Posts
Tuesday
Li Na won the French Tennis Open and became the first Asian ever to be the Grand Slam Champion. She has always been known as a "rebel" with a rose-through-the-heart tattoo on her chest. She openly and defiantly dropped out of the traditional government-sponsored athlete training program and chose to have her own trainer. Churches in China have always highly valued "conformity" and stressed "unity" even though it was only very superficial. We pray for a true acceptance of those believers who due to their convictions practice their faith in a way somewhat different from the traditional style. We pray, too, that all believers will realize the difference between what is traditional and what is Biblical.
Wednesday
Both husbands and wives are expected to work outside of the home in China but the wives are still expected to do housework and cook for the family without help from their husbands. In the workplace women and men are nearly equal in terms of their workload and the stress encountered. However, in the churches it is very rare to find couples who serve together. We pray for those rare husband and wife teams that the Lord will use them mightily and bless their commitment and sacrifice. May their godly example shine brightly before other believers and their lives bless many of those outside of the church as well as the families in their churches.
Thursday
There is a large disparity in the ratio of males to females born in China--a whopping boy to girl ration of 118 to 100! However, within the church, female believers outnumber male believers. Although this phenomenon is shared in the culturally similar Korean churches, women definitely outnumber men in the churches in China. Female believers shoulder most of the work in churches and they are heavily involved in visitation, marital counseling, and even "running" the church if there is no shepherd available. May the Lord bless and remember the dedication of all of the "Martha and Mary" believers.
Friday
The lyrics of the "Red Songs" or "Revolutionary Songs" praise the supreme Communist party leader, Chairman Mao, or glorify the motherland. The height of the time when they sang the Red Songs was during the Cultural Revolution. During that time the only literary works available to the public were the so-called Revolutionary Model Opera and since all love songs and ballads were forbidden, the only thing people could sing were the Red Songs. There is a huge collection of Chinese praise songs written by Chinese songwriters. Many believers find these songs express their love for Jesus and that they can identify better with the melodies than with other songs. We thank God for these Chinese praise songs and the mighty work the Holy Spirit has used them to accomplish in the church in China.
Saturday
During the Cultural Revolution in China in the 1960's, the de facto national anthem was "The East is Red" which says: "The east is red, the sun is rising. China has brought forth a Mao Zedong. He works for the people's welfare. Hurrah! He is the people's great savior!" This song was played through the public address systems everywhere in China twice daily and every student was required to sing this song every morning. Perhaps the painful memories of the Cultural Revolution have started to fade for hundreds of millions of Chinese fifty years old or older. We pray for spiritual vitality for all the believers in that age group, many of whom are now leaders in the church. May the Lord give them humility, with a spirit that is not dictatorial but is truly humble enough to accept criticism and suggestions from the younger generation.
Sunday
Celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Communist Party, officials are encouraging and promoting the public frenzy of singing of the "Red songs" - traditional revolutionary songs. The most famous revolutionary songs are "The East is Red" and "Sailing the Seas Depends on the Helmsman". In the days past, all public meetings always begin and end with the singing of these two songs. Cultural Revolution was a sad page in the history of Chinese and untold numbers of Christians chose to give up their lives rather than forsake Jesus Christ. We take a moment to remember all the martyrs of faith, their sacrifices were not in vain as the church grew even stronger and bigger during the great persecution. May the Lord richly bless the descendants of those who loved Jesus even to their death.
Monday
Although it seems like everyone is jumping on the "Red Song" singing bandwagon, people are singing them in the neighborhoods, schools and factories. Retired and older folks enjoy singing these songs because they are nostalgic and appreciate the cultural background and context of these songs. However, few young people find the "Red Song" interesting. We should pray for all the choirs in Chinese churches. Many churches have large choirs and are an important part of the worship. May the Lord use their hard work in practice and their voices to lead congregations in praising God. We too remember in prayers the worship teams led by young people, which are becoming more common in many urban churches.
星期二
李娜獲得法網女單冠軍，成為有史以來第一個獲得大滿貫網球賽事冠軍的亞洲人。她向來以「叛逆」著稱，胸前的穿心玫瑰紋身十分惹人注意，也曾公開脫離國家運動員所接受的政府傳統訓練系統。中國教會相當講求信徒「一致」，特別重視教會之間表面的「合一」，認為應該持守教會傳統留下來的做法，不能接納某些信徒的崇拜方式與不同的「教會傳統」。我們記念他們愛主的心，也禱告信徒能分辨何謂人的傳統與聖經中心須堅守的教導。
星期三
中國社會一般要求夫婦二人同樣工作。女子在家務負擔不減的同時，在社會上和職場中的壓力和活躍度卻與男子相差無幾。中國教會中夫妻能在教會一起服事的實在太少了。讓我們特別為「難得少有」的夫妻檔禱告，願神祝福他們的擺上，大大使用他們，並成為其他信徒婚姻、家庭、服事的好榜樣。求主保守他們的服事，滿有力量，能成為多人的祝福。
星期四
中國出生人口男多女少，比例是118：100。 然而在教會中信徒卻是女多男少，在海外華人教會和韓國教會中也有同樣的問題，但不像中國教會這樣嚴重。姐妹們除了負擔、分擔教會各樣事工之外 ，她們在探訪、協調婚姻家庭問題上更是出力，尤其在沒有傳道人的教會，願主加添這些為主擺上的「馬大及馬利亞」們。
星期五
紅歌意指「革命歌曲」，多是歌頌共產黨及其領袖或推崇國家之作。文革時期是紅歌最興盛的年代；那時文藝作品就那幾部革命樣板戲，但因歌曲可以大唱特唱，在愛情歌、抒情歌遭封殺的情況下，革命歌曲成了唯一的選擇。中國教會有許多華人所寫的讚美詩歌，歌詞和旋律都讓信徒產生共鳴，更容易表達對主的愛。我們為中國教會的詩歌感謝神，求主藉著祂的靈繼續動工，使詩歌帶給會眾更大的祝福。
星期六
「東方紅」是文革時期的中國國歌，『東方紅，太陽升。中國出了個毛澤東。他為人民謀幸福，呼爾嗨喲，他是人民大救星！』。這首歌每天早晚都會在每個城市和鄉村的擴音器裡播放，學生更是每天早上必須齊聲頌唱。時光茌苒，或許文革慘痛的回憶在億萬五十歲以上的中國人腦海中已淡化了些。我們為所有年齡半百以上的信徒禱告，求主更新他們，更加活潑見證主道。大部分中國教會領袖們都在這年齡層，求主賜下謙卑的心，能接受年輕一代的建議、批評。
星期日
今年是共產黨建黨九十周年，在官方強力推動下，各地市民狂熱唱起紅歌（傳統革命歌曲）。最著名的是「東方紅」和「大海航行靠舵手」，從前各種大小會議以唱「東方紅」開始，唱「大海航行靠舵手」結束。文化大革命是中國歷史悲哀的一頁，無數基督徒不願當眾羞辱主名、更不願放棄信仰，都將性命置之度外。我們不能忘記這些為主洒血的信心榜樣，他們的擺上不但沒有徒然，更成為近代中國教會迅速成長的原因，願主厚待、祝福他們的子孫。
星期一
「紅歌」熱正在中國大地掀起，唱響在社區、學校、工廠，進入社會的各個角落。愛唱紅歌主要的是退休和老年一代，因為他們最清楚音樂的歷史文化背景。但年輕人對此浪潮卻缺乏熱情。不少中國教會有相當陣容的詩班，也是崇拜的重要部分，讓我們為所有詩班的成員祈求，願主記念他們的辛勞，使用他們的聲音帶領弟兄姐妹讚美上帝。同時我們求主使用在城市教會越來越普遍的年輕人組成的敬拜團隊。
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Prayer Request 6/14 - 6/20
Tuesday
About 9.33 million students took the "gao kao", the national college entrance exam in China, which is a fifteen percent decrease over last year. This is the third year there has been such a decrease and it reflects the lower number of high school students in China, the result of the one-child policy which was instituted twenty years ago. As it becomes easier to get into college and wages for workers with only a high school education increase substantially, the number of students who enroll in Bible training has also decreased. We pray that young Chinese believers will see full-time ministry not as an alternative, or a stable job to do if all else fails as has been so often in the past especially in rural churches. May they sense God's calling to His work.
Wednesday
According to a recent survey, about 70% of Internet users believe that legitimacy, transparency, and honesty are essential for anyone who works for charity, and that donations should not be used as a tool for individuals or enterprises to make money or improve their image. In recent years the enthusiasm of the public for charitable donations has been adversely affected by a number of scandals. Unfortunately, believers in China have this same kind of pessimism about how their offerings are used because few churches have a transparent accounting system in place. We know church leaders want their members to trust them so we pray for integrity and openness of all church leaders in their handling of church finances, their leadership style, and their personal lives.
Thursday
The greatest injury the churches in China will suffer in the coming years will probably not be from external circumstances but rather from the divisive trend of forming denominations from within. The "fight" of claiming which churches belong to which denomination is heating up and getting rather ugly. May the Lord have mercy on all of us and help us not to see ourselves as better than others, even theologically, but rather to have the humility of Jesus. May He grant us teachable hearts that bear gentleness, the fruit of the Spirit.
Friday
The big issue facing churches in China is being accepted by society and becoming legalized. Chinese believers come from all walks of life, represent all professions, and even have notable Christians or "celebrities" among them. This is a good and healthy trend for churches because it shows that Christianity is having a positive influence on Chinese society now. We praise God for believers who are from diverse backgrounds. May the Spirit of the Lord move on not only the farm laborers but also on the highly educated. Churches in China need to learn to accept one another whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated, and not be critical of one another.
Saturday
Chinese churches in the past have been marginalized culturally and considered as a place for only poor people even though the majority of Chinese people were peasants themselves. However, as China continues to be urbanized, city culture will become the dominant culture and urban churches will be the mainstream of China churches. Rural churches greatly need our supplications and prayers that God will add to their faith to trust Him that He is able to do great things for them and bring revival to the pastors, leaders, and every believer.
Sunday
Throughout the countryside in China there is a virtual absence of farmers under the age of forty which speaks to the urbanization of China. Youngsters escape as soon as possible to go to work in towns far and near leaving their aging parents to till the soil. With the rural labor pool shrinking, wages are rising.Rural churches continue to suffer from the exodus of young people which is not likely to improve. Many churches are without shepherds so they easily and quickly become the prey of cults. We pray earnestly for the need of new and younger workers in churches.
Monday
Once their only child leaves home, many couples suddenly realize they have lost their anchor or focus in life. These middle-aged "empty-nesters" often have stable jobs and incomes but very few outside interests or recreational activity. Many Chinese believers have little involvement in the church outside of Sunday attendance. They are busy with their only child. We pray that middle-aged believers will become the key workers in churches and be strong in giving of both their money and their time.
星期二
中國今年有930萬人參加高考，比去年減少15%， 考生數減少已連續第三年。此趨勢還會持續數年。高考人數減少主因是因高中生人數下降，乃二十年前政府推行一胎化政策，使出生人口持續下降。因人口減少，競爭率變低，能進大學的人越來越多。一般高校程度薪資普遍增高，也間接減少願意接受神學裝備的人選。讓我們禱告，願年輕一代的信徒獻身服事神，不是因為糊口，而是真看重神的聖潔呼召
星期三
據報導，70%網民認為慈善事業必須合法、透明和誠信；慈善捐款不應被視為用以改造個人或企業形象的工具及手段或藉此穫利。近年民眾對慈善機構的熱情已因一連串醜聞而不予信任。因著一般中國教會在金錢管理上不公開，使信徒對奉獻也有負面的看法。我們深信教會領導同工都希望獲得信徒信任，我們禱告教會領袖在金錢管理，教會財政處理上公開透明，也在決策和個人生活上正直純全。
星期四
中國教會面臨的難處，不一定是外在的逼迫，更可能是教會內部惟我獨尊的宗派主義及因搶佔「地盤」而產生的衝突。求主憐憫、教導我們不要因著神學觀點上的差異而看自己過於所當看的，而是滿有主基督的謙卑，看別人比自己強。求主賜給我們每個人都有受教的心，使聖靈在我們中間能結出溫柔良善的果子。
星期五
中國教會正面對走進社會及身份合法化的議題。基督信仰的普及性並不限於某個社會階層，乃在各行各業中均有其代表性；這是可喜的現象，表示中國教會正健康成長，並日漸為中國社會帶來積極影響。我們為教會能深入社會感恩，願主的靈在人心動工，不單單是農民、工人，更是受過高等教育的人都能悔改歸主。也禱告教會信徒能彼此接納、合一，同心合意興旺福音，建立神的家。
星期六
農村家庭教會相對於城市文化而言，屬邊緣團體。雖然過去中國大部份人口以務農維生，然而這情況已因都市化而改變，預計往後城市文化仍會主導中國社會。我們為農村教會廣大的需求禱告，求主堅固他們的信心，深知神能為他們成就大事。賜下復興的火更新農村牧者、教會領袖及眾信徒的靈命，幫助他們奔跑不困倦，行走不疲乏，為主發光發熱。
星期日
因著中國的城市化，農村中幾乎見不到一個四十歲以下的農民。年輕人巴不得早點進城打工，也不願留在家裏種田。不過，隨著農村勞工劇減，農村工資也有明顯的改善。農村教會年輕一代外流的趨勢仍沒有改變的跡象，許多教會已因沒有牧者而被異端邪教所吞噬。我們懇求神保護祂的教會，並興起年輕教會領袖願意為神的國委身，使羊群得著餵養。
星期一
許多中年夫婦在獨生子女「離巢」後，才發現過去並沒有真正好好營建自己的人生。這類人的工作通常相當穩定，不需要為生活打拼，也對時下的娛樂不能投入，所以一下子失了生活的重心。很多信徒只是「主日上教堂」一族，其他的時間都為唯一的孩子忙碌。反而中年以上的信徒有時間參與教會的活動，成為教會的活躍份子。我們為中年信徒在時間和金錢的奉獻禱告，求神大大使用和祝福。
About 9.33 million students took the "gao kao", the national college entrance exam in China, which is a fifteen percent decrease over last year. This is the third year there has been such a decrease and it reflects the lower number of high school students in China, the result of the one-child policy which was instituted twenty years ago. As it becomes easier to get into college and wages for workers with only a high school education increase substantially, the number of students who enroll in Bible training has also decreased. We pray that young Chinese believers will see full-time ministry not as an alternative, or a stable job to do if all else fails as has been so often in the past especially in rural churches. May they sense God's calling to His work.
Wednesday
According to a recent survey, about 70% of Internet users believe that legitimacy, transparency, and honesty are essential for anyone who works for charity, and that donations should not be used as a tool for individuals or enterprises to make money or improve their image. In recent years the enthusiasm of the public for charitable donations has been adversely affected by a number of scandals. Unfortunately, believers in China have this same kind of pessimism about how their offerings are used because few churches have a transparent accounting system in place. We know church leaders want their members to trust them so we pray for integrity and openness of all church leaders in their handling of church finances, their leadership style, and their personal lives.
Thursday
The greatest injury the churches in China will suffer in the coming years will probably not be from external circumstances but rather from the divisive trend of forming denominations from within. The "fight" of claiming which churches belong to which denomination is heating up and getting rather ugly. May the Lord have mercy on all of us and help us not to see ourselves as better than others, even theologically, but rather to have the humility of Jesus. May He grant us teachable hearts that bear gentleness, the fruit of the Spirit.
Friday
The big issue facing churches in China is being accepted by society and becoming legalized. Chinese believers come from all walks of life, represent all professions, and even have notable Christians or "celebrities" among them. This is a good and healthy trend for churches because it shows that Christianity is having a positive influence on Chinese society now. We praise God for believers who are from diverse backgrounds. May the Spirit of the Lord move on not only the farm laborers but also on the highly educated. Churches in China need to learn to accept one another whether rich or poor, educated or uneducated, and not be critical of one another.
Saturday
Chinese churches in the past have been marginalized culturally and considered as a place for only poor people even though the majority of Chinese people were peasants themselves. However, as China continues to be urbanized, city culture will become the dominant culture and urban churches will be the mainstream of China churches. Rural churches greatly need our supplications and prayers that God will add to their faith to trust Him that He is able to do great things for them and bring revival to the pastors, leaders, and every believer.
Sunday
Throughout the countryside in China there is a virtual absence of farmers under the age of forty which speaks to the urbanization of China. Youngsters escape as soon as possible to go to work in towns far and near leaving their aging parents to till the soil. With the rural labor pool shrinking, wages are rising.Rural churches continue to suffer from the exodus of young people which is not likely to improve. Many churches are without shepherds so they easily and quickly become the prey of cults. We pray earnestly for the need of new and younger workers in churches.
Monday
Once their only child leaves home, many couples suddenly realize they have lost their anchor or focus in life. These middle-aged "empty-nesters" often have stable jobs and incomes but very few outside interests or recreational activity. Many Chinese believers have little involvement in the church outside of Sunday attendance. They are busy with their only child. We pray that middle-aged believers will become the key workers in churches and be strong in giving of both their money and their time.
星期二
中國今年有930萬人參加高考，比去年減少15%， 考生數減少已連續第三年。此趨勢還會持續數年。高考人數減少主因是因高中生人數下降，乃二十年前政府推行一胎化政策，使出生人口持續下降。因人口減少，競爭率變低，能進大學的人越來越多。一般高校程度薪資普遍增高，也間接減少願意接受神學裝備的人選。讓我們禱告，願年輕一代的信徒獻身服事神，不是因為糊口，而是真看重神的聖潔呼召
星期三
據報導，70%網民認為慈善事業必須合法、透明和誠信；慈善捐款不應被視為用以改造個人或企業形象的工具及手段或藉此穫利。近年民眾對慈善機構的熱情已因一連串醜聞而不予信任。因著一般中國教會在金錢管理上不公開，使信徒對奉獻也有負面的看法。我們深信教會領導同工都希望獲得信徒信任，我們禱告教會領袖在金錢管理，教會財政處理上公開透明，也在決策和個人生活上正直純全。
星期四
中國教會面臨的難處，不一定是外在的逼迫，更可能是教會內部惟我獨尊的宗派主義及因搶佔「地盤」而產生的衝突。求主憐憫、教導我們不要因著神學觀點上的差異而看自己過於所當看的，而是滿有主基督的謙卑，看別人比自己強。求主賜給我們每個人都有受教的心，使聖靈在我們中間能結出溫柔良善的果子。
星期五
中國教會正面對走進社會及身份合法化的議題。基督信仰的普及性並不限於某個社會階層，乃在各行各業中均有其代表性；這是可喜的現象，表示中國教會正健康成長，並日漸為中國社會帶來積極影響。我們為教會能深入社會感恩，願主的靈在人心動工，不單單是農民、工人，更是受過高等教育的人都能悔改歸主。也禱告教會信徒能彼此接納、合一，同心合意興旺福音，建立神的家。
星期六
農村家庭教會相對於城市文化而言，屬邊緣團體。雖然過去中國大部份人口以務農維生，然而這情況已因都市化而改變，預計往後城市文化仍會主導中國社會。我們為農村教會廣大的需求禱告，求主堅固他們的信心，深知神能為他們成就大事。賜下復興的火更新農村牧者、教會領袖及眾信徒的靈命，幫助他們奔跑不困倦，行走不疲乏，為主發光發熱。
星期日
因著中國的城市化，農村中幾乎見不到一個四十歲以下的農民。年輕人巴不得早點進城打工，也不願留在家裏種田。不過，隨著農村勞工劇減，農村工資也有明顯的改善。農村教會年輕一代外流的趨勢仍沒有改變的跡象，許多教會已因沒有牧者而被異端邪教所吞噬。我們懇求神保護祂的教會，並興起年輕教會領袖願意為神的國委身，使羊群得著餵養。
星期一
許多中年夫婦在獨生子女「離巢」後，才發現過去並沒有真正好好營建自己的人生。這類人的工作通常相當穩定，不需要為生活打拼，也對時下的娛樂不能投入，所以一下子失了生活的重心。很多信徒只是「主日上教堂」一族，其他的時間都為唯一的孩子忙碌。反而中年以上的信徒有時間參與教會的活動，成為教會的活躍份子。我們為中年信徒在時間和金錢的奉獻禱告，求神大大使用和祝福。
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Prayer Request 6/7 - 6/13
Tuesday
July 1st is the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party in China. The government is launching a huge wave of both TV and cinema blitz praising the glory of the party. In contrast to the propaganda of the past, these films feature young and popular stars in an attempt to capture the hearts of the younger generation to "love the party". It is true that young people today do not show much interest in religion or in searching deeply for the meaning and purpose of life. We pray, however, for true commitment to Jesus for young Christians. and that they will not merely look for blessings from God but will always have the boldness to be counted as believers.
Wednesday
The Chinese government is working hard to gain the heart and soul of the generation born after the 1980's, those who are the one-child generation who are enjoying good lives and have money to spend, but have very little interest in politics. To them, joining the party means only that it is a good move to find a job and get good connections. Churches in China cannot give up the effort to reach out to this same group of young people, many of whom find church boring and irrelevant to their culture. We pray that more young Christians will stand up to be powerful witnesses that Christians are not just old people or disconnected from society.
Thursday
The number of college students who are Christians in China has increased significantly in recent years and they have also transformed the urban churches there. Another development is that up to twenty percent of the Chinese students in North America are Christians or exposed to Christianity and when they return to China, they often form their own churches. It is always a challenge to minister in urban churches where the educational background varies greatly. Pastors must adjust their preaching according to the audience. We pray for humility for all believers and specifically those in China's urban churches and we pray that they will be stirred up to love the Lord by their fellow believers rather than feeling jealous of them.
Friday
A unique development in the churches in China is churches for Chinese businessmen who hold foreign passports and their families. They are often called fellowships and must report their existence to the authorities but the government has allowed them to flourish to cultivate a good image and also to foster a good business climate. These fellowships are not open to local believers but we can pray that their members will be powerful witnesses among their employees, neighbors, and people who work in their homes and be able to lead them to Christ.
Saturday
The Chinese government has changed quite a bit in its way of dealing with religious issues. They now follow certain methods and procedures and are in principle trying their best to avoid violence but it is difficult to ascertain whether these improvements imply a tolerance of or the legality of house churches. Many unregistered churches are still very cautious and avoid being "interviewed" by the police since although the police know full well of their activities; it is still wise to avoid unnecessary confrontation. Let us pray for wisdom for the church leaders, especially those who are trying to expand their ministries but desire to minimize the risks of interference.
Sunday
In the recent past the Chinese government has tried to give some room to mainstream house churches. Some dialog between church leaders and officials is eventually inevitable but the real solution is in whether house churches can achieve legal status. We pray to our gracious Lord that all churches will receive legal status. We also pray that believers will have the boldness to preach the Word before that day arrives. Above all, we lift up all the believers so they will not be swayed or tempted by secularism and thus become lukewarm and ineffectual Christians.
Monday
When urbanization began in China the rural churches thought they could play a role in the evangelization of the cities because they had the manpower needed. However, it turned out that rural believers could not penetrate the cities and so their churches have lost many people since the young people went to the cities for work and ended up lost in the cities. Let us remember those churches that are reaching out to migrant workers who are highly mobile and whose attendance is often sporadic, We pray that these churches are not just their spiritual home but are a place for spiritual growth and development.
星期二
隨著中國共產黨建黨90週年紀念日（7月1日）的到來，中國政府推出大量的電視和電影節目來歌頌共產黨。和以往相比這些作品大量起用了年輕的俊男美女明星，試圖利用這些作品對年輕一代開展「愛黨教育」。 現在的年輕人對信仰宗教並無太大興趣，也很少思考人生意義和目的。我們求主剛強教會中的年輕人有真正的委身，大有勇氣的為主做見証，而不是提停留在只求神賜給祝福保佑。
星期三
政府努力對80後出生的年輕人展開宣傳工作，他們多為獨生子女，生活條件優沃，具強烈的利己主義和追名逐利的傾向，多半不太中國關心政治。不少人入黨動機只因「有利就業」和「拓展人脈」。政府與教會都想贏得年輕人的心，然而教會往往對年輕人沒吸引力，與他們的文化無交集。讓我們禱告有更多的年輕基督徒，在社會及社區中成為有力的見證，讓更多人了解教會，不是與世隔絕的組織, 也不單是老年人聚集的地方。
星期四
近年來大學生中基督徒人數激增，改變了中國城市教會的面貌。據估現居北美的中國留學生中，可能有20％是基督徒，或對基督信仰有所了解，一旦回國，往往組建海歸教會。城市教會信徒的教育程度高低不一，挑戰牧者調整講道內容以應會眾的需求。求主賜下謙卑的心，尤其在城市教會的信徒。也求主使牧者能夠除去嫉妒等負面情緒，被高教程度信徒所激勵，更加愛主，共同配搭興旺福音。
星期五
華商團契在中國教會雖非主流，但他們默默耕耘的努力也結出豐碩的果子。一般而言，華商團契需要向當地政府報備，但政府允許他們蓬勃發展，以圖在華商中保持政府的良好形象從而營造良好的商業氣氛。雖然一般信徒不能參加華商團契的聚會，我們求主讓所有華商團契的成員都能在員工，鄰居，僱員面前為主做美好的見證，吸引人心歸向基督。
星期六
中國政府在處理宗教問題上，現在遵循一定方法和程序，原則上盡量避免採取暴力方式，與過去相比已大有改善。但仍難判定官方對家庭教會的容忍度和家庭教會的合法身份。 許多家庭教會目前還是非常小心地避免招到公安的過問。雖然公安多半清楚知道他們的活動，但謹慎避免不必要的衝突仍是明智之舉。讓我們繼續為家庭教會的領袖們禱告，求神賜他們智慧，知道如何在發展事工時也能避開無謂的干擾。
星期日
政府在過去己年來的寬鬆讓主流家庭教會有一定的發展空間。政府官員和家庭教會領袖之間的對話和互動是早晚避免不了的事，然而中國家庭教會在社會中的合法地位問題必須解決。我們為所有的中國教會能得到合法的地位來仰望恩主。也在等候主再來那日之前，求主賜給我們剛強壯膽的心能勇敢為主傳福音。更求主保守所有信徒，不被世俗和財富所吸引，不成為不冷不熱的基督徒。
星期一
中國城市化初期，農村教會同工以為靠著農村基督徒人數之眾，必能在城市宣教上佔優勢，結果發現只能包圍城市，卻打不進去。反過來，農村教會的會眾卻大量流失，因為許多年輕人到城市打工失落在城市中。 我們為那些關懷民工的教會來禱告。因為民工的流動性很大，維持與拓展事工極其不易。求主使用這些教會，能成為民工屬靈的家，帶給他們生命的成長和發展，將福音的種子再帶出去。
July 1st is the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party in China. The government is launching a huge wave of both TV and cinema blitz praising the glory of the party. In contrast to the propaganda of the past, these films feature young and popular stars in an attempt to capture the hearts of the younger generation to "love the party". It is true that young people today do not show much interest in religion or in searching deeply for the meaning and purpose of life. We pray, however, for true commitment to Jesus for young Christians. and that they will not merely look for blessings from God but will always have the boldness to be counted as believers.
Wednesday
The Chinese government is working hard to gain the heart and soul of the generation born after the 1980's, those who are the one-child generation who are enjoying good lives and have money to spend, but have very little interest in politics. To them, joining the party means only that it is a good move to find a job and get good connections. Churches in China cannot give up the effort to reach out to this same group of young people, many of whom find church boring and irrelevant to their culture. We pray that more young Christians will stand up to be powerful witnesses that Christians are not just old people or disconnected from society.
Thursday
The number of college students who are Christians in China has increased significantly in recent years and they have also transformed the urban churches there. Another development is that up to twenty percent of the Chinese students in North America are Christians or exposed to Christianity and when they return to China, they often form their own churches. It is always a challenge to minister in urban churches where the educational background varies greatly. Pastors must adjust their preaching according to the audience. We pray for humility for all believers and specifically those in China's urban churches and we pray that they will be stirred up to love the Lord by their fellow believers rather than feeling jealous of them.
Friday
A unique development in the churches in China is churches for Chinese businessmen who hold foreign passports and their families. They are often called fellowships and must report their existence to the authorities but the government has allowed them to flourish to cultivate a good image and also to foster a good business climate. These fellowships are not open to local believers but we can pray that their members will be powerful witnesses among their employees, neighbors, and people who work in their homes and be able to lead them to Christ.
Saturday
The Chinese government has changed quite a bit in its way of dealing with religious issues. They now follow certain methods and procedures and are in principle trying their best to avoid violence but it is difficult to ascertain whether these improvements imply a tolerance of or the legality of house churches. Many unregistered churches are still very cautious and avoid being "interviewed" by the police since although the police know full well of their activities; it is still wise to avoid unnecessary confrontation. Let us pray for wisdom for the church leaders, especially those who are trying to expand their ministries but desire to minimize the risks of interference.
Sunday
In the recent past the Chinese government has tried to give some room to mainstream house churches. Some dialog between church leaders and officials is eventually inevitable but the real solution is in whether house churches can achieve legal status. We pray to our gracious Lord that all churches will receive legal status. We also pray that believers will have the boldness to preach the Word before that day arrives. Above all, we lift up all the believers so they will not be swayed or tempted by secularism and thus become lukewarm and ineffectual Christians.
Monday
When urbanization began in China the rural churches thought they could play a role in the evangelization of the cities because they had the manpower needed. However, it turned out that rural believers could not penetrate the cities and so their churches have lost many people since the young people went to the cities for work and ended up lost in the cities. Let us remember those churches that are reaching out to migrant workers who are highly mobile and whose attendance is often sporadic, We pray that these churches are not just their spiritual home but are a place for spiritual growth and development.
星期二
隨著中國共產黨建黨90週年紀念日（7月1日）的到來，中國政府推出大量的電視和電影節目來歌頌共產黨。和以往相比這些作品大量起用了年輕的俊男美女明星，試圖利用這些作品對年輕一代開展「愛黨教育」。 現在的年輕人對信仰宗教並無太大興趣，也很少思考人生意義和目的。我們求主剛強教會中的年輕人有真正的委身，大有勇氣的為主做見証，而不是提停留在只求神賜給祝福保佑。
星期三
政府努力對80後出生的年輕人展開宣傳工作，他們多為獨生子女，生活條件優沃，具強烈的利己主義和追名逐利的傾向，多半不太中國關心政治。不少人入黨動機只因「有利就業」和「拓展人脈」。政府與教會都想贏得年輕人的心，然而教會往往對年輕人沒吸引力，與他們的文化無交集。讓我們禱告有更多的年輕基督徒，在社會及社區中成為有力的見證，讓更多人了解教會，不是與世隔絕的組織, 也不單是老年人聚集的地方。
星期四
近年來大學生中基督徒人數激增，改變了中國城市教會的面貌。據估現居北美的中國留學生中，可能有20％是基督徒，或對基督信仰有所了解，一旦回國，往往組建海歸教會。城市教會信徒的教育程度高低不一，挑戰牧者調整講道內容以應會眾的需求。求主賜下謙卑的心，尤其在城市教會的信徒。也求主使牧者能夠除去嫉妒等負面情緒，被高教程度信徒所激勵，更加愛主，共同配搭興旺福音。
星期五
華商團契在中國教會雖非主流，但他們默默耕耘的努力也結出豐碩的果子。一般而言，華商團契需要向當地政府報備，但政府允許他們蓬勃發展，以圖在華商中保持政府的良好形象從而營造良好的商業氣氛。雖然一般信徒不能參加華商團契的聚會，我們求主讓所有華商團契的成員都能在員工，鄰居，僱員面前為主做美好的見證，吸引人心歸向基督。
星期六
中國政府在處理宗教問題上，現在遵循一定方法和程序，原則上盡量避免採取暴力方式，與過去相比已大有改善。但仍難判定官方對家庭教會的容忍度和家庭教會的合法身份。 許多家庭教會目前還是非常小心地避免招到公安的過問。雖然公安多半清楚知道他們的活動，但謹慎避免不必要的衝突仍是明智之舉。讓我們繼續為家庭教會的領袖們禱告，求神賜他們智慧，知道如何在發展事工時也能避開無謂的干擾。
星期日
政府在過去己年來的寬鬆讓主流家庭教會有一定的發展空間。政府官員和家庭教會領袖之間的對話和互動是早晚避免不了的事，然而中國家庭教會在社會中的合法地位問題必須解決。我們為所有的中國教會能得到合法的地位來仰望恩主。也在等候主再來那日之前，求主賜給我們剛強壯膽的心能勇敢為主傳福音。更求主保守所有信徒，不被世俗和財富所吸引，不成為不冷不熱的基督徒。
星期一
中國城市化初期，農村教會同工以為靠著農村基督徒人數之眾，必能在城市宣教上佔優勢，結果發現只能包圍城市，卻打不進去。反過來，農村教會的會眾卻大量流失，因為許多年輕人到城市打工失落在城市中。 我們為那些關懷民工的教會來禱告。因為民工的流動性很大，維持與拓展事工極其不易。求主使用這些教會，能成為民工屬靈的家，帶給他們生命的成長和發展，將福音的種子再帶出去。
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Prayer Request 5/31 – 6/6
Tuesday
Amid the decline in other countries the latest survey shows that more and more Chinese women are breaking the professional barrier and becoming corporate executives. While the global average of women CEO's is only 8%, in China the average is as high as 19% which is second to only Thailand. We know that China probably has the highest percentage of women pastors of any country in the world and we lift up each and every one of them in our prayers. May the Lord strengthen them to know how to manage their duties well, to have wisdom to meet the needs of all who are under their care, and grant them a tireless desire to live out the compassion of Jesus.
Wednesday
Nearly 49% of collegians are female and the proportion of women who are going on to higher education in China is rising. Meanwhile, more than 75% of Chinese women desire to be in senior positions which compares with only 50% of the women in the USA who wish to do so. Among those who come to know and accept Jesus Christ in college, female students are also in the majority. Their families have high expectations for them to study abroad, to get a high paying job, and to marry quickly. We pray for all the young female believers. May the Lord give them courage to be powerful witnesses to their parents along with a strong commitment to follow Jesus.
Thursday
Many of the financial executives in China are female. Among the Chief Financial Officers 69% are women with 37% who are sales directors, and 23% in operation management. Many of these female executives function in multiple roles that involve finance, human resources, sales, operation, and other aspects of the work.Among those who are in training to be workers in the churches there are many more women than men. We pray for them because many of them are under great pressure from their families to quit, to get a secular job, or to get married. May the Lord grant them a special comfort knowing that He will surely provide for them and meet all of their needs.
Friday
Those born in China after 1980 are seen as the future middle class but in every major city there are many people 20-30 years old who have no real jobs and are unable to even pay rent. Consequently they resort to renting a cheap room together with several others in the outskirts of a city. The media has given them the name of "ants" because they live in groups. More of the churches in China are beginning to realize that there is a sub-segment of young people called "ants". It is easy for Christians to condemn them for a lack of drive and their immorality but the churches have little to offer "ants" or even anything to attract them. We pray some young Chinese Christians will rise up to reach out to millions of these young people, dialogue with them, and share the Good News with them.
Saturday
Another term used to describe many young people in China is "shrimp people" because they live so frugally and buy only discounted and inexpensive furniture. They take busses and never a taxi trying to save every penny possible. Many of them try to spend less than ten yuan ($2.50 US) a day. Chinese youth today are not quite so homogeneous as many once thought and the churches in China have historically been disconnected and out of touch with young people. The leadership in too many churches has the attitude that young people are immature, unreliable, and too fickle to invest time and effort in them. May the Lord give us wisdom and humility knowing we should not put stumbling blocks between the youth and Jesus.
Sunday
Many of the farmers in China are making twice as much money as they were three years ago. They are buying new appliances as part of a government program to boost rural economy. Another phenomenon that is sweeping over China is that many households are leasing out their small holdings resulting in bigger and more productive farms. Rural economy is improving but the cost of living has also increased substantially which wipes out much of the gain. As farmers gain more access to entertainment via television and cable, fewer people are attending church services, especially on weekdays. Let us pray for spiritual revival for rural Christians in China.
Monday
In the past it has been the general policy of the government to shut down all house churches or meeting points. If they could not stop the churches from meeting, their policy was to limit the growth by forcing churches to register with the authorities. In many ways these practices have now been relaxed to some extent.Although the decision to register or not to register is no longer debated so much, let us pray for those house churches that have registered and are planning to purchase places for worship or to expand their ministries. May the Lord give them vision and boldness and greatly bless them in all they do.
星期二
最新調查顯示，在全球女性高階主管比例逐年下降的趨勢下，中國女性工作者反而突破職業「天花板」，成為企業高階主管的比例不斷提高，女性擔任總裁一職的比例高達19%，遠遠高於全球8%的平均水平，僅次於泰國。中國女傳道的比率或許是全世界最高的，讓我們為他們的身心靈健壯禱告，有屬天的智慧事奉主，成為神供應餵養羊群的管道，更有像主一樣的溫柔和憐憫任重道遠。
星期三
女性受高等教育的比例不斷上升，目前女大學生比例已超過 49%。中國女性超過75%渴望獲得企業高管職位，比率遠高於他國，而美國僅為50%。在大學階段認識及接受耶穌基督的學生中，女性也佔大多數。家人寄望她們能出國留學，有份高收入的工作並能盡快結婚。我們特別為這些年輕的姊妹禱告，求神賜她們勇氣，在家人面前為主做強而有力的見證，也有堅定跟隨主的心志。
星期四
女性高階主管多為財務精英。在中國女性擔任的職務方面，首席財務官或財務總監排首位佔69%，其次為人力資源總監（43%）、銷售總監（37%）和運營總監（23%）。許多女性在企業中往往身兼數職，涉及財務、人力、銷售和運營等。在中國接受神學裝備的年輕人中，姐妹遠比弟兄多。很多姐妹要承受家人的壓力，逼使她們找一份普通的工作不然就是嫁人成家。我們需要用更多的禱告托住她們，在面對各方壓力時，願主成為她們隨時的幫助。
星期五
中國的「80後」曾被期待為今後中產階層的主幹。但在每個大城市，一些二、三十歲的年輕人，無正式職業，不用說買房就連房租都付不起，往往聚集在一起到郊外合租一間簡陋的住房， 被稱為「蟻族」。 更多中國教會開始關注「蟻族」，也體會到年輕人的多樣性。 基督徒很容易批評年輕人不上進，缺乏上一代的道德觀，但教會卻鮮有提供針對性項目吸引年輕一代。求主賜下一批青年信徒，能與千百萬年輕人對話、分享大好的福音。
星期六
多元化的年輕一代，不少是所謂的「「蝦族」，他們極力控制生活支出，使用簡易折價家具並到處尋找打折降價商品；能乘公交就不打車，能省一角就省一角。他們厲行節約，降低消費，甚至每天消費額控制在15元以內，若有超支則次日拒絕消費。過去中國教會似乎與年輕一代「無緣」，不少教會領袖認為年輕人不牢靠，不值得花費精力。求主憐憫我們不成為年輕人的絆腳石，阻擋他們來到主面前。
星期日
現今中國農民的收入已有相當大的改善，幾乎比三年前多了一倍。許多人將耕地租出，農民可耕地擴大，效率相對提升。農村經濟雖有改善，但生活費用卻也大幅增加，農民仍然是相對的貧窮。另一個對農村的影響，來自政府的農村經濟改革計劃。此計劃幫助農民添購許多新電器用品，能有更多機會享受有線的娛樂節目，週間甚至主日參加教會聚會的人數也因此劇減，求主憐憫、復興農村的基督徒。
星期一
過去取締家庭教會一直是中國政府的一貫原則，即使不能完全取締，也得限制家庭教會的發展（例如強迫登記在官方教會之下）。近年來政府對家庭教會的管制雖然似有一定程度的放鬆，家庭教會是否應該登記對領袖們而言已不再像以往那麼進退維谷。讓我們在禱告中特別記念那些已經向政府登記，並計劃購買聚會場地或擴展事工的教會，求主賜下異象和勇氣，大大祝福他自己的教會。
Amid the decline in other countries the latest survey shows that more and more Chinese women are breaking the professional barrier and becoming corporate executives. While the global average of women CEO's is only 8%, in China the average is as high as 19% which is second to only Thailand. We know that China probably has the highest percentage of women pastors of any country in the world and we lift up each and every one of them in our prayers. May the Lord strengthen them to know how to manage their duties well, to have wisdom to meet the needs of all who are under their care, and grant them a tireless desire to live out the compassion of Jesus.
Wednesday
Nearly 49% of collegians are female and the proportion of women who are going on to higher education in China is rising. Meanwhile, more than 75% of Chinese women desire to be in senior positions which compares with only 50% of the women in the USA who wish to do so. Among those who come to know and accept Jesus Christ in college, female students are also in the majority. Their families have high expectations for them to study abroad, to get a high paying job, and to marry quickly. We pray for all the young female believers. May the Lord give them courage to be powerful witnesses to their parents along with a strong commitment to follow Jesus.
Thursday
Many of the financial executives in China are female. Among the Chief Financial Officers 69% are women with 37% who are sales directors, and 23% in operation management. Many of these female executives function in multiple roles that involve finance, human resources, sales, operation, and other aspects of the work.Among those who are in training to be workers in the churches there are many more women than men. We pray for them because many of them are under great pressure from their families to quit, to get a secular job, or to get married. May the Lord grant them a special comfort knowing that He will surely provide for them and meet all of their needs.
Friday
Those born in China after 1980 are seen as the future middle class but in every major city there are many people 20-30 years old who have no real jobs and are unable to even pay rent. Consequently they resort to renting a cheap room together with several others in the outskirts of a city. The media has given them the name of "ants" because they live in groups. More of the churches in China are beginning to realize that there is a sub-segment of young people called "ants". It is easy for Christians to condemn them for a lack of drive and their immorality but the churches have little to offer "ants" or even anything to attract them. We pray some young Chinese Christians will rise up to reach out to millions of these young people, dialogue with them, and share the Good News with them.
Saturday
Another term used to describe many young people in China is "shrimp people" because they live so frugally and buy only discounted and inexpensive furniture. They take busses and never a taxi trying to save every penny possible. Many of them try to spend less than ten yuan ($2.50 US) a day. Chinese youth today are not quite so homogeneous as many once thought and the churches in China have historically been disconnected and out of touch with young people. The leadership in too many churches has the attitude that young people are immature, unreliable, and too fickle to invest time and effort in them. May the Lord give us wisdom and humility knowing we should not put stumbling blocks between the youth and Jesus.
Sunday
Many of the farmers in China are making twice as much money as they were three years ago. They are buying new appliances as part of a government program to boost rural economy. Another phenomenon that is sweeping over China is that many households are leasing out their small holdings resulting in bigger and more productive farms. Rural economy is improving but the cost of living has also increased substantially which wipes out much of the gain. As farmers gain more access to entertainment via television and cable, fewer people are attending church services, especially on weekdays. Let us pray for spiritual revival for rural Christians in China.
Monday
In the past it has been the general policy of the government to shut down all house churches or meeting points. If they could not stop the churches from meeting, their policy was to limit the growth by forcing churches to register with the authorities. In many ways these practices have now been relaxed to some extent.Although the decision to register or not to register is no longer debated so much, let us pray for those house churches that have registered and are planning to purchase places for worship or to expand their ministries. May the Lord give them vision and boldness and greatly bless them in all they do.
星期二
最新調查顯示，在全球女性高階主管比例逐年下降的趨勢下，中國女性工作者反而突破職業「天花板」，成為企業高階主管的比例不斷提高，女性擔任總裁一職的比例高達19%，遠遠高於全球8%的平均水平，僅次於泰國。中國女傳道的比率或許是全世界最高的，讓我們為他們的身心靈健壯禱告，有屬天的智慧事奉主，成為神供應餵養羊群的管道，更有像主一樣的溫柔和憐憫任重道遠。
星期三
女性受高等教育的比例不斷上升，目前女大學生比例已超過 49%。中國女性超過75%渴望獲得企業高管職位，比率遠高於他國，而美國僅為50%。在大學階段認識及接受耶穌基督的學生中，女性也佔大多數。家人寄望她們能出國留學，有份高收入的工作並能盡快結婚。我們特別為這些年輕的姊妹禱告，求神賜她們勇氣，在家人面前為主做強而有力的見證，也有堅定跟隨主的心志。
星期四
女性高階主管多為財務精英。在中國女性擔任的職務方面，首席財務官或財務總監排首位佔69%，其次為人力資源總監（43%）、銷售總監（37%）和運營總監（23%）。許多女性在企業中往往身兼數職，涉及財務、人力、銷售和運營等。在中國接受神學裝備的年輕人中，姐妹遠比弟兄多。很多姐妹要承受家人的壓力，逼使她們找一份普通的工作不然就是嫁人成家。我們需要用更多的禱告托住她們，在面對各方壓力時，願主成為她們隨時的幫助。
星期五
中國的「80後」曾被期待為今後中產階層的主幹。但在每個大城市，一些二、三十歲的年輕人，無正式職業，不用說買房就連房租都付不起，往往聚集在一起到郊外合租一間簡陋的住房， 被稱為「蟻族」。 更多中國教會開始關注「蟻族」，也體會到年輕人的多樣性。 基督徒很容易批評年輕人不上進，缺乏上一代的道德觀，但教會卻鮮有提供針對性項目吸引年輕一代。求主賜下一批青年信徒，能與千百萬年輕人對話、分享大好的福音。
星期六
多元化的年輕一代，不少是所謂的「「蝦族」，他們極力控制生活支出，使用簡易折價家具並到處尋找打折降價商品；能乘公交就不打車，能省一角就省一角。他們厲行節約，降低消費，甚至每天消費額控制在15元以內，若有超支則次日拒絕消費。過去中國教會似乎與年輕一代「無緣」，不少教會領袖認為年輕人不牢靠，不值得花費精力。求主憐憫我們不成為年輕人的絆腳石，阻擋他們來到主面前。
星期日
現今中國農民的收入已有相當大的改善，幾乎比三年前多了一倍。許多人將耕地租出，農民可耕地擴大，效率相對提升。農村經濟雖有改善，但生活費用卻也大幅增加，農民仍然是相對的貧窮。另一個對農村的影響，來自政府的農村經濟改革計劃。此計劃幫助農民添購許多新電器用品，能有更多機會享受有線的娛樂節目，週間甚至主日參加教會聚會的人數也因此劇減，求主憐憫、復興農村的基督徒。
星期一
過去取締家庭教會一直是中國政府的一貫原則，即使不能完全取締，也得限制家庭教會的發展（例如強迫登記在官方教會之下）。近年來政府對家庭教會的管制雖然似有一定程度的放鬆，家庭教會是否應該登記對領袖們而言已不再像以往那麼進退維谷。讓我們在禱告中特別記念那些已經向政府登記，並計劃購買聚會場地或擴展事工的教會，求主賜下異象和勇氣，大大祝福他自己的教會。
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