Posts
Tuesday
This year many young people have chosen to spend their Spring Festival at home. Instead of the traditional personal New Year greeting they use the internet, SMS, or make a phone call. Couples, especially, like to stay at home. Many literally spend the whole holiday playing mahjong and few people venture out on the streets. Many churches hold their annual evangelistic meeting during the Spring Festival time. We thank the Lord for all of these efforts and pray that the Holy Spirit will cause all the seeds that are sown to grow. May the Lord grant these churches the growth they desire.
Wednesday
Experts say the chief reason for China's high rate of saving is the imbalance in the ratio of males and females. With more boys than girls being born, parents of boys tend to save more to make their son more competitive in the marriage market. Finding a Christian mate is not easy for believers in China. As a result, many parents are not able to "insist" that their children marry within the faith fearing they will be single for life. We pray that all Christian parents would not only pray but also trust God to provide the right companion for their only child.
Thursday
This year there will be 6.3 million college graduates looking for work compared with the 190,000 in 2009. From now until June is the season for fierce and stressful competition in job hunting in China. Let us pray for Christian college students as they start to search for employment. May the Lord give them peace and confidence that He will provide for them. We pray, too, that those who lead them in college ministries will equip them well in their faith during these last six months before they leave the campus setting.
Friday
The president of Taiwan praised the Buddhist charity groups for doing a better job than the government itself by being willing to get involved socially. These charities movilize a large army of volunteers complete with well-publicized strategies that runs as efficiently as enterprises. Many churches are involved with relief and community-based work without getting much publicity. We pray that all churches will be light and salt in the community. We pray, too, that believers will not be discouraged in doing good deeds in the name of Jesus. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up （Gal 6:9 ）.
Saturday
It is estimated that by 2012 the number of wealthy Chinese should reach 1.3 million and that 92.6 percent of them will spend up to $10,000 USD yearly on family recreation or entertainment. The top favorite destinations are Hong Kong, Macao, Thailand, Singapore, and Japan (in this descending order). Many have observed that urban churches in China are now materially rich but spiritually lukewarm like the Laodicea church in the book of Revelation. We pray for God's mercy in helping us all to see our own spiritual destitution and the desperate need to evangelize. We all need to return to our first love and regain our passion for evangelism.
Sunday
"Meeting enemies opens old wounds." is a phrase commonly used by Chinese people. Putting it bluntly, Chinese are taught that they must avenge their enemies before they die no matter how long it takes. There is a saying, "Ten years is not long for a gentleman to get revenge." As long as vengeance is on one's mind, one can take as much time as is necessary to get it done right. It is hard for Chinese people to truly forgive others. Culturally, it is shameful to let the enemy, the person who hurt us, get away without punishment. May the Lord grant us mercy and help each believer to understand that God forgives us as we forgive our debtors.
Monday
Workers returned to Guangdong early because they were worried about not being able to get train tickets after the Lunar New Year. Some have found better-paying factory jobs in the Zhejiang province and not going back to Guangdong. Factory owners have resorted to withholding salaries or giving bonuses to entice their workers to return. We pray for all those believers who are separated from their families because of work. May the Lord give them a great desire to walk closely with Jesus even when they are away from their home and church. We also pray that they will keep their relationships with their children strong.
星期二
越來越多的年輕人過年不出門，選擇「宅居」在家，透過網路、簡訊、電話拜年，甚至剛結婚的也變成「雙宅夫妻」。不少人的春節就是上麻將桌不想下來，社區幾乎看不到幾個人。許多教會在春節期間舉行了佈道與人分享耶穌的救恩。我們為此感謝上帝，願聖靈繼續動工讓褔音種子能茁壯成長。也願神使教會親嘗自己勞苦果效的甘甜。
星期三
中國高儲蓄率的主要原因，專家指出是因男女比例嚴重失衡所造成。男女比例失衡導致婚姻市場的競爭壓力升高，迫使男方的父母增加儲蓄，提高競爭實力。中國信徒要找個基督徒伴侶並不容易。許多父母深怕子女要一輩子獨身，已不再堅持兒女一定要找到相同信仰的人結婚，讓我們禱告父母們不止為獨生子女的婚姻仰望主，能信靠主會為他們孩子預備合適的另一半。
星期四
2010年全國高校畢業生為630萬人，比去年多19萬人，因著經濟不景氣就業形勢非常嚴峻。春節後至6月將持續出現畢業生求職高峰，人才市場上的就業壓力會更大。我們為求職在即的大學生禱告，願上帝賜他們平安信心，相信神能豐富預備。也為那些主領校園事工的領袖禱告，願神使他們能在大學生畢業前的半年，盡最後努力建造好他們信仰的根基。
星期五
台灣總統大力讚揚佛教團體「很多工作做得比政府還好」，具有「入世性」行動、「志工化」體制，還訂定「策略」，徹底執行。台灣宗教團體的運作其實很「企業化」。相對的很多教會雖大力參與救援及社區慈善工作，卻沒有獲得廣泛報導。讓我們禱告教會都能在社區作鹽作光，信徒奉耶穌的名行善時，能堅持「我們行善，不可喪志；若不灰心，到了時候就要收成。」 (加拉太 6:9 ）
星期六
預計2012年中國富裕人口將增約500萬，達1370萬人。有92.6%的富裕家庭其休閑和娛樂方面的花費高達1萬美元。最大的消費項目是旅遊，而香港仍是首選，其次?澳門、泰國、新加坡及日本。 富裕的城市教會一旦習於處在不冷不熱的溫吞水狀態，難免同樣受到主對老底嘉教會的責備，尤其是失去了當初愛主及傳福音的熱心。求助憐憫人們靈性貧窮，需要主耶穌的救恩，也幫助我們更能看到自己的責任。
星期日
諺語「仇人相見，分外眼紅」，個人存「報仇心切」的心態是合理的。「大仇未報，不敢言死」甚至連生存的義意都是為了報仇。「君子報仇，十年不晚」更具體說明只要有仇待報，「君子」允許在時間上長期準備，還默許不擇手段。要中國人真正饒恕得罪自己的人，實在很難。讓仇敵逍遙法外、讓作惡傷害我們的人免除懲罰，在文化上，這是恥辱。願上帝憐憫、幫助每個信徒真正明白神捨己救贖的大愛，何謂「免我們的債，如同我們饒恕欠我們債的人」。
星期一
返鄉過年的民工擔心節後一票難求，許多紛紛選擇提前返回廣東。不少人移轉浙江打工，找到福利、待遇均比東莞好的工作。老板們為了讓工人節後準時回來上班，有的強行扣工資，有的加發開工利市。 我們記念所有因工作與家人分離的信徒，求主保守他們雖遠離家和教會，仍然緊緊跟隨著主。也為他們能保持與家人，尤其跟孩子有良好的親子關係來代禱。
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Prayer Request 2/16 - 2/22
Tuesday
China Central Television's Spring Festival Gala has regularly attracted seven hundred million to a billion viewers since the early 1980's. Anyone who is featured in this event receives instant fame and recognition. Chinese people believe that whoever is famous or appears often on the media must be good. Chinese Christians have the same problem. They believe those pastors who preach well or speak to large audiences are used greatly by God. Let us pray for spiritual discernment, serious learning of the truth, and true spiritual growth for all believers.
Wednesday
There is an estimate of 16 millions Chinese who is legally blind. China is not handicap-friendly as a whole, especially to those who are blind. Blind have literally no employment opportunity except as massuess. There are ministries targeting specifically the blinds, providing Bible study courses and even seminary training in audio format. Let us lift up all the blind believers, both their spiritual and physical need to God. May the Lord bless those serving the blind and those who are physically handicapped.
Thursday
Many are surprised to know that one pastor can oversee so many congregations in China. Many leaders rely on authoritarian centralized leadership instead of doing it with godliness. Although on the surface the church seems to run smoothly under such "dictatorial rule" it really discourages people working together to see God's leading. Let us pray for those who are helping churches learn to adopt a better way of governing. More importantly, we need the Lord to raise up many, many leaders who are faithful and humble. We lift up all leaders, especially the older generation, that they will be willing to let go and allow younger ones be blessed by learning to lead.
Friday
People ask, "Are the churches in China poor?" Absolutely not! The churches there have great potential as far as resources go but they need to be more willing to share among themselves. Whether they are open or house churches, coastal or inland, there are many churches whose annual giving exceeds a million yuan and many other churches easily boast of offerings above half a million yuan. We simply pray that the churches in China will be willing to share their resources with the stronger helping the weaker, the urban churches helping the rural ones and all having a generous heart and being more Kingdom-minded. O Lord, help us put our prayers and desires into action!
Saturday
Many rural young couples in China face an uphill battle to preserve their marriages due to several reasons. Often the marriages are arranged and lack deep understanding between the couple. Many times the two young people are separated because the men goes to work in the cities and being together for only a few short weeks each year provides little opportunity to build good relationships. Let us pray for all the believing couples who live separately because of work or other reasons. Satan snares them and wants to destroy God's people. We pray for the protection of all Christian families, especially those who are struggling with a history of infidelity, a poor marital relationship, and the inability to forgive.
Sunday
The term "left-over women" means the same as "3S Women" or women who were born in the 70's and are still single because they can't find appropriate companions. They are often tall, well-educated, and have a high income, all of which make it difficult for them to find a husband. Most Chinese parents want their daughter to attain a high education but they are also fearful that they then will not be able to find mates who are as well educated as they are. Let us pray along with the parents who are worrying about their children' mates. We know we parents must teach our children to wait for the Lord to provide a believer-spouse for them.
Monday
Among Chinese in their twenties, it is becoming very common for them to have "Flash wedding" - fall in love, court (by phone or Internet) and marry in even as sort a time as a week. Young Chinese do not shy away from a "trial marriage" before tying the knot. Although it is still taboo according to Confucian culture , sex before marriage is now accepted as the norm. We should pray fervently for the younger generation of Chinese and that the Lord will give the churches wisdom in how to understand and relate to the youth. Churches need to provide a viable and powerful message of God's love and acceptance of sinners and not just simply condemn the lack of sexual morality about the young people.
星期二
自八十年代初期起，中央電視台的春節聯歡晚會一向吸引7億至10億觀眾。任何能在節目中出現的演員就得到及時的知名度和認可。中國人的思維邏輯，認為有名氣的就是好的，只要場面大，反響熱烈，就認為這些人很了不起；在教會界被神重用的，道也一定講得好。求主幫助所有信徒，不一窩蜂的慕名，而是在真理上更加深學習，使靈命活潑而增進。
星期三
據統計，中國目前大約有1,600萬盲人，這些人生活在肉体和靈性的雙重黑暗中，非常痛苦。有些教會設立了專門針對盲人的聖經學習班和神學課程，協助失明弟兄姐妹閱讀和理解聖經，還專門配備了盲人聖經朗誦機，也開設失明者的禱告小組和家庭小組。求主保守賜福這些事工的開展，並能蔚為風氣，使救恩澤及更多有特殊需要的肢體。
星期四
一般中國傳道人帶領的會眾之多令人乍舌。教會許多領導者牧會靠權力、由上而下之類手段，而非讓神來帶領。縱然教會表面上「光滑俊美」，實際上關閉了同工尋求神帶領的大門。結果信徒只仰賴人而不倚靠神。我們為幫助教會制訂更好管理模式的信徒來禱告，求神大大興起更多忠心、謙卑的領袖。也為教會的領袖代禱，特別求主使老一輩的能放下成見，祝福培育下一代，讓年輕一代有效接棒。
星期五
「中國教會貧窮嗎？」中國教會在資源溝通與共用上可以拓展的空間和潛力都很大。從沿海到內地，各處的教會，公開或家庭教會，每年奉獻額超過百萬人民幣的，每個省、市都有數個至十數個；每年奉獻額五十萬人民幣以上的則更多！ 求主幫助中國教會有更寬廣的神國度觀，以實際行動操練肢體相顧和聖徒相通，富裕地區的願意扶助貧困地區的教會；城市教會願意無條件負擔起帶動農村教會的責任。
星期六
中國農村年輕夫婦正面臨一場維護婚姻的艱鉅戰，通常這些婚姻都是經「媒妁之言」搓和，夫婦缺乏深刻的理解。加上男方出外打工，夫婦不得不分開，每年一起生活的時間僅數星期，很難建立良好的關係。讓我們為這些分居兩地的肢體禱告。求上帝保護他們的家庭，抵擋撒旦欺騙、拆毀神的子民的技倆，特別為掙扎於夫妻不忠，婚姻關係惡化而無法彼此寬恕的家庭開路。
星期日
術語「剩女」又稱「3S技術女人」，就是Single（單身），Seventies（大多數生於上世紀七十年代），Stuck（被卡住了），她們往往是高學歷，高收入和高個子的一群，這些使她們難以找到合適的丈夫。多數中國父母希望女兒接受高等教育，但也擔心以後無法找到與她們一樣受過良好教育的配偶。讓我們與這些憂心的父母一起禱告。也願家長教育子女耐心等候主提供一位虔敬愛主的基督徒為其配偶。
星期一
中國20多歲的年輕人中，「閃婚」(沒有經過充分交往、了解，就閃電式結婚)成了非常普遍的現象。比如網友在聊天室認識，電話交往一個星期便走入婚姻。年輕人也不避諱在正式結婚之前先「試婚」。雖傳統儒家文化仍視婚前性行為禁忌，但也因已成普遍現象而為社會所接受。 我們為年輕一代禱告，求主賜教會足夠的智慧關懷這些年輕人。向他們傳達上帝的愛和接納罪人的強力信息，而不僅是簡單地譴責年輕一代缺乏性道德。
China Central Television's Spring Festival Gala has regularly attracted seven hundred million to a billion viewers since the early 1980's. Anyone who is featured in this event receives instant fame and recognition. Chinese people believe that whoever is famous or appears often on the media must be good. Chinese Christians have the same problem. They believe those pastors who preach well or speak to large audiences are used greatly by God. Let us pray for spiritual discernment, serious learning of the truth, and true spiritual growth for all believers.
Wednesday
There is an estimate of 16 millions Chinese who is legally blind. China is not handicap-friendly as a whole, especially to those who are blind. Blind have literally no employment opportunity except as massuess. There are ministries targeting specifically the blinds, providing Bible study courses and even seminary training in audio format. Let us lift up all the blind believers, both their spiritual and physical need to God. May the Lord bless those serving the blind and those who are physically handicapped.
Thursday
Many are surprised to know that one pastor can oversee so many congregations in China. Many leaders rely on authoritarian centralized leadership instead of doing it with godliness. Although on the surface the church seems to run smoothly under such "dictatorial rule" it really discourages people working together to see God's leading. Let us pray for those who are helping churches learn to adopt a better way of governing. More importantly, we need the Lord to raise up many, many leaders who are faithful and humble. We lift up all leaders, especially the older generation, that they will be willing to let go and allow younger ones be blessed by learning to lead.
Friday
People ask, "Are the churches in China poor?" Absolutely not! The churches there have great potential as far as resources go but they need to be more willing to share among themselves. Whether they are open or house churches, coastal or inland, there are many churches whose annual giving exceeds a million yuan and many other churches easily boast of offerings above half a million yuan. We simply pray that the churches in China will be willing to share their resources with the stronger helping the weaker, the urban churches helping the rural ones and all having a generous heart and being more Kingdom-minded. O Lord, help us put our prayers and desires into action!
Saturday
Many rural young couples in China face an uphill battle to preserve their marriages due to several reasons. Often the marriages are arranged and lack deep understanding between the couple. Many times the two young people are separated because the men goes to work in the cities and being together for only a few short weeks each year provides little opportunity to build good relationships. Let us pray for all the believing couples who live separately because of work or other reasons. Satan snares them and wants to destroy God's people. We pray for the protection of all Christian families, especially those who are struggling with a history of infidelity, a poor marital relationship, and the inability to forgive.
Sunday
The term "left-over women" means the same as "3S Women" or women who were born in the 70's and are still single because they can't find appropriate companions. They are often tall, well-educated, and have a high income, all of which make it difficult for them to find a husband. Most Chinese parents want their daughter to attain a high education but they are also fearful that they then will not be able to find mates who are as well educated as they are. Let us pray along with the parents who are worrying about their children' mates. We know we parents must teach our children to wait for the Lord to provide a believer-spouse for them.
Monday
Among Chinese in their twenties, it is becoming very common for them to have "Flash wedding" - fall in love, court (by phone or Internet) and marry in even as sort a time as a week. Young Chinese do not shy away from a "trial marriage" before tying the knot. Although it is still taboo according to Confucian culture , sex before marriage is now accepted as the norm. We should pray fervently for the younger generation of Chinese and that the Lord will give the churches wisdom in how to understand and relate to the youth. Churches need to provide a viable and powerful message of God's love and acceptance of sinners and not just simply condemn the lack of sexual morality about the young people.
星期二
自八十年代初期起，中央電視台的春節聯歡晚會一向吸引7億至10億觀眾。任何能在節目中出現的演員就得到及時的知名度和認可。中國人的思維邏輯，認為有名氣的就是好的，只要場面大，反響熱烈，就認為這些人很了不起；在教會界被神重用的，道也一定講得好。求主幫助所有信徒，不一窩蜂的慕名，而是在真理上更加深學習，使靈命活潑而增進。
星期三
據統計，中國目前大約有1,600萬盲人，這些人生活在肉体和靈性的雙重黑暗中，非常痛苦。有些教會設立了專門針對盲人的聖經學習班和神學課程，協助失明弟兄姐妹閱讀和理解聖經，還專門配備了盲人聖經朗誦機，也開設失明者的禱告小組和家庭小組。求主保守賜福這些事工的開展，並能蔚為風氣，使救恩澤及更多有特殊需要的肢體。
星期四
一般中國傳道人帶領的會眾之多令人乍舌。教會許多領導者牧會靠權力、由上而下之類手段，而非讓神來帶領。縱然教會表面上「光滑俊美」，實際上關閉了同工尋求神帶領的大門。結果信徒只仰賴人而不倚靠神。我們為幫助教會制訂更好管理模式的信徒來禱告，求神大大興起更多忠心、謙卑的領袖。也為教會的領袖代禱，特別求主使老一輩的能放下成見，祝福培育下一代，讓年輕一代有效接棒。
星期五
「中國教會貧窮嗎？」中國教會在資源溝通與共用上可以拓展的空間和潛力都很大。從沿海到內地，各處的教會，公開或家庭教會，每年奉獻額超過百萬人民幣的，每個省、市都有數個至十數個；每年奉獻額五十萬人民幣以上的則更多！ 求主幫助中國教會有更寬廣的神國度觀，以實際行動操練肢體相顧和聖徒相通，富裕地區的願意扶助貧困地區的教會；城市教會願意無條件負擔起帶動農村教會的責任。
星期六
中國農村年輕夫婦正面臨一場維護婚姻的艱鉅戰，通常這些婚姻都是經「媒妁之言」搓和，夫婦缺乏深刻的理解。加上男方出外打工，夫婦不得不分開，每年一起生活的時間僅數星期，很難建立良好的關係。讓我們為這些分居兩地的肢體禱告。求上帝保護他們的家庭，抵擋撒旦欺騙、拆毀神的子民的技倆，特別為掙扎於夫妻不忠，婚姻關係惡化而無法彼此寬恕的家庭開路。
星期日
術語「剩女」又稱「3S技術女人」，就是Single（單身），Seventies（大多數生於上世紀七十年代），Stuck（被卡住了），她們往往是高學歷，高收入和高個子的一群，這些使她們難以找到合適的丈夫。多數中國父母希望女兒接受高等教育，但也擔心以後無法找到與她們一樣受過良好教育的配偶。讓我們與這些憂心的父母一起禱告。也願家長教育子女耐心等候主提供一位虔敬愛主的基督徒為其配偶。
星期一
中國20多歲的年輕人中，「閃婚」(沒有經過充分交往、了解，就閃電式結婚)成了非常普遍的現象。比如網友在聊天室認識，電話交往一個星期便走入婚姻。年輕人也不避諱在正式結婚之前先「試婚」。雖傳統儒家文化仍視婚前性行為禁忌，但也因已成普遍現象而為社會所接受。 我們為年輕一代禱告，求主賜教會足夠的智慧關懷這些年輕人。向他們傳達上帝的愛和接納罪人的強力信息，而不僅是簡單地譴責年輕一代缺乏性道德。
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Prayer Request 2/9 - 2/15
Tuesday
An American college president predicted that within 25 years, a Chinese university can be one of the top 10 universities in the world. Qinghua, China's highest-ranking university, is 49th in the world now. In the past decade, the number of Chinese colleges has doubled (to 2200) and the number of college students has increased fivefold to 5 million. College student ministry is very rewarding. However, follow-up and connecting graduates to churches are more difficult. Let us pray for all those who accepted Jesus or were baptized but are no longer attending churches. May the Spirit quicken their hearts and bring them back to local churches or fellowships.
Wednesday
Why does the average Chinese person love to buy houses? Because there are few options for investments or means to preserve wealth. The Chinese also cannot depend on retirement benefits offered by the government or their companies. Buying houses provides rental income. This is a big reason China's housing market has been red-hot year after year. Believers are also caught up in the frenzy of buying houses. Many own houses but still they feel they are cash-poor and cannot afford to give offerings. Let us pray that all of us would trust the Lord to provide what we need and that we would be faithful stewards of what God entrusts us.
Thursday
The revival of house churches of the last century gave rise to legendary and powerful leaders among several large church groups. These leaders share some common traits, personal charisma and a real mix of individualism and adventure. Unfortunately, quite a number of these leaders have fallen since. It is commonly agreed that China churches badly need leaders who are transparent and demonstrate servant-leadership. We pray especially those in their 30-50, may the Lord continue to transform them, preparing them to lead not by their own strength but humility of Christ.
Friday
The "left-over-men" is a term that has been coined for all the bachelors who are of marriageable age in China where the male-female ratio is so badly skewed. Even young men unless they have certain advantages such as having a family saving money to help them, are likely to have difficulty finding a wife in the highly-competitive marriage market. We pray for all the brothers in the churches who are single. For those who are waiting for God's choice, we pray along with them. May the Lord be their peace whether they are married or alone. We pray, too, that they will be able to be more involved in the church, not just because they have more free time but because they are willing to help.
Saturday
Many young people have graduated from seminary training in China but many of them are not clear about the true meaning of sacrificial service, or they are not so gifted or able to serve as those who worked in the churches in the past, and the drop-out rate is alarmingly high. There are those who say the quality of today's students is not so good as that of those in the years past. However, we know that God can use all who are humble and weak and so we keep praying for those who are being trained now. May the Lord give them wisdom, integrity, humility, and passion for His flock.
Sunday
One reason Chinese save is that it is difficult for them to borrow. Only 11% of younger households have a mortgage for their home and those who do, try to pay it off within five years. Celebrating the last payment on a couple's mortgage is considered a milestone.Many young people will work very hard all week, including Sundays, in order to save. Many churches have no young couples and are unable to form a core group of that age. Let us pray for the desire of numerous churches to reach out to young families. May the Lord raise up countless young families who not only fit into the church but also serve there.
Monday
Corruption at every level is a huge problem not only for the government but also for Christians who are trying to provide community services with donated money and equipment. There is an overwhelmingly cynical feeling that money donated for good causes will somehow end up in the fat wallets of officials. We pray for those who must deal with people who seek bribes from Christians in ministry and those in business, too. May the Lord give them wisdom and integrity.
星期二
一位美國大學校長認為，不出二十五年中國的學府將會名列世界十大。清華大學現排名最前（名列四十九）。過去十年中國的高等學府數量已翻了一倍（現有2,200 間），大學生增加了5倍（現有五百萬）。投資大學校園事工是極具價值並大有果效。但學生畢業後的關懷和引導他們進入教會並不容易。我們?已接受耶穌基督且受洗卻沒再上教會的迷羊禱告，願聖靈激勵、引導他們返回教會和團契。
星期三
中國人為何格外喜歡購買房產？因為金融市場提供不了足夠的投資選擇和財富保值途經。中國人不能依靠國家發放的退休金和其他社會保障福利生活。由於房產可帶來租金收入，因此中國房產市場一年比一年熾熱。 信徒也同樣陷入瘋狂的購房熱。很多人雖擁有房子但仍覺欠缺，無力奉獻。讓我們禱告，願所有人都信靠主供應完備，並忠心管理神所託付我們的，作個好管家。
星期四
中國教會上個世紀的大復興，崛起了一些傳奇性的領袖，建立起巨大 的福音團隊。這些領袖的共同點就是同屬「個人才幹加上冒險的綜合型」。可惜其中不少在服事的路上跌倒 了。中國教會迫切需要行事透明且有僕人的服事心志的領袖。我們特別為年屆三旬至五旬的中生代傳道和同工禱告，求主塑造他們，裝備他們，使他們不恃己力，而是全然 謙卑倚靠主基督。
星期五
所謂 「剩男」，就是當婚而未婚的大齡男性。鑑於中國男女比例嚴重失衡，那些剛入青春期的大男孩，如果沒有特別條件，很可能找不到對象。男孩的父母們為了讓兒子在競爭激烈的婚姻市場上找到媳婦，只能盡其所能為孩子積攢家產。 我們為教會裏所有單身、等候神預備的弟兄們禱告，無論是要守獨身或等候婚姻的，都求主保守他們心靈平靜安穩。也讓他們能積極參與教會事奉，欣然服事神。
星期六
許多中國年輕的信徒雖然完成了神學的訓練，可能卻不真正明白獻身意義。許多人認為神學生素質已今非昔比，這些畢業生中往往恩賜與能力不及於先輩們，以至於中途離崗的人數甚多，達到令人堪憂的地步。我們知道神能夠使用軟弱但謙卑的人，讓我們為正在學習的神學生禱告，求主賜他們智慧能力，正直良善，以一顆和謙卑、熱愛主羊群的心，時時與神同心同行。
星期日
中國人儲蓄的原因之一是不愛借錢。年輕家庭買房子僅有11%銀行貸款，他們也會盡量會在五年内還清。夫婦倆往往把償還最後一期貸款視為一個重要的里程碑。很多年輕人想多儲蓄一點錢，每天都努力工作，甚至星期日也不例外。以致教會甚少年輕夫婦，亦無法設立此年齡層的核心小組。我們禱告教會能有心去接觸年輕家庭。也求主興起更多年輕家庭融入教會、投入教會的事奉。
星期一
各種層次的腐敗不僅對中國政府是一個巨大的問題，對試圖通過捐贈資金和設備來提供社區服務的基督教團體也是一大難題。因為人們普遍認為，絕大多數捐贈給公益事業的錢最終都會以某種形式落入官員的口袋。讓我們為必須在事工或生意上需要與官員打交道的肢體禱告，願主賜給他們智慧和誠實來應對。
An American college president predicted that within 25 years, a Chinese university can be one of the top 10 universities in the world. Qinghua, China's highest-ranking university, is 49th in the world now. In the past decade, the number of Chinese colleges has doubled (to 2200) and the number of college students has increased fivefold to 5 million. College student ministry is very rewarding. However, follow-up and connecting graduates to churches are more difficult. Let us pray for all those who accepted Jesus or were baptized but are no longer attending churches. May the Spirit quicken their hearts and bring them back to local churches or fellowships.
Wednesday
Why does the average Chinese person love to buy houses? Because there are few options for investments or means to preserve wealth. The Chinese also cannot depend on retirement benefits offered by the government or their companies. Buying houses provides rental income. This is a big reason China's housing market has been red-hot year after year. Believers are also caught up in the frenzy of buying houses. Many own houses but still they feel they are cash-poor and cannot afford to give offerings. Let us pray that all of us would trust the Lord to provide what we need and that we would be faithful stewards of what God entrusts us.
Thursday
The revival of house churches of the last century gave rise to legendary and powerful leaders among several large church groups. These leaders share some common traits, personal charisma and a real mix of individualism and adventure. Unfortunately, quite a number of these leaders have fallen since. It is commonly agreed that China churches badly need leaders who are transparent and demonstrate servant-leadership. We pray especially those in their 30-50, may the Lord continue to transform them, preparing them to lead not by their own strength but humility of Christ.
Friday
The "left-over-men" is a term that has been coined for all the bachelors who are of marriageable age in China where the male-female ratio is so badly skewed. Even young men unless they have certain advantages such as having a family saving money to help them, are likely to have difficulty finding a wife in the highly-competitive marriage market. We pray for all the brothers in the churches who are single. For those who are waiting for God's choice, we pray along with them. May the Lord be their peace whether they are married or alone. We pray, too, that they will be able to be more involved in the church, not just because they have more free time but because they are willing to help.
Saturday
Many young people have graduated from seminary training in China but many of them are not clear about the true meaning of sacrificial service, or they are not so gifted or able to serve as those who worked in the churches in the past, and the drop-out rate is alarmingly high. There are those who say the quality of today's students is not so good as that of those in the years past. However, we know that God can use all who are humble and weak and so we keep praying for those who are being trained now. May the Lord give them wisdom, integrity, humility, and passion for His flock.
Sunday
One reason Chinese save is that it is difficult for them to borrow. Only 11% of younger households have a mortgage for their home and those who do, try to pay it off within five years. Celebrating the last payment on a couple's mortgage is considered a milestone.Many young people will work very hard all week, including Sundays, in order to save. Many churches have no young couples and are unable to form a core group of that age. Let us pray for the desire of numerous churches to reach out to young families. May the Lord raise up countless young families who not only fit into the church but also serve there.
Monday
Corruption at every level is a huge problem not only for the government but also for Christians who are trying to provide community services with donated money and equipment. There is an overwhelmingly cynical feeling that money donated for good causes will somehow end up in the fat wallets of officials. We pray for those who must deal with people who seek bribes from Christians in ministry and those in business, too. May the Lord give them wisdom and integrity.
星期二
一位美國大學校長認為，不出二十五年中國的學府將會名列世界十大。清華大學現排名最前（名列四十九）。過去十年中國的高等學府數量已翻了一倍（現有2,200 間），大學生增加了5倍（現有五百萬）。投資大學校園事工是極具價值並大有果效。但學生畢業後的關懷和引導他們進入教會並不容易。我們?已接受耶穌基督且受洗卻沒再上教會的迷羊禱告，願聖靈激勵、引導他們返回教會和團契。
星期三
中國人為何格外喜歡購買房產？因為金融市場提供不了足夠的投資選擇和財富保值途經。中國人不能依靠國家發放的退休金和其他社會保障福利生活。由於房產可帶來租金收入，因此中國房產市場一年比一年熾熱。 信徒也同樣陷入瘋狂的購房熱。很多人雖擁有房子但仍覺欠缺，無力奉獻。讓我們禱告，願所有人都信靠主供應完備，並忠心管理神所託付我們的，作個好管家。
星期四
中國教會上個世紀的大復興，崛起了一些傳奇性的領袖，建立起巨大 的福音團隊。這些領袖的共同點就是同屬「個人才幹加上冒險的綜合型」。可惜其中不少在服事的路上跌倒 了。中國教會迫切需要行事透明且有僕人的服事心志的領袖。我們特別為年屆三旬至五旬的中生代傳道和同工禱告，求主塑造他們，裝備他們，使他們不恃己力，而是全然 謙卑倚靠主基督。
星期五
所謂 「剩男」，就是當婚而未婚的大齡男性。鑑於中國男女比例嚴重失衡，那些剛入青春期的大男孩，如果沒有特別條件，很可能找不到對象。男孩的父母們為了讓兒子在競爭激烈的婚姻市場上找到媳婦，只能盡其所能為孩子積攢家產。 我們為教會裏所有單身、等候神預備的弟兄們禱告，無論是要守獨身或等候婚姻的，都求主保守他們心靈平靜安穩。也讓他們能積極參與教會事奉，欣然服事神。
星期六
許多中國年輕的信徒雖然完成了神學的訓練，可能卻不真正明白獻身意義。許多人認為神學生素質已今非昔比，這些畢業生中往往恩賜與能力不及於先輩們，以至於中途離崗的人數甚多，達到令人堪憂的地步。我們知道神能夠使用軟弱但謙卑的人，讓我們為正在學習的神學生禱告，求主賜他們智慧能力，正直良善，以一顆和謙卑、熱愛主羊群的心，時時與神同心同行。
星期日
中國人儲蓄的原因之一是不愛借錢。年輕家庭買房子僅有11%銀行貸款，他們也會盡量會在五年内還清。夫婦倆往往把償還最後一期貸款視為一個重要的里程碑。很多年輕人想多儲蓄一點錢，每天都努力工作，甚至星期日也不例外。以致教會甚少年輕夫婦，亦無法設立此年齡層的核心小組。我們禱告教會能有心去接觸年輕家庭。也求主興起更多年輕家庭融入教會、投入教會的事奉。
星期一
各種層次的腐敗不僅對中國政府是一個巨大的問題，對試圖通過捐贈資金和設備來提供社區服務的基督教團體也是一大難題。因為人們普遍認為，絕大多數捐贈給公益事業的錢最終都會以某種形式落入官員的口袋。讓我們為必須在事工或生意上需要與官員打交道的肢體禱告，願主賜給他們智慧和誠實來應對。
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Prayer Request 2/2 - 2/8
Tuesday
The biggest season for travel in China is over the Chinese New Year. This year they expect 210 million people to take the train in the short 3-week period. Getting a ticket for this trip is historically very difficult and requires bribery or "special favor". Officials have severely warned that railroad employees unfairly getting or selling tickets will be fired. We pray for the planning and a great harvest as many churches have made big plans for outreach programs during the Chinese New Year. We pray, too, as believers are re-united with their families that it will be a wonderful time of sharing their faith, contributing offerings to their home churches and reconciling with estranged members of their families.
Wednesday
A 2008 survey said, an average Chinese household has 69 copies of book (94.6 for city, 41.5 for village). More than 60% Chinese are not satisfied with their own reading, believing they have not read enough. Half of these said, "they are too busy to read". The vast majority of believers receive their "spiritual feeding" from sermons only. There is very little Bible studying programs/efforts on the grass root level. We pray for people who will bring attention to studying of Bible, not merely listening on Sundays, and living out what God's teaching in our lives.
Thursday
Government study on reading habits and book purchasing trend shows, 81% of young people (under 18) buy and read book, but only 49% of adults do so. Young people read from other media too, Internet, cell phone etc. Christian books in China used to be printing on any white paper will do. In this age of information's explosive growth, we must pray hard for providing high quality of Christian content, not merely to appeal "rural believers", but must be able to interest young people and urban residents.
Friday
The very first TV commercial shown in China was on Chinese New Year in Shanghai. When the "Beauty Nourishing Wine" was shown during a women' basketball, many audience called the station and complained. Back in those days, buying anything required a ticket, especially a luxury item. Today, Chinese consumers are constantly bombarded with commercials and they will buy anything shown on TV especially when it is pitched by celebrity. Unfortunately, believers often will believe whatever they hear or read, especially it is pitched by famous preachers. We pray that Christians will have discerning wisdom of what they read and listen.
Saturday
For several decades China has had a mandatory retirement policy of sixty for men and fifty-five for women party members or fifty for ordinary workers. As people live much longer, retiring at such an early age presents a problem socially which the government recognizes but has problems correcting. There are many believers who are in their fifties and sixties who are retired but are still energetic. Many of them are devoting time and effort to visitation, teaching, or even in the role of shepherds. We pray for all of them to have spiritual vitality and faithfulness in serving God and His people.
Sunday
Today, China produces the most television dramas in the worlds and has the most viewing audience. China's very first TV drama “A Mouthful of Vegetable Pancake” was broadcast in 1958, it was about how a mother who save last bit of food for her daughter, dying in hunger in bitter winter. Chinese Christian contents still tend to be "old fashion", neither appealing nor "fitting today's social context". We pray that churches will deliver the God's message in fresher and relevant way. We must engage the society, otherwise, our voices will be drown out by all the noise of the world.
Monday
We all have witnessed the miraculous changes China churches gone through in the past 20 years. A critical mission churches face is "be a leader and training leaders". This requires a systematic effort of mind changing and nurturing of new leaders. We pray for more workers, intellectuals, professionals and leaders becoming the "new army" of shepherds for China churches. May the Holy Spirit move, sanctify and prepare all of them. We pray especially for guarding of their hearts from temptation, financial, sexual and power.
星期二
農曆新年是每年運輸頂峰期。今年長達三星期的鐵路春運預計將運送旅客2.1億人次，鐵路「一票難求」的難題仍無法避免。鐵道部將嚴厲打擊倒賣火車票的行為，一旦發現鐵路職工參與，將一律開除。讓我們為在春節籌劃大型怖道會的教會禱告，求神保守教會的事工並賜福豐富收成。也禱告信徒能趁一家團聚的機會，與家人分享福音，化解嫌隙和緊張的關係，重修舊好；也為自己家鄉的教會大力奉獻。
星期三
根據調查，2008年中國國民家庭藏書量平均為69本。其中城鎮人口家庭平均藏書94.6本，農村人口的家庭平均藏書41.5本。超過六成的國民表示：對自己閱讀的情況不太滿意或很不滿意，過半數中國人認為自己無暇閱讀，也認為自己的閱讀數量比較少或很少。中國 大部分信徒只賴聚會中的信息為靈糧，而適合基層的查經課程又少。求神讓信徒更看重研讀聖經，不僅止于主日聽道，更要活出主的教導。
星期四
中國一項2008國民閱讀與購買傾向抽樣調查報告稱，18歲以下未成年人圖書閱讀率為81.4％，，成年人閱讀率僅49%。未成年人也透過上網，手機，手持式閱讀器等數字媒介閱讀。中國的基督教書籍，只要能印出白紙黑字就算出書。但在這資訊爆炸的時代，我們需要有高質素的閱讀內容，讓我們禱告有更多好書問市，不單能滿足農村信徒，還能開發出傳遞福音，吸引年輕族群與都市人的好內容。
星期五
1979年1月28日，正值春節還恰逢國務院副總理鄧小平出訪美國，上海電視臺播出了一條「養容酒」的廣告，這是中國第一條電視廣告。該廣告效應不大。電視臺還接獲許多反映和投訴。畢竟在當時，人們仍須有發票和購買證才能買東西，特別是奢侈品。今日中國消費者大受商業廣告沖擊，尤其電視廣告靠著明星效應，總叫消費者跟風購買。信徒也同樣易受明星效應的影響，。求神給我們分辨的智慧，對一些名講員所講所寫的能謹慎察驗。
星期六
中國立法規範工人的退休年齡下調至60歲。有些工種和性別更下調至55歲，形成人口、年齡與人力的失衡。連政府都承認有問題存在，需另尋對策。有很多5-60歲的退休人士仍然身體健康精力充沛。實可全然投入為神工作，甚至成為教會的傳道或教師。我們求神呼召和使用更多的退休人成為國度合用的器皿，繼續發揮他們生命的光與熱。
星期日
今日中國已成為世界第一大電視劇生產、播出大國。中國的首部電視劇是半世紀前《一口菜餅子》，講述一位母親將僅有的一口菜餅子留給女兒，在飢寒交迫中死去的故事。中國的基督教書籍至今仍呈「老態」，對不上當今社會模式和現代人的胃口。求主幫助教會在傳遞神的信息和福音時能推陳出新，避免曲高和寡，適度「入世」切入普羅大眾生活中，與人們的脈博抽相應。
星期一
中國教會這二十年的奇跡性轉變是眾目共睹的。教會當前重任便是為主「成為領袖、栽培領袖」，因此教會需要建立有系統的模式來教育和培養新一代領袖。我們禱告能夠有更多工人、知識份子、專業人士和領袖人物成為中國教會的新力軍。求聖靈催逼、揀選、和預備人選。我們也特別求主保守未來教會同工們的心，能在財物、情欲和權力的試探中得勝有餘。
The biggest season for travel in China is over the Chinese New Year. This year they expect 210 million people to take the train in the short 3-week period. Getting a ticket for this trip is historically very difficult and requires bribery or "special favor". Officials have severely warned that railroad employees unfairly getting or selling tickets will be fired. We pray for the planning and a great harvest as many churches have made big plans for outreach programs during the Chinese New Year. We pray, too, as believers are re-united with their families that it will be a wonderful time of sharing their faith, contributing offerings to their home churches and reconciling with estranged members of their families.
Wednesday
A 2008 survey said, an average Chinese household has 69 copies of book (94.6 for city, 41.5 for village). More than 60% Chinese are not satisfied with their own reading, believing they have not read enough. Half of these said, "they are too busy to read". The vast majority of believers receive their "spiritual feeding" from sermons only. There is very little Bible studying programs/efforts on the grass root level. We pray for people who will bring attention to studying of Bible, not merely listening on Sundays, and living out what God's teaching in our lives.
Thursday
Government study on reading habits and book purchasing trend shows, 81% of young people (under 18) buy and read book, but only 49% of adults do so. Young people read from other media too, Internet, cell phone etc. Christian books in China used to be printing on any white paper will do. In this age of information's explosive growth, we must pray hard for providing high quality of Christian content, not merely to appeal "rural believers", but must be able to interest young people and urban residents.
Friday
The very first TV commercial shown in China was on Chinese New Year in Shanghai. When the "Beauty Nourishing Wine" was shown during a women' basketball, many audience called the station and complained. Back in those days, buying anything required a ticket, especially a luxury item. Today, Chinese consumers are constantly bombarded with commercials and they will buy anything shown on TV especially when it is pitched by celebrity. Unfortunately, believers often will believe whatever they hear or read, especially it is pitched by famous preachers. We pray that Christians will have discerning wisdom of what they read and listen.
Saturday
For several decades China has had a mandatory retirement policy of sixty for men and fifty-five for women party members or fifty for ordinary workers. As people live much longer, retiring at such an early age presents a problem socially which the government recognizes but has problems correcting. There are many believers who are in their fifties and sixties who are retired but are still energetic. Many of them are devoting time and effort to visitation, teaching, or even in the role of shepherds. We pray for all of them to have spiritual vitality and faithfulness in serving God and His people.
Sunday
Today, China produces the most television dramas in the worlds and has the most viewing audience. China's very first TV drama “A Mouthful of Vegetable Pancake” was broadcast in 1958, it was about how a mother who save last bit of food for her daughter, dying in hunger in bitter winter. Chinese Christian contents still tend to be "old fashion", neither appealing nor "fitting today's social context". We pray that churches will deliver the God's message in fresher and relevant way. We must engage the society, otherwise, our voices will be drown out by all the noise of the world.
Monday
We all have witnessed the miraculous changes China churches gone through in the past 20 years. A critical mission churches face is "be a leader and training leaders". This requires a systematic effort of mind changing and nurturing of new leaders. We pray for more workers, intellectuals, professionals and leaders becoming the "new army" of shepherds for China churches. May the Holy Spirit move, sanctify and prepare all of them. We pray especially for guarding of their hearts from temptation, financial, sexual and power.
星期二
農曆新年是每年運輸頂峰期。今年長達三星期的鐵路春運預計將運送旅客2.1億人次，鐵路「一票難求」的難題仍無法避免。鐵道部將嚴厲打擊倒賣火車票的行為，一旦發現鐵路職工參與，將一律開除。讓我們為在春節籌劃大型怖道會的教會禱告，求神保守教會的事工並賜福豐富收成。也禱告信徒能趁一家團聚的機會，與家人分享福音，化解嫌隙和緊張的關係，重修舊好；也為自己家鄉的教會大力奉獻。
星期三
根據調查，2008年中國國民家庭藏書量平均為69本。其中城鎮人口家庭平均藏書94.6本，農村人口的家庭平均藏書41.5本。超過六成的國民表示：對自己閱讀的情況不太滿意或很不滿意，過半數中國人認為自己無暇閱讀，也認為自己的閱讀數量比較少或很少。中國 大部分信徒只賴聚會中的信息為靈糧，而適合基層的查經課程又少。求神讓信徒更看重研讀聖經，不僅止于主日聽道，更要活出主的教導。
星期四
中國一項2008國民閱讀與購買傾向抽樣調查報告稱，18歲以下未成年人圖書閱讀率為81.4％，，成年人閱讀率僅49%。未成年人也透過上網，手機，手持式閱讀器等數字媒介閱讀。中國的基督教書籍，只要能印出白紙黑字就算出書。但在這資訊爆炸的時代，我們需要有高質素的閱讀內容，讓我們禱告有更多好書問市，不單能滿足農村信徒，還能開發出傳遞福音，吸引年輕族群與都市人的好內容。
星期五
1979年1月28日，正值春節還恰逢國務院副總理鄧小平出訪美國，上海電視臺播出了一條「養容酒」的廣告，這是中國第一條電視廣告。該廣告效應不大。電視臺還接獲許多反映和投訴。畢竟在當時，人們仍須有發票和購買證才能買東西，特別是奢侈品。今日中國消費者大受商業廣告沖擊，尤其電視廣告靠著明星效應，總叫消費者跟風購買。信徒也同樣易受明星效應的影響，。求神給我們分辨的智慧，對一些名講員所講所寫的能謹慎察驗。
星期六
中國立法規範工人的退休年齡下調至60歲。有些工種和性別更下調至55歲，形成人口、年齡與人力的失衡。連政府都承認有問題存在，需另尋對策。有很多5-60歲的退休人士仍然身體健康精力充沛。實可全然投入為神工作，甚至成為教會的傳道或教師。我們求神呼召和使用更多的退休人成為國度合用的器皿，繼續發揮他們生命的光與熱。
星期日
今日中國已成為世界第一大電視劇生產、播出大國。中國的首部電視劇是半世紀前《一口菜餅子》，講述一位母親將僅有的一口菜餅子留給女兒，在飢寒交迫中死去的故事。中國的基督教書籍至今仍呈「老態」，對不上當今社會模式和現代人的胃口。求主幫助教會在傳遞神的信息和福音時能推陳出新，避免曲高和寡，適度「入世」切入普羅大眾生活中，與人們的脈博抽相應。
星期一
中國教會這二十年的奇跡性轉變是眾目共睹的。教會當前重任便是為主「成為領袖、栽培領袖」，因此教會需要建立有系統的模式來教育和培養新一代領袖。我們禱告能夠有更多工人、知識份子、專業人士和領袖人物成為中國教會的新力軍。求聖靈催逼、揀選、和預備人選。我們也特別求主保守未來教會同工們的心，能在財物、情欲和權力的試探中得勝有餘。
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