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Seraphim

 Angels are mentioned throughout Scripture, and they are described in a variety of ways. Some are mentioned by name (Michael and Gabriel), and some are referred to in groups (living creatures, sons of God). But there are two specific types of angels mentioned in the Bible, cherubim and seraphim. 

 

Cherubim are found far more frequently. In fact, the word seraphim is only found once. Isaiah 6:1-3 contains this vision from the prophet:

 

In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” 

 

“Seraphim” in Hebrew means “burning (or fiery) ones.” Many people have taken this to mean the angels themselves have a burning or glowing appearance, which may be true. But because of their association with worship, what if burning indicates they have a burning desire to worship God? 

 

I propose that Christians should be seraphim. We should have a burning desire to worship and praise the name of our God. The angels don’t worship because they are programmed to, they do it because they want to. They have front row seats to the glory and splendor of God, and worship, and the desire to worship, is the natural result. 

 

We might not see God as up close as the angels in His presence, but we see Him at work every day. We have plenty of reason to praise God, so we should join the angelic chorus, singing “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!” 

 

“Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!”

Psalm 150:6

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