Posts
TuesdayChina is in the midst of a religious revival, and people will pay to visit holy sites. So the local government has set out to rebuild both Buddhist and Taoist temples, which were wrecked by Red Guards during the Cultural Revolution, using these temples to attract tourists. Christians in China consider Taoists very resistant to Jesus and often give up trying to share the gospel with them. May the Lord give us a burning passion to share Jesus Christ and spread the seed of the gospel at every opportunity.
Wednesday
The revival of traditional Chinese religions in China is partly due to a resurgence of faith and partly due to commercial interests. Local officials consider the rebuilding of temples as a way to boost their tourism income. We pray for all of the Buddhist and Taoist people who live near churches in China. May the Lord soften their hearts because of the love, caring lives, and good deeds of the Christians they see every day and may they have friendly relationships.
Thursday
Although scholars once distinguished between “philosophical Taoism” and “religious Taoism,” today most see the two strains as closely related. Taoist philosophy deeply influenced Chinese culture and their worldview. May the Lord give believers wisdom so they can discern and apply Biblical truths lest we become ignorant and consider traditional culture more important than our Christian faith.
Friday
Taoist worshipers will often go to a service on important holy days or they might even go to a temple or hire a priest to come to their home to get help for a specific problem they face, such as illness, death, or even school exams or business meetings. We pray for wisdom for Christians as they share the gospel with Taoists that they will be able to clearly explain salvation through Jesus and especially what the Bible teaches about honoring our parents and worshipping ancestors.
Saturday
Usually the Taoist supplicants will pray to a deity, and the priest or nun will stage ceremonies to summon the god’s assistance. Many Taoists also engage in physical cultivation aimed at wellness and contemplation, like qigong breathing exercises or tai chi shadow boxing. Christianity is seen as a foreign religion in China, people turn to Taoism because it is a Chinese religion. We pray for salvation for our relatives and friends who are resistant and hostile to Jesus Christ, may they turn to His salvation very soon.
Sunday
As China's only indigenous religion, Taoism's influence is found in everything from calligraphy and politics to medicine and poetry. Many Christians cannot distinguish between culture and Taoist beliefs. We pray for wisdom for believers not to engage in feng-shui, divination, and fortune telling.
Monday
After three decades of prosperity and the first significant period of relative stability in more than a century, the people in China are in the midst of a great awakening of religious beliefs.We praise God for the fantastic growth in the churches and pray the Lord will continue to give us numbers of saved people. We pray, too, that Christians will not lose their love for God in this time of prosperity.
星期二
中國正處於一個宗教復興的時期，人們願意花錢去朝拜廟宇。地方政府也重建在文革中被毀壞的廟宇和道觀。有些中國信徒會認為道教信徒很難相信主耶穌，就放棄向他們分享福音。求主賜我們有傳福音的熱忱，無論得時不得時，總是要多去撒福音的種子，並為福音對象擺上更多的禱告。
星期三
中國傳統宗教的復興，一部分是出於信仰，一部分則出於商業利益的考慮。修建宗教場所被一些地方官員視為發展旅遊經濟的契機。不少教會周圍都有拜佛或是道教的鄰居們，我們要特別為他們禱告。求神藉著信徒流露的愛心、關懷及好行為，軟化他們的心，也挪去他們對教會的不友善。
星期四
儘管學者們曾經嘗試把「道家」和「道教」區別開來，不過今天的大多數人仍然認為這兩者是緊密相聯的。道家的思想一直深刻地影響著中國傳統文化。求主賜智慧，教導我們按聖經真理分辨什麽是世俗和遺傳的小學，什麽是基督信仰裏不容混淆和妥協的原則，免得我過於注重或講究與神無關的理念。
星期五
道教徒經常在重要的宗教節日表達他們的虔誠，或是去道觀燒香跪拜，或是請道士到家裡幫助解決實際的問題，比如疾病、喪事，甚或是學校的考試及商務會議。求主幫助信徒在與信奉道教的人分享信仰時，能勇敢作見證，並有合宜的話語溝通，避免爭論；更能有力地將主耶穌的救恩講解明白。尤其在關於「孝敬父母」與「祭祖」這些議題上，辨析清楚。
星期六
當道教徒向某個神靈跪拜祈福時，通常會請道士或道姑在一旁做法事祈求神靈相助。許多道教信眾也從事和身心健康相關的練習及靜修，例如氣功或太極拳。在大多數中國人眼中，基督教是「洋教」，道教才是「中國本土信仰」。我們為信徒中有排斥主耶穌的親友禱告，求主軟化他們的硬心，讓他們經歷基督信仰的真實，看見要消除人的罪性，惟獨尋求主的拯救一途，且能得著永生。
星期日
作為中國唯一的本土宗教，道教對中國人生活的影響隨處可見，從書法、政治，到醫學和詩詞，幾乎無所不在。許多信徒無法分別何謂文化，何謂道教理念。求主賜智慧給信徒，在似是而非、黑白難分的世代裡，能分別為聖，做合神心意的人，不隨從各樣不合乎聖經真理的習俗，如觀風水、看相、算命等等。
星期一
中國人經歷了連續三十年的繁榮發展，在一個多世紀的時間裡第一次體驗到了相對的穩定，也開始重新思考宗教信仰的意義。我們為教會過去的增長感恩，求主繼續將得救的人數加添給教會，又保守信徒生活在豐富物質中，不失去單純愛主的心，在末世裡為主作一個得勝者。
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Prayer Request 3/24 - 3/30
TuesdaySouth Korea predicts they will have one million medical tourists a year by 2020 which is up from 211,218 last year with travelers from China representing the largest segment. We praise the Lord for what the Korean churches have done for churches in China, especially for the workers they have trained through their seminaries and Bible classes. May God keep and mightily use the fruits of their labor.
Wednesday
Chinese women are visiting Korea in droves for body modifications from double eyelid surgery, to the extreme, like facial restructuring. South Korean hospitals are perceived to be safer and more hygienic, albeit pricier than Chinese hospitals.There are more sisters than brothers among churches in China. We intercede specifically for their spiritual lives, growing in their work and social relationships as well, and committing their marriage into the hands of God who always listens to our prayers.
Thursday
Popular culture is very popular and influential in China, especially the Korean television shows and movies. Chinese patients often take magazine photos of their Korean movie stars or singers to their cosmetic surgeons and demand to be made like them. Many of the churches in China try to imitate churches in Korea and Singapore. May the Lord help those who desire revival and growth for their churches and may the Holy Spirit fill and enable them not merely to copy the programs and techniques of others but to seek genuine renewal and expanded vision.
Friday
Many people in China, especially young women, have found that plastic surgery enhances their personal or professional prospects and some feel it gives them the opportunity to make more money. We pray for healthy self-esteem for all young female Christian ladies in China, knowing that God loves them and that they know Him and can serve Him in the church.
Saturday
Many young ladies in China think, "Since my friends have become more beautiful, I think I should become more beautiful, too." They undergo painful surgeries to alter their faces into a V-shape which gives them highly-coveted delicate features. In China, it is difficult to find eligible brothers for most sisters because there are fewer male Christians in the churches. We pray for godly male friends for all the young sisters in the churches. May the Lord give them great friendships so they can encourage each other to love God more.
Sunday
Due to the "one child" policy of the government and greatly enlarged enrollment in the universities in recent years, there is now a dearth of blue-collar workers in China. We pray for the shortage of workers in the churches of China, especially those who would like to serve full time but feel if they do that, they will not be able to support their own families. May the Lord grant them faith and trust in Him knowing that His calling is best and He will take care of them and their families.
Monday
At the present time, people who live in China shop outside of mainland China where there is less tax and the yuan is strong for most of the luxury goods purchased. Indeed, they buy only about 10% of their luxury items in China but people from China account for 25% of the revenue gained by retailers of those items in the world. A disparity of wealth extends into churches in China as well as outside of it. We pray for compassion, consideration, and that we will not neglect those who are poor in our churches. May the Spirit of God remind us to care more for others than for ourselves.
星期二
每年赴韓旅遊的醫療遊客，據估計至2020年會增至一百萬名，去年中國遊客有二十一萬多名，占的的比例最大。 韓國教會多年來大力支持中國教會，我們為他們的擺上感謝神，特別為他們培訓中國傳道人同工的事工祈求，願主保守、使用他們為主所做的努力及成效。
星期三
中國人成群結隊來到韓國整形，尤其是女性，從割雙眼皮到面部重塑。基本的雙眼皮手術費用逾900美元，通常比中國貴，但一般認為比較安全、衛生。教會單身的姊妹很多，但弟兄卻很少。我們特別為年輕姊妹的靈命禱告，願她們在工作、交友，屬靈追求上持續長進，也把婚姻大事交託給樂意垂聽禱告的神。
星期四
流行文化往往發揮了極大的影響力。尤其是韓國的電視節目和電影在中國廣受歡迎, 許多病患經常拿着雜誌照片向韓國醫生進行諮詢。許多中國教會模仿韓國和新加坡教會。求主幫助那些渴望復興的教會能行在真理中，願聖靈充滿並使用他們，不僅止於學效外在的形似，而是有從神而來的異象，為主在這黑暗世代裡作盞發光的燈台。
星期五
中國年輕女性認為通過整形手術是提升個人發展及職業前景的一種途徑，「因為我們希望變得更漂亮。整形的好處多，例如可能會賺得更多。」 我們為教會裡年輕的姊妹祈求，求主賜給她們合乎神心意的健康自我形象，深知神多麼喜愛她們，願意無條件接納每一個人。更願意她們更多親近主、認識主，在教會中忠心服事。
星期六
「既然我朋友都變得更漂亮了，我也應該變得更漂亮。」中國年輕女性會通過一些痛苦的手術把自己的臉變成V形，從而獲得夢寐以求的精緻輪廓。 教會中總是姊妹多於弟兄，我們為教會年輕姊妹有主內的同伴祈求，求神給她們有美好的友誼及在生活中彼此激勵，更追求成長也更愛主。
星期日
因著政府實行「計劃生育」政策多年，再加上近年來大學招生人數增加了四倍，導致當下極為缺乏藍領工人。我們為教會工人也呈短缺的情況仰望主的恩典，特別是那些有心全職服事，但擔心無法養家的信徒，求主加添他們信心，確信神的呼召和美善，當我們回應神的選召，祂必負責一切到底。
星期一
目前，因為稅低及人民幣升值，中國人通常都是在國外購買奢侈品。實際上，全球25%的奢侈品買家都是中國人，卻只有大約10％是在中國境內成交。目前中國的貧富懸殊問題極為嚴重，在教會裡亦難免有穿著華麗的和窮苦人家。求神的靈常常提醒我們，不可按外貌待人，也不可偏心或歧視。求主憐憫，好叫我們都能多為別人設想，不單顧自己的事，也能顧念主內肢體的需要。
Wednesday
Chinese women are visiting Korea in droves for body modifications from double eyelid surgery, to the extreme, like facial restructuring. South Korean hospitals are perceived to be safer and more hygienic, albeit pricier than Chinese hospitals.There are more sisters than brothers among churches in China. We intercede specifically for their spiritual lives, growing in their work and social relationships as well, and committing their marriage into the hands of God who always listens to our prayers.
Thursday
Popular culture is very popular and influential in China, especially the Korean television shows and movies. Chinese patients often take magazine photos of their Korean movie stars or singers to their cosmetic surgeons and demand to be made like them. Many of the churches in China try to imitate churches in Korea and Singapore. May the Lord help those who desire revival and growth for their churches and may the Holy Spirit fill and enable them not merely to copy the programs and techniques of others but to seek genuine renewal and expanded vision.
Friday
Many people in China, especially young women, have found that plastic surgery enhances their personal or professional prospects and some feel it gives them the opportunity to make more money. We pray for healthy self-esteem for all young female Christian ladies in China, knowing that God loves them and that they know Him and can serve Him in the church.
Saturday
Many young ladies in China think, "Since my friends have become more beautiful, I think I should become more beautiful, too." They undergo painful surgeries to alter their faces into a V-shape which gives them highly-coveted delicate features. In China, it is difficult to find eligible brothers for most sisters because there are fewer male Christians in the churches. We pray for godly male friends for all the young sisters in the churches. May the Lord give them great friendships so they can encourage each other to love God more.
Sunday
Due to the "one child" policy of the government and greatly enlarged enrollment in the universities in recent years, there is now a dearth of blue-collar workers in China. We pray for the shortage of workers in the churches of China, especially those who would like to serve full time but feel if they do that, they will not be able to support their own families. May the Lord grant them faith and trust in Him knowing that His calling is best and He will take care of them and their families.
Monday
At the present time, people who live in China shop outside of mainland China where there is less tax and the yuan is strong for most of the luxury goods purchased. Indeed, they buy only about 10% of their luxury items in China but people from China account for 25% of the revenue gained by retailers of those items in the world. A disparity of wealth extends into churches in China as well as outside of it. We pray for compassion, consideration, and that we will not neglect those who are poor in our churches. May the Spirit of God remind us to care more for others than for ourselves.
星期二
每年赴韓旅遊的醫療遊客，據估計至2020年會增至一百萬名，去年中國遊客有二十一萬多名，占的的比例最大。 韓國教會多年來大力支持中國教會，我們為他們的擺上感謝神，特別為他們培訓中國傳道人同工的事工祈求，願主保守、使用他們為主所做的努力及成效。
星期三
中國人成群結隊來到韓國整形，尤其是女性，從割雙眼皮到面部重塑。基本的雙眼皮手術費用逾900美元，通常比中國貴，但一般認為比較安全、衛生。教會單身的姊妹很多，但弟兄卻很少。我們特別為年輕姊妹的靈命禱告，願她們在工作、交友，屬靈追求上持續長進，也把婚姻大事交託給樂意垂聽禱告的神。
星期四
流行文化往往發揮了極大的影響力。尤其是韓國的電視節目和電影在中國廣受歡迎, 許多病患經常拿着雜誌照片向韓國醫生進行諮詢。許多中國教會模仿韓國和新加坡教會。求主幫助那些渴望復興的教會能行在真理中，願聖靈充滿並使用他們，不僅止於學效外在的形似，而是有從神而來的異象，為主在這黑暗世代裡作盞發光的燈台。
星期五
中國年輕女性認為通過整形手術是提升個人發展及職業前景的一種途徑，「因為我們希望變得更漂亮。整形的好處多，例如可能會賺得更多。」 我們為教會裡年輕的姊妹祈求，求主賜給她們合乎神心意的健康自我形象，深知神多麼喜愛她們，願意無條件接納每一個人。更願意她們更多親近主、認識主，在教會中忠心服事。
星期六
「既然我朋友都變得更漂亮了，我也應該變得更漂亮。」中國年輕女性會通過一些痛苦的手術把自己的臉變成V形，從而獲得夢寐以求的精緻輪廓。 教會中總是姊妹多於弟兄，我們為教會年輕姊妹有主內的同伴祈求，求神給她們有美好的友誼及在生活中彼此激勵，更追求成長也更愛主。
星期日
因著政府實行「計劃生育」政策多年，再加上近年來大學招生人數增加了四倍，導致當下極為缺乏藍領工人。我們為教會工人也呈短缺的情況仰望主的恩典，特別是那些有心全職服事，但擔心無法養家的信徒，求主加添他們信心，確信神的呼召和美善，當我們回應神的選召，祂必負責一切到底。
星期一
目前，因為稅低及人民幣升值，中國人通常都是在國外購買奢侈品。實際上，全球25%的奢侈品買家都是中國人，卻只有大約10％是在中國境內成交。目前中國的貧富懸殊問題極為嚴重，在教會裡亦難免有穿著華麗的和窮苦人家。求神的靈常常提醒我們，不可按外貌待人，也不可偏心或歧視。求主憐憫，好叫我們都能多為別人設想，不單顧自己的事，也能顧念主內肢體的需要。
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Prayer Request 3/17 - 3/23
TuesdayChristians in Taiwan are known for hopping from one church to another. They like to go to special meetings and crave to hear any foreign preacher who comes on the scene. Many believers are not rooted deeply in the truth and are spiritually immature so they are easily led astray and cause deep hurt in their churches. We pray for revival in the churches of Taiwan and that the believers will be rooted in Biblical truths, especially the doctrines of the Trinity, Christology, and Soteriology so they are able to defend their faith against heresies and cults.
Wednesday
In the past churches in Taiwan have suffered from some extreme teachings including the so-called "end time prophecy". Because there is a lack of unity among the churches to stand against this false teaching, they have suffered greatly and brought shame on God's name. It is our prayer that all pastors will receive training to differentiate between the false and the true and emphasize Bible truths. We ask the Lord for courage and unity among church leaders and that they will not tolerate false teachers simply in the name of love and harmony.
Thursday
The Eastern Lightning cult, officially banned in mainland China, has obtained official registration in Taiwan. Their members are very loving and passionate in appearance, far more than the average lukewarm Taiwan believers and they have infiltrated small groups in many churches. We beseech the Lord to give both the leaders and believers in the churches wisdom and a discerning spirit so that no wolves in sheep's clothing will take advantage of the simple believers and confuse the churches.
Friday
In China new believers can choose to go to open churches but in the villages there are fewer new churches being built so believers have little choice of the church they will attend. Strictly speaking, pastors of the Three-self churches minister to those who enter their churches and limit their ministry to those people. We know that sheep give birth to new sheep and so believers should lead their friends to church. We pray that Chinese believers will have a passion to share the gospel and will live a lifestyle which glorifies God.
Saturday
Heresies spread widely among the villages in China because they fill a vacuum of religious intimacy and even provide some financial help which impoverished believers welcome. Rural believers who attend house churches are often lacking in their knowledge of Biblical trust so they are easy prey for those who preach heresy. We pray for those believers who are confused and have fallen into heresy. We ask for God's deliverance for them so they will truly understand the truth and gain freedom in Christ.
Sunday
Some of the house churches in major cities of China have grown in attendance reaching to hundreds and even thousands in number so they have to move out of residential apartments and rent office space to carry out their ministry. We give thanks to God for them and pray the Lord will add to them many more who are saved. May their ministries continue to grow. We pray especially for the need for space for their meetings and special favor of the officials who oversee the "religious affairs" in their districts.
Monday
Despite the rapid economic growth of the country, villages in China where two-thirds of the people live still lag behind the rest of the country. Improvement has been spotty at best and many villagers still do not have social benefits such as medical insurance which is available to city residents. Rural churches have been in steep decline in recent years and there are several contributing factors. The huge exodus of young people from country to city is a major one. We ask the Lord for a miracle to raise up pastors who love Him passionately and are willing to stay in the villages and serve Him there.
星期二
台灣的信徒喜歡跑換教會，參加各樣的特會，熱衷聽外來講員的新鮮論述。有些弟兄姊妹分不清楚真理，根基淺薄、靈命不成熟，容易被錯誤的教導迷惑，以致造成教會極大的損害。求主復興台灣的教會，賜悟性給信徒 ，虛心回到神的話語和真道上扎下堅實的根基，堅持基督教信仰的範疇，包括三位一體、基督論、救恩論，來抵擋不合真理的異端邪說。
星期三
過去台灣教會有一些極端的言論及所謂的預言，由於台灣教會回應的立場不夠一致，也讓發出極端言論的人有可趁之機，造成教會極大的虧損，羞辱了神的名。我們為傳道人有分辨真理的裝備和訓練，在教會注重真理的教導，眾教會能勇敢合一地站起來扞衛真道，不再以所謂的愛心、容忍來「打迷糊仗」。
星期四
在中國被禁的異端 " 東方閃電" 在台灣正式登記。他們的成員外表上，比很多台灣正派教會裏不冷不熱的「老」基督徒還要來得有「愛心」和「熱情」，因而渗透進許多教會的小組裡。求主賜給教會的領袖和信徒有辨別真道的智慧，不讓任何惡者披上「羊」的外衣，在神家中有可趁之機，散佈異端「邪說」迷惑人心。
星期五
在中国城市，日益增加的信徒可以参加公開的教會，但更多的基督徒集中的農村，卻很少有公開的教會，而三自教會裏的教牧人員也只能為來到教會的人講道，不能踏出教會。嚴格說來，羊不是牧者生的，而是羊領羊進入羊圈。我們為所有信徒都有傳福音的心志禱告，而不是將傳福音的責任推給牧人；同時更能有吸引人的生命見証來榮神益人。
星期六
異端在中國農村能擴大發展，原因在於它們不僅為那些在貧窮中掙扎的農村信徒彌補一些信仰的真空，甚至也為他們提供政府所沒有做到的生活保障體系。農村家庭教會的信徒，因缺乏懂得真理、訓練有素的帶領者，往往被這些異端所迷惑。讓我們為所有陷入異端的信徒祈求，求神引領他們走出迷惑，能再次得著主耶穌的真理和自由。
星期日
一些重要城市的家庭教會, 近幾年信徒陸續增加，形成有幾百人到上千信徒的規模的教會。因著聚會人數的增加，有些教會已從社區家庭聚會的模式，轉到寫字樓堂會聚會的模式。我們為他們的發展感謝主，求主繼續加添他們得救的人數，也興旺他們的事工，好使更多人信主。我們特別為他們聚會所需的場地祈求，更為他們能在有關官員面前蒙恩代禱。
星期一
雖然中國經濟發展快速， 但農村經濟發展仍是緩慢，占中國總人口2/3的農民， 仍有許多依舊過著貧困落後的生活，醫療保險等社會福利也沒有完全地進入農村教會。近年農村教會極為荒涼，存在許多問題，尤其是年輕一代大量流失，似乎無法改變現況。我們祈求恩主，施行奇妙作為，興起更多愛祂的工人忠心在農村做牧養的工作。
Wednesday
In the past churches in Taiwan have suffered from some extreme teachings including the so-called "end time prophecy". Because there is a lack of unity among the churches to stand against this false teaching, they have suffered greatly and brought shame on God's name. It is our prayer that all pastors will receive training to differentiate between the false and the true and emphasize Bible truths. We ask the Lord for courage and unity among church leaders and that they will not tolerate false teachers simply in the name of love and harmony.
Thursday
The Eastern Lightning cult, officially banned in mainland China, has obtained official registration in Taiwan. Their members are very loving and passionate in appearance, far more than the average lukewarm Taiwan believers and they have infiltrated small groups in many churches. We beseech the Lord to give both the leaders and believers in the churches wisdom and a discerning spirit so that no wolves in sheep's clothing will take advantage of the simple believers and confuse the churches.
Friday
In China new believers can choose to go to open churches but in the villages there are fewer new churches being built so believers have little choice of the church they will attend. Strictly speaking, pastors of the Three-self churches minister to those who enter their churches and limit their ministry to those people. We know that sheep give birth to new sheep and so believers should lead their friends to church. We pray that Chinese believers will have a passion to share the gospel and will live a lifestyle which glorifies God.
Saturday
Heresies spread widely among the villages in China because they fill a vacuum of religious intimacy and even provide some financial help which impoverished believers welcome. Rural believers who attend house churches are often lacking in their knowledge of Biblical trust so they are easy prey for those who preach heresy. We pray for those believers who are confused and have fallen into heresy. We ask for God's deliverance for them so they will truly understand the truth and gain freedom in Christ.
Sunday
Some of the house churches in major cities of China have grown in attendance reaching to hundreds and even thousands in number so they have to move out of residential apartments and rent office space to carry out their ministry. We give thanks to God for them and pray the Lord will add to them many more who are saved. May their ministries continue to grow. We pray especially for the need for space for their meetings and special favor of the officials who oversee the "religious affairs" in their districts.
Monday
Despite the rapid economic growth of the country, villages in China where two-thirds of the people live still lag behind the rest of the country. Improvement has been spotty at best and many villagers still do not have social benefits such as medical insurance which is available to city residents. Rural churches have been in steep decline in recent years and there are several contributing factors. The huge exodus of young people from country to city is a major one. We ask the Lord for a miracle to raise up pastors who love Him passionately and are willing to stay in the villages and serve Him there.
星期二
台灣的信徒喜歡跑換教會，參加各樣的特會，熱衷聽外來講員的新鮮論述。有些弟兄姊妹分不清楚真理，根基淺薄、靈命不成熟，容易被錯誤的教導迷惑，以致造成教會極大的損害。求主復興台灣的教會，賜悟性給信徒 ，虛心回到神的話語和真道上扎下堅實的根基，堅持基督教信仰的範疇，包括三位一體、基督論、救恩論，來抵擋不合真理的異端邪說。
星期三
過去台灣教會有一些極端的言論及所謂的預言，由於台灣教會回應的立場不夠一致，也讓發出極端言論的人有可趁之機，造成教會極大的虧損，羞辱了神的名。我們為傳道人有分辨真理的裝備和訓練，在教會注重真理的教導，眾教會能勇敢合一地站起來扞衛真道，不再以所謂的愛心、容忍來「打迷糊仗」。
星期四
在中國被禁的異端 " 東方閃電" 在台灣正式登記。他們的成員外表上，比很多台灣正派教會裏不冷不熱的「老」基督徒還要來得有「愛心」和「熱情」，因而渗透進許多教會的小組裡。求主賜給教會的領袖和信徒有辨別真道的智慧，不讓任何惡者披上「羊」的外衣，在神家中有可趁之機，散佈異端「邪說」迷惑人心。
星期五
在中国城市，日益增加的信徒可以参加公開的教會，但更多的基督徒集中的農村，卻很少有公開的教會，而三自教會裏的教牧人員也只能為來到教會的人講道，不能踏出教會。嚴格說來，羊不是牧者生的，而是羊領羊進入羊圈。我們為所有信徒都有傳福音的心志禱告，而不是將傳福音的責任推給牧人；同時更能有吸引人的生命見証來榮神益人。
星期六
異端在中國農村能擴大發展，原因在於它們不僅為那些在貧窮中掙扎的農村信徒彌補一些信仰的真空，甚至也為他們提供政府所沒有做到的生活保障體系。農村家庭教會的信徒，因缺乏懂得真理、訓練有素的帶領者，往往被這些異端所迷惑。讓我們為所有陷入異端的信徒祈求，求神引領他們走出迷惑，能再次得著主耶穌的真理和自由。
星期日
一些重要城市的家庭教會, 近幾年信徒陸續增加，形成有幾百人到上千信徒的規模的教會。因著聚會人數的增加，有些教會已從社區家庭聚會的模式，轉到寫字樓堂會聚會的模式。我們為他們的發展感謝主，求主繼續加添他們得救的人數，也興旺他們的事工，好使更多人信主。我們特別為他們聚會所需的場地祈求，更為他們能在有關官員面前蒙恩代禱。
星期一
雖然中國經濟發展快速， 但農村經濟發展仍是緩慢，占中國總人口2/3的農民， 仍有許多依舊過著貧困落後的生活，醫療保險等社會福利也沒有完全地進入農村教會。近年農村教會極為荒涼，存在許多問題，尤其是年輕一代大量流失，似乎無法改變現況。我們祈求恩主，施行奇妙作為，興起更多愛祂的工人忠心在農村做牧養的工作。
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Prayer Request 3/10 - 3/16
TuesdayBolstered by a slate of domestic films during the Lunar New Year holiday time, China's monthly box office earnings surpassed those of the United States for the first time. Rural churches usually have a much higher attendance when those working in the cities return for the holiday. We pray for revival for these visitors because many of them have not been attending church and have drifted away from God for many reasons.
Wednesday
The Lunar New Year holiday which typically falls between mid-January and mid-February is one of the top periods of the year for people to go to movies in China. During the holidays foreign films are barred to clear the way for domestic films or co-productions. Churches in China like to use catchy phrases to set goals. But as they return to normal after the New Year holiday, we pray churches will not lose the enthusiasm of their new ministry goals and will continue to fan the fire of serving the Lord.
Thursday
At one time, the villages in China had 60-70% of the population of the country but nearly 150 million farmers have gone to the cities to work so the villages have lost many people and the rural churches have suffered in attendance and finances. There was a great revival in the rural churches in China in the last century but today churches are in decline and cults are nearly all over. We pray for revival fires to once again be lighted in the churches so the faith of believers will be strengthen and the work of the cults will be defeated.
Friday
The Communist Party came to power in a peasant revolution in 1949 and the government immediately collectivized the farmland which is a major source of revenue for them. The young and the strong are nearly missing in rural churches because they work in the cities. We praise God for those who are serving Him and ask Him to give them strength and spiritual gifts to serve the remaining older people and children who usually have no Bible training.
Saturday
In areas near cities, local officials often rezone agricultural land and sell it to developers at a huge profit, sometimes setting off violent protests by the residents who are left out. Young farmers without land work in cities but their thick countryside accent, actions, and long working hours prevent them from be accepted by urban churches. We pray for those people who could minister to the spiritual needs of these uprooted young landless farmers.
Sunday
Because farmers do not own their land, they cannot sell it and get a large, lump sum payment that could be used to make a new start. Nor can they mortgage land for funds that could be reinvested in their farms or in other businesses. Farmers are no longer as poor as they once were, but they lack the skill of good investment. Often, they lose all their savings when family members became ill. Churches often make poor financial decisions. We pray for good financial stewardship for believers and churches alike.
Monday
On college campuses in China, the cults are more active than Christians. Some of them are well-trained and aggressive in recruiting students who cannot distinguish between the two since they are unfamiliar with the Bible and its teachings.We pray for more Christians to get involved in campus ministries, for leaders who are passionate about their work and that they will have good connections with the students.
星期二
在農曆新年假期幾部國片的帶動下，月度票房收入首次超過美國。由於許多在外工作的人都從城裡回老家過年，春節成為農村教會聚會人數最多的時候。我們為所有「訪客」的靈命復興祈求，願主的真理和信實再次堅固我們的信心，激勵信徒追求屬天永恒的福份。因為一旦信徒到了城裡打工，許多時就有種種原因或藉口遠離信仰。
星期三
農曆新年通常在公曆的一月中旬和二月中旬之間，是中國人看電影最多的時段之一。假日期間通常不上映外國電影，為的是給國產片或聯合拍攝影片掃清道路。 每逢新年，教會也喜歡立定新計劃，但是卻往往僅流於口號而已。一旦春節過後，教會就再次故態復萌「常態化」。我們求主賜下火熱服侍神的心，為能不失去目標與異象禱告。
星期四
中國有60%-70%人口屬農村戶籍，但是農民進入城市謀生的人數卻達1億5千萬之多，導致農村人口大幅度減少，農村教會在人數和經濟上也走下坡。農村教會曾在上世紀經歷過靈命的大復興，但是目前的光景卻非常暗淡，異端、邪教比比皆是。我們求主加添農村教會信徒的信心，再次將復興的火降在他們當中，潔淨神的家和羊群，敗壞異端所有的作為。
星期五
1949年，中國共產黨在一次農民革命中掌權，並迅速實現了農田的集體化。同時，土地國有也是政府收入的一個主要來源。農村教會的少青壯年人都出外謀生，通常只在春節回家鄉。我們為農村教會的服事者感恩，雖然他們普遍是一般信徒，也沒有神學訓練，但是卻有一顆忠心事主的心。儘管教會中都是老人、婦女和兒童，求神賜給服事者恩賜與能力，無論得時不得，都盡心為主教導和牧養祂的羊。
星期六
在城市附近地區，地方官員經常會重新劃分農業用地，然後不顧居民的感受，以巨額土地出讓金把它交給開發商，有時還會引起居民的激烈抗爭。由於鄉音有異、階層分疊和作息時間無法配合一般的教會活動，農民工很難溶入城市教會。求主在各處興起有負担的弟兄姊妹，樂意去關心年輕一代農民工的靈命，以服事主的心態去牧養這群失去地上及天上屬靈立足点的一群。
星期日
中國農民沒有土地的所有權，無法出售屬於國家的土地，得到一次性的資金用來開業。他們也無法抵押土地，去做其他投資。有些農民雖然不再像往昔般貧窮，但是在理財上缺乏知識，通常因家人生了大病就會失去所有積蓄。農村教會在金錢支配上也缺乏智慧，不能明智管理財務。我們為他們都能成為神忠心良善的好管家代求。
星期一
在大學校園異端中非常活躍，甚至比純正基督徒還要火熱。有些訓練有素的異端信徒更積極向那些識別能力差、對聖經陌生、缺乏真理知識的學生下手。我們為更多基督徒能參與大學校園事工祈求，求主給神兒女有愛人靈魂的心，以好的生命見証和好人緣與眾人相處，並認真以純正真理栽培剛信主的學生。
Wednesday
The Lunar New Year holiday which typically falls between mid-January and mid-February is one of the top periods of the year for people to go to movies in China. During the holidays foreign films are barred to clear the way for domestic films or co-productions. Churches in China like to use catchy phrases to set goals. But as they return to normal after the New Year holiday, we pray churches will not lose the enthusiasm of their new ministry goals and will continue to fan the fire of serving the Lord.
Thursday
At one time, the villages in China had 60-70% of the population of the country but nearly 150 million farmers have gone to the cities to work so the villages have lost many people and the rural churches have suffered in attendance and finances. There was a great revival in the rural churches in China in the last century but today churches are in decline and cults are nearly all over. We pray for revival fires to once again be lighted in the churches so the faith of believers will be strengthen and the work of the cults will be defeated.
Friday
The Communist Party came to power in a peasant revolution in 1949 and the government immediately collectivized the farmland which is a major source of revenue for them. The young and the strong are nearly missing in rural churches because they work in the cities. We praise God for those who are serving Him and ask Him to give them strength and spiritual gifts to serve the remaining older people and children who usually have no Bible training.
Saturday
In areas near cities, local officials often rezone agricultural land and sell it to developers at a huge profit, sometimes setting off violent protests by the residents who are left out. Young farmers without land work in cities but their thick countryside accent, actions, and long working hours prevent them from be accepted by urban churches. We pray for those people who could minister to the spiritual needs of these uprooted young landless farmers.
Sunday
Because farmers do not own their land, they cannot sell it and get a large, lump sum payment that could be used to make a new start. Nor can they mortgage land for funds that could be reinvested in their farms or in other businesses. Farmers are no longer as poor as they once were, but they lack the skill of good investment. Often, they lose all their savings when family members became ill. Churches often make poor financial decisions. We pray for good financial stewardship for believers and churches alike.
Monday
On college campuses in China, the cults are more active than Christians. Some of them are well-trained and aggressive in recruiting students who cannot distinguish between the two since they are unfamiliar with the Bible and its teachings.We pray for more Christians to get involved in campus ministries, for leaders who are passionate about their work and that they will have good connections with the students.
星期二
在農曆新年假期幾部國片的帶動下，月度票房收入首次超過美國。由於許多在外工作的人都從城裡回老家過年，春節成為農村教會聚會人數最多的時候。我們為所有「訪客」的靈命復興祈求，願主的真理和信實再次堅固我們的信心，激勵信徒追求屬天永恒的福份。因為一旦信徒到了城裡打工，許多時就有種種原因或藉口遠離信仰。
星期三
農曆新年通常在公曆的一月中旬和二月中旬之間，是中國人看電影最多的時段之一。假日期間通常不上映外國電影，為的是給國產片或聯合拍攝影片掃清道路。 每逢新年，教會也喜歡立定新計劃，但是卻往往僅流於口號而已。一旦春節過後，教會就再次故態復萌「常態化」。我們求主賜下火熱服侍神的心，為能不失去目標與異象禱告。
星期四
中國有60%-70%人口屬農村戶籍，但是農民進入城市謀生的人數卻達1億5千萬之多，導致農村人口大幅度減少，農村教會在人數和經濟上也走下坡。農村教會曾在上世紀經歷過靈命的大復興，但是目前的光景卻非常暗淡，異端、邪教比比皆是。我們求主加添農村教會信徒的信心，再次將復興的火降在他們當中，潔淨神的家和羊群，敗壞異端所有的作為。
星期五
1949年，中國共產黨在一次農民革命中掌權，並迅速實現了農田的集體化。同時，土地國有也是政府收入的一個主要來源。農村教會的少青壯年人都出外謀生，通常只在春節回家鄉。我們為農村教會的服事者感恩，雖然他們普遍是一般信徒，也沒有神學訓練，但是卻有一顆忠心事主的心。儘管教會中都是老人、婦女和兒童，求神賜給服事者恩賜與能力，無論得時不得，都盡心為主教導和牧養祂的羊。
星期六
在城市附近地區，地方官員經常會重新劃分農業用地，然後不顧居民的感受，以巨額土地出讓金把它交給開發商，有時還會引起居民的激烈抗爭。由於鄉音有異、階層分疊和作息時間無法配合一般的教會活動，農民工很難溶入城市教會。求主在各處興起有負担的弟兄姊妹，樂意去關心年輕一代農民工的靈命，以服事主的心態去牧養這群失去地上及天上屬靈立足点的一群。
星期日
中國農民沒有土地的所有權，無法出售屬於國家的土地，得到一次性的資金用來開業。他們也無法抵押土地，去做其他投資。有些農民雖然不再像往昔般貧窮，但是在理財上缺乏知識，通常因家人生了大病就會失去所有積蓄。農村教會在金錢支配上也缺乏智慧，不能明智管理財務。我們為他們都能成為神忠心良善的好管家代求。
星期一
在大學校園異端中非常活躍，甚至比純正基督徒還要火熱。有些訓練有素的異端信徒更積極向那些識別能力差、對聖經陌生、缺乏真理知識的學生下手。我們為更多基督徒能參與大學校園事工祈求，求主給神兒女有愛人靈魂的心，以好的生命見証和好人緣與眾人相處，並認真以純正真理栽培剛信主的學生。
Tuesday, March 03, 2015
Prayer Request 3/3 - 3/9
TuesdayMore than five million Chinese from China traveled abroad during the Lunar New Year holiday. The most popular destinations were South Korea, Thailand, and surprisingly (in spite of a long term territorial dispute), Japan. Many churches talk of the new vision and direction they should have for the new year. Let us pray for expansion and growth of ministries in the churches so they will not become stagnant and lukewarm.
Wednesday
Flush with cash and wanderlust, more and more mainland skipping the tradition of gathering at home with relatives to eat dumplings and watch the Communist Party's propaganda-drenched Spring Festival Gala.Many churches used to have revival or training meetings at this time but prosperity and a greater option for travel have certainly reduced the attendance. Let us pray for churches as they decide when and how they can best use their time to evangelize and build up their co-workers.
Thursday
Under the present system of education in China, most children can attend Sunday school but by the time they are in junior high or high school, the number is cut in half. Very few remain in the church. Teaching children about God is the responsibility of the parents but we pray for Sunday school teachers to help the parents teach the Bible stories and Biblical teachings so the children will come to know God from a young age.
Friday
The majority of children who grow up in Christian families in China learn little about the Bible except what they learn in Sunday school. They lack a foundation for their faith and a personal relationship with Jesus so by the time they leave home, they have lost what little faith they had. Christian parents give their children little time to play but focus on their studies and the results of their tests. Some even consider church a distraction to the study time of their child. May the Lord open their eyes and remind them not to honor their children more than they honor God.
Saturday
Churches in China have the wonderful heritage of valuing the teachings of the Bible very highly but they have not changed their old way of teaching to meet the new ways of this generation. Today's people do not appreciate the didactic, force-fed style which allows no feedback or response. More and more churches there are realizing that children from Christian homes tend to be rebellious and drift away from the faith. We pray that churches will re-examine their methods of ministering to their youth and teach the parents how to work on their relationship with God at home.
Sunday
Youth in China are under double pressure--from their school as well as their parents--to study hard so their can pass the college entrance examination for. To help them get into a good university, they all have cram classes after regular school hours. We pray for those who try to minister to youth in churches in China but are discouraged because neither parents nor church leaders will fully support their vision and efforts. May the Lord comfort those who have quit and sustain those who are trying so hard.
Monday
Youth ministry in China needs to find a certain equilibrium, not affecting their busy study schedules, but still allowing them to build their faith. Some Christian parents are unwilling to let their children attend church; believing time spent in church affects their study.The Lord have mercy on churches in China. We pray that all of us will not see our children as our idols, but knowing they are gift from the Lord and we are entrusted to teach them to love the Lord.
星期二
新春期間出國旅遊的中國遊客估計超過了500萬。最受歡迎的目的地是韓國、泰國；而日本亦很受中國旅客歡迎，儘管中日之間長期存在著領土爭端。許多教會新一年強調要有新異象和新方向。求主幫助眾教會無論在質與量方面都有增長，事工開拓也有成果。讓教會不成為一灘死水，信徒亦不做不冷不熱的教友。
星期三
不少中國人由於資金充裕，旅遊意願又旺盛，選擇在春節期間出遊，避開與親人在家吃餃子、觀看充滿宣傳意味的春節聯歡晚會的傳統。過去春節是佈道會及同工培訓的大好時期，但近年的富裕和交通方便讓人們有更多選擇，使參加人數劇減。我們為各教會有智慧與策略地更有效地向社區傳福音，和培養同工代禱。
星期四
在目前的教育體制下，中國孩子們在小學階段還能參加主日學，可是到初中後就要減半，到高中還能堅持聚會的學生已經不多。我們除了為父母能教導孩子信主外，也要特別為各教會的主日學老師禱告，求主賜下智慧，叫他們有系統地教導孩子聖經原則和神的心意，又讓他們能成為信徒家長的支援，幫助信徒家長作家中的屬靈帶領者，使子女從小就認識神。
星期五
大多數中國信徒的子女到了青少年階段，對聖經的認識仍停留在兒童主日學階段，信仰的根基薄弱，更少有能自己與主耶穌建立親密的個人關係。許多年輕人一旦離開家就失去信仰。有些基督徒父母過於重視分數、成績，給予孩子閑暇時間很少，甚至認為教會浪費兒女的寶貴光陰。求主開啟我們的眼睛，提醒我們不要尊重兒女，過於尊重神。
星期六
中國教會一直以來極看重教導聖經真理，這也是教會寶貴的屬靈持守；然而現今教會普遍只一味採用灌輸式、填鴨式的教導方法，缺乏互動和回應。教會開始注意到信徒下一代同樣有少年叛逆期的危機，且好些人已從教會中流失。求主喚醒教會再思青少年事工的方向，不僅教導真理，也進入孩子當中去牧養他們，並更多幫助家長了解親子關係的重要，裝備他們合宜地教養子女。
星期日
時下青少年要面對來自家長和學校繁重的課業和升學挑戰的雙重壓力。老師和家長為了讓他們考入心儀的大學，從初中開始就安排很多課後補習。許多服事青少年的弟兄姊妹屢屢碰壁，不但得不到家長的歡迎，自己的牧者團隊也不予支援。求主安慰那些放棄退出的信徒，並賜力量給那些仍然堅持的肢體。
星期一
青少年事工需要找到一個適合的切入點：既不影響青少年的學習，又能建立他們的信仰。不少信徒家長不願意自己孩子花太多時間在教會，也不鼓勵他們參與教會活動。求神赦免我們的罪，憐憫我們的無知，將兒女當作偶像，而忘記子女是神所賜的產業，是神託付我們來管理的。求主校正我們的目光，曉得人生命達到的最終目標不是屬世界的功名利祿，得著主才是真富足。
Wednesday
Flush with cash and wanderlust, more and more mainland skipping the tradition of gathering at home with relatives to eat dumplings and watch the Communist Party's propaganda-drenched Spring Festival Gala.Many churches used to have revival or training meetings at this time but prosperity and a greater option for travel have certainly reduced the attendance. Let us pray for churches as they decide when and how they can best use their time to evangelize and build up their co-workers.
Thursday
Under the present system of education in China, most children can attend Sunday school but by the time they are in junior high or high school, the number is cut in half. Very few remain in the church. Teaching children about God is the responsibility of the parents but we pray for Sunday school teachers to help the parents teach the Bible stories and Biblical teachings so the children will come to know God from a young age.
Friday
The majority of children who grow up in Christian families in China learn little about the Bible except what they learn in Sunday school. They lack a foundation for their faith and a personal relationship with Jesus so by the time they leave home, they have lost what little faith they had. Christian parents give their children little time to play but focus on their studies and the results of their tests. Some even consider church a distraction to the study time of their child. May the Lord open their eyes and remind them not to honor their children more than they honor God.
Saturday
Churches in China have the wonderful heritage of valuing the teachings of the Bible very highly but they have not changed their old way of teaching to meet the new ways of this generation. Today's people do not appreciate the didactic, force-fed style which allows no feedback or response. More and more churches there are realizing that children from Christian homes tend to be rebellious and drift away from the faith. We pray that churches will re-examine their methods of ministering to their youth and teach the parents how to work on their relationship with God at home.
Sunday
Youth in China are under double pressure--from their school as well as their parents--to study hard so their can pass the college entrance examination for. To help them get into a good university, they all have cram classes after regular school hours. We pray for those who try to minister to youth in churches in China but are discouraged because neither parents nor church leaders will fully support their vision and efforts. May the Lord comfort those who have quit and sustain those who are trying so hard.
Monday
Youth ministry in China needs to find a certain equilibrium, not affecting their busy study schedules, but still allowing them to build their faith. Some Christian parents are unwilling to let their children attend church; believing time spent in church affects their study.The Lord have mercy on churches in China. We pray that all of us will not see our children as our idols, but knowing they are gift from the Lord and we are entrusted to teach them to love the Lord.
星期二
新春期間出國旅遊的中國遊客估計超過了500萬。最受歡迎的目的地是韓國、泰國；而日本亦很受中國旅客歡迎，儘管中日之間長期存在著領土爭端。許多教會新一年強調要有新異象和新方向。求主幫助眾教會無論在質與量方面都有增長，事工開拓也有成果。讓教會不成為一灘死水，信徒亦不做不冷不熱的教友。
星期三
不少中國人由於資金充裕，旅遊意願又旺盛，選擇在春節期間出遊，避開與親人在家吃餃子、觀看充滿宣傳意味的春節聯歡晚會的傳統。過去春節是佈道會及同工培訓的大好時期，但近年的富裕和交通方便讓人們有更多選擇，使參加人數劇減。我們為各教會有智慧與策略地更有效地向社區傳福音，和培養同工代禱。
星期四
在目前的教育體制下，中國孩子們在小學階段還能參加主日學，可是到初中後就要減半，到高中還能堅持聚會的學生已經不多。我們除了為父母能教導孩子信主外，也要特別為各教會的主日學老師禱告，求主賜下智慧，叫他們有系統地教導孩子聖經原則和神的心意，又讓他們能成為信徒家長的支援，幫助信徒家長作家中的屬靈帶領者，使子女從小就認識神。
星期五
大多數中國信徒的子女到了青少年階段，對聖經的認識仍停留在兒童主日學階段，信仰的根基薄弱，更少有能自己與主耶穌建立親密的個人關係。許多年輕人一旦離開家就失去信仰。有些基督徒父母過於重視分數、成績，給予孩子閑暇時間很少，甚至認為教會浪費兒女的寶貴光陰。求主開啟我們的眼睛，提醒我們不要尊重兒女，過於尊重神。
星期六
中國教會一直以來極看重教導聖經真理，這也是教會寶貴的屬靈持守；然而現今教會普遍只一味採用灌輸式、填鴨式的教導方法，缺乏互動和回應。教會開始注意到信徒下一代同樣有少年叛逆期的危機，且好些人已從教會中流失。求主喚醒教會再思青少年事工的方向，不僅教導真理，也進入孩子當中去牧養他們，並更多幫助家長了解親子關係的重要，裝備他們合宜地教養子女。
星期日
時下青少年要面對來自家長和學校繁重的課業和升學挑戰的雙重壓力。老師和家長為了讓他們考入心儀的大學，從初中開始就安排很多課後補習。許多服事青少年的弟兄姊妹屢屢碰壁，不但得不到家長的歡迎，自己的牧者團隊也不予支援。求主安慰那些放棄退出的信徒，並賜力量給那些仍然堅持的肢體。
星期一
青少年事工需要找到一個適合的切入點：既不影響青少年的學習，又能建立他們的信仰。不少信徒家長不願意自己孩子花太多時間在教會，也不鼓勵他們參與教會活動。求神赦免我們的罪，憐憫我們的無知，將兒女當作偶像，而忘記子女是神所賜的產業，是神託付我們來管理的。求主校正我們的目光，曉得人生命達到的最終目標不是屬世界的功名利祿，得著主才是真富足。
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