Prayer Request 7/28 - 8/3

Tuesday
Chaiwan (China + Taiwan) is a term coined by Korean media signifying the ever important economic entity of the combination. Mainland capital and Taiwan high-tech know-how together will pose a threat to the Korean industries. In Taiwan, many fear relocating more companies to Mainland will lead to loss of job on the island. It is unknown and interesting to predict how the churches would come together. But, we have great faith in what God can do and we are thankful for opening many opportunities of dialogue and worshipping together. We have so much to learn from each other and to serve Him together.

Wednesday
Beijing announced that Taiwan students can attend Mainland universities directly, without participating in China's entrance examination. Such a move will potentially attract the best students from Taiwan to Mainland's colleges. A recent survey shows 2 in 3 Taiwan students consider the Mainland's students their biggest future career competitors. This unexpected move has many implications for college ministries throughout China. Let us pray that more people will see the importance of leading college students to Christ. May the Lord use this for great things in raising up a generation of young intellectuals, and calling college-educated young people to serve Him.

Thursday
Every summer, more and more Chinese churches are having retreats for their young people in China. This is a great time of fun and spiritual growth. Recently a church retreat was interrupted in Shandong. This incidence demonstrates the difficulties in hosting a church retreat which is considered an "illegal religious gathering". Let us pray for all the retreats being held this summers, for their safety and also as they reach out to the unbelieving friends. We too pray that many young people will be challenged to rededicate their lives to God.

Friday
A foreign magazine said: "China's economy is reviving for sure, but it is because the government is the big spender." Beijing spending has increased 30% since the beginning of 2009, with 75% of the money going toward infrastructure. Many people think that China is a huge consumer nation rivaling the United States but in reality the government is the one doing the buying and spending the money, not the average consumer. Because of the global recession many churches and mission agencies have cut back in their spending on missions in China . Many community-based projects have also been reduced in size or postponed. We pray that as the economy improves, more of the churches in China will see not only their own need but also that of supporting financially poor churches in other provinces and instead of depending on foreign donors, will themselves become truly "self-propagating".

Saturday
The sharp drop of exports across China can particularly be seen in Guangdong province. Many are asking, "Can China's domestic consumption replace its dependency on big buyers like Walmart?" In 2007 China exported seven times more goods than that consumed domestically. Their increasing the domestic consumption by opening the market in Hunan and Sichuan for appliances, jewelry, and shoes is only a drop in the bucket in comparison to the needs. We might ask, "How strong and healthy are the churches in China without foreign financial and manpower support?" We are thankful that the churches have grown and we pray that there will be even more indigenous growth, more pastors trained, and the believers will be rooted in the Word of God instead of following what is popular and famous abroad.

Sunday
A young female attendant who "refused to provide sexual service" and in the process in self-defense killed a customer who was an official, has sparked a storm for women rights in China. This case has generated attention on official abuses, corruption, and illicite sexual services in hotels and entertainment enterprises. We pray for purity of hearts for all Christian men and protection from sexual temptations. We remember, too, the deep dark issue of sexual abuse in China and pray for divine healing of all those who have suffered the trauma and pain of living through such a tragedy.

Monday
Beijing has a special squad of police that checks all antique shops each morning to confiscate things that should not be sold to foreigners. On the other hand, China has the dubious claim of producing fake antiques that fool even the experienced eyes of customs officials. Chinese Christians have certain standards of judging whether a person is spiritual or not even though we know it is difficult to ascertain whether one's faith is truly authentic. Let us pray that all believers would focus on a genuine relationship with Jesus and not simply act or behave in a religious fashion.


星期二
「Chaiwan」（中國China加台灣Taiwan）一詞係由韓國媒體創造的，意味著中國大陸與台灣日益升溫的經濟關係，認為中國資本與台灣高科技的相結合將威脅韓國的工業。 台灣也有些人擔心企業遷移到對岸將造成本土職位流失。新趨勢如何影響兩岸教會的互動，是個很有趣且值得深入探討的問題，但目前並無明確答案。讓我們存著信心，感謝主開創了各種機會能彼此溝通和學習，一同敬拜、事奉祂。

星期三
北京當局宣布未來台生只要參加台灣大學學測，「成績達台灣一流大學錄取標準的台灣考生，就可直接向大陸大學申請就讀，經學校面試達錄取標準即可入學。」無須參加高考便可直接上中國高等學府，此政策將吸引台灣頂尖學生報讀國內高等學府。一項調查顯示，台灣三分之二的學生認為他們未來求職的最大競爭對手，就是中國的畢業生。這個突發的變動對遍佈中國各地的校園事工必定帶來多方面影響。讓我們祈求更 多人能看重帶領大學生歸主的重要與急迫性。願上帝使用這個機會培育新一代的年輕知識份子，並興起他們服事祂。

星期四
越來越多中國教會舉辦青少年夏令會。這類活動不但充滿活力趣味，也能幫助青少年屬靈生命有所成長。最近在山東舉行的某教會夏令營遭停止，表明營會仍被視為「非法宗教聚集」，教會在舉辦時要面對多重阻力。夏令會是接觸未信青少年的黃金時機，讓我們禱告主保守他們的安全；尤其感動更多青少年重新立志，奉獻生命為主使用。

星期五
一家外國雜誌說：「中國經濟正在復甦是肯定的，但是主因是由於政府大筆的財政支出。從2009年初以來，北京市的支出增加了30 ％ ，其中75 ％的資金流向了基礎設施。」許多人仍以為，中國消費力可與美國匹敵，事實是只有「中國政府」才是消費和購買的真正主力，而非普通老百 姓。 由於受全球性經濟衰退影響，許多教會和福音機構削減了「中國事工」的開支，許多基層事工項目也被削減或推遲。讓我們禱告，求神讓更多中國教會在經濟形勢好轉時，不僅顧及自身的需要，還能支持其他省份的貧窮教會。因惟有不依賴外國捐助者，中國的教會才能實現真正的「自傳」 。

星期六
中國的出口急劇下降，廣東省受到的影響最為嚴重。很多人質疑：中國國內消費需求能夠取代對沃爾瑪等國外大買家的依賴嗎？ 2007年，中國的出口額比其國內消費額高出7倍以上。為了增加國內消費而開放湖南、四川等地的電器、珠寶首飾和鞋子市場，僅是杯水車薪而已。 我們為目前中國教會的成長感恩，然而 「不依賴國外的資金和人力支援，中國的教會仍能強壯和健康嗎？」我們求神讓中國教會有更多真正來自於內部的增長，訓練出更多牧者，信徒能根植於神的話語上而不是追逐國外的潮流。

星期日
一位年輕的女服務員為反抗官員企圖強姦，因自衛下殺人。「烈女手刃淫官，惡衙羅織死罪」情節引發國內新一輪女權意識的醒覺。這宗事件也引起民眾對官員濫權，貪污和酒店、娛樂業所提供之非法性服務的關注。求神幫助所有基督徒弟兄都能持守聖潔，遠避性誘惑；也禱告記念中國嚴重的性虐待問題，求神親自醫治所有曾遭此類創傷而活在苦痛中的人。

星期一
北京市專門設有「文物緝查組」，每天上午巡視各個古玩攤位一遍，若發現販賣造假文物將依法查收。然而 ，中國文物造假的水平全世界首屈一指，就連海關的專家往往也無法準確辨識真偽！華人基督徒常以一套標準判斷一個人是否是「屬靈」。其實辨別一個人信仰的真偽誠非易事，求神幫助所有信徒能與耶穌建立真正確實的關係，而非依從一種宗教時尚，徒有屬靈的外表。

7/28-8/3

Tuesday
Chaiwan (China + Taiwan) is a term coined by Korean media signifying the ever important economic entity of the combination. Mainland capital and Taiwan high-tech know-how together will pose a threat to the Korean industries. In Taiwan, many fear relocating more companies to Mainland will lead to loss of job on the island. It is unknown and interesting to predict how the churches would come together. But, we have great faith in what God can do and we are thankful for opening many opportunities of dialogue and worshipping together. We have so much to learn from each other and to serve Him together.

「Chaiwan」（中國China加台灣Taiwan）一詞係由韓國媒體創造的，意味著中國大陸與台灣日益升溫的經濟關係，認為中國資本與台灣高科技的相結合將威脅韓國的工業。 台灣也有些人擔心企業遷移到對岸將造成本土職位流失。新趨勢如何影響兩岸教會的互動，是個很有趣且值得深入探討的問題，但目前並無明確答案。讓我們存著信心，感謝主開創了各種機會能彼此溝通和學習，一同敬拜、事奉祂。

Wednesday
Beijing announced that Taiwan students can attend Mainland universities directly, without participating in China's entrance examination. Such a move will potentially attract the best students from Taiwan to Mainland's colleges. A recent survey shows 2 in 3 Taiwan students consider the Mainland's students their biggest future career competitors.  This unexpected move has many implications for college ministries throughout China. Let us pray that more people will see the importance of leading college students to Christ. May the Lord use this for great things in raising up a generation of young intellectuals, and calling college-educated young people to serve Him.

北京當局宣布未來台生只要參加台灣大學學測，「成績達台灣一流大學錄取標準的台灣考生，就可直接向大陸大學申請就讀，經學校面試達錄取標準即可入學。」無須參加高考便可直接上中國高等學府，此政策將吸引台灣頂尖學生報讀國內高等學府。一項調查顯示，台灣三分之二的學生認為他們未來求職的最大競爭對手，就是中國的畢業生。這個突發的變動對遍佈中國各地的校園事工必定帶來多方面影響。讓我們祈求更 多人能看重帶領大學生歸主的重要與急迫性。願上帝使用這個機會培育新一代的年輕知識份子，並興起他們服事祂。

Thursday
Every summer, more and more Chinese churches are having retreats for their young people in China.  This is a great time of fun and spiritual growth.  Recently a church retreat was interrupted in Shandong. This incidence  demonstrates the difficulties in hosting a church retreat which is considered an "illegal religious gathering". Let us pray for all the retreats being held this summers, for their safety and also as they reach out to the unbelieving friends. We too pray that many young people will be challenged to rededicate their lives to God.

越來越多中國教會舉辦青少年夏令會。這類活動不但充滿活力趣味，也能幫助青少年屬靈生命有所成長。最近在山東舉行的某教會夏令營遭停止，表明營會仍被視為「非法宗教聚集」，教會在舉辦時要面對多重阻力。夏令會是接觸未信青少年的黃金時機，讓我們禱告主保守他們的安全；尤其感動更多青少年重新立志，奉獻生命為主使用。

Friday
A foreign magazine said: "China's economy is reviving for sure, but it is because the government is the big spender."  Beijing spending has increased 30% since the beginning of 2009, with 75% of the money going toward infrastructure. Many people think that China is a huge consumer nation rivaling the United States but in reality the government is the one doing the buying and spending the money, not the average consumer.   Because of the global recession many churches and mission agencies have cut back in their spending on missions in China . Many community-based projects have also been reduced in size or postponed. We pray that as the economy improves, more of the churches in China will see not only their own need but also that of supporting financially poor churches in other provinces and instead of depending on foreign donors, will themselves become truly "self-propagating".
一家外國雜誌說：「中國經濟正在復甦是肯定的，但是主因是由於政府大筆的財政支出。從2009年初以來，北京市的支出增加了30 ％ ，其中75 ％的資金流向了基礎設施。」許多人仍以為，中國消費力可與美國匹敵，事實是只有「中國政府」才是消費和購買的真正主力，而非普通老百 姓。 由於受全球性經濟衰退影響，許多教會和福音機構削減了「中國事工」的開支，許多基層事工項目也被削減或推遲。讓我們禱告，求神讓更多中國教會在經濟形勢好轉時，不僅顧及自身的需要，還能支持其他省份的貧窮教會。因惟有不依賴外國捐助者，中國的教會才能實現真正的「自傳」 。

Saturday
The sharp drop of exports across China can particularly be seen in Guangdong province.  Many are asking, "Can China's domestic consumption replace its dependency on big buyers like Walmart?" In 2007 China exported seven times more goods than that consumed domestically. Their increasing  the domestic consumption by opening the market in Hunan and Sichuan for appliances, jewelry, and shoes is only a drop in the bucket in  comparison to the needs. We might ask, "How strong and healthy are the churches in China without foreign financal and manpower support?" We are thankful that the churches have grown and we pray that there will be even more indigenious growth, more pastors trained, and the believers will be rooted in the Word of God instead of following what is popular and famous abroad.
中國的出口急劇下降，廣東省受到的影響最為嚴重。很多人質疑：中國國內消費需求能夠取代對沃爾瑪等國外大買家的依賴嗎？ 2007年，中國的出口額比其國內消費額高出7倍以上。為了增加國內消費而開放湖南、四川等地的電器、珠寶首飾和鞋子市場，僅是杯水車薪而已。 我們為目前中國教會的成長感恩，然而  「不依賴國外的資金和人力支援，中國的教會仍能強壯和健康嗎？」我們求神讓中國教會有更多真正來自於內部的增長，訓練出更多牧者，信徒能根植於神的話語上而不是追逐國外的潮流。

Sunday
A young female attendant who "refused to provide sexual service" and in the process in self-defense killed a customer who was an official, has sparked a storm for women rights in China. This case has generated attention on official abuses, corruption, and illicite sexual services in hotels and entertainment enterprises. We pray for purity of hearts for all Christian men and protection from sexual temptations. We remember, too, the deep dark issue of sexual abuse in China and pray for divine healing of all those who have suffered the trauma and pain of living through such a tragedy.
一位年輕的女服務員為反抗官員企圖強姦，因自衛下殺人。「烈女手刃淫官，惡衙羅織死罪」情節引發國內新一輪女權意識的醒覺。這宗事件也引起民眾對官員濫權，貪污和酒店、娛樂業所提供之非法性服務的關注。求神幫助所有基督徒弟兄都能持守聖潔，遠避性誘惑；也禱告記念中國嚴重的性虐待問題，求神親自醫治所有曾遭此類創傷而活在苦痛中的人。

 

Monday
  Beijing has a special squad of police that checks all antique shops each morning to confiscate things that should not be sold to foreigners. On the other hand, China has the dubious claim of producing fake antiques that fool even the experienced eyes of customs officials.  Chinese Christians have certain standards of judging whether a person is spiritual or not even though we know it is difficult to ascertain whether one's faith is truly authentic. Let us pray that all believers would focus on a genuine relationship with Jesus and not simply act or behave in a religious fashion.

北京市專門設有「文物緝查組」，每天上午巡視各個古玩攤位一遍，若發現販賣造假文物將依法查收。然而 ，中國文物造假的水平全世界首屈一指，就連海關的專家往往也無法準確辨識真偽！華人基督徒常以一套標準判斷一個人是否是「屬靈」。其實辨別一個人信仰的真偽誠非易事，求神幫助所有信徒能與耶穌建立真正確實的關係，而非依從一種宗教時尚，徒有屬靈的外表。

Prayer Request 7/21 - 7/27

Tuesday
NBA star Shaquille O'Neal gave 4 signed basketballs to Sichuan earthquake survivor students, but the balls were immediately confiscated by school staff. An online survey by the government news agency show that 90% of netizens feel the school has no right to take away the gifts and even suspect this was a case for private gain. Chinese are naturally suspicious of how the relief money is used, given many reports of embezzlement and corruption. Unfortunately, the same suspicion has spread to churches as well, because of the lack of financial transparency. We pray specially for believers who handles funds for churches, may the Lord give us all, integrity and fear of God.

Wednesday
The general impression of Han Chinese toward minorities from Xinjiang is usually negative. Unfortunately, the Uighur people have one of the highest incidences of HIV because of intravenous drug use. In cities, Uighur children and teens have difficulty being admitted to schools because of discrimination. The recent ethnic violence revealed a deeper problem of ethnic "harmony," especially for those of the Islam faith. Again, we lift up all the ethnic minorities in China. We, too, pray for the deep-rooted prejudice and bias we all have toward those who we consider inferior, poor and "lazy."

Thursday
Since the Economic Reform, Wenzhou has been praised as a business model for the rest of the China. Yet, it is hard for non-Wenzhou businessmen to gain foothold in Wenzhou, and there are plenty of discrimination toward non-Wenzhou staffs in the Wenzhou firms. Wenzhou Christians tend to be cliquish and enjoy speaking their dialect among themselves. In fact, all Chinese value their provincial roots a lot. May we all learn to be more accepting, more humble and considerate as one body in Christ.

Friday
Although China as a whole is moving forward rapidly but countryside is still vastly poor. Much of the China churches is rural based and mostly poor. Rural believers often feel they are poor and reflect in their little giving to churches. Lack of faith in giving seriously affects the growth of rural church. Believers constantly think only outside help can solve their problems. Let us pray for the stop of this self-pitying and willingness to step up boldly in serving God with what they have.

Saturday
It is not uncommon to hear some pastors in the cities are unable to pay for living expenses and children education. Some church workers have to borrow to live and some simply give up because of lacking financial support. Frankly, many urban churches are not able to do the necessary ministry because members are not giving. We pray for heart of thanksgiving of all believers, cheerful givers and churches badly needs the teaching of giving and caring for their shepherd.

Sunday
The salaries of many pastors in the cities are often barely enough to cover basic living, with little else after food expenses. More Chinese churches need to learn to support their worker fully and generously in financial compensation. Chinese believers falsely think “talking about money in church is unspiritual” and “pastors must be poor in order to be spiritual.” We pray especially for those who are thinking about quitting ministry because of difficult finances, may the Lord encourage in their moment of disappointment and meet their needs.

Monday
The mentality of “guest speakers are always better speaker” plagues many churches. Churches are often in two extremes; accepting everything new from the outside, or rejecting everything foreign and unfamiliar because of the nationalistic pride. Both extreme attitudes are not healthy. We pray for the work of Holy Spirit, humility of all leaders and above all, the true revival of China churches based solidly on the Word of God.


星期二
美國著名職籃(NBA)球星「俠客」歐尼爾把4顆簽名籃球送給四川地震重災區生還學生，但這些球卻被學校悍然沒收，使男童們非常難過。據一項政府通訊社做的網絡調查顯示，90%網民認爲學校無權沒收這些禮物，甚至懷疑校方想把這些球據爲己有。國內虧空公款和貪污情形頗嚴重，人們往往質疑賑災捐款使用是否得當。由於處理財務事項缺乏透明度，這種不信任的態度也蔓延至教會。讓我們特別爲教會經管錢財的弟兄姊妹禱告，求神讓各人都能誠實無偽存敬畏祂的心忠心服事。

星期三
一般漢人對新疆少數民族的整體看法是負面的。維吾爾族患艾滋病的比率全國民族中最高，主要與注射毒品有關。各城市中維吾爾族孩童和青少年，因歧視和諸多限制，入學門檻比一般人還要高。最近新疆的種族衝突，突顯以高壓維持「種族和諧」引發的深層問題，尤其是對待回民。讓我們為所有的少數民族祈求。求主挪去我們對「非我族類」根深蒂固的偏見，停止把他們看為次等，貧窮，甚至是「懶惰」的 。

星期四
溫州經商模式在中國改革發展史上已成為經典。 在溫州的本地人與外地人卻有些「格格不入」，譬如排斥外地人進入溫州經營，溫州老板一般也不太啓用外地人擔任中高層職務。華人的祖籍觀念特強，在教會裏溫州基督徒總喜歡群聚講自己的家鄉話。求主教導我們學習兼容，彼此謙卑接納，不論籍貫在主裏為肢體。

星期五
目前中國整體綜合國力雖然一直突飛猛進，但農村個人經濟還屬貧困。許多的農村教會仍屬貧窮，信徒常自憐貧乏，也吝於奉獻，也因此大大影響了農村教會的發展。長期依賴外來的支援，更阻礙自立的志向。讓我們為農村信徒禱告，求主使他們以信心代替自卑自憐，以犧牲的心志先做出奉獻和事奉，等候神的供應，真實經歷主恩如雨的澆灌。

星期六
部分城市教會的同工無生活資金、子女無法交付學費而停學等傳聞並不令人訝異。事實上許多同工因生活拮据向外借貸而軟弱，停止服事；能繼續服事的也都有一筆數額不算小的債。許多城市教會也因為信徒不奉獻而使事工無法進行。我們為所有信徒對奉獻的認知和意願禱告。求主使教會能有效的教導信徒奉獻的意義，使信徒長存感恩和奉獻的心，並且懂得關懷牧者的需要。

星期日
許多城市教會同工的薪水僅夠糊口。華人教會需要清楚認識自己有全面支持牧者的責任，在經濟上更應該慷慨供應傳道人。求主打破華人信徒「在教會談錢不屬靈」以及「傳道人必須挨窮吃苦才能更屬靈」的錯誤觀念。明白奉獻金錢之真理，使神的僕人可以靠福音養生。求主也特別記念因經濟陷困，萌生退意的教會工人，在最心灰之時能得到及時的供應，有信心繼續仰賴神的恩典和祝福。

星期一
許多中國教會有「外來的和尚會念經」的心理，凡外來的都不加思慮的全盤接受；另一個極端則是過度高舉民族自尊，對外來者全盤否認。這兩者皆不健康。但求聖靈在眾教會動工，讓所有牧人和領袖都謙卑降服與神，以神的話為堅固根基，使中國教會大大的復興。

7/21-27

Tuesday

NBA star Shaquille O'Neal gave 4 signed basketballs to Sichuan earthquake survivor students, but the balls were immediately confiscated by school staff. An online survey by the government news agency show that 90% of netizens feel the school has no right to take away the gifts and even suspect this was a case for private gain. Chinese are naturally suspicious of how the relief money is used, given many reports of embezzlement and corruption. Unfortunately, the same suspicion has spread to churches as well, because of the lack of financial transparency. We pray specially for believers who handles funds for churches, may the Lord give us all, integrity and fear of God.

美國著名職籃(NBA)球星「俠客」歐尼爾把4顆簽名籃球送給四川地震重災區生還學生，但這些球卻被學校悍然沒收，使男童們非常難過。據一項政府通訊社做的網絡調查顯示，90%網民認爲學校無權沒收這些禮物，甚至懷疑校方想把這些球據爲己有。國內虧空公款和貪污情形頗嚴重，人們往往質疑賑災捐款使用是否得當。由於處理財務事項缺乏透明度，這種不信任的態度也蔓延至教會。讓我們特別爲教會經管錢財的弟兄姊妹禱告，求神讓各人都能誠實無偽存敬畏祂的心忠心服事。

Wednesday
The general impression of Han Chinese toward minorities from Xinjiang is usually negative. Unfortunately, the Uighur people have one of the highest incidences of HIV because of intravenous drug use. In cities, Uighur children and teens have difficulty being admitted to schools because of discrimination. The recent ethnic violence revealed a deeper problem of ethnic "harmony," especially for those of the Islam faith. Again, we lift up all the ethnic minorities in China. We, too, pray for the deep-rooted prejudice and bias we all have toward those who we consider inferior, poor and "lazy."
一般漢人對新疆少數民族的整體看法是負面的。維吾爾族患艾滋病的比率全國民族中最高，主要與注射毒品有關。各城市中維吾爾族孩童和青少年，因歧視和諸多限制，入學門檻比一般人還要高。最近新疆的種族衝突，突顯以高壓維持「種族和諧」引發的深層問題，尤其是對待回民。讓我們為所有的少數民族祈求。求主挪去我們對「非我族類」根深蒂固的偏見，停止把他們看為次等，貧窮，甚至是「懶惰」的 。

Thursday
Since the Economic Reform, Wenzhou has been praised as a business model for the rest of the China. Yet, it is hard for non-Wenzhou businessmen to gain foothold in Wenzhou, and there are plenty of discrimination toward non-Wenzhou staffs in the Wenzhou firms. Wenzhou Christians tend to be cliquish and enjoy speaking their dialect among themselves. In fact, all Chinese value their provincial roots a lot. May we all learn to be more accepting, more humble and considerate as one body in Christ.

溫州經商模式在中國改革發展史上已成為經典。 在溫州的本地人與外地人卻有些「格格不入」，譬如排斥外地人進入溫州經營，溫州老板一般也不太啓用外地人擔任中高層職務。華人的祖籍觀念特強，在教會裏溫州基督徒總喜歡群聚講自己的家鄉話。求主教導我們學習兼容，彼此謙卑接納，不論籍貫在主裏為肢體。

 

Friday
Although China as a whole is moving forward rapidly but countryside is still vastly poor. Much of the China churches is rural based and mostly poor. Rural believers often feel they are poor and reflect in their little giving to churches. Lack of faith in giving seriously affects the growth of rural church. Believers constantly think only outside help can solve their problems. Let us pray for the stop of this self-pitying and willingness to step up boldly in serving God with what they have.
目前中國整體綜合國力雖然一直突飛猛進，但農村個人經濟還屬貧困。許多的農村教會仍屬貧窮，信徒常自憐貧乏，也吝於奉獻，也因此大大影響了農村教會的發展。長期依賴外來的支援，更阻礙自立的志向。讓我們為農村信徒禱告，求主使他們以信心代替自卑自憐，以犧牲的心志先做出奉獻和事奉，等候神的供應，真實經歷主恩如雨的澆灌。

 

Saturday
It is not uncommon to hear some pastors in the cities are unable to pay for living expenses and children education.  Some church workers have to borrow to live and some simply give up because of lacking financial support. Frankly, many urban churches are not able to do the necessary ministry because members are not giving.  We pray for heart of thanksgiving of all believers, cheerful givers and churches badly needs the teaching of giving and caring for their shepherd. 
部分城市教會的同工無生活資金、子女無法交付學費而停學等傳聞並不令人訝異。事實上許多同工因生活拮据向外借貸而軟弱，停止服事；能繼續服事的也都有一筆數額不算小的債。許多城市教會也因為信徒不奉獻而使事工無法進行。我們為所有信徒對奉獻的認知和意願禱告。求主使教會能有效的教導信徒奉獻的意義，使信徒長存感恩和奉獻的心，並且懂得關懷牧者的需要。

Sunday
The salaries of many pastors in the cities are often barely enough to cover basic living, with little else after food expenses. More Chinese churches need to learn to support their worker fully and generously in financial compensation. Chinese believers falsely think “talking about money in church is unspiritual” and “pastors must be poor in order to be spiritual.” We pray especially for those who are thinking about quitting ministry because of difficult finances, may the Lord encourage in their moment of disappointment and meet their needs.
許多城市教會同工的薪水僅夠糊口。華人教會需要清楚認識自己有全面支持牧者的責任，在經濟上更應該慷慨供應傳道人。求主打破華人信徒「在教會談錢不屬靈」以及「傳道人必須挨窮吃苦才能更屬靈」的錯誤觀念。明白奉獻金錢之真理，使神的僕人可以靠福音養生。求主也特別記念因經濟陷困，萌生退意的教會工人，在最心灰之時能得到及時的供應，有信心繼續仰賴神的恩典和祝福。
 

Monday
The mentality of “guest speakers are always better speaker” plagues many churches. Churches are often in two extremes; accepting everything new from the outside, or rejecting everything foreign and unfamiliar because of the nationalistic pride. Both extreme attitudes are not healthy.  We pray for the work of Holy Spirit, humility of all leaders and above all, the true revival of China churches based solidly on the Word of God.
許多中國教會有「外來的和尚會念經」的心理，凡外來的都不加思慮的全盤接受；另一個極端則是過度高舉民族自尊，對外來者全盤否認。這兩者皆不健康。但求聖靈在眾教會動工，讓所有牧人和領袖都謙卑降服與神，以神的話為堅固根基，使中國教會大大的復興。

7/14-20

Tuesday
As the ethnic violence erupted in Xingjian, waves of revenge continued between the Han and Uighur people. The government was quick to stress that "China is a body of diverse ethnic groups and Han Chinese and Chinese minority groups are inseparable." The minority groups have generally been bypassed in the recent economic boom in China. And, those who work in community relief ministry in the ethnic minority regions usually are monitored and must be extremely careful. Let us spend some time praying for these Chinese ethnic minorities, especially those who are Muslims and those who serve among them in the name of Jesus.


新疆日前爆發了種族衝突，漢族和維族人之間的仇恨不斷加深。官方急忙強調民族團結：「中華民族自古是多元民族，漢族與少數民族血脈相通，不能分離。」少數民族大多沒有受惠於近年改革開放經濟的增長，在少數民族地區扶貧的同工經常受監視，需要特別謹言慎行。讓我們以禱告記念中國的少數民族，尤其是回教徒，及服事他們的主的僕人。

Wednesday
During the recent violent ethnic conflict, university students in the capital, Urumqi, both Uighur and Han were involved. The government officials specifically appealed to students not to take sides and remain calm. Urumqi has several colleges attended by many Muslim students. There have also been a lot of Bible study groups near university campuses. Church work among the Muslim is always tricky and difficult. We pray for the safety of believers and the workers there.

新彊發生的種族衝突，首都烏魯木齊的漢族及維族大學生都有涉入。政府官員特別呼籲學生要自我克制，不要打對台。烏魯木齊幾間大學裡，學生多是回教徒，大學校園附近也有多個查經小組。教會針對回民的褔音工作往往迂迴曲折，舉步為艱。讓我們為在該地的事奉人員及信徒安全廹切禱告。


Thursday
While many of the Chinese minority groups have moved to the cities and mixed in with Han residents, the Muslim-believing minorities are much more noticeable than others because they retain their clothing and dietary codes. Muslim restaurants can be found in almost every Chinese city and are very popular. Chinese believers usually consider their Muslim neighbors are resistant to the gospel and remain distant from them. We pray that churches would show love to their Muslim neighbors down the streets (street) before talking about sharing the Gospel in the Muslim world.

許多少數民族遷往城市定居後，便融入漢族。信奉回教的少數民族由於在衣著和飲食方面多保留自己特色，顯得較為突出。回民餐館幾乎遍佈中國各大城市，也非常受歡迎。弟兄姊妹們常認為回民抗拒褔音，就與他們保持距離。讓我們祈求中國教會在宣揚福音前，能先把愛心傳送到每一個有回民的角落。

Friday
There are many who became active believers in college but no longer even attend church now that they are out of college. They do not fit into the open churches (the memebers there are older and not well educated), they cannot find a house church, or they simply have lost their faith. We pray for all of these "lost sheep" and ask the Lord to use other believers to bring them back to His fold. We pray, too, for those who have continued following the Lord and are now leading Bible studies in their workplaces.

很多學生在大學時期熱心追求，但離校後卻不再上教會。由於三自教會的會友年紀普遍偏高且學歷較低，很多年輕人無法溶入其中；還有一些人無法找到家庭教會，更甚者連信仰也丟掉了。讓我們爲這些迷羊禱告，求神使用其他信徒帶領他們歸回祂的羊圈。讓我們也以禱告紀念那些繼續跟隨主，現於職場上帶領查經的弟兄姊妹。

Saturday
Since the late 1990's millions of rural residents in China have moved into cities. Rural churches have lost uncounted young believers but the urban churches have not found them either. Countless believers have been "lost" and need to be found again. Many churches are sincerely trying to reach out to these "lost" ones but it has proven difficult for many reasons. We pray for these believers who are now in the cities but no longer connected with a church. We pray, too, for new strategies to seek for them and help them return to God's fold.

九十年代末許多農民湧進大城市打工，農村教會流失了大量年輕的信徒，而城市教會卻無法招聚這些信徒。無數的信徒失去信仰，需重新被尋回。儘管很多教會嘗試尋找這些迷羊，卻困難重重。讓我們用禱告記念那些往城市謀生卻不返教會的信徒。也求神譲教會能採新策略，尋回並幫助這些迷羊重投神的懷抱。

Sunday
As they have moved to the cities to work, many people have stopped going to church. They do not feel comfortable in the urban churches because of their peasant background and their needs are different also. We pray that churches in the cities in China can genuinely accept these rural brothers and sisters. If we cannot love those who are weaker and have less than we do, we cannot love the God we cannot see nor can we say, "We want to be world missionaries."

隨著大量農民轉投城市工作，他們也從此停止返教會聚會。由於其農民背景並獨特需要，這些農民信徒往往不太適應城市的教會生活。 如果我們不能愛身邊那些比我們弱小的貧窮人，便很難愛那看不見的神，更沒資格說要成為世界宣教士了。讓我們求神，感動更多的中國城市教會願意真正接納來自農村的弟兄姊妹。！

Monday
There is a great difference in how one ministers to urban Chinese and rural believers. In the villages, Christians have more time and seem to be "more willing to be taught". Many find it hard to motivate the believers in the cities and get them committed to the Lord's work. We pray that those who serve in the cities will not be frustrated but will remain faithful and diligent in their calling. We also pray for wisdom and further training for those who minister in the cities.


城市和農村弟兄姊妹的牧養工作存在很大差異。農村的基督徒時間較多，也較願意接受教導；反之要激發城市的信徒委身於主的事工，很多人覺得有相當大的難度。 讓我們爲那些服侍城市信眾的同工禱告，求神譲他們不至氣餒，能忠於主的呼召。也求神加添他們智慧，並讓這些牧養城市信徒的同工能有機會接受進一步裝備。

7/7-7/13

Tuesday
The new American Ambassador to China was a Mormon missionary in Taiwan; he speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese. The Mormons have stepped up their effort targeting the collegians; they are taking over a lot of the English teaching positions in China. Many people first come into contact with Christianity through friendship with their English teachers. We need to pray fervently for the need for more Christian English teachers and campus ministry helping young people know what is true relationship with Jesus. 

新任美國駐中國大使是一位曾經在臺灣傳教的摩門教徒，能說一口流利的普通話。 摩門教徒特別努力向中國大學生傳教，許多外籍英語教師其實是摩門教的宣教士。不少人第一次接觸基督教信仰，都是透過英語老師。我們需要迫切地禱告，求神差派基督徒英語教師到中國去，參與校園事工來幫助年輕人與耶穌建立密契的關係。

 

Wednesday
Being in the spotlight as the "youngest mayor in China" can be a nightmare for someone who is as young as one 29-year-old mayor in  Hubei. He has drawn much scrutiny and been accused of plagiarism, not holding his own umbrella, and even smoking expensive cigarettes. Since he is a mayor of a county-level city, his term is limited to 3-5 years. In China it is not easy to be a young leader because of the tradition of giving respect to the elderly. We need to pray for young pastors to walk closely with God and have a vision of what God can do through them. Young believers need opportunities to use their gifts in serving others and we must accept the fact that they will make mistakes and not always come up to our expectations.

媒體的焦點為周森鋒這位年僅29歲在湖北宜城的「中國最年輕市長」帶來不少輿論壓力。他因係縣級市長，任期為三至五年，從畢業論文是否剽竊，別人為他撐傘，到桌上價格不菲的香煙，一言一行都受全民審視。受到中國敬老傳統影響，年輕一代想要在中國成為領袖面對重重挑戰。讓我們禱告年輕牧者能緊密與神同行，相信神能透過他們行大事。我們也需提供機會給年輕信徒，運用屬靈恩賜服侍上帝，並接納他們偶會犯錯或未能盡如人意的事實。

Thursday
In order to be promote in China, more than good performance is needed. A person needs good "guanxi" (good relationship) or giving gifts to gain favor (open bribery). Many find these frustrating but accept them as the dark reality in China.
For Christians in China, often it is a challenge to live out the Biblical principle. Let us pray for wisdom, favor from their superiors and all who try to model Jesus in their work place.
在中國若要辦事成功、職場升遷，必須靠關係，不然就是要行賄送禮。很多人不得不向黑暗的現實低頭，要在這樣的環境下堅守屬靈原則是個大挑戰。讓我們為中國主內的肢體禱告，求主使他們在領導與同事眼前蒙恩，得到友善公平的對待，並賜他們智慧，行事為人能純良而靈巧，榮神益人。

Friday
  It is a well-known fact that churches in China do not have enough shepherds and many are desperately looking for workers. However, many Christians instead of respecting God's servants hold a cynical view of them and some have even been hurt by bad shepherds.  China needs more workers in the churches, not only in numbers but also in quality, a clear calling, and adequate training. May the Lord supply His church with faithful workers that will be respected for their dedication and sincerity.

中國的教會沒有足夠的牧者，許多教會正努力尋找教牧同工是眾所皆知的事。然而，許多基督徒對神的僕人並不尊重，反而以世俗的眼光去看待他們，也有基督徒曾受過不良牧者的傷害。中國教會不僅在數量上需要更多的教牧同工，且要質量上要求優越，有明確的呼召並受過充足裝備的牧者。求主將敬虔的工人供給他的教會，並讓他們因著向神的委身和敬虔而嬴得會衆充分敬重與愛戴。

Saturday
Following the Three Gorges Dam project, China has embarked on the ambitious undertaking of diverting the water from the Yellow River to a drought-prone province up north. In Henan province alone, 210,000 people will be relocated.  Historically, Chinese rural churches are impoverished and are supported externally. We put all the churches in Henan into the Lord's hands. Many have been weakened by attacks of cults, divisions within the church, or the exodus of young people to cities to find jobs.

中國一向南澇北旱，「南水北調」是自三峽工程後，中國近期展開的龐大水利工程，以緩解北方水資源嚴重短缺問題。受工程影響，單是河南段，便有21.1萬人口需重新遷配。中國農村教會一向受困於貧窮，需倚賴外來支援。許多河南教會受到異端邪教攻擊，教會分裂及年輕人轉往城市打工等問題困擾，靈性變得軟弱。讓我們特別在禱告中記念他們的困境。

Sunday
Suicide is now the fifth leading cause of death in China. Every year 250,000 die of suicide and just as many more attempt kill themselves. The most common reason for committing suicide is family and marriage problems with loss of jobs and money running a close second.Since Chinese Christians tend to feel that those who turn to suicide are basically weak, they tend not to feel pity for them. Let us pray for people in the churches to have compassion and a willingness to help those who are desperately seeking solutions and answers for problems in their lives.
在中國，自殺現已成為人口第五大死因。每年約有25萬人死於自殺，還有更多的人自殺未遂。導致自殺最常見的原因來自家庭和婚姻問題，其次是失業和金錢問 題。中國的基督徒往往認為選擇自殺的人是弱者，以至於對意圖自殺者缺乏憐憫之心。求神幫助中國的教會能以神的恩慈同情並積極向正為生活問題絕望無助的人伸出援手。

Monday
In China believers face great opposition from non-believing family members. Many young people are afraid their parents will find out they are believers and adults face pressure from their elderly parents or even their own children. Traditionally strong family ties work against those who convert to Christianity, especially those from Buddhist families. ( Buddhism is going very strong in China now.) We pray for strong faith for all believers who must choose between Jesus and their families. May the Lord comfort them, help their faith to grow in adversity, and even give them the courage to boldly share their relationship with God.

中國基督徒常面臨從不信主家庭成員而來的巨大反對。年輕信徒害怕被父母發現他們是基督徒，成年基督徒也面臨年邁父母甚至自己孩子的抵制。傳統中國強大的家庭關係對歸信基督的人非常不利，尤其是那些來自佛教家庭的人。（佛教現在中國十分壯大）讓我們為那些必須在耶穌和家人之間作出選擇的弟兄姊妹禱告，求神賜他們堅強的信心能在逆境中成長，也有勇氣大膽地向家人分享基督的信仰。