July 18

Morning

The total number of men in the camp of Dan is 157,600; they shall set out last, under their standards. — Num 2:31 BSB

The tribe of Dan brought up the rear when the armies of Israel were on the march. They were in the last position, but what did it matter? They were just as much part of the army as the tribes at the front. They followed the same pillar of cloud and fire, ate the same manna, drank from the same spiritual rock, and were headed to the same promised inheritance. So, my heart, cheer up—even if you are the least and last. It’s still a privilege to be part of God’s army and to share in the same blessings as those who lead. Someone has to be last in honor and esteem. Someone must do the humble work for Jesus—so why not me? Whether in a small village among simple people or in a poor neighborhood among broken sinners, I will press on and carry my banner, even if I’m at the back of the line.

The Danites also played an important role. As the rear guard, they gathered up stragglers and retrieved lost property along the way. Fiery spirits may rush ahead, discovering new truths and bringing more souls to Christ. But those with a more steady, cautious spirit are just as valuable in reminding the Church of its ancient faith and strengthening its weary members. Every position in the march has its purpose, and those who move slowly can be a great blessing to the whole army.

But the rear guard is also a place of danger. Enemies can attack from behind, just as Amalek did, striking down the weak and weary at the back. The experienced Christian will find plenty of work in helping those who are struggling with doubts, despondency, or weakness in faith, knowledge, and joy. These must not be left behind. Let it be the job of mature saints to carry their banners among those who are falling behind. My soul—keep an eye on the ones who are trailing behind and help them today.

Evening

They do not jostle one another; each proceeds in his path. They burst through the defenses, never breaking ranks. — Joel 2:8 BSB

Locusts always keep their ranks, even though they are so numerous. They don’t crowd each other or cause chaos in their columns. This small fact in nature shows us how thoroughly God has instilled order in His universe. From the smallest creatures to the largest, everything is governed by the same spirit of order, whether it’s the stars in the sky or the angelic hosts.

We believers should also be guided by this spirit of order in our spiritual lives. Our Christian virtues shouldn’t clash or compete with each other. One quality must not overstep its boundaries or consume the others to sustain itself. Love should not overwhelm honesty, courage should not push aside humility, gentleness should not smother strength, and patience should not suppress determination.

The same applies to our duties. One responsibility should not interfere with another. Public ministry must not overshadow private devotion, and church work must not squeeze out family worship. It’s wrong to offer God one duty at the expense of another. Each task has its proper place, and everything is beautiful in its own season. Remember, it was to the Pharisees that Jesus said, “You should have done these things without neglecting the others.”

This principle also applies to our personal roles. We need to understand our place, accept it, and stay in it. We should serve according to the gifts the Spirit has given us, without encroaching on others’ work. Our Lord Jesus taught us not to seek the highest places but to be willing to be the least among our brothers and sisters. Let us put aside envy and ambition, and follow the Master’s command by keeping our place in the ranks.

Tonight, let’s reflect on whether we are preserving the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Let our prayer be that peace and order will prevail in all the churches of the Lord Jesus.