“They shall break camp last, with their standards” (Numbers 2:31)

When Israel was in the wilderness, each tribe was assigned a place. The tribe of Dan was placed at the rear. Dan was the last to break and set up camp. Are you placed at the rear of your church? Perhaps you feel your place is worthless. Perhaps you grumble because no one notices all the things you do for God. Even though many considered Dan to be inferior, it was just as much a part of Israel as Judah. They followed the same pillar of cloud, they ate the same manna, drank from the same spiritual rock, and journeyed to the same inheritance. So cheer up, although you may be considered the last and the least, it’s your privilege to be in the army of the Lord, and share in its trials and victories.

Dan had a unique job. Stragglers who would have died were picked up and restored. Experienced Christians are needed to look out for doubting, despondent, and wavering souls who start to wander from the faith. It takes faith and knowledge to help restore stumbling saints. But this is not a flashy job. The faithful servant works only for the approval of God. “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24).

Look for people in your church who need a friend. But be wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove. “On some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire” (Jude 22-23). “If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1).