Discussions about spiritual warfare often spotlight the demonic side—think oppression, possession, and attacks. However, it’s important to remember that there’s also a benevolent force at play: angels. According to traditional Biblical interpretations, particularly from Revelation 12, holy angels actually outnumber demons, roughly two to one.
Angels interact with people too. For example, Hebrews 13:2 cautions us, “Do not be lazy in showing hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some people are hosting angels without knowing it.”
There are intriguing tales of angelic encounters that have been shared throughout history. Rick Burgess, a host on Blaze TV, points out that these stories stretch back even to World War I.
In a recent episode of Strange Encounters, he revisits some of these astonishing accounts involving angels.
Psalm 34:7 in action: angels surrounding missionaries on cannibal island
In 1858, a Scottish missionary named John G. Peyton, along with his wife, arrived at Tanna Island in the New Hebrides with the intention of spreading the gospel to local tribes known for cannibalism. One night, they found themselves surrounded by hostile natives who attempted to burn down their mission. As they prayed, the attackers abruptly fled in terror.
About a year later, they learned from a chief, who had since converted, that the locals had seen hundreds of giant men in radiant attire, brandishing swords, encircling Peyton’s home. Both Peyton and the chief attributed this protective presence to angels.
The gospel message flourished in the following years, leading to many former cannibals across the islands embracing Christianity. “It’s truly a miracle,” Rick reflects. “What caused this? These imposing figures in shining clothing with swords were guarding the missionaries.”
He connects it back to Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him and delivers them,” which seems to resonate with Peyton’s experience.
1918 White Cavalry: A golden-haired angel leads a charge against German troops
Fast forward to May 1918 during World War I, British forces in France faced looming defeat from a substantial German advance. Suddenly, the Germans halted their assault, turning their weapons on something invisible to the British. Confusion engulfed the battlefield.
British troops later captured two German officers who recounted seeing a cavalry of men in white military uniforms on gleaming white horses, led by an imposing angelic figure with golden hair and a large sword.
The Germans attempted to fire upon this cavalry, but the riders pressed forward unscathed. Terrified, the German forces retreated.
This divine intervention provided crucial time for American forces to join the fight and ultimately seize control.
“This pivotal moment contributed to the Allies’ victory in World War I,” Rick notes.
Some believe that such angelic interventions won’t be seen again in human affairs, but Rick disagrees. “I think it’s very possible that when we reach heaven, we’ll have angels revealing how often they’ve been dispatched into our lives to assist us,” he muses.
If you’re curious to delve deeper, consider watching the full episode.
