Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

July 18– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“Dan was to bring up the rear, carrying their flags.” 

—Numbers 2:31

The tribe of Dan occupied the last position in line, but they were no less a part of Israel than were the tribes at the front. They followed the same fiery, cloudy pillar, ate of the same manna, drank from the same spiritual rock, and journeyed to the same inheritance. So, cheer up! Even if you are the last and the least, it is your privilege to be in the army of the Lord and to receive the same benefits as those in more prominent positions. After all, someone must be the last in honor and esteem. Someone must do the menial work for Jesus, so why shouldn’t I?

The rear guard is certainly a very useful place. Stragglers have to be picked up along the way, and lost property has to be gathered from the field. Fiery spirits may rush ahead to blaze new paths, to learn fresh truth, and win more souls to Jesus. But some of a more conservative spirit may be well engaged in reminding the church of her ancient faith and restoring her fainting sons.

The rear guard is also a place of danger. There are enemies behind us as well as before us. Attacks may come from any side. The experienced Christian will find many opportunities to defend doubting, depressed, and wavering souls who are the least in their faith, knowledge, and joy. It is the responsibility of the experienced to defend them; so, let’s defend them today, and raise our flags among them. [M&E]