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Q: Where did the angels come from, and what do they look like? Have they always existed? This Christmas our 6-year-old son was asking us about this, and we didn't know how to answer him. -- Mrs. C.G.

A: I'm glad your son is asking questions like this -- and I hope you'll encourage him, even if you don't always know the answers. Can anything be more important than encouraging our children to learn about God and His love for us?

The angels haven't always existed; God created them, and He did so before He even made the universe. Although at times they can take on the appearance of human beings (or of glorious heavenly beings, such as appeared to the shepherds on that first Christmas night), they are essentially spiritual beings who were created to serve God. They especially are called to watch over God's people -- to protect us and serve us, often in hidden ways. The Bible says, "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14).

What difference should they make in our lives? First of all, they should bring us great comfort. Even if we don't see them, they still watch over us and care for us. We are not alone! At the same time, don't be misled by unbiblical speculations about them, and do not worship images of angels or give them undue praise. When the apostle John wanted to worship the angel who had shown him the future, the angel rebuked him: "Don't do that! ... Worship God!" (Revelation 22:9).

Thank God for His holy angels -- but most of all, thank Him for Jesus Christ. He alone is our Savior, and He alone has opened Heaven's door for us through His death and resurrection. Have you committed your life to Him?

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(Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.