Hudson Taylor was convicted that God wanted him to get more workers to China. But knowing the dangers and difficulties, he feared that it would his responsibility if they break down, and “bitterly reproach me for having encouraged them to undertake an enterprise for which they were unequal.” Their blood would be on his hands.
Finally, after much agonizing, “I told Him that all the consequences must rest with Him, that as His servant, it was mine to obey and follow Him – His, to direct, to care for, and to guide me and those who might labor with me.”
To a lesser degree, I feel this responsibility for those whom I ask to serve with me. Even in small matters, such as asking Sunday School teachers to come early, or come to training on a Saturday, I feel I am taking away their family time, or making them sacrifice, or make them tired if they have to wake up early. I don’t want to put extra burdens on people to help with childcare, or help bring snacks, or come early to set up. They may “bitterly reproach me for having encouraged them to undertake an enterprise for which they were unequal.” And if they don’t want to do it, I don’t want them to feel guilty. That would not set them on a right relationship with God.
Today I learned as Taylor said, all consequences must rest with God. He is in control, let him take care of the people. I do my part to ask for what I believe is right and needs to be done for God’s service. I’ll have to leave the consequences to God.