Posts
Tuesday
When an urban church attracts or reaches out to the "ming gong" laborers from the villages, the dynamic of the church changes. There is much discrimination and people are suspicious of the intentions of others. Ministering to laborers is challenging since they have a different background, priorities, and problems. We pray that the urban believers will compassionately accept the "country folks". May the Lord raise up people who are willing to minister to the poor brothers in the church.
Wednesday
Since the message must be relevant and applicable to both the rich and the poor, the intellectuals and those less-educated, effective preaching in urban churches has become more difficult in recent years. Many attend the Sunday worship services but few churches have weekday programs or an adequate visitation ministry. Let us pray for the solid spiritual growth of believers in all of the urban churches, especially for those who serve and have positions as lay co-workers.
Thursday
More and more urban churches have their own websites designed to help newcomers find them and some even post their sermons on-line. However, most of the house churches are still known only by word of mouth and have few resources to offer. We thank the Lord for all of the Christian resources available on-line in Chinese and that they are mostly uncensored. However, quality and theological orthodoxy are impossible to screen so we pray especially for those churches that have few resources for their pulpits that they will find good solid spiritual food to eat in the Word.
Friday
Tension between Han Chinese and Hui (Muslim) Chinese is always under the surface. A recent incident in Hebei required a thousand armed police to quash. Local officials insisted that this was only a fight among young people and was unrelated to ethnic or religious tensions. Most Christian believers seldom interact with their Muslim neighbors since they feel they will not be receptive to the gospel. We pray for the salvation of millions of urban Muslim Chinese who have a very different lifestyle from that of the Han Chinese. We pray, too, for God's removal of the silent discrimination among Han Chinese toward minorities.
Saturday
Hunan cuisine is one of the eight most famous Chinese cuisines, known best for its spicy and fat-filled dishes. A new official standard has been set to determine the minimum amount of hot pepper and fat required to qualified as an authentic Hunan dish. Styles of worship maybe similar among Chinese churches, but there are distinct emphasis and carries heavy traditions. We praise the Lord as we all worship the same God. In particularly, let us pray for revival in Sichuan and Hunan provinces, both are known for their "hot" dishes but not-so-hot churches.
Sunday
Of the 5.6 million students who graduated from college in 2008, but only one in four will be able to find employment. Next year there will be half a million more college students so experts are encouraging them to be willing to move to other cities to find work. Parents have high hopes that their children will find good jobs after they graduate from college but such a dream may be harder to fulfill this year. Let us pray for Christian parents who will be able to encourage their children. We also remember those who came to know Jesus during college and face uncertainty in finding a job; and the Lord will add His faith and grace in their lives.
Monday
Thousands flocked to Kuan Yin temples yesterday hoping the Goddess of Mercy will give them a lucky break and ease their financial and family problems during the downturn. According to legend, Kuan Yin opened her treasure chest of fortune for people burdened with home and money problems. Will the poor economy open a door of evangelism for China churches? Let us pray that believers will always be thankful and continue to trust God will provide. We also pray as people long for peace and assurance, Christians will be willing to share Jesus Christ with them.
星期二
城市教會一旦接觸或邀請來自農村的「民工」加入，教會必定產生一些變化：譬如歧視、質疑別人動機等等。因勞動工人的背景，所關注問題，及所面對的困難有別於城市的信徒，因此民工牧養的工作挑戰重重。神的福音是無關乎貧賤富貴的，讓我們禱告城市信徒對「鄉民」有負擔，求神興起同工，樂意服侍教會裡較貧寒的弟兄姊妹，就像是作在主身上。
星期三
城市教會近年在講道方面有多重壓力，講台訊息不單需要適切回應有錢人及窮人的需要，且要兼顧知識水平較高及較低兩類不同的受眾。許多信徒選擇僅在主日至教會崇拜，很少參加在周間的聚會，同時探訪工作也＋分不足。讓我們祈求所有城市的信徒，尤其是在教會事奉的平信徒領袖，靈命都能有紮實的增長。
星期四
越來越多的城市教會設立自己的網頁，讓追求信仰的人可以認識教會，甚至講壇訊息也刊在網頁上。不過很多家庭教會只能靠人傳人來宣傳自己，資源很少能與人共享。我們為網上有豐富中文資源感謝主，並為所發放的訊息多不受限制而感恩。然而，好質素及正統神學的資源仍有待充實。讓我們為那些講壇訊息較弱的教會祈求，願神也供應他們更多高質素的屬靈糧食。
星期五
回、漢兩族之間的關係一直都很微妙。最近河北省漢族與回族村民的聚眾打鬥事件，出動了1000名武警才得平息。不過，當地官員強調，這次打鬥事件是青年之間鬥毆，與民族矛盾或宗教分歧無關。大多數中國國內的基督徒極少和回教徒鄰居交往，覺得回教徒不願意接受福音。這些居住在城市的千萬回民，雖生活方式和漢族很不同，但我們要常爲他們的得救禱告。我們亦求神消除漢族對其他少數民族潛在的歧視。
星期六
湘菜以其「肥」、「辣」聞名，是中國八大菜系之一。官方標準將明列湘菜的配方以及材料如辣椒和肥瘦肉的比例等。盡管中國教會的敬拜形式一般大同小異，教導重心則循各自的傳統而大不相同。感謝贊美主，我們敬拜的是同一位神。讓我們在此特別為四川和湖南省的教會禱告，求主讓一些不冷不熱的教會，能像他們熱辣辣的菜肴一樣，火熱起來。
星期日
中國今年大學畢業的560萬人中，估計每四個只有一個能找到工作。明年大學畢業生將比今年多出五十萬人，專家已鼓勵這批畢業生嘗試轉移到其他城市找工作．很多家長對子女寄予厚望，盼望他們畢業後能找到一份好工作，今年這個盼望恐怕難以實現．讓我們為基督徒家長禱告，希望他們在這時期給子女更多的支持鼓勵．讓我們也為在校園認識基督、對工作前途感到茫然的畢業生禱告。願神加添他們的信心，讓平安喜樂的恩典加倍降臨到他們．
星期一
金融海嘯衝擊下，銀行關水喉，惟有「觀音娘娘最疏爽」。每年觀音開庫時，香火尤其鼎盛，今年更吸引萬人排隊，冀以誠心打動菩薩「借錢」。經濟肅條是否能成為中國教會傳福音的大好機會？讓我們為此禱告，當眾人都感到前途暗淡，渴求安穩時，願基督徒能把握時機，把耶穌基督的好消息與他們分享。又為神的兒女常存感恩的心禱告，堅定相信神必會供應我們一切的需用。
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Prayer Request 2/17 - 2/23
Tuesday
Guangdong province produces half of the world's toys and most of its small appliances, rice cookers, and fans. All of the factories there are either slowing down. Shutting down, or laying off large numbers of workers. People are literally scared and depressed about the huge drop in the prices of their homes or stock holdings, and even losing their jobs. Let us pray for true peace and joy that for all believers is found that can be found in only Him. We remember those who are facing financial difficulties or have been unable to find work.
Wednesday
How many believers are there in China? Some have conjectured that there are upward of one hundred million but those who are more familiar with the situation and are more conservative suggest that twenty million is a more realistic and accurate estimate. Truly, only the Lord knows how many are in His flock. We pray for those who are week and struggling spiritually, especially those who have not been in church for a long time and those who are working away from home and not attending church.
Thursday
Illicit and unauthorized fireworks set off on the rooftop of the China Central Television (CCTV) building destroyed a nearby luxury hotel. Fireworks are a part of the Chinese New Year celebration. They are said to ward off evil spirits but every year there are many injuries and fires from them. As we look forward to a new year, we pray for God's protection on His churches, protecting them from fiery attacks of Satan, injurious words, mistrust and divisions. May the Lord grant all His servants humility, unity of spirit, and gentle tempers.
Friday
Those familiar with house churches in China point out that these churches are not experiencing a revival but are in a time of crisis and transition. They say that they need to learn how to prevent the old and weak churches from being washed away by modernism and cults. Again, we want to pray against the graying and weakening of many of the churches in China. We uplift especially those churches that do not have shepherds and are suffering from attacks by the cults as well as those who are left with mostly sisters (women) and old people.
Saturday
As unemployment becomes a major issue for millions of workers who are not able to return to their idled or shut down factories, the Chinese government must somehow work to keep this from turning into social unrest. College graduates also face the grim prospect of not finding good paying jobs despite their higher education. Let us pray for this looming social problem which deeply impacts the rural churches in China. We pray, too, for those believers who are unemployed and idle at home. May the Lord comfort them and give them hope.
Sunday
In order to get higher visibility and much higher salaries, several high-profiled Chinese soccer players have switched allegiance and have joined European clubs. Because they offer global exposure and attract Chinese fans, it is inevitable that foreign sports teams, including the NBA, would snatch up the best of Chinese players. In China, pastors who switch ministries and churches are quite common for various reasons, one of which is better pay. Let us pray that more workers will serve contentedly and with a passion for God's kingdom. Let us pray, too that more churches and ministries will treat their workers as if they were their family members.
Monday
The Chinese government hosted a meeting to discuss issues concerning house churches. While representatives of both urban and rural house church groups, people from Henan and Wenzhou, and people from the Religious Affairs and Public Security Bureaus attended, they agreed that regulatory policies are inadequate and outdated but no real solution was reached. We thank the Lord for this historic "breakthrough" and commit all the house churches into His hands. May the Lord give them great hope as they trust Him for growth and guidance in their churches. We pray that they will continue to be bold in sharing the gospel in their neighborhoods.
星期二
廣東是全球知名的玩具生產基地，占有中國甚至全球半壁江山，擁有全球銷量的五成。廣東也是全球最大的家電，電飯鍋、電風扇等生產基地。但近年來，這兩個紅火的行業陷入生存危機。一般的老百姓為著房價和股票下跌，甚至失去自己的飯碗而憂鬱擔心。 讓我們一起求神賜給我們真正的平安與喜樂。 尤其是給那些正面臨經濟困難或是失業無法找到工作的信徒們。
星期三
中國教會信徒人數究竟有多少?有人估計可能突破一億人。但根據了解中國教會現況及保守人士較實際、準確的推算，中國信徒的數字可能只有二千萬。事實上，只有上帝才知道祂羊群的實際數目。讓我們為那些軟弱的，靈性枯乾的信徒禱告，尤其為那些很久沒返教會，或因工作太遠而不能上教會的信徒代禱。
星期四
北京市中央電視台違規在頂層燃放煙花釀成大火，造成隔壁高級旅館嚴重損失。燃放煙花是慶祝農曆新年不可少的活動。人們認爲放煙花迎接新年可以辟邪，但每年卻帶來許多火災和損傷。當我們迎來新的一年，求神保守中國教會，免受撒但猛烈的攻擊，更是保守信徒間避免傷害性的言語、不信任和分歧。 求主賜給祂的僕人應有的謙卑，合一的心志與溫和的性情。
星期五
對中國家庭教會有深刻了解的人士指出：家庭教會不是在大復興中，而是正面臨極大的轉型危機。有識之士正在憂心如何守業，如何防止老弱的教會不被時代和異端洪流沖走。讓我們祈求神保守中國教會不至變成老弱衰殘，且特別記念那些群羊無首，飽受異端攻擊，以婦女長者居多的教會。
星期六
失業問題已成爲中國數以百萬計工人的大難題。他們原先工作的工廠如今不是停產就是關門。中國政府正設法防止情況惡化引致社會不安。大學生學歷雖然較高，但同樣亦要面對困境，工資高的工作已是極不好找。讓我們來爲這些正逐漸浮現的社會問題禱告。尤其是已受嚴重影響的中國農村教會。我們更加爲在家待業的信衆祈禱，願主安慰他們，信實供應他們的需要，並帶給他們新的希望。
星期日
最近一連數位著名的中國球員「紛紛私奔」–為更廣的知名度和更佳的薪酬而加入歐洲的球隊。中國運動員為此留洋是大勢所趨且不可避免的。各國很多運動隊，如NBA，也緊緊抓住最好的中國球員，因為藉著他們的影響力，球隊可望打開中國市場。不少國內的牧者也經常轉換工場或事工模式，原因之一是以期獲得更好的待遇。讓我們為神的工人禱告，求主將知足的心及異象加給他們，幫助他們做良善忠心的僕人。也為教會和機構能體貼同工，當他們如家人來禱告。
星期一
中國政府舉辦了一個討論有關家庭教會的會議。與會者包括城市和農村的家庭教會組織、來自河南和溫州的信衆、宗教事務局和公安局的代表。他們都同意現有的規管機關和政策是有所不足且過時。不過，會議並未得出有效的改進方案。我們感謝主帶來這個歷史性的「突破」。我們要把這些家庭教會交託在神手中。當這些教會願意信靠主，譲祂引領成長， 願主賜他們更大的盼望。我們亦禱告他們能繼續勇敢地和鄰舍分享福音。
Guangdong province produces half of the world's toys and most of its small appliances, rice cookers, and fans. All of the factories there are either slowing down. Shutting down, or laying off large numbers of workers. People are literally scared and depressed about the huge drop in the prices of their homes or stock holdings, and even losing their jobs. Let us pray for true peace and joy that for all believers is found that can be found in only Him. We remember those who are facing financial difficulties or have been unable to find work.
Wednesday
How many believers are there in China? Some have conjectured that there are upward of one hundred million but those who are more familiar with the situation and are more conservative suggest that twenty million is a more realistic and accurate estimate. Truly, only the Lord knows how many are in His flock. We pray for those who are week and struggling spiritually, especially those who have not been in church for a long time and those who are working away from home and not attending church.
Thursday
Illicit and unauthorized fireworks set off on the rooftop of the China Central Television (CCTV) building destroyed a nearby luxury hotel. Fireworks are a part of the Chinese New Year celebration. They are said to ward off evil spirits but every year there are many injuries and fires from them. As we look forward to a new year, we pray for God's protection on His churches, protecting them from fiery attacks of Satan, injurious words, mistrust and divisions. May the Lord grant all His servants humility, unity of spirit, and gentle tempers.
Friday
Those familiar with house churches in China point out that these churches are not experiencing a revival but are in a time of crisis and transition. They say that they need to learn how to prevent the old and weak churches from being washed away by modernism and cults. Again, we want to pray against the graying and weakening of many of the churches in China. We uplift especially those churches that do not have shepherds and are suffering from attacks by the cults as well as those who are left with mostly sisters (women) and old people.
Saturday
As unemployment becomes a major issue for millions of workers who are not able to return to their idled or shut down factories, the Chinese government must somehow work to keep this from turning into social unrest. College graduates also face the grim prospect of not finding good paying jobs despite their higher education. Let us pray for this looming social problem which deeply impacts the rural churches in China. We pray, too, for those believers who are unemployed and idle at home. May the Lord comfort them and give them hope.
Sunday
In order to get higher visibility and much higher salaries, several high-profiled Chinese soccer players have switched allegiance and have joined European clubs. Because they offer global exposure and attract Chinese fans, it is inevitable that foreign sports teams, including the NBA, would snatch up the best of Chinese players. In China, pastors who switch ministries and churches are quite common for various reasons, one of which is better pay. Let us pray that more workers will serve contentedly and with a passion for God's kingdom. Let us pray, too that more churches and ministries will treat their workers as if they were their family members.
Monday
The Chinese government hosted a meeting to discuss issues concerning house churches. While representatives of both urban and rural house church groups, people from Henan and Wenzhou, and people from the Religious Affairs and Public Security Bureaus attended, they agreed that regulatory policies are inadequate and outdated but no real solution was reached. We thank the Lord for this historic "breakthrough" and commit all the house churches into His hands. May the Lord give them great hope as they trust Him for growth and guidance in their churches. We pray that they will continue to be bold in sharing the gospel in their neighborhoods.
星期二
廣東是全球知名的玩具生產基地，占有中國甚至全球半壁江山，擁有全球銷量的五成。廣東也是全球最大的家電，電飯鍋、電風扇等生產基地。但近年來，這兩個紅火的行業陷入生存危機。一般的老百姓為著房價和股票下跌，甚至失去自己的飯碗而憂鬱擔心。 讓我們一起求神賜給我們真正的平安與喜樂。 尤其是給那些正面臨經濟困難或是失業無法找到工作的信徒們。
星期三
中國教會信徒人數究竟有多少?有人估計可能突破一億人。但根據了解中國教會現況及保守人士較實際、準確的推算，中國信徒的數字可能只有二千萬。事實上，只有上帝才知道祂羊群的實際數目。讓我們為那些軟弱的，靈性枯乾的信徒禱告，尤其為那些很久沒返教會，或因工作太遠而不能上教會的信徒代禱。
星期四
北京市中央電視台違規在頂層燃放煙花釀成大火，造成隔壁高級旅館嚴重損失。燃放煙花是慶祝農曆新年不可少的活動。人們認爲放煙花迎接新年可以辟邪，但每年卻帶來許多火災和損傷。當我們迎來新的一年，求神保守中國教會，免受撒但猛烈的攻擊，更是保守信徒間避免傷害性的言語、不信任和分歧。 求主賜給祂的僕人應有的謙卑，合一的心志與溫和的性情。
星期五
對中國家庭教會有深刻了解的人士指出：家庭教會不是在大復興中，而是正面臨極大的轉型危機。有識之士正在憂心如何守業，如何防止老弱的教會不被時代和異端洪流沖走。讓我們祈求神保守中國教會不至變成老弱衰殘，且特別記念那些群羊無首，飽受異端攻擊，以婦女長者居多的教會。
星期六
失業問題已成爲中國數以百萬計工人的大難題。他們原先工作的工廠如今不是停產就是關門。中國政府正設法防止情況惡化引致社會不安。大學生學歷雖然較高，但同樣亦要面對困境，工資高的工作已是極不好找。讓我們來爲這些正逐漸浮現的社會問題禱告。尤其是已受嚴重影響的中國農村教會。我們更加爲在家待業的信衆祈禱，願主安慰他們，信實供應他們的需要，並帶給他們新的希望。
星期日
最近一連數位著名的中國球員「紛紛私奔」–為更廣的知名度和更佳的薪酬而加入歐洲的球隊。中國運動員為此留洋是大勢所趨且不可避免的。各國很多運動隊，如NBA，也緊緊抓住最好的中國球員，因為藉著他們的影響力，球隊可望打開中國市場。不少國內的牧者也經常轉換工場或事工模式，原因之一是以期獲得更好的待遇。讓我們為神的工人禱告，求主將知足的心及異象加給他們，幫助他們做良善忠心的僕人。也為教會和機構能體貼同工，當他們如家人來禱告。
星期一
中國政府舉辦了一個討論有關家庭教會的會議。與會者包括城市和農村的家庭教會組織、來自河南和溫州的信衆、宗教事務局和公安局的代表。他們都同意現有的規管機關和政策是有所不足且過時。不過，會議並未得出有效的改進方案。我們感謝主帶來這個歷史性的「突破」。我們要把這些家庭教會交託在神手中。當這些教會願意信靠主，譲祂引領成長， 願主賜他們更大的盼望。我們亦禱告他們能繼續勇敢地和鄰舍分享福音。
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Prayer Ruquest 2/10-2/16
Tuesday
Guangdong province continues to draw tens of millions of workers after the New Year holiday. Among those laid off two million will be hard pressed to find jobs. Since the job market is very tight it is difficult to find work if one has no skills and also there are many college graduates competing for work. Let us pray for all the believers who are looking for work. May their faith in God's leading and provision not waiver in this time of uncertainty.
Wednesday
The worst drought in 60 years is affecting northern China where 43% of wheat is grown. Henan and Anhui are the hardest hit and most of their winter wheat crop will be lost. Many of the farmers will be hurting because on top of a diminished harvest, their family members who lost their jobs in the cities have returned home. These two provinces have a large number of Christians but weak churches. Let us pray for the believers and the churches there--for both their financial and spiritual needs.
Thursday
China plans to invest a huge sum to stimulate the economy and lowering interest rate to encourage consumer spending. However, Chinese in general are not willing to spend money, because people must save for their children education and saving money for health care. Let us pray for all the believers who worry about saving for children’s education. May we all have faith in God’s provision, believe that God has a purpose for our children and desire to raise them up knowing Him.
Friday
In the past many of the farmers in Wenzhou set up little family-run businesses by offering cheap labor and low cost for their material. Today there are 300,000 small factories in the Wenzhou region but family-run factories are not expected to do well in this competitive environment. We praise the Lord for Wenzhou churches that have enjoyed favor from local officials and a comparatively good amount of liberty to worship in the past. We ask God to use these churches as they continue to provide a lot of training for Sunday school teachers for the churches in China.
Saturday
The majority of Chinese parents who push their children to attend college do not have a college degree themselves. They realize that without higher education their children will not be successful in today's society. So the parents feel lost and even hopeless when their children do not get into college. We pray for parents who are in anguish and disappointed by their children' academic performance, for faith in God and their willingness to trust God to do the best for their children.
Sunday
While national attention has focused on family violence. Many families are suffering because of poor marital quality, lack of affection and extra-marital affairs. Many Christian families struggle the same problems but are either too embarrassed to ask for help or has no one to turn to. Many even adopt the attitude of “Accept it, this is very normal now.” We pray for divine healing and transformation for these hurting families, especially grace of God for their children.
Monday
Half of the Chinese high school students believe premarital sex is an individual choice. Overwhelming majority of college students approve premarital sex. Yet, young people still expect their future spouse be virgin. We take this time to pray for Christian couples who badly need healing from the memory and hurt from their promiscuous past and strength in keeping their commitment to a Christ-centered family.
星期二
過年之後， 近千萬的農民工會回到廣東省工作，但200多萬被裁的工人將面對極大的就業競爭。加上應屆高校畢業生進場求職，無技能者將更難找到工作。讓我們為正在覓職的信徒禱告，在面對動蕩的經濟和迷茫的前景時，不至搖動他們對神的帶領和供應的信心。
星期三
入冬以來中國北方地區遭遇六十年來最嚴重的乾旱，其中河南和安徽省的災情最為嚴重。小麥受旱面積達到了六七成，許多農民都受到農作失收，及在城裡工作的家人失業回鄉的雙重打擊。中國這兩個省份有許多基督徒，但教會卻相對較弱。讓我們為那裏的信徒和教會禱告，求神特別記念他們在經濟上和屬靈上的迫切需要。
星期四
中國花四萬億人民幣刺激經濟，降息鼓勵人民消費。但老百姓為了孩子的教育費和醫藥費，不得不省吃儉用。 許多信徒也同樣為孩子的教育費煩惱。讓我們為所有信徒父母禱告，求主堅定我們對祂的信心，相信神的信實供應，也相信祂對孩子們一生的計劃，幫助我們忠心為主教養出敬虔愛主的下一代。
星期五
在過去，原材料價格低廉，勞務成本也低，溫州大量的農民加入家庭工業的隊伍。如今溫州的30萬家這類小企業，在激烈的競爭環境下前景堪憂。溫州教會一向跟地方政府有良好的關係，獲有相當程度的聚會自由，我們為此讚美神。求主繼續使用他們來訓練和幫助中國其他教會的信徒和主日學老師。
星期六
大部份鼓勵子女上大學的父母都沒有機會上大學。他們發現沒有高等教育學位，難以在現今的中國社會取得成就。因此兒女若進不了大學國之門，父母都會感到彷徨失落，甚且絕望。讓我們為那些為子女學業成焦慮憂心的父母禱告，求神幫助他們將子女交托於神，相信神的帶領，祂為孩子有最美好的安排。
星期日
當全中國關注家庭暴力之際，許多家庭正受挫於惡劣的婚姻關係、冷淡的感情及婚外情等問題。 很多基督徒家庭也受困於同樣的處境，卻羞於求助他人，也不易找到可傾訴、諮商的對象。甚至抱著「認命吧，這種事在今日社會再正常不過了」的態度。讓我們求主醫治這些受傷的家庭，更新改變人的心，尤其特別施恩予他們的兒女。
星期一
半數高中學生贊同「婚前性行為是個人選擇」，更高比例的大學生「認可婚前性行為」。矛盾的是這些年輕人卻仍期望自己將來的配偶仍是處子。許多基督徒夫婦在精神和肉體上都受困於他們過去放任的行為，讓我們求主醫治他們，同時保守他們能遵守承諾，願意竭力活出以基督為首的家庭生活。
Guangdong province continues to draw tens of millions of workers after the New Year holiday. Among those laid off two million will be hard pressed to find jobs. Since the job market is very tight it is difficult to find work if one has no skills and also there are many college graduates competing for work. Let us pray for all the believers who are looking for work. May their faith in God's leading and provision not waiver in this time of uncertainty.
Wednesday
The worst drought in 60 years is affecting northern China where 43% of wheat is grown. Henan and Anhui are the hardest hit and most of their winter wheat crop will be lost. Many of the farmers will be hurting because on top of a diminished harvest, their family members who lost their jobs in the cities have returned home. These two provinces have a large number of Christians but weak churches. Let us pray for the believers and the churches there--for both their financial and spiritual needs.
Thursday
China plans to invest a huge sum to stimulate the economy and lowering interest rate to encourage consumer spending. However, Chinese in general are not willing to spend money, because people must save for their children education and saving money for health care. Let us pray for all the believers who worry about saving for children’s education. May we all have faith in God’s provision, believe that God has a purpose for our children and desire to raise them up knowing Him.
Friday
In the past many of the farmers in Wenzhou set up little family-run businesses by offering cheap labor and low cost for their material. Today there are 300,000 small factories in the Wenzhou region but family-run factories are not expected to do well in this competitive environment. We praise the Lord for Wenzhou churches that have enjoyed favor from local officials and a comparatively good amount of liberty to worship in the past. We ask God to use these churches as they continue to provide a lot of training for Sunday school teachers for the churches in China.
Saturday
The majority of Chinese parents who push their children to attend college do not have a college degree themselves. They realize that without higher education their children will not be successful in today's society. So the parents feel lost and even hopeless when their children do not get into college. We pray for parents who are in anguish and disappointed by their children' academic performance, for faith in God and their willingness to trust God to do the best for their children.
Sunday
While national attention has focused on family violence. Many families are suffering because of poor marital quality, lack of affection and extra-marital affairs. Many Christian families struggle the same problems but are either too embarrassed to ask for help or has no one to turn to. Many even adopt the attitude of “Accept it, this is very normal now.” We pray for divine healing and transformation for these hurting families, especially grace of God for their children.
Monday
Half of the Chinese high school students believe premarital sex is an individual choice. Overwhelming majority of college students approve premarital sex. Yet, young people still expect their future spouse be virgin. We take this time to pray for Christian couples who badly need healing from the memory and hurt from their promiscuous past and strength in keeping their commitment to a Christ-centered family.
星期二
過年之後， 近千萬的農民工會回到廣東省工作，但200多萬被裁的工人將面對極大的就業競爭。加上應屆高校畢業生進場求職，無技能者將更難找到工作。讓我們為正在覓職的信徒禱告，在面對動蕩的經濟和迷茫的前景時，不至搖動他們對神的帶領和供應的信心。
星期三
入冬以來中國北方地區遭遇六十年來最嚴重的乾旱，其中河南和安徽省的災情最為嚴重。小麥受旱面積達到了六七成，許多農民都受到農作失收，及在城裡工作的家人失業回鄉的雙重打擊。中國這兩個省份有許多基督徒，但教會卻相對較弱。讓我們為那裏的信徒和教會禱告，求神特別記念他們在經濟上和屬靈上的迫切需要。
星期四
中國花四萬億人民幣刺激經濟，降息鼓勵人民消費。但老百姓為了孩子的教育費和醫藥費，不得不省吃儉用。 許多信徒也同樣為孩子的教育費煩惱。讓我們為所有信徒父母禱告，求主堅定我們對祂的信心，相信神的信實供應，也相信祂對孩子們一生的計劃，幫助我們忠心為主教養出敬虔愛主的下一代。
星期五
在過去，原材料價格低廉，勞務成本也低，溫州大量的農民加入家庭工業的隊伍。如今溫州的30萬家這類小企業，在激烈的競爭環境下前景堪憂。溫州教會一向跟地方政府有良好的關係，獲有相當程度的聚會自由，我們為此讚美神。求主繼續使用他們來訓練和幫助中國其他教會的信徒和主日學老師。
星期六
大部份鼓勵子女上大學的父母都沒有機會上大學。他們發現沒有高等教育學位，難以在現今的中國社會取得成就。因此兒女若進不了大學國之門，父母都會感到彷徨失落，甚且絕望。讓我們為那些為子女學業成焦慮憂心的父母禱告，求神幫助他們將子女交托於神，相信神的帶領，祂為孩子有最美好的安排。
星期日
當全中國關注家庭暴力之際，許多家庭正受挫於惡劣的婚姻關係、冷淡的感情及婚外情等問題。 很多基督徒家庭也受困於同樣的處境，卻羞於求助他人，也不易找到可傾訴、諮商的對象。甚至抱著「認命吧，這種事在今日社會再正常不過了」的態度。讓我們求主醫治這些受傷的家庭，更新改變人的心，尤其特別施恩予他們的兒女。
星期一
半數高中學生贊同「婚前性行為是個人選擇」，更高比例的大學生「認可婚前性行為」。矛盾的是這些年輕人卻仍期望自己將來的配偶仍是處子。許多基督徒夫婦在精神和肉體上都受困於他們過去放任的行為，讓我們求主醫治他們，同時保守他們能遵守承諾，願意竭力活出以基督為首的家庭生活。
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Prayer Ruquest 2/3-2/9
Tuesday
The premier of China spent Chinese New Year's Day in the earthquake-stricken zone cooking with the women in their makeshift kitchens, encouraging villagers, and eating the "reunion meal" with minority families there. Let us begin the year by praying especially for all the ministries among the ethnic minorities who are often overlooked and difficult for outsiders to reach. We pray, too, that believers will imitate Jesus Christ in His humility and have "servant hearts".
Wednesday
Cracking down on corruption at every level is difficult for the government in China. For mid-level government employees, "diverting official funds for private use" and "excessive entertaining" are the most common practices. It is easy for Christians to fall into these same customs. Let us pray that all of us will be good and faithful stewards of what is entrusted to us, especially with church funds.
Thursday
Chinese from Fuzhou can be found all over the world. In New York City alone, there are 500,000 of them. They are known for illegally entering countries but are also known for their hardworking nature. Fuzhou people are famous for being successful in the restaurant business. The government discourages leaving China illegally, but many ignore them and take on great debt to finance their trip abroad. Many Fuzhou people come to know Jesus overseas. We pray for all the ministries and churches reaching to all the Chinese illegal immigrants in many parts of world.
Friday
After New Year's holiday, millions of villagers must make the painful decision of whether or not to return to their work in the city. Many factories employing non-skilled workers have shut down in this global financial crisis. All rural residents face the same dilemma: "working in the city is merely trading youth for wages, but staying home at the farm has no future." All of them will need to find work to earn income somehow. Let us pray for rural believers who are facing the decision of returning to work. Having a couple weeks with family and children once a year presents great challenges in parenting and having spiritual influence on children. May the Lord remind them to continue to build parent-child relationships and protect them from temptations.
Saturday
Many Chinese who live in Korea complain that the people are anti-Chinese and there is no decent Chinatown there. Koreans are a very ethnically united people and are historically very anti-foreign so the recent huge Korean missionary effort is truly a miracle of God. Korean missionaries are very courageous and are frequently expelled from China because of their zeal to share Jesus. We take this time to remember all the church workers, foreign or national who are no longer able to freely able to share Jesus or conduct their church ministries.
Sunday
China has the most people accessing the Internet, with a whopping 253 millions uses, yet this is still less than one in five of the population. Many Christians use the Internet to access sermons and Bible studies material not available or restricted inside China. Many routinely listen or watch sermons posted abroad. We thank the Lord for this and pray for more ministries and churches providing quality and orthodox resources online.
Monday
On Chinese New Year's Day, 600,000 people participated in worship in various temples in the city of Beijing alone. People young and old burned incense and prayed for good fortune in the new year. It is true that Christianity is growing very fast in the capital city but the traditional religions, Buddhism and Taoism have grown also, largely because they are seen as more "Chinese". We pray that those many churches that are hosting special evangelistic meetings during the spring festival will see believers renewed by the Holy Spirit as well as a harvest of souls coming into the Kingdom.
星期二
總理溫家寶春節在地震災區親自下廚，並與少數民族的家庭共享團年飯，在廚房與婦女一起炒菜，為鄉親打打氣。讓我們在一年之首，為少數民族的事工獻上禱告，他們往往倍受忽略，外界也不容易接觸到他們。讓我們祷告信徒能效法主耶穌，有一顆謙卑捨己，願意服侍人的心。
星期三
在中國各階層官員以公務接待為名，大量浪費公款吃喝等腐敗現象已是習以為常、屢禁不止。相對之下，謹遵官箴德行反而成了反常行為，即使是基督徒也不免落入「随波逐流」的俗規中。讓我們禱告基督徒能在職場上有見証，在神的家裡也更願意成爲忠誠的管家，妥善管理教會財務。
星期四
世界各地都有福州人，單單在大紐約地區百萬華人中，就有50萬是福州人。海外的福州人，常讓人聯想到偷渡客，卻也以勤奮出名，尤其擅長經營餐館業。中國政府阻止民眾偷渡，但許多人仍願背負巨債，到國外闖天下。很多福州人在海外認識了基督，讓我們為全世界的中國非法移民及當地的移民福音事工向神禱告。
星期五
春節過後，幾千萬農民工就要做一個艱難的決定：應否回到城市再找工作？去年許多工廠關閉，絕大多數的農民工都沒有一技之長，只能做普通的工作，正是最受影響的一群。「打工無前途，回鄉無意思」正是當前農民工的處境。求主引導農村信徒對未來前途作出合宜的選擇。此外，這些在外打工的信徒每年只有過年過節才能和孩子相聚，實在難以對孩子的靈命有所影響，也是教養子女上的一大挑戰。願主時常提醒身為父母的，不要放棄建立良好的親子關係，並且保護子女不受引誘。
星期六
韓國人的民族性強，歷來皆十分排外。旅韓華人常抱怨韓國人排華，韓國也沒有像樣的唐人街。近年韓國大量派出宣教士真是神奇妙的作為。韓國宣教士由於為主傳揚褔音大膽熱心，經常被中國政府驅逐出境。讓我們特別記念所有在國內、外因受限制，不能自由宣揚褔音或作主聖工的教會同工，求主保守引領，開創新局。
星期日
網際網路信息中心公布，中國網民數量達2.53億，躍居世界第一，而這人數還不到全國人民的五分之一。許多中國基督徒上網閱讀在國內難求的聖經和研經資料，更有許多按時收聽或觀看講道。我們為此感謝讚美神，求主引導網路的發展，使更多的中國網民能夠透過基督教網站，認識並接受耶穌基督的救贖宏恩，得著永生的盼望；並使這些網站能繼續提供高素質且具純正神學觀的靈糧。
星期一
大年初一，北京全市各類廟會火爆開幕，據統計約六十餘萬人在廟會過節，燒香祈求來年平安。儘管基督教近年在首都發展迅速，但傳統宗教如佛教和道教的增長卻有過之而無不及，因這些宗教看來更有「中國味」。我們為教會在春節期間舉辨的福音聚會禱告，求主施行拯救，使教會結果、增長。又願信徒在主裏享用神的愛和恩典，靈裏更新，新年之首，立定心志，共同拓展神的國度。
The premier of China spent Chinese New Year's Day in the earthquake-stricken zone cooking with the women in their makeshift kitchens, encouraging villagers, and eating the "reunion meal" with minority families there. Let us begin the year by praying especially for all the ministries among the ethnic minorities who are often overlooked and difficult for outsiders to reach. We pray, too, that believers will imitate Jesus Christ in His humility and have "servant hearts".
Wednesday
Cracking down on corruption at every level is difficult for the government in China. For mid-level government employees, "diverting official funds for private use" and "excessive entertaining" are the most common practices. It is easy for Christians to fall into these same customs. Let us pray that all of us will be good and faithful stewards of what is entrusted to us, especially with church funds.
Thursday
Chinese from Fuzhou can be found all over the world. In New York City alone, there are 500,000 of them. They are known for illegally entering countries but are also known for their hardworking nature. Fuzhou people are famous for being successful in the restaurant business. The government discourages leaving China illegally, but many ignore them and take on great debt to finance their trip abroad. Many Fuzhou people come to know Jesus overseas. We pray for all the ministries and churches reaching to all the Chinese illegal immigrants in many parts of world.
Friday
After New Year's holiday, millions of villagers must make the painful decision of whether or not to return to their work in the city. Many factories employing non-skilled workers have shut down in this global financial crisis. All rural residents face the same dilemma: "working in the city is merely trading youth for wages, but staying home at the farm has no future." All of them will need to find work to earn income somehow. Let us pray for rural believers who are facing the decision of returning to work. Having a couple weeks with family and children once a year presents great challenges in parenting and having spiritual influence on children. May the Lord remind them to continue to build parent-child relationships and protect them from temptations.
Saturday
Many Chinese who live in Korea complain that the people are anti-Chinese and there is no decent Chinatown there. Koreans are a very ethnically united people and are historically very anti-foreign so the recent huge Korean missionary effort is truly a miracle of God. Korean missionaries are very courageous and are frequently expelled from China because of their zeal to share Jesus. We take this time to remember all the church workers, foreign or national who are no longer able to freely able to share Jesus or conduct their church ministries.
Sunday
China has the most people accessing the Internet, with a whopping 253 millions uses, yet this is still less than one in five of the population. Many Christians use the Internet to access sermons and Bible studies material not available or restricted inside China. Many routinely listen or watch sermons posted abroad. We thank the Lord for this and pray for more ministries and churches providing quality and orthodox resources online.
Monday
On Chinese New Year's Day, 600,000 people participated in worship in various temples in the city of Beijing alone. People young and old burned incense and prayed for good fortune in the new year. It is true that Christianity is growing very fast in the capital city but the traditional religions, Buddhism and Taoism have grown also, largely because they are seen as more "Chinese". We pray that those many churches that are hosting special evangelistic meetings during the spring festival will see believers renewed by the Holy Spirit as well as a harvest of souls coming into the Kingdom.
星期二
總理溫家寶春節在地震災區親自下廚，並與少數民族的家庭共享團年飯，在廚房與婦女一起炒菜，為鄉親打打氣。讓我們在一年之首，為少數民族的事工獻上禱告，他們往往倍受忽略，外界也不容易接觸到他們。讓我們祷告信徒能效法主耶穌，有一顆謙卑捨己，願意服侍人的心。
星期三
在中國各階層官員以公務接待為名，大量浪費公款吃喝等腐敗現象已是習以為常、屢禁不止。相對之下，謹遵官箴德行反而成了反常行為，即使是基督徒也不免落入「随波逐流」的俗規中。讓我們禱告基督徒能在職場上有見証，在神的家裡也更願意成爲忠誠的管家，妥善管理教會財務。
星期四
世界各地都有福州人，單單在大紐約地區百萬華人中，就有50萬是福州人。海外的福州人，常讓人聯想到偷渡客，卻也以勤奮出名，尤其擅長經營餐館業。中國政府阻止民眾偷渡，但許多人仍願背負巨債，到國外闖天下。很多福州人在海外認識了基督，讓我們為全世界的中國非法移民及當地的移民福音事工向神禱告。
星期五
春節過後，幾千萬農民工就要做一個艱難的決定：應否回到城市再找工作？去年許多工廠關閉，絕大多數的農民工都沒有一技之長，只能做普通的工作，正是最受影響的一群。「打工無前途，回鄉無意思」正是當前農民工的處境。求主引導農村信徒對未來前途作出合宜的選擇。此外，這些在外打工的信徒每年只有過年過節才能和孩子相聚，實在難以對孩子的靈命有所影響，也是教養子女上的一大挑戰。願主時常提醒身為父母的，不要放棄建立良好的親子關係，並且保護子女不受引誘。
星期六
韓國人的民族性強，歷來皆十分排外。旅韓華人常抱怨韓國人排華，韓國也沒有像樣的唐人街。近年韓國大量派出宣教士真是神奇妙的作為。韓國宣教士由於為主傳揚褔音大膽熱心，經常被中國政府驅逐出境。讓我們特別記念所有在國內、外因受限制，不能自由宣揚褔音或作主聖工的教會同工，求主保守引領，開創新局。
星期日
網際網路信息中心公布，中國網民數量達2.53億，躍居世界第一，而這人數還不到全國人民的五分之一。許多中國基督徒上網閱讀在國內難求的聖經和研經資料，更有許多按時收聽或觀看講道。我們為此感謝讚美神，求主引導網路的發展，使更多的中國網民能夠透過基督教網站，認識並接受耶穌基督的救贖宏恩，得著永生的盼望；並使這些網站能繼續提供高素質且具純正神學觀的靈糧。
星期一
大年初一，北京全市各類廟會火爆開幕，據統計約六十餘萬人在廟會過節，燒香祈求來年平安。儘管基督教近年在首都發展迅速，但傳統宗教如佛教和道教的增長卻有過之而無不及，因這些宗教看來更有「中國味」。我們為教會在春節期間舉辨的福音聚會禱告，求主施行拯救，使教會結果、增長。又願信徒在主裏享用神的愛和恩典，靈裏更新，新年之首，立定心志，共同拓展神的國度。
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