Posts
Tuesday
Attention on the growing scandal of the toxic milk and concern over food safety were at least temporarily overshadowed by the successful space walk of the Shenzhou-7 mission. We praise God for what China as a nation has accomplished and pray that even more hearts of Chinese will be reached by the Gospel, and more believers will crave the Word of God like babes craving for the true milk.
Wednesday
Almost 30% of newly enrolled college students joined the Communist Party and attended all the requisite Party indoctrination courses. Although young people dislike political ideology, having the Party membership is the ticket to good jobs and a must for future advancement. Recent high-profile corruption cases involved several officials with masters degrees or higher. We pray for genuine spiritual growth of all the theology students in the training centers and seminaries. May the Holy Spirit transform all of us, changing our thoughts and minds.
Thursday
The new Labor Contract Law implemented this year has increased the cost of labor by half. Now, every employer must deposit 5000 yuan (US$770.) into a government account to ensure the fair treatment of workers. The new law affects all foreign-owned factories (including those run by Taiwanese) that sanction fellowships and meetings for their workers. We pray for all the ministries that equip workers in the factories. May all workers who have received training be effective in reaching other workers for Jesus.
Friday
Teachers are much more than just instructors in the Confucius tradition; they are also models of morality. Today, many Chinese teachers in higher education are reluctant to live up to such a high expectation. Many are accused of unethical conduct, including receiving gifts from students in exchange for favors or better grades. Students learn much more than knowledge from their teachers. Many say that Chinese Bible students are wonderful in Bible knowledge, but are badly in need of character formation. Let us pray for a real transformation of the Holy Spirit in all believers, so our knowledge and character grow fully together.
Saturday
Believer parents are at a loss on how to cope with their teenagers; they are frustrated in inability to discipline the only child and teen's "addiction" to Internet and online games. There are more resources available for Chinese parents now but Christian helps are hard to find. Raising godly children is a "impossible dream" for many Christian parents. Let us pray for all the parents who are struggling with communicating with their teenage children, for a personal relationship with Jesus and protecting them from temptation.
Sunday
Without a college education, it is very difficult to be successful in China. 81% of poor families are not able to afford the college education which is averaging 6780 (nearly $1000) yuans yearly. The gap between the rich and poor is so wide and huge now, and is even more acute in interior China. We are seeing more church workers leaving their ministries because of they want their only child to have at least a college education. Let us pray for the worry about finance and children' education for all believers. May the Lord provide and answer their prayer of faith.
Monday
Korean universities are attracting students from China. Many young Chinese are admirer of anything Korean because they have been watching Korean movies and crazy about Korean celebrities. We thank the Lord for many Korean churches having both ministries for both Chinese laborers and college students. We are excited about many conversions among the Chinese in Korea.
星期二
「神舟七號」中國航天飛船發射成功，除了實現中國人千年以來欲在太空漫步的夢想外，也暫且轉移了人們的焦點，關注於大眾傳媒不斷傳來毒奶粉醜聞，並人民對食品安全的焦慮。讓我們在為中國的多項卓越成就向神感恩之同時，也不忘繼續為福音能進入更多中國人心中來代禱。更盼望信徒們對神話語有更深的渴慕，如同嬰兒愛慕純正的奶水一樣。
星期三
有近三成中國大學生加入共產黨，且每週出席黨員「必修」的黨課練習。縱然多數年輕人都對現行政治感到厭惡，卻為五斗米二折腰，投靠共產黨以作為將來事業和前途的保障。近期涉入貪凟案件的官員裡，不乏受過高等教育的碩士、博士。我們為神學院以及訓練中心的神學生禱告，求主引領使他們的屬靈生命得以落實成長，求聖靈保守我們的心懷意念，使全人能更新變化，活出基督的樣式。
星期四
中國今年開始實施的勞動合同法，使勞工成本增加五成，雇主每聘一名勞工，就要繳人民幣五千元到政府的專戶裡，預防雇主「落跑」。新勞動合同法致力於保障勞工，卻影響到外資企業包括臺商企業在内的工廠。許多成立有員工的團契和聚會活動。我們特別為這些在工廠裡領人歸主、訓練們徒的事工禱告，願主祝福他們能為主在基層訓練更多合主用的器皿。
星期五
古時候爲人師表不僅只教授知識，更要成為學生的道德楷模；當今高校的教授、老師似乎並不願背負這麽高的期許，收受考試「 通關費」等失節行爲層出不窮。許多聖經學院的學生，在知識上的學習常能夠青出於藍，聖經知識非凡，但品格與靈性卻有待陶造。求主讓每個信徒都能真正被重新建造，知識和品格七一齊整全的成長。
星期六
信徒父母不太懂得與青春期的子女相處，更不懂得如何幫助沈溺於網絡世界的子女。社會上形形色色有關教養子女的課程、講座和書籍應運而生，然而基督教資源卻如鳳毛麟角。許多信徒父母認爲要在這年代養育敬虔愛主的兒女，幾乎不可能。讓我們為所有信徒父母禱告，求神給他們與兒女溝通的智慧，幫助他們帶領兒女與基督建立親密的個人關係，好在人生旅途上依靠主過得勝的生活。
星期日
沒受過大學教育，在今天的中國難以出人頭地。而高達81％的家庭，總收入尚不足以支付子女每年6780（近1000美元）的教育費用。社會貧富懸殊現象日益擴大，在内陸尤甚。愈來愈多傳道人爲了獨生子女的教育費，相繼離開服事工場，另謀他就。我們在此為所有信徒及傳道人的經濟負擔，以及他們兒女的教育問題禱告，求神看顧並回應他們在信心中的求告。
星期一
近幾年，韓國留學市場不斷升溫，韓國大學十分吸引中國學生。這與「韓流」在中國的影響也有密切關係，年輕人風靡韓劇、推崇任何韓國時尚。感謝神讓許多韓國教會都同時有為中國勞工和大學生而設的事工。讓我們繼續為更多中國人能在韓國歸主來禱告。
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Prayer Request 9/23-9/29
TuesdayT
ainted baby formula raises new questions about China's food standards. Many parents worry about the safety of domestic food products, but are unable to afford the higher-priced, better-quality imported products. The question "How solid is the Biblical teaching among the majority of Chinese churches?" can be a tough question to answer. Preachers often have little time or resources to prepare adequately. Let us pray for the quality of preaching and supply of spiritual food to all the sheep.
Wednesday
Imported baby formula is expensive and beyond the affordability of the vast majority of consumers, especially in rural regions. Generally, Chinese consumers have the perception: the more expensive a product, the better the quality. Many mainland believers with Internet access are able to listen to sermons in Chinese abroad, especially from the North American Chinese churches. We thank the Lord for such resources. May the Lord use all the DVDs, VCDs of sermons and theology curriculum to equip even more believers.
Thursday
One reason tainted products cause harm mostly in rural regions is because of the lack of supervision. People are poor and merchants prey on unsophisticated peasants with cheap counterfeit and dangerous food and drugs. Unfortunately, many rural churches are still being attacked by cults and there is plenty of false and unsound teaching, too. We pray especially for the sheep ravaged by wolves and false teachers; may the Lord have great mercy on them and restore them.
Friday
In the Olympics, China garnered fifty-one gold medals but she is certainly still far away from a nation of sports. In fact, only very small minority of Chinese even take part in sports and freely accessible facilities of good quality to do so are just impossible to find for the general public. All parents discourage their children from participating in sports and urge them to concentrate on studying. Some people say that the churches in China are not growing much at all but are really losing in attendance. Let us pray even more earnestly for revival of those remaining believers and the guarding of their hearts from materialism.
Saturday
Many would agree that the morality of college students has dropped precipitously. The term "college girls" carries an awful sexual connotation in China nowadays. College students are no longer idealistic and pure; they "would do anything for money." Most people come to know Jesus in college for the first time. Let us pray for all the student ministries among all the campuses and the life-transforming discipleship of new believers.
Sunday
There are 300 million Muslims in Africa who are resistant to Caucasian missionaries. However, Africans, including the Muslims, are much more receptive and friendlier toward Chinese. Many of them want to learn the Chinese language and culture. We praise the Lord for opening this door for the Gospel. Let us pray that many Chinese will care about the spiritual needs of Muslims and are willing to get involved in mission work in Africa.MondaySome say that the college students of China today lack the ability of telling what is true from false, morally discerning the good from the bad. They are afraid of authority, especially questioning the validity of the news with their official stances and statements. We worry about the lack of a moral compass and standard of the young people. Let us pray for China churches as they struggle to retain the young ones, to keep them from leaving church, and to foster deep-rooted spiritual growth of those who remain.
星期二
中國有毒嬰兒奶粉引發針對國內食物品質的新一輪質疑. 很多家長對本地食物產品的安全均表示擔心，但無法負擔較昂貴而質素較好的同類型產品。關於大部份的中國教會在聖經教導方面的根基如何，是個很難回答的問題．讓我們為講壇訊息禱告，同時祈求神親自保守信徒能在操練中獲得更深廣的屬靈成長。
星期三
由於國外進口嬰兒奶粉價格高昂，中國大部份消費者，尤其是在農村的居民，根本無力負擔。中國的大眾消費者普遍認為價格越高，產品質素越好。現時，很多國內信徒可透過互聯網收聽國外中文講道訊息，尤其是來自北美華語教會的講道。我們一方面為能這些資源感恩，一方面也祈求上帝使用已輯錄成講道及神學課程的光碟，造就更多肢體。
星期四
有毒奶粉對農村地區造成較大的禍害，原因之一是因為缺乏有效的監管系统。由於當地居民生活貧困，不肖商人往往利用這個弱點，售賣假貨及有害食藥品欺騙無知的老百姓。目前，很多農村教會正遭受邪教異端、虛假及不純正道理等教導的侵襲。讓我們為那些因假師傅被蒙騙及侵吞的羊群禱告，願主施恩憐憫，從歧路上挽回他們。
星期五
奧運期間，中國共奪取了五十一面金牌。然而，中國距離世界體育強國的地位還有相當的距離。事實上，中國的全民體育普及度仍不高，供群眾使用的免費，或收費較低廉體育設施仍是鳳毛麟角。大部份家長都希望子女專注學業，不贊成他們投身體育事業。對中國教會的發展，有些人認為不但沒有增長，參加聚會人數正在逐步下降。讓我們懇切為所有恆常參與聚會的信眾禱告，求神復興他們，堅定信心並保守他們勝過在物質下的引誘。
星期六
目前大學生的道德素質迅速下降。當今的「高校女生」一詞甚至有色情義涵。大學生不再清高，他們相信有錢能使鬼推磨，有人為錢什麽都肯幹。許多大學生於學校初識耶穌。讓我們為校園事工及初信者能夠真正獲得重生、成爲主的門徒來禱告。
星期日
現今的白人宣教士已難進入非洲三億回民之中。但包括回教徒在内的非洲人，卻能夠接受華人，也尊重華人。他們甚至嚮往學習中國語言與中國文化，因而為華人宣教士帶來不少方便。 這是神開啟的福音大門，我們在感謝讚美之餘，也求主興起更多華人關心回民的需要、參與拓展非洲的福音事工。 星期一當今中國大學生普遍缺乏三大基本能力：辨別是非真假的判斷能力，辨別善惡好壞的道德能力，以及辨別美醜的審美能力。許多大學生無條件相信發佈的新聞和文告，缺乏獨立思考的判斷。而年輕人的道德標準亦令人担憂。中國教會往往很難留得住年輕人，讓我們為教會的青年事工禱告，求主在教會中的年輕人心中動工，使他們的靈命結結實實地扎根並向上開花結果，成為照亮時代的火炬。
ainted baby formula raises new questions about China's food standards. Many parents worry about the safety of domestic food products, but are unable to afford the higher-priced, better-quality imported products. The question "How solid is the Biblical teaching among the majority of Chinese churches?" can be a tough question to answer. Preachers often have little time or resources to prepare adequately. Let us pray for the quality of preaching and supply of spiritual food to all the sheep.
Wednesday
Imported baby formula is expensive and beyond the affordability of the vast majority of consumers, especially in rural regions. Generally, Chinese consumers have the perception: the more expensive a product, the better the quality. Many mainland believers with Internet access are able to listen to sermons in Chinese abroad, especially from the North American Chinese churches. We thank the Lord for such resources. May the Lord use all the DVDs, VCDs of sermons and theology curriculum to equip even more believers.
Thursday
One reason tainted products cause harm mostly in rural regions is because of the lack of supervision. People are poor and merchants prey on unsophisticated peasants with cheap counterfeit and dangerous food and drugs. Unfortunately, many rural churches are still being attacked by cults and there is plenty of false and unsound teaching, too. We pray especially for the sheep ravaged by wolves and false teachers; may the Lord have great mercy on them and restore them.
Friday
In the Olympics, China garnered fifty-one gold medals but she is certainly still far away from a nation of sports. In fact, only very small minority of Chinese even take part in sports and freely accessible facilities of good quality to do so are just impossible to find for the general public. All parents discourage their children from participating in sports and urge them to concentrate on studying. Some people say that the churches in China are not growing much at all but are really losing in attendance. Let us pray even more earnestly for revival of those remaining believers and the guarding of their hearts from materialism.
Saturday
Many would agree that the morality of college students has dropped precipitously. The term "college girls" carries an awful sexual connotation in China nowadays. College students are no longer idealistic and pure; they "would do anything for money." Most people come to know Jesus in college for the first time. Let us pray for all the student ministries among all the campuses and the life-transforming discipleship of new believers.
Sunday
There are 300 million Muslims in Africa who are resistant to Caucasian missionaries. However, Africans, including the Muslims, are much more receptive and friendlier toward Chinese. Many of them want to learn the Chinese language and culture. We praise the Lord for opening this door for the Gospel. Let us pray that many Chinese will care about the spiritual needs of Muslims and are willing to get involved in mission work in Africa.MondaySome say that the college students of China today lack the ability of telling what is true from false, morally discerning the good from the bad. They are afraid of authority, especially questioning the validity of the news with their official stances and statements. We worry about the lack of a moral compass and standard of the young people. Let us pray for China churches as they struggle to retain the young ones, to keep them from leaving church, and to foster deep-rooted spiritual growth of those who remain.
星期二
中國有毒嬰兒奶粉引發針對國內食物品質的新一輪質疑. 很多家長對本地食物產品的安全均表示擔心，但無法負擔較昂貴而質素較好的同類型產品。關於大部份的中國教會在聖經教導方面的根基如何，是個很難回答的問題．讓我們為講壇訊息禱告，同時祈求神親自保守信徒能在操練中獲得更深廣的屬靈成長。
星期三
由於國外進口嬰兒奶粉價格高昂，中國大部份消費者，尤其是在農村的居民，根本無力負擔。中國的大眾消費者普遍認為價格越高，產品質素越好。現時，很多國內信徒可透過互聯網收聽國外中文講道訊息，尤其是來自北美華語教會的講道。我們一方面為能這些資源感恩，一方面也祈求上帝使用已輯錄成講道及神學課程的光碟，造就更多肢體。
星期四
有毒奶粉對農村地區造成較大的禍害，原因之一是因為缺乏有效的監管系统。由於當地居民生活貧困，不肖商人往往利用這個弱點，售賣假貨及有害食藥品欺騙無知的老百姓。目前，很多農村教會正遭受邪教異端、虛假及不純正道理等教導的侵襲。讓我們為那些因假師傅被蒙騙及侵吞的羊群禱告，願主施恩憐憫，從歧路上挽回他們。
星期五
奧運期間，中國共奪取了五十一面金牌。然而，中國距離世界體育強國的地位還有相當的距離。事實上，中國的全民體育普及度仍不高，供群眾使用的免費，或收費較低廉體育設施仍是鳳毛麟角。大部份家長都希望子女專注學業，不贊成他們投身體育事業。對中國教會的發展，有些人認為不但沒有增長，參加聚會人數正在逐步下降。讓我們懇切為所有恆常參與聚會的信眾禱告，求神復興他們，堅定信心並保守他們勝過在物質下的引誘。
星期六
目前大學生的道德素質迅速下降。當今的「高校女生」一詞甚至有色情義涵。大學生不再清高，他們相信有錢能使鬼推磨，有人為錢什麽都肯幹。許多大學生於學校初識耶穌。讓我們為校園事工及初信者能夠真正獲得重生、成爲主的門徒來禱告。
星期日
現今的白人宣教士已難進入非洲三億回民之中。但包括回教徒在内的非洲人，卻能夠接受華人，也尊重華人。他們甚至嚮往學習中國語言與中國文化，因而為華人宣教士帶來不少方便。 這是神開啟的福音大門，我們在感謝讚美之餘，也求主興起更多華人關心回民的需要、參與拓展非洲的福音事工。 星期一當今中國大學生普遍缺乏三大基本能力：辨別是非真假的判斷能力，辨別善惡好壞的道德能力，以及辨別美醜的審美能力。許多大學生無條件相信發佈的新聞和文告，缺乏獨立思考的判斷。而年輕人的道德標準亦令人担憂。中國教會往往很難留得住年輕人，讓我們為教會的青年事工禱告，求主在教會中的年輕人心中動工，使他們的靈命結結實實地扎根並向上開花結果，成為照亮時代的火炬。
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
9/16 - 9/22
Tuesday
Millions of newly affluent Chinese are moving to vast "satellite cities" rising on the fringes of the country's megalopolises. These new suburbia are a trend that reshape China and rocking the global economy. A big problem confronting believers in China is how to build churches in these newly-formed communities. Let us pray for these growing harvest fields and for the fresh fellowships forming among the new homes.
Wednesday
Some 300 million to 400 million people from dirt-poor farming regions made their way to relative prosperity in cities. Today, there are 49 cities in China with one million population or more. House churches in these large cities play a greater role in evangelism and training than they did in the rural churches in the past. In many ways urban believers are harder to minister to since their work is farther from where they live and they must commute. We uplift those who are shepherding urban churches, especially those who are involved in the caring and visitation aspects.
Thursday
Currently there are ten satellite cities going up around Shanghai and it is estimated that by the year 2010 there will be some 2600 miles of new highway around the city that wasn't there in 2000. Millions of new cars will be coursing up and down those highways. Since Shanghai is the official seat of the Three-self Churches, it is still the "capital" of Christian churches. In terms of vitality and church growth, however, Shanghai has lagged behind other cities. Let us humbly seek God's blessing on the churches in the Greater Shanghai area, especially those churches led by foreigners, expats, and hai gui (people returned from overseas).
Friday
In China, among the newly-minted middle class, a car is almost as much of a badge of honor as a new apartment or house. In Shanghai it costs almost $6,000 to get a license plate for one's car. We are seeing more and more affluent believers these days due to the teaching of "prosperity theology"--God wants you to be rich--which has become very popular and has been embraced by many. Let us pray for hearts of contentment and thanksgiving among Christians. We pray, too, for humility for all wealthy believers that they will not discriminate against their less fortunate brothers and sisters.
Saturday
Experts predict that during the next decade five million people will move from Shanghai proper to the suburbs where the affluent middle class people chose to live and raise their families, but still commute into the city to work. Many of the urban churches face the dilemma of their more affluent members leaving for the suburbs with the "poorer" members left behind. Let us pray for some new strategies for church planting in satellite cities and a new approach in reaching out to the communities where the present church is located.
Sunday
Koreans make up the largest foreign community in China with as many as 700,000 who reside there long-term. Each week 830 flights connect Korea and China directly and link some thirty Chinese cities with six Korean cities--a figure higher than the number of flights between China and the USA each month. Many churches in China are supported either directly or indirectly by Korean churches. We thank the Lord for this godly neighbor and all the Korean pastors serving in China. May the Lord bless and strengthen the Chinese churches not only to be a receiver but to be a giver also.
Monday
Korean students make up the largest foreign student body in China with one in every three foreign students being Korean. However, according to a Korean official, "Despite all this, there are very few Koreans who understand China deeply." Many foreign students come to China with a desire to serve the Chinese people and are involved in teaching English or working in the community. We uplift all these foreign students for their mastering of the Chinese language, their influence on young believers, and challenging young people to follow God.
星期二
數以百萬計的中國新富紛紛遷進大都會周邊的衛星城市．新區的筍立形成了一股潮流，不單為中國帶來新的城市面貌，更撼動了全球經濟的走向．目前中國信徒的一大挑戰是如何於新形成的社區裡建立教會．讓我們為這不斷擴展的福音禾場和在新家庭成立的團契禱告．
星期三
中國目前約有3-4億人口為了謀求更好生活，從貧瘠的農村湧到城市居住,已有49個城市，人口達一百萬以上。相對於農村，在城市的家庭教會在傳福音和裝備方面可發揮更重要角色，但在牧養上則比較困難，因城市信徒往往要花許多時間在工作的往返上。讓我們記念所有在城市教會事奉的同工，尤其是負責關顧和探訪的，主的恩典與供應充沛。
星期四
目前上海周邊新崛起的衛星城市達到十個．據估計在2000年至2010年間，市區高速公路總長增加了2600英哩，車輛數目也以數以百萬計的速度快速增長著．上海一直是三自教會的中心和基督教會的大本營。然而其活力並增長速度已遜於其他城市。讓我們謙卑地祈求上帝賜福大上海地區教會，尤其是由外國、外籍中國人及「海歸」等成員為主幹的教會。
星期五
對中國新崛起的中產階級而言，一輛轎車所賦予的身分價值與尊貴,幾乎等同一所別墅。在上海，車主要付出高達6,000元的價錢以換取一個車牌．「富裕神學」的教導–"上帝想讓你富裕"之類的思想，非常受人歡迎及擁戴，教會也增加了越來越多「富裕」的信徒。讓我們祈求所有基督徒都能常知足感恩；也保守富裕的信徒，能存謙卑的心，不歧視不及他們富裕的弟兄姊妹，善用主在經濟上的祝福及託負。
星期六
專家估計未來十年間，會有五百萬人從上海市區遷移到郊區，雖然這些富裕家庭搬到郊區，但每天仍要返回市區工作。很多城市教會所面對的難題是如何同時兼顧遷離到郊區生活的較富裕會友，以及留守在舊區收入較低的一群。讓我們祈求教會能利用新策略推動衛星城市的植堂工作，同時亦能釐定新方案使教會更有效接觸及牧養舊社區的居民。
星期日
在中國長期居住的外國人口中，韓國人佔大多數，高達七十萬。每星期便有高達八百三十班航班直接往來中國及韓國，把三十個中國城市及六個韓國城市聯繫起來。這個數字遠比一個月內往返中國及美國所有航機班次的總和還要高。很多中國教會都直接或間接受助於韓國教會。我們為上帝預備這個敬虔的鄰舍感恩，也感謝服侍中國人的韓國牧師。祈求上帝賜福及堅固中國教會，不單只接受幫助亦能對外樂意施予，回應神的心意。
星期一
在中國的留學生中，以韓國學生的比例最高，佔全數的三分一。據一名韓國官員透露，真正能深入了解中國的韓國人卻寥寥無幾。 很多外國學生懷著滿腔熱誠來到中國，一心要服侍中國人，參與英語教學或其他社區服務工作。讓我們為這班留學生禱告，求主幫助他們能更有效掌握漢語文及文化，成為年輕一代的屬靈榜樣，激勵他們快跑跟隨主的腳蹤。
Millions of newly affluent Chinese are moving to vast "satellite cities" rising on the fringes of the country's megalopolises. These new suburbia are a trend that reshape China and rocking the global economy. A big problem confronting believers in China is how to build churches in these newly-formed communities. Let us pray for these growing harvest fields and for the fresh fellowships forming among the new homes.
Wednesday
Some 300 million to 400 million people from dirt-poor farming regions made their way to relative prosperity in cities. Today, there are 49 cities in China with one million population or more. House churches in these large cities play a greater role in evangelism and training than they did in the rural churches in the past. In many ways urban believers are harder to minister to since their work is farther from where they live and they must commute. We uplift those who are shepherding urban churches, especially those who are involved in the caring and visitation aspects.
Thursday
Currently there are ten satellite cities going up around Shanghai and it is estimated that by the year 2010 there will be some 2600 miles of new highway around the city that wasn't there in 2000. Millions of new cars will be coursing up and down those highways. Since Shanghai is the official seat of the Three-self Churches, it is still the "capital" of Christian churches. In terms of vitality and church growth, however, Shanghai has lagged behind other cities. Let us humbly seek God's blessing on the churches in the Greater Shanghai area, especially those churches led by foreigners, expats, and hai gui (people returned from overseas).
Friday
In China, among the newly-minted middle class, a car is almost as much of a badge of honor as a new apartment or house. In Shanghai it costs almost $6,000 to get a license plate for one's car. We are seeing more and more affluent believers these days due to the teaching of "prosperity theology"--God wants you to be rich--which has become very popular and has been embraced by many. Let us pray for hearts of contentment and thanksgiving among Christians. We pray, too, for humility for all wealthy believers that they will not discriminate against their less fortunate brothers and sisters.
Saturday
Experts predict that during the next decade five million people will move from Shanghai proper to the suburbs where the affluent middle class people chose to live and raise their families, but still commute into the city to work. Many of the urban churches face the dilemma of their more affluent members leaving for the suburbs with the "poorer" members left behind. Let us pray for some new strategies for church planting in satellite cities and a new approach in reaching out to the communities where the present church is located.
Sunday
Koreans make up the largest foreign community in China with as many as 700,000 who reside there long-term. Each week 830 flights connect Korea and China directly and link some thirty Chinese cities with six Korean cities--a figure higher than the number of flights between China and the USA each month. Many churches in China are supported either directly or indirectly by Korean churches. We thank the Lord for this godly neighbor and all the Korean pastors serving in China. May the Lord bless and strengthen the Chinese churches not only to be a receiver but to be a giver also.
Monday
Korean students make up the largest foreign student body in China with one in every three foreign students being Korean. However, according to a Korean official, "Despite all this, there are very few Koreans who understand China deeply." Many foreign students come to China with a desire to serve the Chinese people and are involved in teaching English or working in the community. We uplift all these foreign students for their mastering of the Chinese language, their influence on young believers, and challenging young people to follow God.
星期二
數以百萬計的中國新富紛紛遷進大都會周邊的衛星城市．新區的筍立形成了一股潮流，不單為中國帶來新的城市面貌，更撼動了全球經濟的走向．目前中國信徒的一大挑戰是如何於新形成的社區裡建立教會．讓我們為這不斷擴展的福音禾場和在新家庭成立的團契禱告．
星期三
中國目前約有3-4億人口為了謀求更好生活，從貧瘠的農村湧到城市居住,已有49個城市，人口達一百萬以上。相對於農村，在城市的家庭教會在傳福音和裝備方面可發揮更重要角色，但在牧養上則比較困難，因城市信徒往往要花許多時間在工作的往返上。讓我們記念所有在城市教會事奉的同工，尤其是負責關顧和探訪的，主的恩典與供應充沛。
星期四
目前上海周邊新崛起的衛星城市達到十個．據估計在2000年至2010年間，市區高速公路總長增加了2600英哩，車輛數目也以數以百萬計的速度快速增長著．上海一直是三自教會的中心和基督教會的大本營。然而其活力並增長速度已遜於其他城市。讓我們謙卑地祈求上帝賜福大上海地區教會，尤其是由外國、外籍中國人及「海歸」等成員為主幹的教會。
星期五
對中國新崛起的中產階級而言，一輛轎車所賦予的身分價值與尊貴,幾乎等同一所別墅。在上海，車主要付出高達6,000元的價錢以換取一個車牌．「富裕神學」的教導–"上帝想讓你富裕"之類的思想，非常受人歡迎及擁戴，教會也增加了越來越多「富裕」的信徒。讓我們祈求所有基督徒都能常知足感恩；也保守富裕的信徒，能存謙卑的心，不歧視不及他們富裕的弟兄姊妹，善用主在經濟上的祝福及託負。
星期六
專家估計未來十年間，會有五百萬人從上海市區遷移到郊區，雖然這些富裕家庭搬到郊區，但每天仍要返回市區工作。很多城市教會所面對的難題是如何同時兼顧遷離到郊區生活的較富裕會友，以及留守在舊區收入較低的一群。讓我們祈求教會能利用新策略推動衛星城市的植堂工作，同時亦能釐定新方案使教會更有效接觸及牧養舊社區的居民。
星期日
在中國長期居住的外國人口中，韓國人佔大多數，高達七十萬。每星期便有高達八百三十班航班直接往來中國及韓國，把三十個中國城市及六個韓國城市聯繫起來。這個數字遠比一個月內往返中國及美國所有航機班次的總和還要高。很多中國教會都直接或間接受助於韓國教會。我們為上帝預備這個敬虔的鄰舍感恩，也感謝服侍中國人的韓國牧師。祈求上帝賜福及堅固中國教會，不單只接受幫助亦能對外樂意施予，回應神的心意。
星期一
在中國的留學生中，以韓國學生的比例最高，佔全數的三分一。據一名韓國官員透露，真正能深入了解中國的韓國人卻寥寥無幾。 很多外國學生懷著滿腔熱誠來到中國，一心要服侍中國人，參與英語教學或其他社區服務工作。讓我們為這班留學生禱告，求主幫助他們能更有效掌握漢語文及文化，成為年輕一代的屬靈榜樣，激勵他們快跑跟隨主的腳蹤。
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Prayer Request 9/9-9/15
Tuesday
The Henan Sports Bureau for the Henan Province was not garnished with a gold metal in the Olympics this time. When the Olympics were in Athens, Henan, China's most populous province, got three gold medals. Henan has the most Christians and churches of all the provinces in China. However, in the last decade the Church has been weakened by the loss of young people leaving to work in cities as well as divisions and attacks by cults. Let us pray for divine protection and a revival in the Henan churches. May they again be a model to all churches in China.
Wednesday
Many Chinese are asking, "What was the reward for our hosting the Olympics in Beijing?" The obvious ones are a surging national pride and a cultural self-confidence. A recent survey revealed a record number of youth in Hong Kong who are taking great pride in "being Chinese". Overseas Chinese youth have a growing interest in China and are showing identification with the people there, We pray that God will stir the hearts of many foreign-born Chinese to learn the language and share the gospel in China.
Thursday
"The Together-eating Tribe" or literally "People who eat together and split the cost" is an official term for three to five young people who find each other randomly online and then go out to eat and divide the cost of their meals (about 100 yuan or US $15. each time). Chinese young people meet each other in a much different way today than they did in the past and it is considered highly acceptable for them to meet complete strangers online and then share more than a meal. Let us pray for all the young Christians who are striving to live a life for Christ and desire to honor God in all they do.
Friday
The hot American TV show, "Sex and the City," is even hotter in China, but it is demurely named "City of Desire." One conservative estimate puts the number of extramarital affairs among Chinese couples at 16%. Chinese couples seem to devote their time, energy, and money on their only child and often neglect their own marriage. Let us pray for all Christian couples, for solid teaching on safeguarding their marriage, so that they will not be influenced by secular values and practices that defile their marriage. We, too, pray that more churches will emphasize and provide marriage seminars and training for their flocks.
Saturday
A respected magazine reported that 83% of women from six large cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, identified themselves as being single. Among those with college degrees and higher, nearly 90% consider being single as inevitable. A few years back, the Chinese word for "bachelor" was strictly a masculine term. Chinese women are expected to get married and bear children. There are many single sisters among the urban churches, many are under pressure from their families to marry anyone available, whether they are Christians or not. We remember them in our prayers and their desire to serve the Lord.
Sunday
Twenty years ago, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, was in the top five ports for clothing export, but the city now suffers a high unemployment rate. Many expect a similar fate for the Guangdong province, which is heavily dependent on cheap labor and low-end manufacturing. Facilitating this economic transition is part of the Central government long term plan. The Guangdong province is the gateway to inland for many ministries. Let us pray for many Christians who go to China for work but face closure of factories. We too remember those ministries reaching out to factory workers and churches designed to attract laborers.
Monday
It is easy to divide up properties when couples file for divorce. Among 90% of divorced couples, visitation arrangements of the only child invariably is the most contentious issue, especially when grandparents on both sides try to court favor with the only grandchild and are even more emotionally involved. Divorce is the leading family issue in China. Many are so pessimistic about it and couples speak of it as an imminent possibility. We pray for all the believers who are divorced, for their spiritual growth, and for those Christian grandparents who will demonstrate the love of God to their grandchildren growing up in divorced homes.
星期二
河南乃是中國人口第一大省，2004 雅典奧運會，河南選手抱走了3枚金牌；北京奧運會，河南選手的金牌數卻顆粒無收。河南體育局宣稱他們承擔失敗的責任。河南省的基督信徒和教會最多，但在過去十年中，因為年輕人去了城市打工，加上教會遭遇許多分裂和邪教的打擊，那曾有的興旺已被削弱。讓我們切切祈求神保護河南眾教會能再次復興，成為中國其他教會的榜樣。
星期三
不少國人思索："京奧給中國留下了甚麼？" 其中很明顯的，奧運會給中國人民帶來了一種民族與文化自信和自豪。一項調查顯示，北京奧運使香港青年對"身為「中國人」感到驕傲的百分比創下新高。許多海外華裔青年，對於中國，以及身為華人也越來越感到光榮。我們求主感動愛主的年輕一代，讓他們不但願意學習中文也有心回到中國宣教。
星期四
合吃族，“合起來吃，分擔開支”，指的是三五個透過網路找到的人，因爲愛好美食，相聚一起追捧美食，分擔費用。一餐一般每人不超過人民幣100元（15美金）。現在的中國年輕人聚會的方式有別于過去。他們對素未謀面的網路陌生人的接受度高，分享的程度也深，不僅止于用餐而已。讓我們為在新新社會裏求存的年輕信徒禱告，保守他們凡事都能榮神益人。
星期五
美國當紅電視劇“性與城市”在中國被含蓄地翻譯為“慾望都市”，其風靡程度並不遜於美國。保守估計，中國夫妻當中，16%有婚外情。近年來，他們往往花錢、花心思在孩子身上，卻沒有好好經營自己的婚姻。信徒中的婚姻也難逃若入這樣的光景。我們禱告讓已婚弟兄姊妹能夠獲得真理的指導和扶持，以免跟隨世俗的觀念而玷污聖潔的婚姻，也求主使教會能夠加強在婚姻和家庭方面的教導。
星期六
全球頂級財經雜誌報導：在北京和上海等六大城市中，認同獨身主義的女性達83％，在高學歷女性群體中，更達到90％。幾年之前，詞典裏形容單身未婚者的詞彙只有“單身漢”，因爲在中國的價值體系裏，是不存在單身女人的。中國城市教會有許多單身姐妹，大都面對家人催婚的壓力，甚至不計較對象是否基督徒。讓我們以禱告記念她們的需要以及在主裏的服事。
星期日
廿年前，台灣的高雄巿曾是世界五大出口時裝的港口，但現今她的失業率居高不下。廣東省也面臨相同的命運，廣東的轉變是北京的宏調計劃的一部份，政府要在廣東省進行高質量的投資，並減低廉價勞工的比率。廣東省也是許多福音機構作為開發內地事工的跳板，我們特別為當中許多面臨失業的基督徒禱告，也為民工的福音事工的發展向主求恩典和能カ。
星期一
離婚的夫妻財產一般都可以分得清清楚楚，但惟獨孩子除外，因探視孩子引發的糾紛往往使離異怨偶舊恨添「新仇」。近年來，探視孩子的問題已成為離異夫妻矛盾的焦點，90 ％以上的離異夫妻都涉及這個問題。目前，離婚是全國最嚴重的家庭問題，甚至有人在結婚前已預備好隨時離婚。我們為所有離婚的信徒的靈命禱告，也為基督徒祖父母們能讓離婚家庭中的孫子們從他們身上嘗到主愛來禱告。
The Henan Sports Bureau for the Henan Province was not garnished with a gold metal in the Olympics this time. When the Olympics were in Athens, Henan, China's most populous province, got three gold medals. Henan has the most Christians and churches of all the provinces in China. However, in the last decade the Church has been weakened by the loss of young people leaving to work in cities as well as divisions and attacks by cults. Let us pray for divine protection and a revival in the Henan churches. May they again be a model to all churches in China.
Wednesday
Many Chinese are asking, "What was the reward for our hosting the Olympics in Beijing?" The obvious ones are a surging national pride and a cultural self-confidence. A recent survey revealed a record number of youth in Hong Kong who are taking great pride in "being Chinese". Overseas Chinese youth have a growing interest in China and are showing identification with the people there, We pray that God will stir the hearts of many foreign-born Chinese to learn the language and share the gospel in China.
Thursday
"The Together-eating Tribe" or literally "People who eat together and split the cost" is an official term for three to five young people who find each other randomly online and then go out to eat and divide the cost of their meals (about 100 yuan or US $15. each time). Chinese young people meet each other in a much different way today than they did in the past and it is considered highly acceptable for them to meet complete strangers online and then share more than a meal. Let us pray for all the young Christians who are striving to live a life for Christ and desire to honor God in all they do.
Friday
The hot American TV show, "Sex and the City," is even hotter in China, but it is demurely named "City of Desire." One conservative estimate puts the number of extramarital affairs among Chinese couples at 16%. Chinese couples seem to devote their time, energy, and money on their only child and often neglect their own marriage. Let us pray for all Christian couples, for solid teaching on safeguarding their marriage, so that they will not be influenced by secular values and practices that defile their marriage. We, too, pray that more churches will emphasize and provide marriage seminars and training for their flocks.
Saturday
A respected magazine reported that 83% of women from six large cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, identified themselves as being single. Among those with college degrees and higher, nearly 90% consider being single as inevitable. A few years back, the Chinese word for "bachelor" was strictly a masculine term. Chinese women are expected to get married and bear children. There are many single sisters among the urban churches, many are under pressure from their families to marry anyone available, whether they are Christians or not. We remember them in our prayers and their desire to serve the Lord.
Sunday
Twenty years ago, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, was in the top five ports for clothing export, but the city now suffers a high unemployment rate. Many expect a similar fate for the Guangdong province, which is heavily dependent on cheap labor and low-end manufacturing. Facilitating this economic transition is part of the Central government long term plan. The Guangdong province is the gateway to inland for many ministries. Let us pray for many Christians who go to China for work but face closure of factories. We too remember those ministries reaching out to factory workers and churches designed to attract laborers.
Monday
It is easy to divide up properties when couples file for divorce. Among 90% of divorced couples, visitation arrangements of the only child invariably is the most contentious issue, especially when grandparents on both sides try to court favor with the only grandchild and are even more emotionally involved. Divorce is the leading family issue in China. Many are so pessimistic about it and couples speak of it as an imminent possibility. We pray for all the believers who are divorced, for their spiritual growth, and for those Christian grandparents who will demonstrate the love of God to their grandchildren growing up in divorced homes.
星期二
河南乃是中國人口第一大省，2004 雅典奧運會，河南選手抱走了3枚金牌；北京奧運會，河南選手的金牌數卻顆粒無收。河南體育局宣稱他們承擔失敗的責任。河南省的基督信徒和教會最多，但在過去十年中，因為年輕人去了城市打工，加上教會遭遇許多分裂和邪教的打擊，那曾有的興旺已被削弱。讓我們切切祈求神保護河南眾教會能再次復興，成為中國其他教會的榜樣。
星期三
不少國人思索："京奧給中國留下了甚麼？" 其中很明顯的，奧運會給中國人民帶來了一種民族與文化自信和自豪。一項調查顯示，北京奧運使香港青年對"身為「中國人」感到驕傲的百分比創下新高。許多海外華裔青年，對於中國，以及身為華人也越來越感到光榮。我們求主感動愛主的年輕一代，讓他們不但願意學習中文也有心回到中國宣教。
星期四
合吃族，“合起來吃，分擔開支”，指的是三五個透過網路找到的人，因爲愛好美食，相聚一起追捧美食，分擔費用。一餐一般每人不超過人民幣100元（15美金）。現在的中國年輕人聚會的方式有別于過去。他們對素未謀面的網路陌生人的接受度高，分享的程度也深，不僅止于用餐而已。讓我們為在新新社會裏求存的年輕信徒禱告，保守他們凡事都能榮神益人。
星期五
美國當紅電視劇“性與城市”在中國被含蓄地翻譯為“慾望都市”，其風靡程度並不遜於美國。保守估計，中國夫妻當中，16%有婚外情。近年來，他們往往花錢、花心思在孩子身上，卻沒有好好經營自己的婚姻。信徒中的婚姻也難逃若入這樣的光景。我們禱告讓已婚弟兄姊妹能夠獲得真理的指導和扶持，以免跟隨世俗的觀念而玷污聖潔的婚姻，也求主使教會能夠加強在婚姻和家庭方面的教導。
星期六
全球頂級財經雜誌報導：在北京和上海等六大城市中，認同獨身主義的女性達83％，在高學歷女性群體中，更達到90％。幾年之前，詞典裏形容單身未婚者的詞彙只有“單身漢”，因爲在中國的價值體系裏，是不存在單身女人的。中國城市教會有許多單身姐妹，大都面對家人催婚的壓力，甚至不計較對象是否基督徒。讓我們以禱告記念她們的需要以及在主裏的服事。
星期日
廿年前，台灣的高雄巿曾是世界五大出口時裝的港口，但現今她的失業率居高不下。廣東省也面臨相同的命運，廣東的轉變是北京的宏調計劃的一部份，政府要在廣東省進行高質量的投資，並減低廉價勞工的比率。廣東省也是許多福音機構作為開發內地事工的跳板，我們特別為當中許多面臨失業的基督徒禱告，也為民工的福音事工的發展向主求恩典和能カ。
星期一
離婚的夫妻財產一般都可以分得清清楚楚，但惟獨孩子除外，因探視孩子引發的糾紛往往使離異怨偶舊恨添「新仇」。近年來，探視孩子的問題已成為離異夫妻矛盾的焦點，90 ％以上的離異夫妻都涉及這個問題。目前，離婚是全國最嚴重的家庭問題，甚至有人在結婚前已預備好隨時離婚。我們為所有離婚的信徒的靈命禱告，也為基督徒祖父母們能讓離婚家庭中的孫子們從他們身上嘗到主愛來禱告。
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Prayer Request 9/2-9/8
Tuesday
China achieved her goal of receiving unprecedented number of Olympic gold medals. Parents see sports now as a potentially lucrative career and many are encouraging and investing money for their children to train in sports. Very few Chinese parents will ever encourage their own child to serve the Lord because being a church worker is considered "dead end" and "poor for the rest of life". Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to change this attitude which greatly hurts the growth of the China churches。
Wednesday
In the past twenty years the province of Guangdong has had a phenomenal growth in population. It also boasts the highest urbanization rate (nearly 60%) in China which means farmers have moved into cities. Church work and growth are generally harder in Guangdong than in other places. Many Christians arriving from other provinces are lost to follow-up because local churches conduct services in Cantonese. Let us pray for spiritual revival and solid growth of churches there.
Thursday
According to a report, the number of millionaires (in USD) has increased rapidly. India leads in terms of the rate of increase, China is a close second. There are many wealthy believers in China as well. They have been active in supporting local church work and helping other ministries. We give thanks to God for their generosity and pray that all believers will be equally charitable in giving to God.
Friday
Millions of Chinese have jumped naively into the stock market only to realize that they could lose everything. The government is now trying to educate people that such an investment has risks. The stock market is the hot conversation topic among urban churches and many believers are deeply involved in this speculation. It creates a sense of comparison and jealousy among believers. Let us pray for true contentment and godliness for all believers.
Saturday
An estimate of one in six factories is closing in the Pearl River Delta and 10,000 companies are relocating to Southeast Asian countries with cheaper labor. Although this conforms to the official economic planning, it still has a great impact locally. Churches in Guangdong have always been affluent and suffered less restrictions, but church work is relatively weak and sparse because of the prosperity. We commit the church work and spiritual health of believers in Guangdong into His hands.
Sunday
Experts say, "Chinese universities are not uniformly up-to-par; the leading universities are very good, but lesser universities suffer deficient resources." For students, a matter of few points in the entrance exam means a giant difference in the quality of their college education. We pray for all the Christian students entering into universities this year; may the Lord prepare what is best for them. We, too, pray for the college ministries as they reach out to the new class of students and ready them to harvest.
Monday
China, which produces 70% of the world's sex toys, is ranked as the fourth "sex-crazed" nation behind Greece, Brazil, and Russia. The Chinese view of sex has been dramatically "opened." In Beijing alone, 5000 "sexual health" stores have opened in the past eight years. Sexual temptations are extremely prevalent in China. Compromising sexual purity is the leading problem believers, and even church leaders, face. We humbly beseech God for protection and guarding the hearts of all of us.
星期二
在2008北京奧運中國隊得到破紀錄數目的金牌。已有很多家庭看到從事職業體育的「錢景」，願意投入資金來幫助孩子走體育這條路。相對於全職服事神，極少數華人父母會鼓勵自己的孩子，以全職事奉神為榮。因為一般人眼中，成為教會工人，往往意味著「前途無亮」和「錢途無亮」。 如此心態大大妨礙了中國教會的增長，求主醫治我們這種俗世短淺的視野，以投資永恒的國度觀為念。
星期三
近二十年間，廣東省的城市人口急劇增加，城市化水平不斷提高（已近乎60%），這意味著省内農業人口不斷迅速向城市聚集。在廣東省的教會事工與增長要比其他地方來的困難，因為教會聚會都用粵語，來自別省的信徒由於語言的隔閡，很難在此地獲得適切的跟進。讓我們為廣東省教會及所有的信徒們禱告，為他們靈命的復興，以及教會得以穩健成長來向神求恩。
星期四
據報導，全球百萬富翁的人數激增，其中以印度的增長率最高，緊隨的是中國。中國的教會裏也有許多富裕的信徒，他們也一直積極地參與並支持各項聖工，我們除了為此向神感恩外，也求主讓弟兄姊妹有智慧管理神賜予的金錢、恩賜和才幹，忠心盡上自己奉獻的本份。
星期五
在中國股票巿場中，有許多不成熟的投資者，不諳其風險重重，盲目爭相加入股巿。中國政府也開始教育國民，有關投資股票的風險。股票投資也在各大城市教會裏掀起話題，不但使許多信徒深陷其中，也在信徒之間醖釀出爭競和妒嫉。我們求主幫助所有信祂的人，都能敬虔知足，以神的心為心，不為屬世的價值觀所迷惑。
星期六
最近在珠江三角洲，約每六家工廠就有一家關閉。有約一萬家工廠已撤離此地，轉往勞工更低廉的越南、柬甫寨、孟加拉和印尼等地。雖然這些撤資情況都在中國政府預計之內，但仍在地方上造成相當大的衝激。我們在此要特別記念廣東省的教會，在富裕繁華、紙醉金迷的大環境之下，省內的許多信徒容易迷失生活的方向。縱使教會有較大的自由度，福音工作卻相對的較爲疲弱，求神復興信徒的靈命、挑旺教會火熱追求成長的心。
星期日
許多專家認為中國大學的程度參差不齊，頂尖大學確實優秀，但一些次一級的大學卻仍是資源不足。而考生常常因幾分之差，就進不了首屈一指的大學。我們特別為今年入學的基督徒準大學生禱告，求神為他們預備道路，讓他們看到神美好的計劃。在各地的大學事工積極預備迎接新生的時刻，我們求主賜給同工們充足的智慧，同時也在學生心中做鬆土、澆灌的エ作。
星期一
中國生産全球七成的「情趣玩具」, 擠身全球四大”最好色”國家之列，居希臘, 巴西和俄國之後。中國人的性觀念越來越開放，過去8年內，單單在北京一個城市裡就開了5,000家的「性商店」。情色的誘惑在中國非常普遍，性的解放和道德混亂已成為教會領袖和信徒首要面對的挑戰之一，求神保守信徒的心思意念，能竭力追求聖潔，躲避試探、引誘，謙卑靠主得勝。
China achieved her goal of receiving unprecedented number of Olympic gold medals. Parents see sports now as a potentially lucrative career and many are encouraging and investing money for their children to train in sports. Very few Chinese parents will ever encourage their own child to serve the Lord because being a church worker is considered "dead end" and "poor for the rest of life". Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to change this attitude which greatly hurts the growth of the China churches。
Wednesday
In the past twenty years the province of Guangdong has had a phenomenal growth in population. It also boasts the highest urbanization rate (nearly 60%) in China which means farmers have moved into cities. Church work and growth are generally harder in Guangdong than in other places. Many Christians arriving from other provinces are lost to follow-up because local churches conduct services in Cantonese. Let us pray for spiritual revival and solid growth of churches there.
Thursday
According to a report, the number of millionaires (in USD) has increased rapidly. India leads in terms of the rate of increase, China is a close second. There are many wealthy believers in China as well. They have been active in supporting local church work and helping other ministries. We give thanks to God for their generosity and pray that all believers will be equally charitable in giving to God.
Friday
Millions of Chinese have jumped naively into the stock market only to realize that they could lose everything. The government is now trying to educate people that such an investment has risks. The stock market is the hot conversation topic among urban churches and many believers are deeply involved in this speculation. It creates a sense of comparison and jealousy among believers. Let us pray for true contentment and godliness for all believers.
Saturday
An estimate of one in six factories is closing in the Pearl River Delta and 10,000 companies are relocating to Southeast Asian countries with cheaper labor. Although this conforms to the official economic planning, it still has a great impact locally. Churches in Guangdong have always been affluent and suffered less restrictions, but church work is relatively weak and sparse because of the prosperity. We commit the church work and spiritual health of believers in Guangdong into His hands.
Sunday
Experts say, "Chinese universities are not uniformly up-to-par; the leading universities are very good, but lesser universities suffer deficient resources." For students, a matter of few points in the entrance exam means a giant difference in the quality of their college education. We pray for all the Christian students entering into universities this year; may the Lord prepare what is best for them. We, too, pray for the college ministries as they reach out to the new class of students and ready them to harvest.
Monday
China, which produces 70% of the world's sex toys, is ranked as the fourth "sex-crazed" nation behind Greece, Brazil, and Russia. The Chinese view of sex has been dramatically "opened." In Beijing alone, 5000 "sexual health" stores have opened in the past eight years. Sexual temptations are extremely prevalent in China. Compromising sexual purity is the leading problem believers, and even church leaders, face. We humbly beseech God for protection and guarding the hearts of all of us.
星期二
在2008北京奧運中國隊得到破紀錄數目的金牌。已有很多家庭看到從事職業體育的「錢景」，願意投入資金來幫助孩子走體育這條路。相對於全職服事神，極少數華人父母會鼓勵自己的孩子，以全職事奉神為榮。因為一般人眼中，成為教會工人，往往意味著「前途無亮」和「錢途無亮」。 如此心態大大妨礙了中國教會的增長，求主醫治我們這種俗世短淺的視野，以投資永恒的國度觀為念。
星期三
近二十年間，廣東省的城市人口急劇增加，城市化水平不斷提高（已近乎60%），這意味著省内農業人口不斷迅速向城市聚集。在廣東省的教會事工與增長要比其他地方來的困難，因為教會聚會都用粵語，來自別省的信徒由於語言的隔閡，很難在此地獲得適切的跟進。讓我們為廣東省教會及所有的信徒們禱告，為他們靈命的復興，以及教會得以穩健成長來向神求恩。
星期四
據報導，全球百萬富翁的人數激增，其中以印度的增長率最高，緊隨的是中國。中國的教會裏也有許多富裕的信徒，他們也一直積極地參與並支持各項聖工，我們除了為此向神感恩外，也求主讓弟兄姊妹有智慧管理神賜予的金錢、恩賜和才幹，忠心盡上自己奉獻的本份。
星期五
在中國股票巿場中，有許多不成熟的投資者，不諳其風險重重，盲目爭相加入股巿。中國政府也開始教育國民，有關投資股票的風險。股票投資也在各大城市教會裏掀起話題，不但使許多信徒深陷其中，也在信徒之間醖釀出爭競和妒嫉。我們求主幫助所有信祂的人，都能敬虔知足，以神的心為心，不為屬世的價值觀所迷惑。
星期六
最近在珠江三角洲，約每六家工廠就有一家關閉。有約一萬家工廠已撤離此地，轉往勞工更低廉的越南、柬甫寨、孟加拉和印尼等地。雖然這些撤資情況都在中國政府預計之內，但仍在地方上造成相當大的衝激。我們在此要特別記念廣東省的教會，在富裕繁華、紙醉金迷的大環境之下，省內的許多信徒容易迷失生活的方向。縱使教會有較大的自由度，福音工作卻相對的較爲疲弱，求神復興信徒的靈命、挑旺教會火熱追求成長的心。
星期日
許多專家認為中國大學的程度參差不齊，頂尖大學確實優秀，但一些次一級的大學卻仍是資源不足。而考生常常因幾分之差，就進不了首屈一指的大學。我們特別為今年入學的基督徒準大學生禱告，求神為他們預備道路，讓他們看到神美好的計劃。在各地的大學事工積極預備迎接新生的時刻，我們求主賜給同工們充足的智慧，同時也在學生心中做鬆土、澆灌的エ作。
星期一
中國生産全球七成的「情趣玩具」, 擠身全球四大”最好色”國家之列，居希臘, 巴西和俄國之後。中國人的性觀念越來越開放，過去8年內，單單在北京一個城市裡就開了5,000家的「性商店」。情色的誘惑在中國非常普遍，性的解放和道德混亂已成為教會領袖和信徒首要面對的挑戰之一，求神保守信徒的心思意念，能竭力追求聖潔，躲避試探、引誘，謙卑靠主得勝。
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