The tribe of Dan brought up the rear when Israel's armies marched. They occupied the last place in line. But what did position matter? They were as much a part of God's people as those at the very front! They followed the same pillar of fire and cloud. They ate the same manna. They drank from the same spiritual rock. They journeyed to the same inheritance.

Come, my heart, cheer up! Though last and least, it is your privilege to be in the army, to share the same provisions as those who lead the charge. Someone must be last in honor and esteem. Someone must do menial work for Jesus—and why not I? In a poor village among simple peasants, or on a back street among degraded sinners, I will work on and "go hindmost with my standard."

The Danites occupied a most useful place. Stragglers must be picked up on the march. Lost property must be gathered from the field. Yes, fiery spirits may dash forward over untrodden paths to discover fresh truth and win more souls for Jesus. But those of a steadier spirit are equally needed—to remind the church of her ancient faith and restore her fainting sons. Every position has its duties. The slowly moving children of God will find their peculiar state one where they may be eminently a blessing to the whole host.

But the rear guard is a place of danger! There are foes behind us as well as before us. Attacks may come from any quarter. Remember how Amalek fell upon Israel and slew some of the hindmost? The experienced Christian will find much work for his weapons here—aiding those poor doubting, desponding, wavering souls who are hindmost in faith, knowledge, and joy. These must not be left unaided!

Therefore let it be the business of well-taught saints to bear their standards among the hindmost. My soul, tenderly watch to help the hindmost this day.