Posts
Tuesday
In a rather surprising admission, the government newspaper published an estimate of 50 million in attendance among house churches. "They're saying the [official] Three-Self Church is not the only game in town. In fact, there are more people outside of it than in it. To make that admission in print is remarkable," said one observer. We praise the Lord for His own miraculous work in China. Still, there are billions of lost Chinese who will not depart this world without the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. We pray that both open and house churches will redouble their effort in evangelism, reaching outside of churches, into their communities with great fervor.
Wednesday
Many of the government-owned corporations in China are hiring only males this fall. Numerous female college students are complaining of job discrimination based on sex. Many young women have few prospects of landing a job despite their good qualifications. We remember all the young female Christians who are looking for work and ask the Lord to give them peace and trust in Him and favor with their prospective employers. We pray, too for the many collegians who have accepted Jesus on campus but have been lost to follow-up once they graduated and returned home.
Thursday
Sixty percent of Chinese males who are more than fifteen years old smoke. There are fifteen million teenagers in China who smoke and the age for smokers is getting younger. Sixty percent of the smokers in China do not know that it is unhealthy or can cause cancer. Children grow up in homes where there is smoking and begin themselves in junior high school. It is impossible to forbid the children to smoke if the father does it all of the time. Let us pray for the modeling of good behavior such as being kind to others and generous in giving by all Christian parents.
Friday
A survey done in four major cities of China (Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Xian) shows that 90% of female college students feel they are discriminated against because they are girls. It was Mao's stunning legacy that under his rule Chinese women achieved a near-equal status with men. Today's bosses, however, think of female employees only as marriage partners for male workers. Women make up a majority of the attenders, members, and workers in the churches of China. Female clergy are allowed to perform all the duties that male clergy are and are even in prominent leadership places but in many of the house churches leadership is restricted to men. Let us pray for all the sisters who serve in churches whether they are laity or clergy.
Saturday
Since the founding of the Republic of China sixty years ago, higher education there has reached a remarkable milestone with 2.9 million students having advanced training from university. However, experts in education say that China is lagging behind in producing truly outstanding academically-oriented students. In the past many young men and women in China have had Bible training and served in churches. We praise the Lord for all those who serve and pray for more workers who can be equipped. We pray, too, for the raising up of a new crop of pastors who can effectively speak to those who have advanced education.
Sunday
Many Chinese children are addicted to internet games because of a lack of other ways to use their time and also the freedom that is accorded to the use of recreational time. There really is no better substitute for using free time than playing games for the vast majority of Chinese families. Playing internet games is a very cheap way to occupy the free time that children have. Many believing parents purposely let their children play computer games at home so they can freely go to church. It is a heartache for believers when they hear their children say, "It is boring to go to church." Let us pray for all those whose child is losing interest spiritually and refusing to go to church.
Monday
"Courtesy sex" is the new social term and justification for casual sex between a man and a woman who happen to be in the same house at the same time. It is called courtesy because one should not reject the advance of another for fear of hurting the pride of the other. Such an idea seriously challenges the traditional practice of Chinese chastity of women and family ethics. Today, casual sex or the one-nigh stand is widely accepted as a norm. We pray for all believers,young and old for the safeguarding of their hearts. May the Holy Spirit always convict us and keep us from temptation.
星期二
官方報紙很不尋常地公開中國約有五千萬人參加家庭教會；實際上，在三自教會以外的基督徒人數更多。官方的三自教會並非基督徒的唯一去處。我們讚美主在中國行的神蹟奇事，但仍有十數億中國人因不認識耶穌基督及其救恩而失喪永生。我們禱告神感動所有在中國的公開教會和家庭教會，都能加倍努力傳福音，走出教會，以極大的熱情來關懷所在的社區。
星期三
許多國有企業和公司今年秋天幾乎只招收男性。大學女生們抱怨勞動市場「對女性的歧視日益嚴重」。許多中國女性發覺，盡管她們上了大學且成績優異，謀職仍就不易。我們在禱告中記念求職的主內姐妹，能平靜安穩，全心信靠主，在徵聘者眼前蒙恩，獲得賞識。也不忘為在校園信主，離校返家後，在信仰上得不到跟進的大專學子們禱告。
星期四
中國15歲以上男性中，60%有抽煙習慣。目前約有1,500萬名青少年是煙民，煙民年輕化現象明顯。60%的煙民不知道抽煙對身體有害，也能致癌。孩子們在抽煙的家庭長大，到了中學時期也開始抽煙。父母親的榜樣對孩子尤其重要，若父親成天吞雲吐霧，禁止孩子抽煙就成了難事。求主?助信徒父母們有好行為、好見証，為孩子樹立善良樂施的好榜樣。
星期五
一項調查顯示：北京、上海、天津和西安，有90%的女大學生求職時感受到性別歧視。婦女獲更多平等機會原是毛澤東最傲人的成就之一，然現今老板越來越視女職工只是男職工的「結婚對象」。中國教會的成員及教會同工，多數皆為女性。女傳道擔當男傳道的所有職務，甚至任重要的領導職位。但許多家庭教會仍只限男性當領袖。求主記念、祝福所有教會裡，無論是會友或傳道的姐妹們忠心的服事。
星期六
新中國成立60周年，教育發展已有令人矚目的成就。中國受高等教育人數有2,907萬，規模已達世界水平，但在傑出人才的培養上仍有嚴重不足。我們感謝主，中國這些年來已有許多年輕男女接受過聖經神學訓練，並在教會服事。求主讓更多服事同工能接受裝備，也求主興起大批新一代的優秀牧者，能有效地向高教育水平的菁英們傳講神的話。
星期日
中國家庭的孩子們娛樂空間及樣式太少，即網絡遊戲的「同質替代物」太少，加上相對而言網遊門檻不高、消費低且容易上手，以至許多孩子都沉溺其中。許多基督徒父母甚至刻意讓孩子在家玩網遊，好方便自己上教堂聚會，免得應付孩子埋怨「上教堂好悶！」。我們要為失去屬靈胃口的孩子們禱告，願主自己吸引他們。也賜下智慧給父母們重視培育敬虔的後裔。
星期一
「禮貌性上床」是一個新的社會名詞，指孤男寡女同處一室，因考慮對方尊嚴而出於禮貌性地上床做愛。稱之為「禮貌性」是因一方出於害怕傷害另一方尊嚴而不拒絕另一方的性要求。這種理論正嚴重挑戰中國傳統的女性貞操觀，也易導致家庭倫理的混亂。今天「禮貌性上床」或「一夜情」漸成為正常現象而被社會廣泛接受。願聖靈常提醒、保守所有基督徒們的心，使我們遠離試探，全然聖潔。
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Prayer Request 12/22 - 12/28
Tuesday
The hottest TV series in China right now is "Dwelling Narrowness" which speaks about life in the big city. It is not Prada shoes and gossip with girlfriends but it depicts working young people who are trying to make ends meet while living in extremely tiny quarters that make them feel like a snail in its shell. Working in cities means paying exorbitant rent. In the Chinese church it is difficult to find young couples and we ask the Lord to raise up more of them to serve in the churches. May He make them a revitalizing force through their friendship and fellowship in small groups as they become co-workers in their churches and may He protect their marriages. We take this time to pray for all the young urban believers.
Wednesday
People think that the consumers in large Chinese cities are more likely to spend money but people in the "second tiered" cities are even bigger buyers collectively. As the government shifts the investment program into the central six provinces, businessmen are directing their focus to meeting the appetite of the vast ?previously untapped consumer market. Churches in central China have not received so much attention recently as they did in the past. We remember particularly the Christians and churches in Hunan, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces. They all share a similar problem--they lack shepherds for the churches and have believers who have not really been discipled in depth. We pray, too, for the seminaries in these provinces that graduate a total of 2000 to 3000 students a year which is not enough to replace those who retire from ministry.
Thursday
A recent survey shows that seven out of ten men in China would not marry a female secretary. Back in 2003 the Sichuan governments forbid male leaders to have female secretaries. Unfortunately, the term "female secretary" has been understood to be the boss's mistress who caters to his every need. This is merely the tip of the iceberg concerning moral corruption in modern China, especially in the workplace. Let us pray for the guarding of the hearts of believers whether employer or employee. We also pray for divine wisdom for all Christians who face ethical dilemmas in their business and work.
Friday
In the past the favorite TV series in China were historical dramas but now shows? portraying problems in social and family relationships are grabbing huge audiences. Shows like "Dwelling Narrowness", "House", "Wedding Dress", "Living for a Face" probe deeply into facets of family ties in today's urban lives. They resonate and cause viewers to identify with them. ?Preaching? in church must be Biblical and applicable to real life. We pray for the powerful delivery of God's Word in all of the churches in China. We pray, too, that the pastors make applications that encourage believers to live out God's principles in a crooked world and show God's love even in times of very difficult family conflicts.
Saturday
Churches in China have generally taken one of two different paths in terms of evangelism. Churches that fervently preach the gospel have seen much fruit. Other churches are overly conscious about security, cautious in their ministry and will share Jesus with only the people they know well. It is clear that the latter group of churches is in decline. Many temples and folk religions have sprung up in China which is a testimony to the emptiness the men' s hearts and the great window of opportunity which the Christian churches have missed. May the Lord open our eyes to the hugely vast harvest field and the cry of lost souls.
Sunday
It is humorously said that an average Chinese needs to apply for eighty permits (cards) in his/her lifetime before the final death certificate. In comparison, an American need to apply for only one social security number for his/her whole life. It is hard to prove that one is a Christian other than by one's lifestyle and testimony. There are many who quietly care for the homeless, the poor, the orphans and show by their kind deeds the proof of their Christian identity. We praise God for them and may the Lord raise up even more people like them who become "a little Jesus" in this totally money-crazed society.
Monday
Domestic violence occurs in both urban and rural setting, but because of traditional mindset, spouse abuse is much more prevalent among the 800 million residents in the countryside. Violence causing severe injuries and even death are quite common. Churches are not deaf or blind to the plight and suffering of domestic violence, but churches often turn their back on the victims because the lack of training and resources. Let us pray that more believers will extend their hands to help those who badly need love of Jesus Christ.
星期二
當前中國最多人收看的電視連續劇是《蝸居》。故事圍繞著市井小民、都市白領因為入不敷支，被迫蝸居於窄小出租屋的社會現象。突顯出老百姓拼命賺錢卻仍難解決住屋的問題。年輕夫婦因工作關係，難以參與教會聚會。讓我們為城市年輕的信徒守望，求主呼召更多青年夫婦回到教會，也看顧他們的婚姻家庭，透過團契小組相交的凝聚力，能成為教會服事的主力。
星期三
一般認為中國大城市的消費者願意花錢，但事實上按比例，二線城市的消費潛力更高。當政府把投資計劃移向中部六省之際，商家亦把矛頭指向這群未被滿足的消費市場。中部教會近來受到的關注不如往昔。我們在此特別記念湖南湖北和江西的教會和信徒。他們共同面對的困難包括：信徒因缺乏牧者和弟兄姊妹在信仰上扎根不深的難處。當地神學院每年雖有兩三千名畢業生，仍不足以替代退休的牧人。讓我們迫切為他們的需要禱告。
星期四
據調查，10個男人7個不願娶女秘書。2003年，四川省甚至規定男性領導幹部不得配備女秘書。人們心照不宣地將「女秘書」一詞，賦予桃色蘊意，反映出一個很嚴重的社會問題。發生在職場上的傷風敗俗之事甚多，「女秘書」不過是冰山一角。讓我們為中國的弟兄姊妹代禱，求主保守他們的心懷意念，不偏離神的道路，無論是雇員或雇主，有屬神的智慧來應對在工作或商場上所面的挑戰。
星期五
繼歷史劇後，《蝸居》、《房子》、《嫁衣》、《人活一張臉》等一系列反映社會問題的電視劇成為當紅題材。他們呈現有血有肉普羅家庭生活，也深入到社會各個層面，很多劇情都讓觀?「感同身受」。讓我們求神教會能夠真實有力地傳授上帝的話語，講壇訊息既合乎聖經又能應用於實際生活；我們也為牧者禱告，透過他們的教導，能鼓勵信徒在彎曲悖謬的遵守神的戒命，並在家庭中各樣難處中彰顯神的愛。
星期六
中國教會對傳福音的方針，可籠統分為兩種。一直以來積極熱烈傳揚福音的，已經果實累累可見；而在安全少謹慎的教會，福音事工往往對外隱藏，只在熟悉的人中間進行，他們的人數明顯遞減。人們心靈饑渴找不到真光，在教會缺席的情況下，但見民間信仰和廟宇大大興起。求主打開我們的眼耳，攪動我們的熱情，看到廣大待收割的禾田，聽到靈魂失喪的哀聲，能心裏悸動，付諸行動。
星期日
有人說中國是世界第一「辦證大國」，中國人一生至少需要辦80個證件，可能還沒辦完就要辦「死亡證」了。相對之下，美國人一生只需辦一個社保號，即可解決大部分問題，堪稱「一號通」。?信徒沒有「基督徒證」，要證實是否真是個基督徒，只需查看他的生活方式和見證。在「向錢看」的功利社會裡，有不少基督徒默默的照顧流離失所，孤兒及弱勢群體等。求主興起更多活出基督生命的信徒，使用他們歸向基督。
星期一
家庭暴力在城市或鄉村都會出現，受傳統觀念影響，家庭暴力現象在擁有8億人口的鄉村較為普遍。因家庭暴力造成傷殘、甚至死亡的情況甚為平常。教會雖不漠視家庭暴力潛藏的危險及痛苦，由於培訓及資源不足，受害者往往也得不到教會具體的幫助。讓我們禱告有更多信徒能夠伸出援手，把耶穌基督的愛和醫治帶給這些在家暴傷害中迫切需要的人。
The hottest TV series in China right now is "Dwelling Narrowness" which speaks about life in the big city. It is not Prada shoes and gossip with girlfriends but it depicts working young people who are trying to make ends meet while living in extremely tiny quarters that make them feel like a snail in its shell. Working in cities means paying exorbitant rent. In the Chinese church it is difficult to find young couples and we ask the Lord to raise up more of them to serve in the churches. May He make them a revitalizing force through their friendship and fellowship in small groups as they become co-workers in their churches and may He protect their marriages. We take this time to pray for all the young urban believers.
Wednesday
People think that the consumers in large Chinese cities are more likely to spend money but people in the "second tiered" cities are even bigger buyers collectively. As the government shifts the investment program into the central six provinces, businessmen are directing their focus to meeting the appetite of the vast ?previously untapped consumer market. Churches in central China have not received so much attention recently as they did in the past. We remember particularly the Christians and churches in Hunan, Hubei, and Jiangxi provinces. They all share a similar problem--they lack shepherds for the churches and have believers who have not really been discipled in depth. We pray, too, for the seminaries in these provinces that graduate a total of 2000 to 3000 students a year which is not enough to replace those who retire from ministry.
Thursday
A recent survey shows that seven out of ten men in China would not marry a female secretary. Back in 2003 the Sichuan governments forbid male leaders to have female secretaries. Unfortunately, the term "female secretary" has been understood to be the boss's mistress who caters to his every need. This is merely the tip of the iceberg concerning moral corruption in modern China, especially in the workplace. Let us pray for the guarding of the hearts of believers whether employer or employee. We also pray for divine wisdom for all Christians who face ethical dilemmas in their business and work.
Friday
In the past the favorite TV series in China were historical dramas but now shows? portraying problems in social and family relationships are grabbing huge audiences. Shows like "Dwelling Narrowness", "House", "Wedding Dress", "Living for a Face" probe deeply into facets of family ties in today's urban lives. They resonate and cause viewers to identify with them. ?Preaching? in church must be Biblical and applicable to real life. We pray for the powerful delivery of God's Word in all of the churches in China. We pray, too, that the pastors make applications that encourage believers to live out God's principles in a crooked world and show God's love even in times of very difficult family conflicts.
Saturday
Churches in China have generally taken one of two different paths in terms of evangelism. Churches that fervently preach the gospel have seen much fruit. Other churches are overly conscious about security, cautious in their ministry and will share Jesus with only the people they know well. It is clear that the latter group of churches is in decline. Many temples and folk religions have sprung up in China which is a testimony to the emptiness the men' s hearts and the great window of opportunity which the Christian churches have missed. May the Lord open our eyes to the hugely vast harvest field and the cry of lost souls.
Sunday
It is humorously said that an average Chinese needs to apply for eighty permits (cards) in his/her lifetime before the final death certificate. In comparison, an American need to apply for only one social security number for his/her whole life. It is hard to prove that one is a Christian other than by one's lifestyle and testimony. There are many who quietly care for the homeless, the poor, the orphans and show by their kind deeds the proof of their Christian identity. We praise God for them and may the Lord raise up even more people like them who become "a little Jesus" in this totally money-crazed society.
Monday
Domestic violence occurs in both urban and rural setting, but because of traditional mindset, spouse abuse is much more prevalent among the 800 million residents in the countryside. Violence causing severe injuries and even death are quite common. Churches are not deaf or blind to the plight and suffering of domestic violence, but churches often turn their back on the victims because the lack of training and resources. Let us pray that more believers will extend their hands to help those who badly need love of Jesus Christ.
星期二
當前中國最多人收看的電視連續劇是《蝸居》。故事圍繞著市井小民、都市白領因為入不敷支，被迫蝸居於窄小出租屋的社會現象。突顯出老百姓拼命賺錢卻仍難解決住屋的問題。年輕夫婦因工作關係，難以參與教會聚會。讓我們為城市年輕的信徒守望，求主呼召更多青年夫婦回到教會，也看顧他們的婚姻家庭，透過團契小組相交的凝聚力，能成為教會服事的主力。
星期三
一般認為中國大城市的消費者願意花錢，但事實上按比例，二線城市的消費潛力更高。當政府把投資計劃移向中部六省之際，商家亦把矛頭指向這群未被滿足的消費市場。中部教會近來受到的關注不如往昔。我們在此特別記念湖南湖北和江西的教會和信徒。他們共同面對的困難包括：信徒因缺乏牧者和弟兄姊妹在信仰上扎根不深的難處。當地神學院每年雖有兩三千名畢業生，仍不足以替代退休的牧人。讓我們迫切為他們的需要禱告。
星期四
據調查，10個男人7個不願娶女秘書。2003年，四川省甚至規定男性領導幹部不得配備女秘書。人們心照不宣地將「女秘書」一詞，賦予桃色蘊意，反映出一個很嚴重的社會問題。發生在職場上的傷風敗俗之事甚多，「女秘書」不過是冰山一角。讓我們為中國的弟兄姊妹代禱，求主保守他們的心懷意念，不偏離神的道路，無論是雇員或雇主，有屬神的智慧來應對在工作或商場上所面的挑戰。
星期五
繼歷史劇後，《蝸居》、《房子》、《嫁衣》、《人活一張臉》等一系列反映社會問題的電視劇成為當紅題材。他們呈現有血有肉普羅家庭生活，也深入到社會各個層面，很多劇情都讓觀?「感同身受」。讓我們求神教會能夠真實有力地傳授上帝的話語，講壇訊息既合乎聖經又能應用於實際生活；我們也為牧者禱告，透過他們的教導，能鼓勵信徒在彎曲悖謬的遵守神的戒命，並在家庭中各樣難處中彰顯神的愛。
星期六
中國教會對傳福音的方針，可籠統分為兩種。一直以來積極熱烈傳揚福音的，已經果實累累可見；而在安全少謹慎的教會，福音事工往往對外隱藏，只在熟悉的人中間進行，他們的人數明顯遞減。人們心靈饑渴找不到真光，在教會缺席的情況下，但見民間信仰和廟宇大大興起。求主打開我們的眼耳，攪動我們的熱情，看到廣大待收割的禾田，聽到靈魂失喪的哀聲，能心裏悸動，付諸行動。
星期日
有人說中國是世界第一「辦證大國」，中國人一生至少需要辦80個證件，可能還沒辦完就要辦「死亡證」了。相對之下，美國人一生只需辦一個社保號，即可解決大部分問題，堪稱「一號通」。?信徒沒有「基督徒證」，要證實是否真是個基督徒，只需查看他的生活方式和見證。在「向錢看」的功利社會裡，有不少基督徒默默的照顧流離失所，孤兒及弱勢群體等。求主興起更多活出基督生命的信徒，使用他們歸向基督。
星期一
家庭暴力在城市或鄉村都會出現，受傳統觀念影響，家庭暴力現象在擁有8億人口的鄉村較為普遍。因家庭暴力造成傷殘、甚至死亡的情況甚為平常。教會雖不漠視家庭暴力潛藏的危險及痛苦，由於培訓及資源不足，受害者往往也得不到教會具體的幫助。讓我們禱告有更多信徒能夠伸出援手，把耶穌基督的愛和醫治帶給這些在家暴傷害中迫切需要的人。
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Prayer Request 12/15 - 12/21
Tuesday
The government reported that the major mode of transmission of HIV/AIDS is sexual. Homosexuality accounts for thirty-two percent of new cases and the reasons for this increase are a lack of the knowledge of how to prevent AIDS, no self-protection capabilities, and "rebellious and risky behavior" because of social discrimination. There is still much discrimination in the churches, too, so Chinese Christians generally consider AIDS a just punishment of God for "sinners". Lord, we pray that we will be more compassionate like our Savior and less judgmental. We also pray for those who suffer from AIDS and have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.
Wednesday
In the churches in China there is often feuding among the leadership and even splits in the individual churches. In recent years people are fighting over denominational or theological differences and call each other unspiritual or heretics. They attack each other viciously, not unlike the "class clashes" of the Cultural Revolution. We praise the Lord that Chinese churches are re-discovering their denominational roots and identity, but we pray that believers will have the spirit of acceptance of others and a Kingdom perspective of "seeing others better than ourselves". We pray for genuine humility and true approval in Christ.
Thursday
Every Chinese parent desires to give their only child a unique Chinese name; such a task will be "easier" soon. The government plans to release a 8,000-plus character dictionary, so all the surnames and given names must come from it. One problem is that many characters are consider obscure or are seldom used. Christian parents often find it difficult to raise children Biblically. Children quickly find church boring or stop attending. Relatively few churches have knowledgeable teachers to have an effective children's Sunday School. Let us pray for churches who have children's programs and that they would be effective. We remember all the parents who tell Bible stories themselves to their kids.
Friday
In every Chinese city, there are numerous roadside stands or hawkers. Historically, these mobile merchants are part of the society and tolerated by the officials. Today, many city officials are trying to clamp down on such business practices, but it has proven a difficult task. Farmers seeking work in cities and the urban unemployed resort to selling on roadside to make a living. We are told to remember the poor and dispossessed among us. Most churches intentionally welcome those middle-income or educated; let us pray for the believers who do not have a fixed income, are salaried or even unemployed.
Saturday
In recent years, the number of homeless youth or children has steadily increased in all the larger cities. These children come from all provinces. Officials claim there are 1 to 1.5 million homeless children, and more than half of them are handicapped with a learning disability and have been abandoned by their parents. It is not uncommon for parents in interior China to ignore or even abandon their handicapped child. Let us pray especially for believers who have children with disabilities. May the Lord give them strength and the presence of the Lord to care for their "gift from God" and have the faith that God's blessing and grace is sufficient.
Sunday
"McDull tribe" is the new term depicting the urban working young people who come from poor families and must earn every yuan themselves to buy a car or an apartment. Though they are poor, they are rich in spirit, just like the poor little piglet "McDull," a character in a popular Hong Kong cartoon series. We uplift every McDull believer in China. We pray that as they work hard to build their future, many of them will walk closely with their Master, growing daily through prayer and His Word. We also pray that churches will reach out to this group, born after 1980, who are known not only for being the "one-child generation" but also for being "self-centered."
Monday
Many of the "McDull Tribe" - young Chinese urban working people - find these lyrics of "Song of Mortal" comforting: "Working in big cities, it is frustrating to be helpless, but complaining only adds misery. The world isn’t going to change for you, I got to strive to achieve my own happiness." We pray especially for many who grew up in Christian homes or attended church when they were small, but now are working in cities and no longer attend church. May the Lord move them to rediscover their faith in Jesus and reconnect with believers and find a spiritual home.
星期二
官方資料顯示，中國艾滋病主要是經由性傳播的，新病例中有32％是同性間傳染。對艾滋病缺乏知識、自我保護能力不足及進行危險的同性性行為都是艾滋病上升的主因。社會對病者存有嚴重歧視，教會內亦同。很多肢體以為得病者皆因犯罪得罪神。主啊，請教導我們更像袮，滿有恩慈憐憫而少些自義去論斷人。更求袮記念那些悔改歸向袮的病者。
星期三
一些中國的教會領袖時常爭鬥，神學上的些微差異爭論，往往演變成教會分裂。互相攻訐對方為異端，彷彿回到文化大革命時批鬥的埸景。我們感謝天父，信徒有心追求清晰純正的真理，但也禱告眾信徒之間能操練愛心，互相寬容、和平聯絡，竭力追求合一， 使教會真正做到連於元首基督; 與蒙召的恩相稱。
星期四
每位對家長都希望為其唯一孩子取個獨特的中文名字，很快此任務將變得「容易」些。中國政府計劃推出一部有8,000多字的字典，以後所有的姓和名都必須從這部字典中取得。字典仍有許多生僻字或罕用字，是一個潛在的問題。教會往往因缺乏有經驗的師資開辦兒童主日學，孩子們覺得教會活動無趣而停止參加。我們為中國教會的兒童事工禱告。也記念為孩子講聖經故事的家長們。
星期五
流動攤販及叫賣商販已經是中國社會經濟的一部分，是被默許的商業行為。現今許多中國城市開始禁止流動攤販，但往往成果不佳。大量農民湧入城市以「小買賣」謀生，城市人失業也成為流動攤販業者。一般教會自然很歡迎中等收入或高學歷者，但聖經教導我們要記念貧困的人。我們特別為那些沒有固定收入或失業下崗的信徒肢體祈求，神親自來帶領他們。
星期六
近年來，中國各大城市無家可歸的未成年人數目每年遞增，受到社會廣泛關注。官方估計大約有100萬至150萬的流浪兒童，這些孩子來自不同的省份。其中有一大半為智障兒，被親生父母遺棄。在中國內地棄養智障兒並不乏見。求主帮助每位父母以愛陪伴兒女成長，有勇氣面對兒女生理上的缺憾。也特別為家有殘障孩子的信徒禱告，願主賜他們力量與耐心照顧「神所賜的產業」，經歷神充足的恩典。
星期日
「麥兜族」是大陸時下流行語，指沒有顯赫家世，在城市辛苦工作，購房、買車，都得靠自己的草根階層年輕人。「麥兜族」是奮鬥的代名詞，生活雖艱辛，但精神很富有，「就如同香港卡通的「麥兜」只是一只平凡的小豬。讓我們祷告「麥兜」信徒不僅埋首工作經營未來，更能緊緊依靠主，以禱告和神的話語使靈命不斷成長。也為教會能將褔音帶給80年代後誕生的「獨生」和「自我中心」年輕一代祈求。
星期一
不少「麥兜族」認為《凡人歌》的歌詞最能反映他們的心境。「在大城市中無依無靠，的確有些無奈，但抱怨只能徒添煩惱。世界不會為了個人而改變，只有自己不斷努力才能爭取到幸福。」我們特別為那些在基督徒家裡成長，年幼時曾參加教會聚會，現在卻忙於在城市做工而不再上教會的禱告。願主打動他們的心，重新歸回基督的信仰，並能找到他們屬靈的家，與信徒有交通團契。
The government reported that the major mode of transmission of HIV/AIDS is sexual. Homosexuality accounts for thirty-two percent of new cases and the reasons for this increase are a lack of the knowledge of how to prevent AIDS, no self-protection capabilities, and "rebellious and risky behavior" because of social discrimination. There is still much discrimination in the churches, too, so Chinese Christians generally consider AIDS a just punishment of God for "sinners". Lord, we pray that we will be more compassionate like our Savior and less judgmental. We also pray for those who suffer from AIDS and have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.
Wednesday
In the churches in China there is often feuding among the leadership and even splits in the individual churches. In recent years people are fighting over denominational or theological differences and call each other unspiritual or heretics. They attack each other viciously, not unlike the "class clashes" of the Cultural Revolution. We praise the Lord that Chinese churches are re-discovering their denominational roots and identity, but we pray that believers will have the spirit of acceptance of others and a Kingdom perspective of "seeing others better than ourselves". We pray for genuine humility and true approval in Christ.
Thursday
Every Chinese parent desires to give their only child a unique Chinese name; such a task will be "easier" soon. The government plans to release a 8,000-plus character dictionary, so all the surnames and given names must come from it. One problem is that many characters are consider obscure or are seldom used. Christian parents often find it difficult to raise children Biblically. Children quickly find church boring or stop attending. Relatively few churches have knowledgeable teachers to have an effective children's Sunday School. Let us pray for churches who have children's programs and that they would be effective. We remember all the parents who tell Bible stories themselves to their kids.
Friday
In every Chinese city, there are numerous roadside stands or hawkers. Historically, these mobile merchants are part of the society and tolerated by the officials. Today, many city officials are trying to clamp down on such business practices, but it has proven a difficult task. Farmers seeking work in cities and the urban unemployed resort to selling on roadside to make a living. We are told to remember the poor and dispossessed among us. Most churches intentionally welcome those middle-income or educated; let us pray for the believers who do not have a fixed income, are salaried or even unemployed.
Saturday
In recent years, the number of homeless youth or children has steadily increased in all the larger cities. These children come from all provinces. Officials claim there are 1 to 1.5 million homeless children, and more than half of them are handicapped with a learning disability and have been abandoned by their parents. It is not uncommon for parents in interior China to ignore or even abandon their handicapped child. Let us pray especially for believers who have children with disabilities. May the Lord give them strength and the presence of the Lord to care for their "gift from God" and have the faith that God's blessing and grace is sufficient.
Sunday
"McDull tribe" is the new term depicting the urban working young people who come from poor families and must earn every yuan themselves to buy a car or an apartment. Though they are poor, they are rich in spirit, just like the poor little piglet "McDull," a character in a popular Hong Kong cartoon series. We uplift every McDull believer in China. We pray that as they work hard to build their future, many of them will walk closely with their Master, growing daily through prayer and His Word. We also pray that churches will reach out to this group, born after 1980, who are known not only for being the "one-child generation" but also for being "self-centered."
Monday
Many of the "McDull Tribe" - young Chinese urban working people - find these lyrics of "Song of Mortal" comforting: "Working in big cities, it is frustrating to be helpless, but complaining only adds misery. The world isn’t going to change for you, I got to strive to achieve my own happiness." We pray especially for many who grew up in Christian homes or attended church when they were small, but now are working in cities and no longer attend church. May the Lord move them to rediscover their faith in Jesus and reconnect with believers and find a spiritual home.
星期二
官方資料顯示，中國艾滋病主要是經由性傳播的，新病例中有32％是同性間傳染。對艾滋病缺乏知識、自我保護能力不足及進行危險的同性性行為都是艾滋病上升的主因。社會對病者存有嚴重歧視，教會內亦同。很多肢體以為得病者皆因犯罪得罪神。主啊，請教導我們更像袮，滿有恩慈憐憫而少些自義去論斷人。更求袮記念那些悔改歸向袮的病者。
星期三
一些中國的教會領袖時常爭鬥，神學上的些微差異爭論，往往演變成教會分裂。互相攻訐對方為異端，彷彿回到文化大革命時批鬥的埸景。我們感謝天父，信徒有心追求清晰純正的真理，但也禱告眾信徒之間能操練愛心，互相寬容、和平聯絡，竭力追求合一， 使教會真正做到連於元首基督; 與蒙召的恩相稱。
星期四
每位對家長都希望為其唯一孩子取個獨特的中文名字，很快此任務將變得「容易」些。中國政府計劃推出一部有8,000多字的字典，以後所有的姓和名都必須從這部字典中取得。字典仍有許多生僻字或罕用字，是一個潛在的問題。教會往往因缺乏有經驗的師資開辦兒童主日學，孩子們覺得教會活動無趣而停止參加。我們為中國教會的兒童事工禱告。也記念為孩子講聖經故事的家長們。
星期五
流動攤販及叫賣商販已經是中國社會經濟的一部分，是被默許的商業行為。現今許多中國城市開始禁止流動攤販，但往往成果不佳。大量農民湧入城市以「小買賣」謀生，城市人失業也成為流動攤販業者。一般教會自然很歡迎中等收入或高學歷者，但聖經教導我們要記念貧困的人。我們特別為那些沒有固定收入或失業下崗的信徒肢體祈求，神親自來帶領他們。
星期六
近年來，中國各大城市無家可歸的未成年人數目每年遞增，受到社會廣泛關注。官方估計大約有100萬至150萬的流浪兒童，這些孩子來自不同的省份。其中有一大半為智障兒，被親生父母遺棄。在中國內地棄養智障兒並不乏見。求主帮助每位父母以愛陪伴兒女成長，有勇氣面對兒女生理上的缺憾。也特別為家有殘障孩子的信徒禱告，願主賜他們力量與耐心照顧「神所賜的產業」，經歷神充足的恩典。
星期日
「麥兜族」是大陸時下流行語，指沒有顯赫家世，在城市辛苦工作，購房、買車，都得靠自己的草根階層年輕人。「麥兜族」是奮鬥的代名詞，生活雖艱辛，但精神很富有，「就如同香港卡通的「麥兜」只是一只平凡的小豬。讓我們祷告「麥兜」信徒不僅埋首工作經營未來，更能緊緊依靠主，以禱告和神的話語使靈命不斷成長。也為教會能將褔音帶給80年代後誕生的「獨生」和「自我中心」年輕一代祈求。
星期一
不少「麥兜族」認為《凡人歌》的歌詞最能反映他們的心境。「在大城市中無依無靠，的確有些無奈，但抱怨只能徒添煩惱。世界不會為了個人而改變，只有自己不斷努力才能爭取到幸福。」我們特別為那些在基督徒家裡成長，年幼時曾參加教會聚會，現在卻忙於在城市做工而不再上教會的禱告。願主打動他們的心，重新歸回基督的信仰，並能找到他們屬靈的家，與信徒有交通團契。
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Prayer Request 12/08 - 12/14
Tuesday
The movie 2010 was the top one in the box office in China. They liked the movie because in it Hollywood portrayed Chinese people positively. All the arks used to save humanity in this film were "Made in China". Each year only twenty foreign films are allowed to be shown in China and this movie was shown without any editing. We thank the Lord for the increase in national pride and the popular sentiment of "Chinese can save the world" that we see right now in China. We pray Chinese believers will be more confident in their role of sharing Jesus with their neighbors rather than just the idealistic vision of "we have a mission to the world". We pray, too, that believers will humbly accept one another rather than attacking each other due to petty differences.
Wednesday
Garlic from Shangdong province has become a hot item on the market and the price has shot up nearly ten-fold because of the rumored benefit it gives of preventing the common flu in the winter. Even young ladies are joining the ranks of those chewing raw garlic. In the past Chinese believers were ridiculed and badly victimized when they fell prey to cults that promised instant financial and health benefits. Let us pray that growth in all churches is built on God's Word instead of just false promises and that they will grow through the moving of the Spirit rather than through the charisma of some person.
Thursday
These are some of the top cliches in China now: "I can deal with hoodlums, it is the civilized hoodlums that I can't stand." "Don't bother me when things are fine, don't ask for my help when things go wrong." "Don't try to decide who is lazier. I am too lazy too be compared with you." Many people feel that young people today have a bad attitude, are irresponsible and not willing to help. In churches, this is a common complaint of older believers as well. Let us pray for the more mature believers to be willing to model sacrificial serving and may the Holy Spirit work mightily among new believers to want to serve and give of themselves.
Friday
Traditionally Chinese morality considers that revenge is a virtue. A very common cliche goes like this: "It is un-gentlemanly not to seek revenge." A debt must be reciprocated or returned whether it is through kindness or meanness. One who does not take revenge on another is considered a fool, unethical, and not fit to be called a man. Thus, we can see why Chinese believers struggle a great deal with forgiveness and letting go. May the Lord help us to see and understand the grace and mercy He has for all of us. Unresolved hatred is a big reason many believers cannot fully appreciate God's love and kindness to us and why they are so legalistic.
Saturday
China is trying hard to reverse her brain drain by luring accomplished professors to return home.They are offering a salary of one million yuan hoping to recruit one thousand professors. But there is a catch--these people must give up their foreign citizenship to let China have full credit for their research. Salary is always a factor in retaining pastors in rural churches. Those who have children want to live in cities where the schools are better. Let us pray especially for those churches that are without shepherds and are not likely to attract one because of small financial remuneration. We also remember to pray for strength and God's provision for pastors who have stayed on to serve in rural churches.
Sunday
Despite the global economic downturn, the personal wealth of the rich in China has continued to expand . By the end of 2009 China will have 450,000 millionaires (in USD, excluding their homes) and that number will double in four years.Millionaires represent only 0.1 percent of all Chinese households but they hold nearly half of the total wealth in China. Most Christians expect those who are rich to give offerings and use that as an excuse not to be a faithful steward themselves. People simply expect others to give but they themselves will not give. Thus, the offerings in churches are generally low and given by only a few. Let us pray that God will change this mentality for believers and open their eyes to see that God is waiting to pour His abundant riches on those who are willing to trust Him.
Monday
Half of the students in China feel their parents care only about their school grades and nearly ninety percent of the parents admit that the academic performance of their children is their top concern. Students say that their number one worry is that they will disappoint their parents. Even Christian parents often feel that their children' good grades are more important than a close relationship with God. We pray along with all the Christians parents who are worried that their children will drift away from the faith but also naturally are concerned about the future of their only child.
星期二
電影《2012》在中國拿下票房冠軍。因為首次有好萊塢大片正面描寫中國人，因此國人對該電影大有好感。片中在世界末日中拯救人類的巨型方舟是“中國製造”。中國每年只准20部外片上映，可貴的是這部影片放映時是毫無删減。感謝主讓中國人民族自信不斷提升，常抱著“中國人可以拯救世界”的期許。我們祈求神讓中國信徒不僅停留在談論“我們對世界的使命”，能更有自信跨出向鄰舍傳福音。也求神讓信徒謙卑地互相接納，不互相攻擊。
星期三
山東大蒜原先七、八毛(人民幣)一斤，近來因傳有預防流感妙不可言的食效，讓人們趨之若鶩，成了市埸上流行熱賣的新寵，價格飆漲十倍，連素不喜歡吃的女士也加入吃生蒜的行列。過去中國信徒往往受害於種種異端，承諾所謂能使人迅速發財、病得痊癒，困難消除云云，我們禱告中國教會的增長，能植根於上帝的話語，而非種種迷惑人的謊言，靠著聖靈的大能而非個別領袖的魅力。
星期四
中國時髦口頭禪排行榜是：「流氓不可怕，就怕流氓有文化。」；「沒什麼事不要找我，有事更不用找我。」；「錢不是問題，問題是沒錢！」「不要和我比懶，我懶得和你比。」常聞「現在的年輕人靠不住，沒有敬業、持守的態度」之類的感嘆，教會中也是如此。求主興起更多「成熟」的信徒，願意順從聖靈的感動，在教會中學習捨己事奉，在金錢上也更多參與，成為初信者服事的好榜樣。
星期五
中國傳統裡有恩報恩，有仇報仇，「此仇不報非君子也」成了人們的口頭禪。不報仇雪恨是愚不可及、不道德，更不是君子。因此信徒很難實踐寬恕和既往不咎。許多信徒不能完全理解神的愛和善良的一大原因是無法解決仇恨，也令靈命上始終墨守成規、裹足不前。求主幫助我們體認：是神滿有恩典來憐憫我們這些蒙恩的罪人，信徒只有在饒恕的愛中得釋放與自由。
星期六
政府提供100萬元人民幣的厚薪和一大筆實驗室資金等優厚條件，吸引海外的頂尖華人科學家歸國。其中條件之一是他們必須放棄外國國籍，將研究成果歸國家掌控中。農村教會難以留住牧師，薪酬是一個主要因素。一些年青信徒為了較豐富的生活質素，寧願離鄉別井到城市求學、求職。我們來為沒有牧者、連基本資源也缺乏的教會禱告。求主厚賜力量和信心給這些農村教會與牧者。
星期日
儘管全球經濟衰退，今年底中國仍有45萬名資產達百萬美元以上的「百萬富翁」，未來四年人數且會加倍。他們雖僅占千分之一，卻擁有全中國一半的資產。很多信認為奉獻是有錢人(別人)的事，而不願意照著聖經的教導將自己該盡的份擺上。長遠來說，這些人對教會的投入只會更少。我們求神打開弟兄姊妹的眼睛，能做財富的好管家，也能更因在金錢上有更多的擺上得著更豐盛的生命和平安。
星期一
據調查顯示：半數的中國學生認為父母只關心他們的學習成績；近九成的父母承認自己最關心的也是孩子的學習成績。很多學生最擔心的是成績不好令父母失望。基督徒父母也常認為孩子有好成績比跟神的關係更重要。很多信徒面對家中唯一的孩子，既擔心他們偏離了信仰，卻也不免掛慮他們未來的前途。讓我們禱告，身為父母親的肢體能以神為中心來教育兒女，願意將一切憂慮全交在全能神手裏。
The movie 2010 was the top one in the box office in China. They liked the movie because in it Hollywood portrayed Chinese people positively. All the arks used to save humanity in this film were "Made in China". Each year only twenty foreign films are allowed to be shown in China and this movie was shown without any editing. We thank the Lord for the increase in national pride and the popular sentiment of "Chinese can save the world" that we see right now in China. We pray Chinese believers will be more confident in their role of sharing Jesus with their neighbors rather than just the idealistic vision of "we have a mission to the world". We pray, too, that believers will humbly accept one another rather than attacking each other due to petty differences.
Wednesday
Garlic from Shangdong province has become a hot item on the market and the price has shot up nearly ten-fold because of the rumored benefit it gives of preventing the common flu in the winter. Even young ladies are joining the ranks of those chewing raw garlic. In the past Chinese believers were ridiculed and badly victimized when they fell prey to cults that promised instant financial and health benefits. Let us pray that growth in all churches is built on God's Word instead of just false promises and that they will grow through the moving of the Spirit rather than through the charisma of some person.
Thursday
These are some of the top cliches in China now: "I can deal with hoodlums, it is the civilized hoodlums that I can't stand." "Don't bother me when things are fine, don't ask for my help when things go wrong." "Don't try to decide who is lazier. I am too lazy too be compared with you." Many people feel that young people today have a bad attitude, are irresponsible and not willing to help. In churches, this is a common complaint of older believers as well. Let us pray for the more mature believers to be willing to model sacrificial serving and may the Holy Spirit work mightily among new believers to want to serve and give of themselves.
Friday
Traditionally Chinese morality considers that revenge is a virtue. A very common cliche goes like this: "It is un-gentlemanly not to seek revenge." A debt must be reciprocated or returned whether it is through kindness or meanness. One who does not take revenge on another is considered a fool, unethical, and not fit to be called a man. Thus, we can see why Chinese believers struggle a great deal with forgiveness and letting go. May the Lord help us to see and understand the grace and mercy He has for all of us. Unresolved hatred is a big reason many believers cannot fully appreciate God's love and kindness to us and why they are so legalistic.
Saturday
China is trying hard to reverse her brain drain by luring accomplished professors to return home.They are offering a salary of one million yuan hoping to recruit one thousand professors. But there is a catch--these people must give up their foreign citizenship to let China have full credit for their research. Salary is always a factor in retaining pastors in rural churches. Those who have children want to live in cities where the schools are better. Let us pray especially for those churches that are without shepherds and are not likely to attract one because of small financial remuneration. We also remember to pray for strength and God's provision for pastors who have stayed on to serve in rural churches.
Sunday
Despite the global economic downturn, the personal wealth of the rich in China has continued to expand . By the end of 2009 China will have 450,000 millionaires (in USD, excluding their homes) and that number will double in four years.Millionaires represent only 0.1 percent of all Chinese households but they hold nearly half of the total wealth in China. Most Christians expect those who are rich to give offerings and use that as an excuse not to be a faithful steward themselves. People simply expect others to give but they themselves will not give. Thus, the offerings in churches are generally low and given by only a few. Let us pray that God will change this mentality for believers and open their eyes to see that God is waiting to pour His abundant riches on those who are willing to trust Him.
Monday
Half of the students in China feel their parents care only about their school grades and nearly ninety percent of the parents admit that the academic performance of their children is their top concern. Students say that their number one worry is that they will disappoint their parents. Even Christian parents often feel that their children' good grades are more important than a close relationship with God. We pray along with all the Christians parents who are worried that their children will drift away from the faith but also naturally are concerned about the future of their only child.
星期二
電影《2012》在中國拿下票房冠軍。因為首次有好萊塢大片正面描寫中國人，因此國人對該電影大有好感。片中在世界末日中拯救人類的巨型方舟是“中國製造”。中國每年只准20部外片上映，可貴的是這部影片放映時是毫無删減。感謝主讓中國人民族自信不斷提升，常抱著“中國人可以拯救世界”的期許。我們祈求神讓中國信徒不僅停留在談論“我們對世界的使命”，能更有自信跨出向鄰舍傳福音。也求神讓信徒謙卑地互相接納，不互相攻擊。
星期三
山東大蒜原先七、八毛(人民幣)一斤，近來因傳有預防流感妙不可言的食效，讓人們趨之若鶩，成了市埸上流行熱賣的新寵，價格飆漲十倍，連素不喜歡吃的女士也加入吃生蒜的行列。過去中國信徒往往受害於種種異端，承諾所謂能使人迅速發財、病得痊癒，困難消除云云，我們禱告中國教會的增長，能植根於上帝的話語，而非種種迷惑人的謊言，靠著聖靈的大能而非個別領袖的魅力。
星期四
中國時髦口頭禪排行榜是：「流氓不可怕，就怕流氓有文化。」；「沒什麼事不要找我，有事更不用找我。」；「錢不是問題，問題是沒錢！」「不要和我比懶，我懶得和你比。」常聞「現在的年輕人靠不住，沒有敬業、持守的態度」之類的感嘆，教會中也是如此。求主興起更多「成熟」的信徒，願意順從聖靈的感動，在教會中學習捨己事奉，在金錢上也更多參與，成為初信者服事的好榜樣。
星期五
中國傳統裡有恩報恩，有仇報仇，「此仇不報非君子也」成了人們的口頭禪。不報仇雪恨是愚不可及、不道德，更不是君子。因此信徒很難實踐寬恕和既往不咎。許多信徒不能完全理解神的愛和善良的一大原因是無法解決仇恨，也令靈命上始終墨守成規、裹足不前。求主幫助我們體認：是神滿有恩典來憐憫我們這些蒙恩的罪人，信徒只有在饒恕的愛中得釋放與自由。
星期六
政府提供100萬元人民幣的厚薪和一大筆實驗室資金等優厚條件，吸引海外的頂尖華人科學家歸國。其中條件之一是他們必須放棄外國國籍，將研究成果歸國家掌控中。農村教會難以留住牧師，薪酬是一個主要因素。一些年青信徒為了較豐富的生活質素，寧願離鄉別井到城市求學、求職。我們來為沒有牧者、連基本資源也缺乏的教會禱告。求主厚賜力量和信心給這些農村教會與牧者。
星期日
儘管全球經濟衰退，今年底中國仍有45萬名資產達百萬美元以上的「百萬富翁」，未來四年人數且會加倍。他們雖僅占千分之一，卻擁有全中國一半的資產。很多信認為奉獻是有錢人(別人)的事，而不願意照著聖經的教導將自己該盡的份擺上。長遠來說，這些人對教會的投入只會更少。我們求神打開弟兄姊妹的眼睛，能做財富的好管家，也能更因在金錢上有更多的擺上得著更豐盛的生命和平安。
星期一
據調查顯示：半數的中國學生認為父母只關心他們的學習成績；近九成的父母承認自己最關心的也是孩子的學習成績。很多學生最擔心的是成績不好令父母失望。基督徒父母也常認為孩子有好成績比跟神的關係更重要。很多信徒面對家中唯一的孩子，既擔心他們偏離了信仰，卻也不免掛慮他們未來的前途。讓我們禱告，身為父母親的肢體能以神為中心來教育兒女，願意將一切憂慮全交在全能神手裏。
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Prayer Request 12/01 - 12/07
Tuesday
In China households with sons accumulate assets, especially houses in order to compete in the marriage market and thus cause the housing market to fluctuate greatly. This provides a constant demand and bids up the prices which in turn causes people to have to save more. Let us pray specifically for believing families who have sons, not only for Biblical parenting but also for a desire to see their (only) son walk closely with the Lord and even willingly encourage or allow him to serve Him.
Wednesday
If they were asked the question, "After sixty years why do Chinese people still hate the Japanese so much?" most Chinese would answer, "The reason is that the Japanese military did so much damage and hurt us so much. They are still unrepentant and building up their military forces." While the Chinese like to use Japanese electronic products, they do not have a love for the people of Japan. Likewise churches cannot really love the the unsaved or the Muslims if we fail to stop our deep hatred for the country and people who live next door to us. Let us pray for true forgiveness in our churches starting with our own hearts because God has first forgiven us. We need to care about the biggest mission field, not that one far away, but the one next door, Japan.
Thursday
In a recent publication the head of China's Bureau of Religious Affairs defended the government's religious policy as "based on separation of state and religion and seeking a harmonious relation between the government and faith." He rejected the claim that China oppresses religion and allows no religious freedom. The decision to stay unregistered as a church is a tough one for all house churches. We pray for wisdom and God's guidance for them. We pray especially those who are facing the difficulty of finding places to hold worship because they cannot obtain the approval from authority.
Friday
Kentucky Fried Chicken opened its very first restaurant in Beijing in 1987 and it is now the largest restaurant franchise in China, far ahead of even McDonald's. KFC has stores in more than six hundred cities and in four hundred of them, it faces no Western competition. China is indeed a huge country but in terms of churches and training centers for Christian workers, only about twenty to thirty cities get most of the attention and resources. Let us pray for the churches and believers in those cities in which there is a KFC but the church has never appeared on our prayer "radar". May the Lord strengthen their work for Him and their faith.
Saturday
According to a government estimate there are still fourteen million Chinese in the villages who are considered to be in absolute poverty, having nothing. The government has attempted to close the ever-widening disparity between the "haves" and "have-nots" but still schools in poor areas are horribly inadequate in both the quality of their teachers and their facilities. The gap between the rich and poor is very evident within church and between churches. We pray for humility and a heart of thanksgiving for those who are wealthy and a desire to trust God for those who are unemployed or poor. Once again we uplift all the churches in the poor regions and remember our brothers and sisters who have little but are rich in God.
Sunday
China has launched an ambitious "1000-scholars project" to jump-start her place in the world of science. She is offering salaries that are ten times regular salaries to lure the most talented Chinese researchers who live abroad to return home. However, this effort has alienated those professors who have not studied abroad. There has also been a huge gap in compensation between rural and urban pastors. Giving in the rural churches tends to be low which forces the pastors to take on a side job to support their families. Let us remember these leaders that they will have strength to do their ministry, wisdom as they shepherd the flock, and a close walk with Jesus themselves.
Monday
A FIFA soccer agent said, "Asian players generally lack confidence. Chinese players are the worst. European players are tougher, more resilient and they have the advantage in bigger size." Asian players get hurt more easily and are not accustomed to playing in bitter cold weather. Many Chinese believers feel inadequate in sharing the gospel because they are new believers and still weak. They fear they will bring shame to God's name or are not qualified to share. We pray for divine confidence and the enabling of the Holy Spirit that will give us all the willingness to be able to share our testimonies for Jesus Christ.
星期二
有男孩子的家庭為了使他能在婚姻上有更多籌碼，父母通常會為他累積一些財產，房屋通常是第一選擇。這種對房屋的不斷需求，使房地產價格飆升，市場動盪。一般人需更多儲蓄才有可能購屋。讓我們為有兒子的信徒家庭禱告，願神幫助他們不單以聖經原則教養孩子，更願意帶領兒子一起與神同行，鼓勵他們服事主。
星期三
「六十多年了，中國人為什麼還是那麼恨日本？」(卻愛日本電器產品）多數中國人會回答：「日本軍人以前對我國及人民傷害太深，至今還不知徹底悔改，且還在發展軍事力量，這是最主要的！」同樣的，教會不能真心愛「未得之民」，除非先除掉我們對鄰國及其人民的恨意。讓我們禱告求上帝讓中國教會能打從心底真正饒恕他們，如同上帝饒恕了我們一樣。讓我們能把宣教眼光聚焦在離我們不遠的鄰國－日本－這片廣大的福音禾場！
星期四
近來宗教事務局表示，中國的新型政教關係，以政教分離原則為基礎，以政教和諧為價值取向，同時拒絕西方國家攻擊中國政府「壓制宗教信仰自由」。對所有家庭教會而言，「是否堅持不註冊入案」是個很難的決定。祈求上帝賜智慧，引導他們作出合神心意的抉擇。我們也特別為未獲發有關證件，仍在尋找合適崇拜地點的教會禱告。
星期五
自1987年第一間肯德基餐廳(KFC)於北京開業迄今，已發展成連鎖餐廳之冠，遙遙領先對手「麥當勞」。肯德基餐廳進註中國600多個城市，其中400個是完全沒有其他西式餐廳與其競爭的。論到中國教會成長及同工培訓方面，當中只有20至30個大城市是倍受關注和資源充沛的。許多城市中的教會，並沒有足夠的屬靈上和物力上資源供應的。這些鮮為人知的教會亦不常在祈禱中被提及。願主親自堅定他們的信心，加添他們的能力；也幫助我們學習在禱告中時常記念他們。
星期六
官方估計，農村中完全一無所有的「絕對貧困」人口還有1,437萬。政府一直嘗試拉近貧富間「有」與「無」的差異，可是貧困地區，學校就連基本的設施和教師都嚴重缺乏。在教會裏或不同教會之間，貧富差距也非常明顯，我們禱告富裕的信徒能常存感恩、謙卑的心來榮耀神；也為物質上貧窮和待業者能堅定不移地信靠神。我們再次在禱告中記念居於貧困地區但在主裡富足的弟兄姊妹。
星期日
中國發起了「千人計劃」，要以十倍的薪酬，吸引海外最傑出的人才回國做研究工作。歸國人才享有的優厚待遇，成了一些沒出國的學者們的隱痛，往往與海歸產生很多嫌隙。農村教會和城市教會也存在這種結構性分歧，很多農村教會的牧者雖有牧者身份，但微小的薪酬，實在不能應付家庭開支。他們必須一邊牧養信徒，一邊打工賺錢。讓我們以禱告記念他們，願神賜他們智慧，懂得平衡生活與牧養；每天與神同心同行。
星期一
一位國際足聯(FIFA)經紀人說：亞洲球員普遍自信心不夠，中國球員尤其差。歐美球員身材高大，柔韌性好，因此在對抗性較強的足球賽中往往能占到便宜。相比之下，亞洲球員的在比賽中容易受傷，尤其是在天氣比較寒冷的比賽。許多中國信徒對分享福音毫無自信，認為個人生命未臻完全，不夠資格傳福音。恐怕謙卑承認自己的軟弱，會羞辱了主耶穌。求主賜給信徒信心，聖靈的能力，讓我們能夠剛強壯膽地為主耶穌做見證，和別人分享得永生的好消息。
In China households with sons accumulate assets, especially houses in order to compete in the marriage market and thus cause the housing market to fluctuate greatly. This provides a constant demand and bids up the prices which in turn causes people to have to save more. Let us pray specifically for believing families who have sons, not only for Biblical parenting but also for a desire to see their (only) son walk closely with the Lord and even willingly encourage or allow him to serve Him.
Wednesday
If they were asked the question, "After sixty years why do Chinese people still hate the Japanese so much?" most Chinese would answer, "The reason is that the Japanese military did so much damage and hurt us so much. They are still unrepentant and building up their military forces." While the Chinese like to use Japanese electronic products, they do not have a love for the people of Japan. Likewise churches cannot really love the the unsaved or the Muslims if we fail to stop our deep hatred for the country and people who live next door to us. Let us pray for true forgiveness in our churches starting with our own hearts because God has first forgiven us. We need to care about the biggest mission field, not that one far away, but the one next door, Japan.
Thursday
In a recent publication the head of China's Bureau of Religious Affairs defended the government's religious policy as "based on separation of state and religion and seeking a harmonious relation between the government and faith." He rejected the claim that China oppresses religion and allows no religious freedom. The decision to stay unregistered as a church is a tough one for all house churches. We pray for wisdom and God's guidance for them. We pray especially those who are facing the difficulty of finding places to hold worship because they cannot obtain the approval from authority.
Friday
Kentucky Fried Chicken opened its very first restaurant in Beijing in 1987 and it is now the largest restaurant franchise in China, far ahead of even McDonald's. KFC has stores in more than six hundred cities and in four hundred of them, it faces no Western competition. China is indeed a huge country but in terms of churches and training centers for Christian workers, only about twenty to thirty cities get most of the attention and resources. Let us pray for the churches and believers in those cities in which there is a KFC but the church has never appeared on our prayer "radar". May the Lord strengthen their work for Him and their faith.
Saturday
According to a government estimate there are still fourteen million Chinese in the villages who are considered to be in absolute poverty, having nothing. The government has attempted to close the ever-widening disparity between the "haves" and "have-nots" but still schools in poor areas are horribly inadequate in both the quality of their teachers and their facilities. The gap between the rich and poor is very evident within church and between churches. We pray for humility and a heart of thanksgiving for those who are wealthy and a desire to trust God for those who are unemployed or poor. Once again we uplift all the churches in the poor regions and remember our brothers and sisters who have little but are rich in God.
Sunday
China has launched an ambitious "1000-scholars project" to jump-start her place in the world of science. She is offering salaries that are ten times regular salaries to lure the most talented Chinese researchers who live abroad to return home. However, this effort has alienated those professors who have not studied abroad. There has also been a huge gap in compensation between rural and urban pastors. Giving in the rural churches tends to be low which forces the pastors to take on a side job to support their families. Let us remember these leaders that they will have strength to do their ministry, wisdom as they shepherd the flock, and a close walk with Jesus themselves.
Monday
A FIFA soccer agent said, "Asian players generally lack confidence. Chinese players are the worst. European players are tougher, more resilient and they have the advantage in bigger size." Asian players get hurt more easily and are not accustomed to playing in bitter cold weather. Many Chinese believers feel inadequate in sharing the gospel because they are new believers and still weak. They fear they will bring shame to God's name or are not qualified to share. We pray for divine confidence and the enabling of the Holy Spirit that will give us all the willingness to be able to share our testimonies for Jesus Christ.
星期二
有男孩子的家庭為了使他能在婚姻上有更多籌碼，父母通常會為他累積一些財產，房屋通常是第一選擇。這種對房屋的不斷需求，使房地產價格飆升，市場動盪。一般人需更多儲蓄才有可能購屋。讓我們為有兒子的信徒家庭禱告，願神幫助他們不單以聖經原則教養孩子，更願意帶領兒子一起與神同行，鼓勵他們服事主。
星期三
「六十多年了，中國人為什麼還是那麼恨日本？」(卻愛日本電器產品）多數中國人會回答：「日本軍人以前對我國及人民傷害太深，至今還不知徹底悔改，且還在發展軍事力量，這是最主要的！」同樣的，教會不能真心愛「未得之民」，除非先除掉我們對鄰國及其人民的恨意。讓我們禱告求上帝讓中國教會能打從心底真正饒恕他們，如同上帝饒恕了我們一樣。讓我們能把宣教眼光聚焦在離我們不遠的鄰國－日本－這片廣大的福音禾場！
星期四
近來宗教事務局表示，中國的新型政教關係，以政教分離原則為基礎，以政教和諧為價值取向，同時拒絕西方國家攻擊中國政府「壓制宗教信仰自由」。對所有家庭教會而言，「是否堅持不註冊入案」是個很難的決定。祈求上帝賜智慧，引導他們作出合神心意的抉擇。我們也特別為未獲發有關證件，仍在尋找合適崇拜地點的教會禱告。
星期五
自1987年第一間肯德基餐廳(KFC)於北京開業迄今，已發展成連鎖餐廳之冠，遙遙領先對手「麥當勞」。肯德基餐廳進註中國600多個城市，其中400個是完全沒有其他西式餐廳與其競爭的。論到中國教會成長及同工培訓方面，當中只有20至30個大城市是倍受關注和資源充沛的。許多城市中的教會，並沒有足夠的屬靈上和物力上資源供應的。這些鮮為人知的教會亦不常在祈禱中被提及。願主親自堅定他們的信心，加添他們的能力；也幫助我們學習在禱告中時常記念他們。
星期六
官方估計，農村中完全一無所有的「絕對貧困」人口還有1,437萬。政府一直嘗試拉近貧富間「有」與「無」的差異，可是貧困地區，學校就連基本的設施和教師都嚴重缺乏。在教會裏或不同教會之間，貧富差距也非常明顯，我們禱告富裕的信徒能常存感恩、謙卑的心來榮耀神；也為物質上貧窮和待業者能堅定不移地信靠神。我們再次在禱告中記念居於貧困地區但在主裡富足的弟兄姊妹。
星期日
中國發起了「千人計劃」，要以十倍的薪酬，吸引海外最傑出的人才回國做研究工作。歸國人才享有的優厚待遇，成了一些沒出國的學者們的隱痛，往往與海歸產生很多嫌隙。農村教會和城市教會也存在這種結構性分歧，很多農村教會的牧者雖有牧者身份，但微小的薪酬，實在不能應付家庭開支。他們必須一邊牧養信徒，一邊打工賺錢。讓我們以禱告記念他們，願神賜他們智慧，懂得平衡生活與牧養；每天與神同心同行。
星期一
一位國際足聯(FIFA)經紀人說：亞洲球員普遍自信心不夠，中國球員尤其差。歐美球員身材高大，柔韌性好，因此在對抗性較強的足球賽中往往能占到便宜。相比之下，亞洲球員的在比賽中容易受傷，尤其是在天氣比較寒冷的比賽。許多中國信徒對分享福音毫無自信，認為個人生命未臻完全，不夠資格傳福音。恐怕謙卑承認自己的軟弱，會羞辱了主耶穌。求主賜給信徒信心，聖靈的能力，讓我們能夠剛強壯膽地為主耶穌做見證，和別人分享得永生的好消息。
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