes on earth (Daniel 12:1). He is identified as “the archangel” (Jude 9), possibly God’s only archangel. Gabriel means “strength of God” and is seen delivering messages from God Himself to the people of God. He announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zacharias and the birth of Jesus to Mary. While Michael serves as the strong arm of God, Gabriel serves as the voice of God.
The names and roles of these two powerful angels remind us that we each have a purpose and calling from God. Pray today that God will continue to reveal your purpose and calling and equip you to fulfill it.
Humility is the ornament of angels, and pride the deformity of devils.
William Jenkyn
