God clearly told the Israelites: Ex 23:20-22 I'm sending my Angel ahead of you to guard you in your travels, to lead you to the place that I've prepared. 21 Pay close attention to him. Obey him. Don't go against him. He won't put up with your rebellions because he's acting on my authority. 22 But if you obey him and do everything I tell you, I'll be an enemy to your enemies, I'll fight those who fight you