“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2 NIV)
Before you can answer the question, you have to define responsible.
Suppose you define responsible as praying for other people. You’re responsible for everyone God brings into your life. Prayer is something we’re to develop into a lifestyle:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)
For instance, my husband and I drove on the interstate over Labor Day Weekend. Traffic was heavy. Several different times, young guys on fast motorcycles wove in and out of the cars. Each time I did the same thing. I covered my eyes with my hand and asked God not to let me see a horrific accident; then I asked Him to protect the riders and get them to their destination safely. We carry each other’s burdens by first starting with prayer.
However, if you define responsible as taking care of a person’s well-being, it depends on the relationship. If you’re married, spouses have an obligation to each other and their children. I’ve found, making my husband a priority in my life defines all other relationships. Working on our relationship is my responsibility first and foremost. All others come second. Prioritizing relationships is up to the individual.
God takes responsibility for all.
One of the hardest lessons for me to learn in ministry, I’m not God. In other words, my “job” isn’t to solve every problem. Hurting people seek Jesus. Some of the stories I’ve encountered since following Jesus bring me to tears at the thought of them. Difficult questions have no answers. Nothing I do or say can take away the pain and heartache. But I’m not God. Never did He intend for me to have all the answers or solve all the problems. His job is to run the world. Mine is just to love Him and love others to the best of my ability.
When life’s circumstances are overwhelming, trust Him:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NIV)
In truth, none of us are responsible for anyone. God is the Creator; He has the plan. We’re to seek Him and follow. When we do, we’ll know whose burdens we are to carry. Begin with prayer. Lift their worries to God. Watch as He answers in His time and way.
We are responsible to pray for others. When we do, we carry their burdens. God does the rest.
Question of the Day:
What burdens do you need to give to Jesus today?
Further Reading: Isaiah 37-38 NIV, Galatians 6:1-18 NIV, Psalm 65 NIV, Proverbs 23:24 NIV