A DIVINELY inspired definition of angels is given in the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. She writes (p. 581): "Angels. God's thoughts passing to man; spiritual intuitions, pure and perfect; the inspiration of goodness, purity, and immortality, counteracting all evil, sensuality, and mortality."
The pure thoughts of God are heard by mankind in the quiet meekness of prayer. When listened to and obeyed, these God-imparted angel messages continually supply mankind with comfort, guidance, and protection by removing fear, doubt, and disbelief.
When Joshua, who was chosen to be Moses' successor and thus to lead the children of Israel into the Promised Land, prayed earnestly for ability to meet this new demand, his prayer was answered with this angel message (1:9): "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Strengthened and encouraged by this angelic assurance, Joshua continued obediently to listen to God's commands and to follow them, and he successfully completed his mission.
