Posts
Tuesday
In a prominent forum, mega action star Jackie Chan said he's not sure if a free society is a good thing for China. He also stated that he's starting to think "We Chinese need to be controlled." referring to Hong Kong and Taiwan both of which are chaotic. Furthermore, he said that Japanese-made electronics are of a better quality than those made in China. Such statements drew criticism but also resonate with many people. Some will debate whether the present monitoring of religions by the Chinese government is "actually good". Let us pray for the churches in China again that they will have a vision to be light and salt in their communities and there will be a genuine unity among them as the Body of Christ.
Wednesday
The Chinese navy celebrated the 60th anniversary of her founding recently. It started as a unit of the Kuomintang's coastal defense fleet which defected in the civil war after WWII and took with it a small flotilla of boats. During the celebration the much-touted secret nuclear submarine were showcased since the naval power is a great source of national pride to China. Many Chinese believers feel excited about the way God is going to use them to reach the world. We pray for genuine compassion for the lost souls of all races, the removal of nationalistic pride, and the serious training of workers needed for long-lasting results in the kingdom.
Thursday
Traditionally, church workers put great emphasis on ministry over their own families. When asked about their families, they often simply answer, "It is not easy!" Whether one or both spouses serve in church, many preacher's families are having difficulties balancing family life and ministry and are unable to share with others. When the church demands so much of their time and energy, the church workers need prayer. Let us pray for divine wisdom for all church workers. Churches need to help their pastors, especially those whose marriages are under great strain, and show care and love for their families, too.
Friday
Many are beginning to wonder how to improve the educational system in China. One area in question is that of dividing science and the liberal arts too soon. Many students who study engineering or science have but little idea of the Chinese classics and on the other hand, liberal arts students lack a scientific mindset. The same can be said about theological training and Sunday school in China. Much emphasis has been placed on Biblical knowledge and much less on application of what was learned and living it out in everyday life. Let us pray for the conviction of the Holy Spirit in the life of every believer and not merely intellectual knowledge or talk only.
Saturday
Since 1989 there has been a trend of Chinese intellectuals turning to Christianity. They have become the new face of Chinese urban churches and contribute to the growth of many house churches in the cities. Yet as the nationalistic sentiment rises and there is a renaissance of Confucianism, the new generation of Chinese intellectuals are not so interested in Christianity as those before them. We thank the Lord for the many churches whose membership includes professionals and college graduates. May the Lord use them mightily as they humbly serve in their churches with a servant's heart and a love for lost souls.
Sunday
The Chinese government says that one out of six mingong, a total of 20 million people, will be without a job in the coming months. With rising unemployment and the disparity of income between rural and urban residents, the government's policy is to increase their efforts to make sure there are no uprisings. It is harder for a man without a job to play the role of a good husband and father. Let us pray especially for Christian men who are now unemployed. May the Lord grant them the patience, tenderness and faith in God to lead their families through this tough time.
Monday
The number of Christians in 25 of the twenty-eight provinces and centrally-administered cities in China is considered to be very insignificant. Even when one combines both the Catholic and Protestant groups, there is only a small religious minority. There are many indications that Buddhism and Taoism are gaining in popularity partly because Chinese people identify Christianity as a Western religion. We pray that more churches will have a passion for evangelism and that believers will share Jesus with their friends and family members.
星期二
在博鰲論壇上，影視巨星成龍表示他不大肯定自由社會對中國是否有益，針對香港和台灣目前的混亂狀況，他表示自己開始思想“中國人需否受管制”的問題。此外，他又指出，日本生產的電器在質量上要比中國的優勝，這些講話引起各界人士的譴責。對於目前北京政府對宗教採行監控的利弊得失，亦引來不少爭議。讓我們再次為中國教會禱告，願他們能在自己社區作鹽作光，在基督裡真正契合如一。
星期三
中國海軍慶祝成立60周年，其前身為國民黨時期的海岸防衛隊，二次大戰後，這支隊伍連同少數船艇變節。中國一直以龐大海上軍力引以為傲，這次海上閱兵活動，中國核子潛艇首度公開亮相。很多中國信徒同享這份民族自豪感，希望藉此褔音能廣傳世界。求神使我們對各族各國人靈魂得救存真正的憐憫，除去民族傲氣，讓主的工人能受到全面的裝備，使神的國度能長足深遠的拓展。
星期四
傳統以來，內地教會的同工大多專注於發展教會事工，較少提及自己家裡的情況；就算被問及，也只輕描淡寫地說一句「每個人的家庭都不容易！」無論夫妻是 一人還是二人全職服事，許多同工都有無法兼顧的難處。求主賜予「羊多牧人少」的同工們屬天的智慧，平衡家庭與事奉。同時，教會也需要更關心同工家庭的情況，為有困難的同工提供幫助，以愛心體諒他們的處境。
星期五
很多人開始思考中國教育制度該如何改革。不少人認為文理分科過早，很多理工科學生對中國古典文學一竅不通，文科生則又缺乏科學常識。神學培訓及主日學也出現同似情況，往往偏重聖經知識裝備，較少著重如何在日常生活活出信仰。讓我們祈求每位信徒生命都能確實經歷聖靈的大能，不徒具屬靈知識或空談道理而已。
星期六
自1989年不少中國知識份子心靈的門向福音大大敞開。他們不但成為中國城市教會的新興力量，且使很多城市的家庭教會不斷增長。但隨著國家和民族意識日漸高漲，傳統儒家文化又在一次受人重視。新一代中國知識分子已不如上一代人那麼對基督教感興趣。感謝主！很多教會都有一些不同的專業人才和大學生，求神大大使用他們，譲他們有一顆作僕人和憐憫失喪靈魂的心，謙卑地在教會事奉。
星期日
中國政府估計，未來數月每六個民工當中就有一個面臨失業，人數將達到二千多萬。失業情況不斷惡化，農村和城市居民收入差距擴大，政府持續設法防止因失業產生更大的問題發生。一般來說，要做好丈夫和父親的角色，有一份穩定的工作是相當重要的。我們特別爲那些失業的弟兄們禱告，求神賜他們忍耐、溫柔和對神的信心去帶領全家度過艱難的時期。
星期一
全中國28省份及4個直轄市中，有25個省份／直轄市，基督徒所佔的人口比例微乎其微。即使把新教徒和天主教徒都計算在內，基督徒也只是為數極少的宗教群體。種種跡象顯示，佛教和道教日漸受歡迎，相反，基督教卻被中國人視為洋教。讓我們祈求更多教會能為褔音事工大發熱心，信徒能跟家人、朋友更多分享耶穌。
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Prayer Request 4/21 - 4/27
Tuesday
A college in Wuhan is pioneering in teaching young women how to be "lady-like" with classes which include proper Chinese manners, the Chinese tea ceremony, makeup, fashion, and how to drive a car. Such courses are actually welcomed by the party officials and similar courses are offered as electives in a few big-name universities. Many Chinese women believers find it difficult to trust God when it comes to submitting to their husbands. We pray for all Christian families that are having marital struggles. May the Lord help each of them, first to submit to Him, and then to love each other as Christ loves us. We lift up those sisters who feel they cannot submit to their unbelieving husbands.
Wednesday
"Golden Shield" is China's much "praised or feared" internet firewall system. It is built to filter out violence, pornography, religious extremism, and some foreign human rights information. It is fully capable of monitoring any e-mails or on-line postings of all Chinese netizens. Removal of online pornography is good but as parents know, pornographic material is everywhere, in DVD's and in magazines. Let us pray that we as believers will flee from sexual temptation and constantly guard our hearts with God's "firewall". We pray for the many believers who have a need to be set free from pornography.
Thursday
China churches is in a time of watershed in term of church management and leadership. Currently church leaders can easily described as "dictatorial". Churches lack official registrations, there are no elected governing bodies and leadership who have little accountability. How can Chinese church find her own unique way of management? We do not know. But, we pray the Lord continue to have great purpose and mission for China churches. We pray for guarding of heart, resisting the temptation of power, lust and greed for all the church workers and leaders.
Friday
Leaders and elder are greatly respected and they enjoy much authority in the Chinese culture. This kind of unquestioned authority is easily seen among the Chinese churches too. Especially among the house churches, leaders command respect and authority unseen in Western churches. Younger believers often become disheartened as they struggle with "absolute obedience" of their leader in church and having "little say". We pray for all the dispirited younger believers who feel unable to make a difference. May the Lord grant them the patience and able to see above the human flaws.
Saturday
Many would call China churches administrative structure as "imperial" or "dictatorial", invariably one person makes all the key decisions, the power is centralized at the top like a pyramid and everyone is expected to obey and follow explicitly without questioning. Such leadership style have served well during the religious oppression of decades past and also suit the Chinese historical background. Yet, it present great danger and discourage the participation of members. We beseech the Lord for all those in the "top", may the Lord protect them, so their heart, thoughts and teaching will be consistent and above reproach.
Sunday
The leadership structure of the vast majority of China churches can be described as "pyramid", all the decision makings are done by one person and are expected to carried out without questioning. There is little feedback or collective decision making to speak of. While this can be efficient but badly discourage new ideas and involvement of more congregation. We lift up the Body of Christ in China in His hands, may the Lord have mercy them. We pray for heart of shepherd and servant of all in leadership positions. We too pray for younger pastors who will have good role model to imitate true servant-leadership as they learn to lead their flocks.
Monday
"Why are the Chinese believers not willing to give offering?" A very important reason is lack of transparency and financial accountability system. An unregistered church has no official bylaws and only the leader and very privileged few are in charge of how the offering is used. Lack of trust of how the offering is used discourage offering. While the system cannot be rectified overnight, let us pray for the faithful stewardship of church funds in all churches. We too pray for thankful heart of believers and charitable hearts in giving and helping those in need.
星期二
日前武漢一所學院專門成立了一個淑女班，要求“不僅要懂國學禮儀，會茶道女紅，還要懂得化粧技巧、服裝搭配，甚至學習汽車駕駛”，甚受黨委歡迎，某些名校也開辦類似的選修課。很少現代中國女性會再遵守傳統的三從四德，基督徒婦女也會覺得很難順服丈夫，以丈夫為首。許多基督徒都會面對種種婚姻問題，我們求主保守所有信徒的婚姻，幫助每對夫妻能夠先降服於主，再以基督的愛來彼此相愛。並且守住在神面前立下的誓約。我們也特別求神記念幫助因丈夫未信而難以順從的姐妹們。
星期三
中國建設的互聯網防火墻“金盾工程”，受到的評論可說毀譽參半。該工程能監督和過濾所有中國網民的互聯網資訊，也被用來過濾部分暴力、色情、宗教極端以及部分海外民運人士的網站。色情網頁能被刪除當然是好事，但父母們也都知道，色情資料無所不在，除了網頁，還有無孔不入的光碟和雜志。求主用祂的“防火墻”來保守每一個信徒的心，使我們遠離情色和性的試探。
星期四
中國教會在領導和治理上正處於一個分水嶺。當前的教會管理可說是屬於“領導說了算”。教會多無正式注冊，領導層的形成，沒有一定的程序，往往造成領導者信服力的不足。中國教會往後的路該怎麼走，我們沒有答案。唯有禱告，求主繼續使用教會，給予教會更大的使命和目的。求神保守領袖同工們，威武不屈，貧賤不移，更叫他們不戀棧權勢，不貪財色，不慕安逸，終身忠心事主。
星期五
傳統中國人晚輩對於尊長是絕對服從，這種“絕對的權威“亦可見於中國教會，尤其是家庭教會之中。這種現象在西方教會教會罕見。年輕信徒在這種只能服從，不能多言的傳統下，雄心壯志容易被消磨凈盡。我們求神賜信心和耐心，使年輕弟兄姊妹的眼光超越人的軟弱，而看見神的作為。
星期六
很多人稱中國教會的行政制度為“權威獨占式”，權利集中，由上而下。下級的人對上級要絕對服從。這樣的領導模式在過去受逼迫時十分管用，也能符合中國傳統文化。但是它卻有一定的危險性，也會抑制會友的事奉心志。我們祈求神看顧保守所有“在上掌權”者，監督他們，使他們的心懷意念，行為和教導都能和神心意，歷久不偏離。
星期日
絕大部分的中國教會採取所謂“金字塔”-中央集權的組織模式。在上的一人做出決策，其下的人二話不能說，便得執行。因此，決策前後都不會有太多意見或回應。如此一來，效率有餘，新的意見和會友的參與卻大大不足。求神親自掌管在中國的基督的身體。求主憐憫祂的教會。我們為所有在領導位置的主僕禱告，求神保守他們的心。也禱告年輕傳道在學習帶領和牧養羊群的過程中，有好的榜樣以身示範僕人式的領導。
星期一
中國信徒為何不願意奉獻？主要原因之一是教會的財政管理制度欠缺透明。沒有注冊的教會，財政不受法律監管，會友的奉獻的使用由幾個領袖全權管理。對管理者的信心直接影響奉獻的意願。制度不可能一夜改變，我們但為所有在教會管理的行政和財務的管家們代禱，也禱告求神給信徒們感恩惜福的心，願意把神所賜的，與有需要的人分享。
A college in Wuhan is pioneering in teaching young women how to be "lady-like" with classes which include proper Chinese manners, the Chinese tea ceremony, makeup, fashion, and how to drive a car. Such courses are actually welcomed by the party officials and similar courses are offered as electives in a few big-name universities. Many Chinese women believers find it difficult to trust God when it comes to submitting to their husbands. We pray for all Christian families that are having marital struggles. May the Lord help each of them, first to submit to Him, and then to love each other as Christ loves us. We lift up those sisters who feel they cannot submit to their unbelieving husbands.
Wednesday
"Golden Shield" is China's much "praised or feared" internet firewall system. It is built to filter out violence, pornography, religious extremism, and some foreign human rights information. It is fully capable of monitoring any e-mails or on-line postings of all Chinese netizens. Removal of online pornography is good but as parents know, pornographic material is everywhere, in DVD's and in magazines. Let us pray that we as believers will flee from sexual temptation and constantly guard our hearts with God's "firewall". We pray for the many believers who have a need to be set free from pornography.
Thursday
China churches is in a time of watershed in term of church management and leadership. Currently church leaders can easily described as "dictatorial". Churches lack official registrations, there are no elected governing bodies and leadership who have little accountability. How can Chinese church find her own unique way of management? We do not know. But, we pray the Lord continue to have great purpose and mission for China churches. We pray for guarding of heart, resisting the temptation of power, lust and greed for all the church workers and leaders.
Friday
Leaders and elder are greatly respected and they enjoy much authority in the Chinese culture. This kind of unquestioned authority is easily seen among the Chinese churches too. Especially among the house churches, leaders command respect and authority unseen in Western churches. Younger believers often become disheartened as they struggle with "absolute obedience" of their leader in church and having "little say". We pray for all the dispirited younger believers who feel unable to make a difference. May the Lord grant them the patience and able to see above the human flaws.
Saturday
Many would call China churches administrative structure as "imperial" or "dictatorial", invariably one person makes all the key decisions, the power is centralized at the top like a pyramid and everyone is expected to obey and follow explicitly without questioning. Such leadership style have served well during the religious oppression of decades past and also suit the Chinese historical background. Yet, it present great danger and discourage the participation of members. We beseech the Lord for all those in the "top", may the Lord protect them, so their heart, thoughts and teaching will be consistent and above reproach.
Sunday
The leadership structure of the vast majority of China churches can be described as "pyramid", all the decision makings are done by one person and are expected to carried out without questioning. There is little feedback or collective decision making to speak of. While this can be efficient but badly discourage new ideas and involvement of more congregation. We lift up the Body of Christ in China in His hands, may the Lord have mercy them. We pray for heart of shepherd and servant of all in leadership positions. We too pray for younger pastors who will have good role model to imitate true servant-leadership as they learn to lead their flocks.
Monday
"Why are the Chinese believers not willing to give offering?" A very important reason is lack of transparency and financial accountability system. An unregistered church has no official bylaws and only the leader and very privileged few are in charge of how the offering is used. Lack of trust of how the offering is used discourage offering. While the system cannot be rectified overnight, let us pray for the faithful stewardship of church funds in all churches. We too pray for thankful heart of believers and charitable hearts in giving and helping those in need.
星期二
日前武漢一所學院專門成立了一個淑女班，要求“不僅要懂國學禮儀，會茶道女紅，還要懂得化粧技巧、服裝搭配，甚至學習汽車駕駛”，甚受黨委歡迎，某些名校也開辦類似的選修課。很少現代中國女性會再遵守傳統的三從四德，基督徒婦女也會覺得很難順服丈夫，以丈夫為首。許多基督徒都會面對種種婚姻問題，我們求主保守所有信徒的婚姻，幫助每對夫妻能夠先降服於主，再以基督的愛來彼此相愛。並且守住在神面前立下的誓約。我們也特別求神記念幫助因丈夫未信而難以順從的姐妹們。
星期三
中國建設的互聯網防火墻“金盾工程”，受到的評論可說毀譽參半。該工程能監督和過濾所有中國網民的互聯網資訊，也被用來過濾部分暴力、色情、宗教極端以及部分海外民運人士的網站。色情網頁能被刪除當然是好事，但父母們也都知道，色情資料無所不在，除了網頁，還有無孔不入的光碟和雜志。求主用祂的“防火墻”來保守每一個信徒的心，使我們遠離情色和性的試探。
星期四
中國教會在領導和治理上正處於一個分水嶺。當前的教會管理可說是屬於“領導說了算”。教會多無正式注冊，領導層的形成，沒有一定的程序，往往造成領導者信服力的不足。中國教會往後的路該怎麼走，我們沒有答案。唯有禱告，求主繼續使用教會，給予教會更大的使命和目的。求神保守領袖同工們，威武不屈，貧賤不移，更叫他們不戀棧權勢，不貪財色，不慕安逸，終身忠心事主。
星期五
傳統中國人晚輩對於尊長是絕對服從，這種“絕對的權威“亦可見於中國教會，尤其是家庭教會之中。這種現象在西方教會教會罕見。年輕信徒在這種只能服從，不能多言的傳統下，雄心壯志容易被消磨凈盡。我們求神賜信心和耐心，使年輕弟兄姊妹的眼光超越人的軟弱，而看見神的作為。
星期六
很多人稱中國教會的行政制度為“權威獨占式”，權利集中，由上而下。下級的人對上級要絕對服從。這樣的領導模式在過去受逼迫時十分管用，也能符合中國傳統文化。但是它卻有一定的危險性，也會抑制會友的事奉心志。我們祈求神看顧保守所有“在上掌權”者，監督他們，使他們的心懷意念，行為和教導都能和神心意，歷久不偏離。
星期日
絕大部分的中國教會採取所謂“金字塔”-中央集權的組織模式。在上的一人做出決策，其下的人二話不能說，便得執行。因此，決策前後都不會有太多意見或回應。如此一來，效率有餘，新的意見和會友的參與卻大大不足。求神親自掌管在中國的基督的身體。求主憐憫祂的教會。我們為所有在領導位置的主僕禱告，求神保守他們的心。也禱告年輕傳道在學習帶領和牧養羊群的過程中，有好的榜樣以身示範僕人式的領導。
星期一
中國信徒為何不願意奉獻？主要原因之一是教會的財政管理制度欠缺透明。沒有注冊的教會，財政不受法律監管，會友的奉獻的使用由幾個領袖全權管理。對管理者的信心直接影響奉獻的意願。制度不可能一夜改變，我們但為所有在教會管理的行政和財務的管家們代禱，也禱告求神給信徒們感恩惜福的心，願意把神所賜的，與有需要的人分享。
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Prayer Request 4/14 - 4/20
Tuesday
In the past decade God has done an amazing thing in Chinese colleges and now nearly every one of them has at least one Christian student fellowship or church nearby. Some of these groups funchtion literally as a church embracing every kind of ministry, doing visitation, and even sending out missionaries. We praise God for this revival among the young intellectuals and pray specifically for those who are leading, teaching, and training the young believers. May the Lord bless their ministry as they serve Him faithfully.
Wednesday
It is exciting to see many college student fellowship groups that not only have worship times and prayer meetings but also go out together to share and witness in the community. Although they are new believers, they are bold and desire to make an impact in the world. We thank the Lord for these college believers and pray that He will protect them from all the temptations they face--especially those that are sexual and those that result from materialism. Many of them still need to tell their parents about their faith. May the Lord give them courage and a strong witness.
Thursday
It is exciting to see that the latest harvest of the churches in China is countless college students. Their energetic worship and dedication are a breath of fresh air to the traditional churches. However, equipping these students before their graduation and making sure that they are connected with a church later proves to be a difficult task. We pray for all the college students who are believers that the Lord will help them to grow spiritually and have a continuing desire to be part of a church family after they graduate.
Friday
The government claims that 96% of the families in China own their own homes as their primary residence is their biggest financial investment. Young couples usually receive money from their parents to purchase their first home.Money can buy houses or apartments but not happy homes and many young working couples neglect this simple fact. Let us pray for wisdom and commitment to make Christ Lord of their homes for all Christian couples, especially young professionals.
Saturday
Churches in China are feeling the economic downturn. Many are worried about the future. They have lost a big chunk of their savings in stocks and business is not good. Although the food cost has stabilized, people are still feeling beaten down, in general. Let us pray specifically for the pulpits and pastors, so that they can deliver not only comforting messages of God, but also reminders to believers to fix their eyes on the Lord, knowing He will provide and His grace is sufficient.
Sunday
Grown children often continue to live with their parents in China and depend on them financially. Most commonly, kids are not able to afford a place of their own. Sometimes, children divorce and move back to live with their elderly parents, too. As parents, it is a difficult decision and they have mixed feelings of guilt and shame when a grown child lives with them. Honoring one's parents means to support them financially, especially in China. Let us pray for believers whose children are still financially dependent and also straying away from the Lord. May the Lord comfort them and help them to exert spiritual influence on their grown children and answer their prayers as godly parents.
Monday
Refusing to pay bribes may be detrimental to one's career; it means losing a fair chance for a possible promotion. Many will agree that the business environment is still very corrupt in China, and the ethos is pretty much "money and power talk" and "one must lose his soul to make money." Bribing one's superior is almost a necessity. Let us pray for comfort and encouragement for all the believers who refuse to bribe because they hold fast to Biblical righteousness. We pray for favor before men and fair and friendly treatment at work for them. May the Lord grant them wisdom, righteousness, vindication and we pray that they always give glory to God.
星期二
過去十多年，神在中國的大學作了一件奇妙的事。現在幾乎每所高校或附近至少有一個基督徒學生團契或教會。有些團契更肩負起教會的工作，開展各種各樣的事工、探訪、甚至差派宣教士的工作。我們來爲年輕知識分子的復興讚美神！更特別爲那些負責帶領、教導和訓練年輕信衆的弟兄姊妹禱告，求神祝福他們的事工，忠心服侍祂.
星期三
很多大專學生團契，目前不單有崇拜、禱告會、還有社區外展事工，與人分享並見證神。這些事情叫我們興奮無比，雖然他們都是新信徒，卻立定心志要改變世界！ 我們為這些大專信徒感謝主。讓我們禱告求神保護他們，免他們陷入試探，尤其是性慾和物質方面的引誘。很多信徒需要向父母表白自己的信仰，求神加添他們勇氣，讓他們能為主作美好的見證。
星期四
近年中國教會事工一項較明顯的成果是大學生歸主人數遽增。他們活力的崇拜和投入的事奉爲傳統教會注入一股清流。 可是，裝備好這些學生並在他們畢業前爲他們找到教會實不容易。讓我們爲學生們禱告，求神幫助他們生命有所成長，畢業後能繼續在教會服事神。
星期五
政府數據顯示，96%的中國家庭都擁有自己的房子，自住房子同時也是每個家庭的最大筆財產投資。一般年輕夫婦，通常從父母獲得幫助來購買他們的第一個家。金錢能買房子，卻難買家庭幸福。許多年輕夫妻，顧著掙錢卻忘卻這個簡單不過的事實。 讓我們為基督徒的夫婦禱告，尤其是那些年輕在職夫婦，願神賜他們有智慧和心志，以基督為他們一家之主．
星期六
中國的教會親身感受到了經濟衰退的影響。許多基督徒都在為未來擔心。他們在股票投資中失去了大半積蓄，企業的運營狀況也不好。雖然食品價格已經穩定下來，人們仍然總體上覺得灰心喪氣。 讓我們特別為教牧們禱告，求神使他們不僅能傳講從神而來安慰的信息，也同時能提醒基督徒們定睛在主身上，知道祂會供應，祂的恩典是夠用的。
星期日
中國成年子女常常繼續與父母住在一起，並繼續在經濟上依賴父母。常見的情況就是成年子女無法負擔一個獨立居所。有的情況則是子女離婚後搬回來與父母同住。如果成年的子女仍然需要和父母住在一起，作父母的往往是罪惡感和羞恥感交集，所以這真是一個艱難的選擇。中國人孝敬父母意味著子女們要在經濟上支持父母。讓我們為那些其成年子女在經濟上仍然需要依賴父母並且子女也遠離主的基督徒們禱告，願主安慰他們，並且幫助他們影響子女的靈命，並求主垂聽這些虔誠愛主父母們的禱告。
星期一
在經濟改革的大潮中，權力與利益，金錢與靈魂的掙扎，現實生活對許多人而言是相當的黑暗。若想辦事成功，必須行賄。若是拒絕行賄，那會是吃虧，被拖延損失的。求主安慰、鼓勵那些繼續堅守聖經原則的信徒；求主使他們在同事領導眼前蒙恩，得到友善和公平的對待。也為身處在一些不公不義的工作環境下的基督徒仰望神，求神為他們伸冤，賜他們智慧，行事為人能純良而靈巧，榮神益人。
In the past decade God has done an amazing thing in Chinese colleges and now nearly every one of them has at least one Christian student fellowship or church nearby. Some of these groups funchtion literally as a church embracing every kind of ministry, doing visitation, and even sending out missionaries. We praise God for this revival among the young intellectuals and pray specifically for those who are leading, teaching, and training the young believers. May the Lord bless their ministry as they serve Him faithfully.
Wednesday
It is exciting to see many college student fellowship groups that not only have worship times and prayer meetings but also go out together to share and witness in the community. Although they are new believers, they are bold and desire to make an impact in the world. We thank the Lord for these college believers and pray that He will protect them from all the temptations they face--especially those that are sexual and those that result from materialism. Many of them still need to tell their parents about their faith. May the Lord give them courage and a strong witness.
Thursday
It is exciting to see that the latest harvest of the churches in China is countless college students. Their energetic worship and dedication are a breath of fresh air to the traditional churches. However, equipping these students before their graduation and making sure that they are connected with a church later proves to be a difficult task. We pray for all the college students who are believers that the Lord will help them to grow spiritually and have a continuing desire to be part of a church family after they graduate.
Friday
The government claims that 96% of the families in China own their own homes as their primary residence is their biggest financial investment. Young couples usually receive money from their parents to purchase their first home.Money can buy houses or apartments but not happy homes and many young working couples neglect this simple fact. Let us pray for wisdom and commitment to make Christ Lord of their homes for all Christian couples, especially young professionals.
Saturday
Churches in China are feeling the economic downturn. Many are worried about the future. They have lost a big chunk of their savings in stocks and business is not good. Although the food cost has stabilized, people are still feeling beaten down, in general. Let us pray specifically for the pulpits and pastors, so that they can deliver not only comforting messages of God, but also reminders to believers to fix their eyes on the Lord, knowing He will provide and His grace is sufficient.
Sunday
Grown children often continue to live with their parents in China and depend on them financially. Most commonly, kids are not able to afford a place of their own. Sometimes, children divorce and move back to live with their elderly parents, too. As parents, it is a difficult decision and they have mixed feelings of guilt and shame when a grown child lives with them. Honoring one's parents means to support them financially, especially in China. Let us pray for believers whose children are still financially dependent and also straying away from the Lord. May the Lord comfort them and help them to exert spiritual influence on their grown children and answer their prayers as godly parents.
Monday
Refusing to pay bribes may be detrimental to one's career; it means losing a fair chance for a possible promotion. Many will agree that the business environment is still very corrupt in China, and the ethos is pretty much "money and power talk" and "one must lose his soul to make money." Bribing one's superior is almost a necessity. Let us pray for comfort and encouragement for all the believers who refuse to bribe because they hold fast to Biblical righteousness. We pray for favor before men and fair and friendly treatment at work for them. May the Lord grant them wisdom, righteousness, vindication and we pray that they always give glory to God.
星期二
過去十多年，神在中國的大學作了一件奇妙的事。現在幾乎每所高校或附近至少有一個基督徒學生團契或教會。有些團契更肩負起教會的工作，開展各種各樣的事工、探訪、甚至差派宣教士的工作。我們來爲年輕知識分子的復興讚美神！更特別爲那些負責帶領、教導和訓練年輕信衆的弟兄姊妹禱告，求神祝福他們的事工，忠心服侍祂.
星期三
很多大專學生團契，目前不單有崇拜、禱告會、還有社區外展事工，與人分享並見證神。這些事情叫我們興奮無比，雖然他們都是新信徒，卻立定心志要改變世界！ 我們為這些大專信徒感謝主。讓我們禱告求神保護他們，免他們陷入試探，尤其是性慾和物質方面的引誘。很多信徒需要向父母表白自己的信仰，求神加添他們勇氣，讓他們能為主作美好的見證。
星期四
近年中國教會事工一項較明顯的成果是大學生歸主人數遽增。他們活力的崇拜和投入的事奉爲傳統教會注入一股清流。 可是，裝備好這些學生並在他們畢業前爲他們找到教會實不容易。讓我們爲學生們禱告，求神幫助他們生命有所成長，畢業後能繼續在教會服事神。
星期五
政府數據顯示，96%的中國家庭都擁有自己的房子，自住房子同時也是每個家庭的最大筆財產投資。一般年輕夫婦，通常從父母獲得幫助來購買他們的第一個家。金錢能買房子，卻難買家庭幸福。許多年輕夫妻，顧著掙錢卻忘卻這個簡單不過的事實。 讓我們為基督徒的夫婦禱告，尤其是那些年輕在職夫婦，願神賜他們有智慧和心志，以基督為他們一家之主．
星期六
中國的教會親身感受到了經濟衰退的影響。許多基督徒都在為未來擔心。他們在股票投資中失去了大半積蓄，企業的運營狀況也不好。雖然食品價格已經穩定下來，人們仍然總體上覺得灰心喪氣。 讓我們特別為教牧們禱告，求神使他們不僅能傳講從神而來安慰的信息，也同時能提醒基督徒們定睛在主身上，知道祂會供應，祂的恩典是夠用的。
星期日
中國成年子女常常繼續與父母住在一起，並繼續在經濟上依賴父母。常見的情況就是成年子女無法負擔一個獨立居所。有的情況則是子女離婚後搬回來與父母同住。如果成年的子女仍然需要和父母住在一起，作父母的往往是罪惡感和羞恥感交集，所以這真是一個艱難的選擇。中國人孝敬父母意味著子女們要在經濟上支持父母。讓我們為那些其成年子女在經濟上仍然需要依賴父母並且子女也遠離主的基督徒們禱告，願主安慰他們，並且幫助他們影響子女的靈命，並求主垂聽這些虔誠愛主父母們的禱告。
星期一
在經濟改革的大潮中，權力與利益，金錢與靈魂的掙扎，現實生活對許多人而言是相當的黑暗。若想辦事成功，必須行賄。若是拒絕行賄，那會是吃虧，被拖延損失的。求主安慰、鼓勵那些繼續堅守聖經原則的信徒；求主使他們在同事領導眼前蒙恩，得到友善和公平的對待。也為身處在一些不公不義的工作環境下的基督徒仰望神，求神為他們伸冤，賜他們智慧，行事為人能純良而靈巧，榮神益人。
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Prayer Request 4/7 - 4/13
Tuesday
Many people in China easily fall prey to different kinds of cults as well as the occult. They preach and teach ridiculous interpretations of the Scripture yet many naive believers take that as the truth. It is very sad that sincere but untaught believers become victims of these cults and the occult with no one to teach them how to discern the right way to go. We pray for those who have fallen away from the Truth that God in His mercy will bring them back and make them whole.
Wednesday
Some of the cults ravaging the churches in China resort to dirty tricks such as threatening leaders with physical harm, kidnapping believers, leading people into sexual temptation--coming in as wolves in sheep's clothing and hijacking the entire church body. Every week churches are destroyed by cults with the result that those left are feeble and unable to function as the Lord's body. Let us pray for those churches that are under attack, specifically for their safety and wisdom. We pray, too, for those who are trying to regroup their ministry after the loss of their shepherds.
Thursday
The churches in China are facing a new wave of attack by cults coming from North America. These "wolves in sheep's skins" are clean cut and polite. They attract young people, visit homes, and conduct English classes. Foreign cults see China as a big pie sitting there waiting to be devoured so they are putting forth great efforts to win people in China. We pray for spiritual alertness for all believers and for more prayer sentries to be called. May the Lord be merciful to the churches in China.
Friday
As a whole, the house churches in China are still searching for a workable model for growth. Many are still struggling with the problem of how to expand or maintain their ministry and stay unregistered with the government. In other words, they are in the legal gray zone. We pray for the preaching and outreach done by churches under all kinds of limitations, especially those that have a lack of properly equipped leaders and limited facilities. Many want to reach out to the children and youth but are unable to do so.
Saturday
Whether to register with the government or not continues to be a thorny debate for many house churches. Some are negotiating with officials in order to own church property and expand their ministry. We pray along with those churches going through this often divisive and emotionally wrenching process. Through this a church often is divided and polarized. May the Lord give them wisdom, unity of spirit, and oneness of mind.
Sunday
Presently the churches in China can best be described as fragmented and divided. The biggest reason for this is theological differences which are literally bordering on antagonism. Some churches will not even meet or work together because they accuse each other of being theological apostates. Believers are often taught that their interpretation of the Bible is the only one that is absolutely correct. The Bible teaches us there is only one Christ and one church so we pray for humility and mutual acceptance among all these factions in the churches in China.
Monday
Many well-meaning Western missionaries and churches take their methods of church growth and discipleship with them to China. They also support these churches financially. However, many of these ideas and methodologies need to be contextualized and adapted to China to be truly effective. We thank the Lord for all the gifts and ideas taken to the churches in China and we pray that those same churches will grow solidly on God's work and not just try to copy and imitate what works elsewhere.
星期二
提起「異端」總讓人感嘆中國人容易被迷惑。「東方閃電」、「二兩糧」、「門徒會」、「末日會」等諸多荒誕教導的群體都能在中國發展壯大，甚至有肥沃土壤可供其滋長。面對各樣的偏邪教義並不可畏，可怕的是沒人教導信徒分辨真假，一味盲從，使教會流失很多信徒。 讓我們為那些偏離真道的人禱告，求上帝以慈憐挽回他們，使他們歸回羊圈。
星期三
中國的「土產異端」如「東方閃電」往往使用坑、矇、拐、騙等諸多手段，專與教會作對。這些披著羊皮的狼以教會的同工、領袖為首要擄掠對象，為教會帶來極大的虧損，許多家教會領袖同工都深受其害。讓我們特別為那些遭受攻擊，群龍無首，而急需重整事工的教會禱告，求神賜下智慧、大能保護祂眾兒女安全。
星期四
隨著門戶的漸漸開放，「洋」異端亦來到中國，如:復臨安息日會、摩門教、統一教等…。這些人穿戴乾淨整齊、舉止文明，站在城市街頭發放傳單或在小區拜訪，他們與國內傳道人的衣著舉止大為迥異，常吸引人去參加他們的聚會，分割地上教會的人群。讓我們禱告所有信徒都保持屬靈警覺，以禱告堵住破口。願神憐憫保護祂自己的教會。
星期五
家庭教會整體而言還在摸索一個切合國情的教會增長模式。許多教會一方面希望發展事工，另一方面則面臨沒有向政府登記，法律上的灰色地帶問題。 讓我們為未登記教會面對在信息傳講和事工發展種種的困難，尤其欠缺周全裝備的領袖或資源匱乏的教會。求神在目前舉步爲艱的形勢下，為許多都有心發展兒童或青少年工作的教會開路。
星期六
這些年來，家庭教會應否向政府「登記」一直是個極富爭議性的課題。有些為了要擁有合法的聚會場地來發展事工跟政府打交道。讓我們爲這些開始跟政府溝通的教會禱告，此過程往往易導致教會內意見分歧，造成教會分裂和對立。求主賜教會同工們智慧，有合一心靈，共同為見証主及拓展國度努力。
星期日
當今中國教會現狀況可謂「各自為政」。最大的問題是神學上的分歧，造成教會彼此對立。很多教會互相指責對方在教義上走歪，並因此停止相互往來合作。基督徒常常堅持自己教會對聖經的詮釋是絕對無誤的。其實聖經教導的核的是：我們只有一位基督、一個教會。讓我們一同來爲教會宗派之爭禱告，求神使我們在持守基要真理時，能存心謙卑，竭力與眾人和睦，用愛心彼此接納。
星期一
許多西方傳教士和教會把教會增長和栽培信徒的經驗帶到中國，同時也在財務上援助教會。然而要使這些新觀念和方法的充分落實，仍需配合國情作適當的調整。我們為這些新事物和概念引入中國教會感謝神！讓我們向神禱告，願這些教會在神的引領下能有根有基地成長，不致盲目模倣、追隨他人在別處成功的經驗。
Many people in China easily fall prey to different kinds of cults as well as the occult. They preach and teach ridiculous interpretations of the Scripture yet many naive believers take that as the truth. It is very sad that sincere but untaught believers become victims of these cults and the occult with no one to teach them how to discern the right way to go. We pray for those who have fallen away from the Truth that God in His mercy will bring them back and make them whole.
Wednesday
Some of the cults ravaging the churches in China resort to dirty tricks such as threatening leaders with physical harm, kidnapping believers, leading people into sexual temptation--coming in as wolves in sheep's clothing and hijacking the entire church body. Every week churches are destroyed by cults with the result that those left are feeble and unable to function as the Lord's body. Let us pray for those churches that are under attack, specifically for their safety and wisdom. We pray, too, for those who are trying to regroup their ministry after the loss of their shepherds.
Thursday
The churches in China are facing a new wave of attack by cults coming from North America. These "wolves in sheep's skins" are clean cut and polite. They attract young people, visit homes, and conduct English classes. Foreign cults see China as a big pie sitting there waiting to be devoured so they are putting forth great efforts to win people in China. We pray for spiritual alertness for all believers and for more prayer sentries to be called. May the Lord be merciful to the churches in China.
Friday
As a whole, the house churches in China are still searching for a workable model for growth. Many are still struggling with the problem of how to expand or maintain their ministry and stay unregistered with the government. In other words, they are in the legal gray zone. We pray for the preaching and outreach done by churches under all kinds of limitations, especially those that have a lack of properly equipped leaders and limited facilities. Many want to reach out to the children and youth but are unable to do so.
Saturday
Whether to register with the government or not continues to be a thorny debate for many house churches. Some are negotiating with officials in order to own church property and expand their ministry. We pray along with those churches going through this often divisive and emotionally wrenching process. Through this a church often is divided and polarized. May the Lord give them wisdom, unity of spirit, and oneness of mind.
Sunday
Presently the churches in China can best be described as fragmented and divided. The biggest reason for this is theological differences which are literally bordering on antagonism. Some churches will not even meet or work together because they accuse each other of being theological apostates. Believers are often taught that their interpretation of the Bible is the only one that is absolutely correct. The Bible teaches us there is only one Christ and one church so we pray for humility and mutual acceptance among all these factions in the churches in China.
Monday
Many well-meaning Western missionaries and churches take their methods of church growth and discipleship with them to China. They also support these churches financially. However, many of these ideas and methodologies need to be contextualized and adapted to China to be truly effective. We thank the Lord for all the gifts and ideas taken to the churches in China and we pray that those same churches will grow solidly on God's work and not just try to copy and imitate what works elsewhere.
星期二
提起「異端」總讓人感嘆中國人容易被迷惑。「東方閃電」、「二兩糧」、「門徒會」、「末日會」等諸多荒誕教導的群體都能在中國發展壯大，甚至有肥沃土壤可供其滋長。面對各樣的偏邪教義並不可畏，可怕的是沒人教導信徒分辨真假，一味盲從，使教會流失很多信徒。 讓我們為那些偏離真道的人禱告，求上帝以慈憐挽回他們，使他們歸回羊圈。
星期三
中國的「土產異端」如「東方閃電」往往使用坑、矇、拐、騙等諸多手段，專與教會作對。這些披著羊皮的狼以教會的同工、領袖為首要擄掠對象，為教會帶來極大的虧損，許多家教會領袖同工都深受其害。讓我們特別為那些遭受攻擊，群龍無首，而急需重整事工的教會禱告，求神賜下智慧、大能保護祂眾兒女安全。
星期四
隨著門戶的漸漸開放，「洋」異端亦來到中國，如:復臨安息日會、摩門教、統一教等…。這些人穿戴乾淨整齊、舉止文明，站在城市街頭發放傳單或在小區拜訪，他們與國內傳道人的衣著舉止大為迥異，常吸引人去參加他們的聚會，分割地上教會的人群。讓我們禱告所有信徒都保持屬靈警覺，以禱告堵住破口。願神憐憫保護祂自己的教會。
星期五
家庭教會整體而言還在摸索一個切合國情的教會增長模式。許多教會一方面希望發展事工，另一方面則面臨沒有向政府登記，法律上的灰色地帶問題。 讓我們為未登記教會面對在信息傳講和事工發展種種的困難，尤其欠缺周全裝備的領袖或資源匱乏的教會。求神在目前舉步爲艱的形勢下，為許多都有心發展兒童或青少年工作的教會開路。
星期六
這些年來，家庭教會應否向政府「登記」一直是個極富爭議性的課題。有些為了要擁有合法的聚會場地來發展事工跟政府打交道。讓我們爲這些開始跟政府溝通的教會禱告，此過程往往易導致教會內意見分歧，造成教會分裂和對立。求主賜教會同工們智慧，有合一心靈，共同為見証主及拓展國度努力。
星期日
當今中國教會現狀況可謂「各自為政」。最大的問題是神學上的分歧，造成教會彼此對立。很多教會互相指責對方在教義上走歪，並因此停止相互往來合作。基督徒常常堅持自己教會對聖經的詮釋是絕對無誤的。其實聖經教導的核的是：我們只有一位基督、一個教會。讓我們一同來爲教會宗派之爭禱告，求神使我們在持守基要真理時，能存心謙卑，竭力與眾人和睦，用愛心彼此接納。
星期一
許多西方傳教士和教會把教會增長和栽培信徒的經驗帶到中國，同時也在財務上援助教會。然而要使這些新觀念和方法的充分落實，仍需配合國情作適當的調整。我們為這些新事物和概念引入中國教會感謝神！讓我們向神禱告，願這些教會在神的引領下能有根有基地成長，不致盲目模倣、追隨他人在別處成功的經驗。
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