James Hudson Taylor, born on May 21, 1832, in Barnsley, Yorkshire, England, was a dedicated Christian missionary who founded the China Inland Mission in 1865. His career highlights include pioneering inland evangelism in China, enduring immense hardships, and establishing over 500 mission stations, leading to thousands of conversions. Taylor’s notable achievements encompass writing influential books on faith and mission, such as “China’s Spiritual Need and Claims,” and his unwavering commitment to sharing the gospel despite personal losses and health challenges. The quotes here are sourced from his books, letters, and biographies, focusing on themes of life, including perseverance, purpose, and trust in God. This list presents 15 insightful quotes that reflect his wisdom, drawn from historical records to inspire reflection on life’s journey.
Quote List
15 Hudson Taylor Quotes
1. “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” (Book, “A Retrospect,” 1894)
2. “I am no longer anxious about anything, as I realize that He is able to carry out His will, and His will is mine.” (Letter to friends, 1868)
3. “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.” (Book, “China’s Spiritual Need and Claims,” 1865)
4. “Do not have your concert first, and then tune your instrument afterwards. Begin the day with the Word of God and prayer.” (Book, “A Retrospect,” 1894)
5. “China is not to be won for Christ by quiet, ease-loving men and women.” (Speech, China Inland Mission conference, 1875)
6. “The branch of the vine does not worry, and toil, and rush here to seek for sunshine, and there to find rain. No; it rests in union and communion with the vine.” (Book, “Union and Communion,” 1894)
7. “I have found that there are three stages in every great work of God: first, it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done.” (Attributed in biography, n.d.)
8. “All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they reckoned on God being with them.” (Book, “A Retrospect,” 1894)
9. “Let us give up our work, our thoughts, our plans, ourselves, our lives, our loved ones, our influence, our all, right into His hand.” (Letter to supporters, 1870)
10. “The sweetest part, if one may speak of one part being sweeter than another, is the growing sense of nearness to the Lord Himself.” (Diary entry, published in biography, 1895)
11. “We are not only to preach the gospel to all, but we are to provide the means by which it may be carried to all.” (Book, “China’s Millions,” 1885)
12. “Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, and looks to God alone; laughs at impossibilities, and cries it shall be done.” (Hymn or reflection, attributed in writings, n.d.)
13. “It is not so much the greatness of our troubles, as the littleness of our faith.” (Book, “A Retrospect,” 1894)
14. “When I cannot read, when I cannot think, when I cannot even pray, I can trust.” (Letter to family, 1880)
15. “Our duty is to be, our privilege is to do; but only as we are, can we do.” (Book, “Union and Communion,” 1894)
In reflecting on these quotes, we see Hudson Taylor’s profound trust in divine guidance, emphasizing resilience, purpose, and surrender in the face of life’s uncertainties. They reveal a man whose faith shaped his responses to adversity, inspiring others to find strength in simplicity and devotion. What insights do these words spark for you? Share your thoughts and favorite quotes in the comments below to continue the conversation.