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The Truth About Angels
various orders, of their intelligence and subtlety, and of their malicious
designs against the peace and happiness of men....
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None are in greater danger from the influence of evil spirits than
those who, notwithstanding the direct and ample testimony of the
Scriptures, deny the existence and agency of the devil and his angels.
So long as we are ignorant of their wiles, they have almost incon-
ceivable advantage; many give heed to their suggestions while they
suppose themselves to be following the dictates of their own wisdom.
This is why, as we approach the close of time, when Satan is to work
with greatest power to deceive and destroy, he spreads everywhere the
belief that he does not exist. It is his policy to conceal himself and his
manner of working....
It is because he has masked himself with consummate skill that
the question is so widely asked: “Does such a being really exist?” It is
an evidence of his success that theories giving the lie to the plainest
testimony of the Scriptures are so generally received in the religious
world. And it is because Satan can most readily control the minds
of those who are unconscious of his influence, that the Word of God
gives us so many examples of his malignant work, unveiling before us
his secret forces, and thus placing us on our guard against his assaults.
Christ’s Followers Are Safe
The power and malice of Satan and his host might justly alarm us
were it not that we may find shelter and deliverance in the superior
power of our Redeemer. We carefully secure our houses with bolts
and locks to protect our property and our lives from evil men; but we
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seldom think of the evil angels who are constantly seeking access to
us, and against whose attacks we have, in our own strength, no method
of defense. If permitted, they can distract our minds, disorder and
torment our bodies, destroy our possessions and our lives. Their only
delight is in misery and destruction.
Fearful is the condition of those who resist the divine claims and
yield to Satan’s temptations, until God gives them up to the control
of evil spirits. But those who follow Christ are ever safe under His
watchcare. Angels that excel in strength are sent from heaven to protect
them. The wicked one cannot break through the guard which God has