Posts
Tuesday
During the past 15 years, while passively adapting to urbanization, churches in China have also considered what they can do for society. As the pace of urbanization accelerates, churches must think about their role and responsibilities in mission. We pray that as the number of Christians increases in China, the Lord will open opportunities for believers to be shining witnesses for what the Bible teaches in a society that is totally caught up in making money and corruption.
Wednesday
Churches in China face four challenges: 1. High mobility of the population with church members being very transient, 2. Poor leadership skills among the pastors, 3. The marriage issue among Christian singles, 4. The marginalization of churches in the society.What is impossible to man is possible with God and we believe the Lord will lead churches in China in this urbanization process helping believers to love the Lord more and help the churches both urban and rural to continue to grow.
Thursday
In 2015，7.49 million high school students graduated. In 2016, 7.65 million high school graduates will entered into job market that is affected by economic slow down and shuttering factories. This means many migrant workers will not have a job this year. Every year, young people leave their home church in the villages to work in cities. Many of them drift away from faith and no longer attend church. We pray for them, the Lord draw them close to Himself, answer their prayer, keep them from all temptations and harms.
Friday
The state-owned steel and coal industries in China will cut 1.8 million workers due to their over-capacity. Although the government vowed to provide retraining to workers for a new job, the Northeast region will be deeply affected by this massive layoff.The anxiety created by the economic slowdown and forced retirement will definitely affect the giving in churches. We pray for churches in northeast China. Some have sent out missionaries to other parts of China who rely on the financial support of their home churches.
Saturday
To tackle the aging population, unemployment and productivity issues, China plans to delay the mandatory retirement age to be implemented in 2022. As of 2015, more than 220 million people or sixteen percent of the population had reached sixty years of age. Every year many pastors retire but they have little in savings or pension so they must depend on their children for support. We remember them in our prayers, asking the Lord to give them good health, a joyful family life, and provide their financial needs, especially for medical expenses.
Sunday
All female personnel in China who are in leadership positions as well as senior female professionals will now see their retirement age extended to 60 years of age, an increase of 5 years. Many experts called for a uniform retirement age of 65 for all. Retired but relatively young believers have been the core of volunteers for churches in China. We pray that many more will offer their energy, experience and gifts to be used by God to bless their churches.
Monday
Currently, the ability to pay for pension by each province in China is not uniform, some provinces can pay up to 40-50 months, while others can afford to pay only another 1-2 months. Once a Christian retires, their giving to church drops immediately. We pray for faith in God for all retirees, knowing God will be faithful and give them a burden to spend more time in churches, helping in visitation, caring and even teaching.
星期二
過去15年來，中國教會雖然是被動地適應都市化，但也有思考到能為社會做些什麼。近年來，沿海一帶都市化會更加迅速，教會也應該向神求問，自己在宣教事工上的角色和責任為何。我們祈求神加添基督徒的人數，叫信徒在金錢掛帥，腐敗黑暗的社會中，也能分享聖經的價值觀，言行能成為世人明亮的燈檯。
星期三
當今都市教會面對四項挑戰：人口浮動，會友停留時間短暫；牧師的領導能力普遍不足；年輕單身基督徒尋找對象困難；以及教會極少參與社會服務。在人不可能的，在神都是可能。我們相信神要帶領中國教會在都市化的轉型當中，幇助信徒更加愛主，也激勵城市和農村的教會都同樣的成長。
星期四
去年高校畢業生是749萬，今年將有765萬高校畢業生進入就業市場。由於中國的整體的經濟成長緩慢，生產企業經營困難，將會造許多人找不到工作的情況。許多年輕信徒離家進城打工後，就不再踏入教會甚至離棄信仰。我們求主保守他們的心懷意念，逃避試探與一切的罪惡，緊緊地倚靠神，保持與主有親密的連結。
星期五
國營的鋼鐵和煤炭業，由於產能過剩，將有180萬人下崗。雖然政府拿出巨額安頓下崗的職工，但是對中國東北地區來說，仍然會有極大的影響。經濟發展速度放緩，加上大批工人下崗的消息，使人心恐慌，信徒奉獻減少。東北教會一直以來積極在全國傳福音，支持各地的宣教士，我們求主記念東北教會的需要。
星期六
中國面對人口老化、失業和生產力的問題，促使漸進式延遲退休方案將會在2022年正式實施。在2015年60歲以上的老人已經達到了2.2億，佔人口16%。每年都有傳道人退休，可是他們都沒有積蓄或退休金，只能依靠兒女渡日。我們在禱告中記念他們的擺上和需要，求神賜給他們健康、喜樂的家庭生活，特別是為他們預備醫療費用。
星期日
2015年起，女幹部和具有高級職稱的女性技術人員的退休年齡，從55歲延長至60歲。許多專家和機構建議將男女退休年齡定在65歲。退休後卻仍有精力的信徒是中國教會事奉人員的主幹。我們禱告有更多退休肢體能將時間、經驗和恩賜擺上，讓神使用他們成為教會的祝福。
星期一
當前中國全國養老金的支付，存在極大的不平衡，有的省份能發放40到50個月，有的省份只能發放1至2個月。信徒退休之後沒有固定收入後，金錢的奉獻自然會減少。求主賜給他們信心，深知信實的主必看顧屬祂的人，更賜他們他們羨慕聖工的心，樂於參與教導、探訪和關懷有需要的人，成為神合用的器皿。
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Prayer Request 2/21 - 2/27
Tuesday
China in an ambitious program to expand the use of nuclear energy plans to build many nuclear reactors over the next decade. Beijing considers this to be essential if they are to wean the Chinese economy away from its reliance on coal-fired plants that churn out air pollution and carbon dioxide. Pastors are much like spiritual generators for their churches. We pray for all who are preparing to enter the ministry and those who are discerning God's call into the ministry. May they be well--equipped and have ready hearts to be shepherds.
Wednesday
China plans to be the world's largest producer of nuclear energy by 2030. To meet this goal, she must add six to eight reactor units every year over the coming decades, most likely including the first in inland provinces like Henan and neighboring Hubei. Many Chinese pastors see themselves as ill-equipped to meet the complex needs of their flocks We pray for them, that they will not only preach the truth well, but be able to make practical application of it and be examples for their members.
Thursday
China's authoritarian government is adept at corralling public opinion to get its way. It can ram through its plans over the objections of people. Opponents, however say it's closed, secretive political system is ill-equipped to manage a rapid expansion of nuclear power. Being too busy is common for pastors in China. They feel spent and dried-up spiritually due to the heavy load of their ministry and excessive expectations of the people. May the Lord refresh the pastors and renew their families.
Friday
At the present time China operates thirty nuclear power reactors, mostly along its east coast and they account for 2.4 percent of the national consumption of electricity. Twenty-one additional nuclear plants are under construction.Loneliness and a lack of emotional support are common traits shared by pastors in China. May the Lord have mercy on them, give them spouses who serve together with one heart, and uplifting friendships. Above all, may He guard their hearts so they do not fall into the devil's snares.
Saturday
China has built its reactors on the coast, where water needed for cooling systems is plentiful and there are big cities nearby hungry for power. But the next phase is almost certain to push inland, and that has become a chief focus for opponents of the nuclear program. Few Chinese pastors have consistent opportunity to learn and equip themselves on the job. Opportunities for further training are scarce for those in remote regions and in villages. We pray for the grace of God for pastors, giving them a sense of excitement and the opportunity to become equipped and learn new things
Sunday
The deadly explosions in Tianjin (where hazardous chemicals were improperly stored close to residential areas) a year ago make people in China uneasy about the construction of any power plant. Lax regulation, graft, and confusion tend to undo the government's promises to put safety first. Many pastors feel they aren't doing much as well as feeling unappreciated and unloved. We lift up these wounded shepherds and ask the Lord to care for them and heal them, giving them both spiritual and physical rest and recreation which many pastors in China badly need.
Monday
Many Chinese have returned to China in recent months following studies overseas. More and more of them are not able to find jobs after graduation and must return to China. To them and their families, it may be a disappointment after years of substantial financial investment. Pray for all those involved in outreach to Chinese overseas. Pray that they might take every opportunity to understand more clearly the issues returning Chinese believers will face and do all they can through discussion and prayer.
星期二
為要減少中國經濟對燃煤發電的依賴，官方認為在下個十年内增建核電廠是勢在必行。燃煤發電會污染空氣及產生大量二氧化碳。傳道人餵養信徒的靈性需要如同發電站供電一樣。我們為神學生及有心回應全職服事呼召的弟兄姊妹禱告，願神保守他們的服事心志，好好裝備自己，成為主合用的器皿。
星期三
計劃中的核電項目會讓中國在2030年成為世界上最大的核能國。未來十年內，每年將新建六到八個反應爐機組。這很可能包括在河南及湖北等內陸省份修建核電站。許多傳道人常自認裝備不足，難以面對日益繁重及複雜的教會需要。求主加添傳道人智慧，在講解聖經時，除了將真理傳講清楚外，更要幫助信徒實際應用，並以身作則，在日常生活裡顯明基督。
星期四
中國政府往往被認為善於左右公共輿論，不顧老百姓的反對，以達目的讓計劃得以實施。反對興建核電廠者說，中國封閉的隱秘政治體制缺乏管理核電快速擴建的能力。中國傳道人所承擔的事奉極其繁重。忙，是普遍傳道人的寫照，傳道人被自己的「事奉」與信徒的厚望過度消費。求主讓他們每天在主前有安靜的時間，與神親密靈交，支取主的力量來事奉祂和更新他們的家庭。
星期五
中國目前已運營30個核電反應爐，主要是在東海沿岸，核電的使用佔全國用電量的2.4%。另外有21個正在建設中的核電廠。孤獨，缺少支持可能是傳道人的共同感受。求主恩待傳道人，給他們有同心服事的配偶，也有能傾訴的屬靈良友。願神保守他們的心懷意念，不落入惡者的網羅。
星期六
中國一直在沿海修建核電廠，因為冷卻系統所需的充足供水，而且就近供應附近需電量大的大城市。但下一個階段肯定會是向內陸推進，這會成為核計劃反對者的首要重點。傳道人擁有繼續深造的機會並能堅持下來的不多，對於一些偏遠山區和農村傳道人而言，新穎的資訊和資源就更加匱乏。求主恩待他們，挪去力不從心的感覺，也給他們有進深裝備新知的機會。
星期日
2015 天津發生的大爆炸釀成龐大傷亡，主要因是存儲危險化學品。雖然官方再三承諾安全第一，但監管鬆懈、瀆職和官方的故意混淆使得老百姓失去信心。許多傳道人感到失落，或沒有得到弟兄姊妹的認同而灰心。求主安慰這些受傷的牧者，願主自己成為他的傾聽者和輔導者，也給他們能享受安靜，重新得力，得著靈性的支援。
星期一
越來越多人在海外畢業後卻找不到當地實習或者工作的機會，回國就業比例越來越高。對他們自己和家人而言，多年在學業上的大筆投資，或許多少有些遺憾。我們為向海外中國人傳福音的弟兄姊妹禱告，求主幫助他們把握每個機會，盡所能去教導、討論和禱告，使這些準海歸能更加清楚認識到返國後將會面對的問題和挑戰。
China in an ambitious program to expand the use of nuclear energy plans to build many nuclear reactors over the next decade. Beijing considers this to be essential if they are to wean the Chinese economy away from its reliance on coal-fired plants that churn out air pollution and carbon dioxide. Pastors are much like spiritual generators for their churches. We pray for all who are preparing to enter the ministry and those who are discerning God's call into the ministry. May they be well--equipped and have ready hearts to be shepherds.
Wednesday
China plans to be the world's largest producer of nuclear energy by 2030. To meet this goal, she must add six to eight reactor units every year over the coming decades, most likely including the first in inland provinces like Henan and neighboring Hubei. Many Chinese pastors see themselves as ill-equipped to meet the complex needs of their flocks We pray for them, that they will not only preach the truth well, but be able to make practical application of it and be examples for their members.
Thursday
China's authoritarian government is adept at corralling public opinion to get its way. It can ram through its plans over the objections of people. Opponents, however say it's closed, secretive political system is ill-equipped to manage a rapid expansion of nuclear power. Being too busy is common for pastors in China. They feel spent and dried-up spiritually due to the heavy load of their ministry and excessive expectations of the people. May the Lord refresh the pastors and renew their families.
Friday
At the present time China operates thirty nuclear power reactors, mostly along its east coast and they account for 2.4 percent of the national consumption of electricity. Twenty-one additional nuclear plants are under construction.Loneliness and a lack of emotional support are common traits shared by pastors in China. May the Lord have mercy on them, give them spouses who serve together with one heart, and uplifting friendships. Above all, may He guard their hearts so they do not fall into the devil's snares.
Saturday
China has built its reactors on the coast, where water needed for cooling systems is plentiful and there are big cities nearby hungry for power. But the next phase is almost certain to push inland, and that has become a chief focus for opponents of the nuclear program. Few Chinese pastors have consistent opportunity to learn and equip themselves on the job. Opportunities for further training are scarce for those in remote regions and in villages. We pray for the grace of God for pastors, giving them a sense of excitement and the opportunity to become equipped and learn new things
Sunday
The deadly explosions in Tianjin (where hazardous chemicals were improperly stored close to residential areas) a year ago make people in China uneasy about the construction of any power plant. Lax regulation, graft, and confusion tend to undo the government's promises to put safety first. Many pastors feel they aren't doing much as well as feeling unappreciated and unloved. We lift up these wounded shepherds and ask the Lord to care for them and heal them, giving them both spiritual and physical rest and recreation which many pastors in China badly need.
Monday
Many Chinese have returned to China in recent months following studies overseas. More and more of them are not able to find jobs after graduation and must return to China. To them and their families, it may be a disappointment after years of substantial financial investment. Pray for all those involved in outreach to Chinese overseas. Pray that they might take every opportunity to understand more clearly the issues returning Chinese believers will face and do all they can through discussion and prayer.
星期二
為要減少中國經濟對燃煤發電的依賴，官方認為在下個十年内增建核電廠是勢在必行。燃煤發電會污染空氣及產生大量二氧化碳。傳道人餵養信徒的靈性需要如同發電站供電一樣。我們為神學生及有心回應全職服事呼召的弟兄姊妹禱告，願神保守他們的服事心志，好好裝備自己，成為主合用的器皿。
星期三
計劃中的核電項目會讓中國在2030年成為世界上最大的核能國。未來十年內，每年將新建六到八個反應爐機組。這很可能包括在河南及湖北等內陸省份修建核電站。許多傳道人常自認裝備不足，難以面對日益繁重及複雜的教會需要。求主加添傳道人智慧，在講解聖經時，除了將真理傳講清楚外，更要幫助信徒實際應用，並以身作則，在日常生活裡顯明基督。
星期四
中國政府往往被認為善於左右公共輿論，不顧老百姓的反對，以達目的讓計劃得以實施。反對興建核電廠者說，中國封閉的隱秘政治體制缺乏管理核電快速擴建的能力。中國傳道人所承擔的事奉極其繁重。忙，是普遍傳道人的寫照，傳道人被自己的「事奉」與信徒的厚望過度消費。求主讓他們每天在主前有安靜的時間，與神親密靈交，支取主的力量來事奉祂和更新他們的家庭。
星期五
中國目前已運營30個核電反應爐，主要是在東海沿岸，核電的使用佔全國用電量的2.4%。另外有21個正在建設中的核電廠。孤獨，缺少支持可能是傳道人的共同感受。求主恩待傳道人，給他們有同心服事的配偶，也有能傾訴的屬靈良友。願神保守他們的心懷意念，不落入惡者的網羅。
星期六
中國一直在沿海修建核電廠，因為冷卻系統所需的充足供水，而且就近供應附近需電量大的大城市。但下一個階段肯定會是向內陸推進，這會成為核計劃反對者的首要重點。傳道人擁有繼續深造的機會並能堅持下來的不多，對於一些偏遠山區和農村傳道人而言，新穎的資訊和資源就更加匱乏。求主恩待他們，挪去力不從心的感覺，也給他們有進深裝備新知的機會。
星期日
2015 天津發生的大爆炸釀成龐大傷亡，主要因是存儲危險化學品。雖然官方再三承諾安全第一，但監管鬆懈、瀆職和官方的故意混淆使得老百姓失去信心。許多傳道人感到失落，或沒有得到弟兄姊妹的認同而灰心。求主安慰這些受傷的牧者，願主自己成為他的傾聽者和輔導者，也給他們能享受安靜，重新得力，得著靈性的支援。
星期一
越來越多人在海外畢業後卻找不到當地實習或者工作的機會，回國就業比例越來越高。對他們自己和家人而言，多年在學業上的大筆投資，或許多少有些遺憾。我們為向海外中國人傳福音的弟兄姊妹禱告，求主幫助他們把握每個機會，盡所能去教導、討論和禱告，使這些準海歸能更加清楚認識到返國後將會面對的問題和挑戰。
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
Prayer Request 2/14 - 2/20
Tuesday
As the economy in China stumbled, wealthy families wearied the depreciation of their assets and tried to move large sums of money abroad. It is reported that the government has implemented strict measures to stem the outflow of currencies. Negative financial news will certainly make believers less likely to give to their churches.We pray that God will remind each of us of His great blessings to us and that we then should be thankful for all of this.
Wednesday
For many years China has soaked up much of the investment money in the world as its economy grew at annual rates in the double digits. However, the present slo wdown of the economy has led to a massive exodus of money from the country. This slowdown of the economy in China has led to a massive exodus of money. We praise the Lord for the steady prosperity the churches in China have enjoyed in the past decade but many have observed that churches are best described as lukewarm now. Let us pray for revival and for people to have deep commitment to Jesus in every church in China.
Thursday
As the economy of China slows down, large sums of money are flowing out of the country. For a long time renminbi was very stable but now it is not and many want to get rid of their Chinese currency.Although compensation for pastors in China has improved somewhat, many are leaving the ministry because of financial concerns or not having enough money for their children's education. We pray for those who are considering such a move. May the Lord give them faith and a renewal of the spirit and desire to serve Him.
Friday
The value of currency in China has been dropping against the US dollar as part of a shift to a more market-oriented approach and to help exporters. That move, however, has set up sharp drop in stocks. People are shaken because what was once thought to be a sure way of making money (such as the stock market and real estate) is no longer working. We pray for believers as they learn to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to them rather than being envious and greedy
Saturday
With the shortage of "shepherds" in China and the lack of concern people show for their pastor's family issues, pastors and church workers need God's help in knowing how to balance the demands of their family with those of the ministry. Churches also need to learn to show more concern for the families of their workers, help them when they are experiencing difficulties and show love and understanding to them since we all experience the same problems and have the same weaknesses.
Sunday
Serving in churches in China is very demanding. Although there is a general respect for church workers, people do not inquire about spiritual and family matters of their pastors. Some church members even think that pastors are not supposed to have family problems at all. We pray for God's grace for church workers and their families. May they be blessed in all they do whether in church work or family which are both a part of God's work.
Monday
Some of the people who work in churches in China, have to leave their school-aged children alone or with their grandparents part of the time. These churches do not feel that this is not prudent, nor do they try to keep the family together. Without their parents around these children are greatly at risk. We pray for the parenting difficulties many families of believers have. May the Lord help them to know what the Bible says about godly parenting and how to apply those truths.
星期二
隨着中國經濟走勢不再看好，富裕家庭擔心人民幣貶值，自己的存款價值縮水，過去一年不斷試圖將巨款轉移境外；最近市傳中國監管機構正推出史上最嚴厲措施之一，力求阻止人民幣轉移出。負面的經濟訊息，自然使國民緊縮開支。求主提醒屬祂的人，堅信神是那位養活麻雀者， 我們當存感恩的心，盡好奉獻的本分，並以祂的信實為糧。
星期三
多年來中國吸納了全球投資的很大一部分，讓其經濟保持着兩位數的年增長率。過去一年當中，中國經濟發展速度減緩，大量的資金開始轉移出境。經濟繁榮對人民當然有好處，但教會往往會因為富裕不像從前般的火熱。我們禱告，求主再次復興中國教會，感動信徒委身為主，真心擺上。
星期四
曾經很長一段時間裡，持有人民幣都是包賺不賠，但隨着經濟增長放緩，很多人正想如何將資金撤出。雖然中國傳道人的待遇已有改進，但還是不斷有牧者因著薪資太低、兒女教育費不足而離開工場。我們為那些想放棄事奉的傳道人禱告，求主加添他們信心，能在祂裡面重新得力，找回服事的熱忱和使命感。
星期五
2015年8月，中國政府讓人民幣一次性貶值，震驚全球市場。這是為了進一步向市場導向轉型，同時也為出口商提供助力，但是這種突如其來的舉動引發了股市暴跌。當股票和房地產低靡，人心惶惶。我們為信徒都能做神的好管家禱告，求主幫助我們能忠心管理神賜給我們的一切，而不是貪心肥己或羨慕別人物質的富裕。
星期六
中國教會普遍都缺乏牧者，亦不多見弟兄姊妹關心他們牧者的家庭需要；傳道人實在需要從上而來的智慧，能好好平衡事奉與家庭兩方面的需求。中國教會也需要學習更多地關心傳道人的家庭，以愛和體諒幫助那些為神家勞苦服事的人。誠然，牧者跟信徒的家庭在面對現實生活的挑戰上是沒有分別的，也都有相近的處境與艱難。
星期日
在中國教會服事，因為同工缺乏，普遍承擔很重的服事。弟兄姊妹普遍來說，對牧者都很尊重，給傳道人帶上光環，不會認為他們需要別人的扶持，甚至誤認為他們不會有任何家庭上的需要或問題。我們來為教會同工的家庭禱告，求主恩待他們的家庭，使他們在家庭和服事上都蒙主保守。
星期一
一些傳道人將自己的孩子託給祖父母照顧，又或讓孩子自己照顧自己。他們的教會也不認為孩子和父母分開，甚至牧者夫妻分開在不同城市，有什麼不好。未成年孩子沒有父母在身旁絕對不是件好事，我們為信徒家庭在教養子女所面對的困難禱告，求主讓信徒認識聖經真理，並能活用真理來面對現實生活中的挑戰。
Tuesday, February 07, 2017
Prayer Request 2/7 - 2/13
Tuesday
A tourist at the Ningbo Zoo was killed by tigers as he climbed the fence to avoid paying for admission. A search on the Internet produced tens of thousands of “strategies” to evade paying entrance fees to popular attractions in China. Chinese people like to save--even if it is only a small amount of money. May the Lord remind each of us that "Whoever will save his life shall lose it but whoever shall lose his life for My sake and the gospel's, he shall save it. For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:35, 36)
Wednesday
Many people in China avoid paying for subway rides or train tickets. Most of the time, the staff can do no more than discourage them or slap a nominal fine on them. Weak law enforcement and light penalties are the key reasons for rampant violations of the law. Those who don't pay for their tickets are notorious for their rudeness. Believers in China tend to be judgmental and even ferociously attack fellow believers who have fallen into sin. The Lord reminds us all: "Hypocrite! First cast the beam out of your own eye, and then you shall see clearly to cast the splinter out of your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:5)
Thursday
"Smartness, Chinese Style" includes being opportunistic, unwilling to pay the price of hard work, and believing that finding a shortcut can lead to a quick return or success. Jesus admonished His followers to "count the cost and follow Him". (Luke 14:28. We pray that Chinese believers will not merely seek God's material blessings and overlook the price of carrying His cross as they face unbelieving family members and co-workers.
Friday
Many people in China break rules, not because they cannot afford the price of admission tickets but because there is no punishment for doing it. Avoiding paying a nominal bus or train ticket gives them a great sense of luck or accomplishment. Many Christian parents in China make the same mistake. May the Lord convict us that we need to be the example for our children and teach them by both words and actions, not to gloat about all the ethical shortcuts we can make.
Saturday
According to the official count provided by the Three-self churches, there have been 1200 incidences of forceful demolition of church buildings and removal of crosses in Zhejiang province in the past year and half. We continue to pray for congregations who suffer these setbacks. May the Lord strengthen them, knowing not to take pride in the grandness of buildings, but rather experience a renewal of resolve in sharing Jesus Christ ever more boldly.
Sunday
Those who have returned to China after going abroad for higher education naturally prefer to stay in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen but jobs are hard to find in those cities. Many of those returning are settling for jobs in second and third tier smaller cities. We should pray for those who return as Christians but are still babes in Christ with a shallow understanding of their faith. May the Lord open the eyes of people in the churches in China to see this great need and stand in the gap to prevent the loss of the new believers.
Monday
Young people from China who study abroad and return with PhD. degrees can command a monthly salary of $900-$1500 USD but those who have a Master's Degree receive barely $900 USD a month. A foreign education no longer has the "Midas touch" it once did. Unfortunately fellowship groups in urban churches in China are made up of people who get similar salaries. May the Lord help us not to judge others based on their education, salary, or houses but may we rather have the heart of Jesus.
星期二
寧波動物園，發生一起遊客翻牆逃票被老虎咬死的悲劇。目前中國最熱門的景點都有「逃票攻略」，在網上搜索關鍵詞 「逃票攻略」的相關信息數以萬計。求主再次提醒眾人生命的意義，追求永遠不能失去的遠比苦苦緊抓錢財更有價值。「人就是賺得全世界，賠上自己的生命，有什麼益處呢？人還能拿什麼換生命呢？」（可8：36-37）
星期三
地鐵和鐵路都常有乘客逃票的現象。工作人員一般只能勸阻，偶爾作出處罰，但執法力量單薄，處罰過輕，逃票者甚至以惡劣態度面對工作人員的勸阻。 信徒也常會有自以為義的趨向，熱衷批評、批判跌倒者和犯了罪過或錯誤的信徒。求主校正我們的心思意念：「你這假冒為善的人！先去掉自己眼中的梁木，然後才能看得清楚，去掉你弟兄眼中的刺。」（太 7:5）
星期四
人常有投機取巧和急功好利的心態，不願意付出辛苦勞力，盼靠小聰明取得成功，甚至以懂得使用這種"中國式聰明"自豪。 耶穌提醒我們，要計算代價來跟隨祂 (路14：28）。求主幫助我們，不單求物質上的祝福，更要知道跟隨主，堅守真理的立場，是要付重大的代價，尤其在面對未信的家人和同事時。
星期五
有許多人違反規則來逃票，不是因為買不起車票或門票，而是因為覺得沒後果要承擔，甚至為逃票成功而有成就感，以僥倖、投機和破壞的心態沾沾自喜。 許多基督徒家長，很遺憾的，也有這樣的弱點！求主提醒我們，教導子女不單要有言教，更要身教，總是給孩子樹立守法和不貪便宜的好榜樣。
星期六
據中國官方基督教組織統計，浙江一年半以來，被強行拆除教堂建築或十字架逾一千二百多處。我們要切切為遭受強拆的教會禱告。願神加添他們信心，不依靠宏偉的建築，而是更重視內在生命的建立，能為主更加火熱分享救人靈魂、賜人新生命的真道。
星期日
海外歸國就業的，雖然都希望留在北京、上海、廣州、深圳等所謂的 "北上廣深"。但由於大城市就業、落戶的難度加大，而二三線城市開出的條件相對地更為豐厚，留學生們經理性選擇後，紛至二三線城市就業。我們需要為回國的基督徒禱告，他們靈命尚弱，許多沒有扎實的信仰根基。求主讓中國的教會也能看見這個危機和急切的需要，回應神的呼召來填補這屬靈的破口。
星期一
具有博士學位的海歸月薪大概在5000至10000元，而近5成碩士留學歸國的月薪不足5000元，大學回國的月薪低於5000元以下，「海歸」名頭帶來的含金量明顯不足。城市教會中，往往物以類聚，有同樣薪水成為一小群。求主挪去我們以教育，薪水，房子定斷、輕視別人的習慣，而是常有主的心腸、以互為肢體的愛心，彼此服事來建造神的家。
A tourist at the Ningbo Zoo was killed by tigers as he climbed the fence to avoid paying for admission. A search on the Internet produced tens of thousands of “strategies” to evade paying entrance fees to popular attractions in China. Chinese people like to save--even if it is only a small amount of money. May the Lord remind each of us that "Whoever will save his life shall lose it but whoever shall lose his life for My sake and the gospel's, he shall save it. For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:35, 36)
Wednesday
Many people in China avoid paying for subway rides or train tickets. Most of the time, the staff can do no more than discourage them or slap a nominal fine on them. Weak law enforcement and light penalties are the key reasons for rampant violations of the law. Those who don't pay for their tickets are notorious for their rudeness. Believers in China tend to be judgmental and even ferociously attack fellow believers who have fallen into sin. The Lord reminds us all: "Hypocrite! First cast the beam out of your own eye, and then you shall see clearly to cast the splinter out of your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:5)
Thursday
"Smartness, Chinese Style" includes being opportunistic, unwilling to pay the price of hard work, and believing that finding a shortcut can lead to a quick return or success. Jesus admonished His followers to "count the cost and follow Him". (Luke 14:28. We pray that Chinese believers will not merely seek God's material blessings and overlook the price of carrying His cross as they face unbelieving family members and co-workers.
Friday
Many people in China break rules, not because they cannot afford the price of admission tickets but because there is no punishment for doing it. Avoiding paying a nominal bus or train ticket gives them a great sense of luck or accomplishment. Many Christian parents in China make the same mistake. May the Lord convict us that we need to be the example for our children and teach them by both words and actions, not to gloat about all the ethical shortcuts we can make.
Saturday
According to the official count provided by the Three-self churches, there have been 1200 incidences of forceful demolition of church buildings and removal of crosses in Zhejiang province in the past year and half. We continue to pray for congregations who suffer these setbacks. May the Lord strengthen them, knowing not to take pride in the grandness of buildings, but rather experience a renewal of resolve in sharing Jesus Christ ever more boldly.
Sunday
Those who have returned to China after going abroad for higher education naturally prefer to stay in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen but jobs are hard to find in those cities. Many of those returning are settling for jobs in second and third tier smaller cities. We should pray for those who return as Christians but are still babes in Christ with a shallow understanding of their faith. May the Lord open the eyes of people in the churches in China to see this great need and stand in the gap to prevent the loss of the new believers.
Monday
Young people from China who study abroad and return with PhD. degrees can command a monthly salary of $900-$1500 USD but those who have a Master's Degree receive barely $900 USD a month. A foreign education no longer has the "Midas touch" it once did. Unfortunately fellowship groups in urban churches in China are made up of people who get similar salaries. May the Lord help us not to judge others based on their education, salary, or houses but may we rather have the heart of Jesus.
星期二
寧波動物園，發生一起遊客翻牆逃票被老虎咬死的悲劇。目前中國最熱門的景點都有「逃票攻略」，在網上搜索關鍵詞 「逃票攻略」的相關信息數以萬計。求主再次提醒眾人生命的意義，追求永遠不能失去的遠比苦苦緊抓錢財更有價值。「人就是賺得全世界，賠上自己的生命，有什麼益處呢？人還能拿什麼換生命呢？」（可8：36-37）
星期三
地鐵和鐵路都常有乘客逃票的現象。工作人員一般只能勸阻，偶爾作出處罰，但執法力量單薄，處罰過輕，逃票者甚至以惡劣態度面對工作人員的勸阻。 信徒也常會有自以為義的趨向，熱衷批評、批判跌倒者和犯了罪過或錯誤的信徒。求主校正我們的心思意念：「你這假冒為善的人！先去掉自己眼中的梁木，然後才能看得清楚，去掉你弟兄眼中的刺。」（太 7:5）
星期四
人常有投機取巧和急功好利的心態，不願意付出辛苦勞力，盼靠小聰明取得成功，甚至以懂得使用這種"中國式聰明"自豪。 耶穌提醒我們，要計算代價來跟隨祂 (路14：28）。求主幫助我們，不單求物質上的祝福，更要知道跟隨主，堅守真理的立場，是要付重大的代價，尤其在面對未信的家人和同事時。
星期五
有許多人違反規則來逃票，不是因為買不起車票或門票，而是因為覺得沒後果要承擔，甚至為逃票成功而有成就感，以僥倖、投機和破壞的心態沾沾自喜。 許多基督徒家長，很遺憾的，也有這樣的弱點！求主提醒我們，教導子女不單要有言教，更要身教，總是給孩子樹立守法和不貪便宜的好榜樣。
星期六
據中國官方基督教組織統計，浙江一年半以來，被強行拆除教堂建築或十字架逾一千二百多處。我們要切切為遭受強拆的教會禱告。願神加添他們信心，不依靠宏偉的建築，而是更重視內在生命的建立，能為主更加火熱分享救人靈魂、賜人新生命的真道。
星期日
海外歸國就業的，雖然都希望留在北京、上海、廣州、深圳等所謂的 "北上廣深"。但由於大城市就業、落戶的難度加大，而二三線城市開出的條件相對地更為豐厚，留學生們經理性選擇後，紛至二三線城市就業。我們需要為回國的基督徒禱告，他們靈命尚弱，許多沒有扎實的信仰根基。求主讓中國的教會也能看見這個危機和急切的需要，回應神的呼召來填補這屬靈的破口。
星期一
具有博士學位的海歸月薪大概在5000至10000元，而近5成碩士留學歸國的月薪不足5000元，大學回國的月薪低於5000元以下，「海歸」名頭帶來的含金量明顯不足。城市教會中，往往物以類聚，有同樣薪水成為一小群。求主挪去我們以教育，薪水，房子定斷、輕視別人的習慣，而是常有主的心腸、以互為肢體的愛心，彼此服事來建造神的家。
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