Posts
Tuesday
In China, many migrant workers take their children with them to the cities where they work. These children are called "migrant children" and one in four of the children there belongs to this group. Because they do not have a residency permit (hukou), these children can attend only expensive private schools. Urban churches often claim their resources are inadequate to care for migrant workers and their children. We pray for some churches that will try their best to reach out to these children with after-school programs and Bible stories.
Wednesday
In 2000, forty-two million children were affected by the migration of workers in China from the villages to the cities. By 2013, 106 million(or thirty-eight percent) of the people were affected. For every child who moved to the city with parents, there were two children left behind in the villages. Rural churches are losing believers, not only the adults but also the young ones. The future of rural churches seems bleak and dire. We pray for faith, wisdom and vision for church leaders, so they can have strategies and direction in place for rural churches.
Thursday
Under the greatly hated hukou system in China, families from villages cannot change their status and become city residents.Because of this, their children face unfair treatment and discrimination when they move to the cities. We pray for faith for all of the Christian migrant families not to give up on God in the cities but be able to grow stronger as families and quickly find a spiritual home in their new neighborhood.
Friday
In China, children of migrants can't go to public schools even if they were born in the cities. Private school education is often the only option for migrant families and is prohibitively expensive. Many migrant workers can't afford to keep their children in big cities because the rent is high and the wages are low. It is very difficult for migrants to fit in, to feel accepted and comfortable in city churches. We pray that urban believers will have more compassion and generosity and urban churches will not consider migrant ministries are so unproductive.
Saturday
In China, children of migrants end up having a poorer education than other children because many are unable to afford the prices private schools charge and they are not eligible to attend public schools. Many quit school and begin working early, hence the higher school dropout rates for these children. We pray specifically for young Christian who drop out of school. May the Lord comfort them, add to their faith, and help them to know that God does love them and is with them and He will open a door for their employment.
Sunday
In China, some migrant parents deem “it is useless to study” because they can work hard and make even more money than college graduates. Many migrant parents are ambivalent and cannot provide guidance for their children’s education. We pray Christian parents will never have the attitude of “I’ll let my kids decide on what they believe”. All believers should know “children are a heritage from God”. All of us need to be an example for our children and pray for them without ceasing.
Monday
In China, the prevalent attitude among youth is “If you can study, then study. If you cannot, go find a job and make just as much money as you can.” It is a fact that rural youth receive poorer education and worse grades than their city counterparts in China. We lift up the children of migrant workers who are believers, praying for their physical and spiritual health. May the Lord draw them to Himself, remove the self-pity and self-defeat that is so common among them, and help them to love and seek to obey the Lord.
星期二
不少民工帶著孩子到城市打工，他們的孩子被稱為「流動兒童」, 每四名城鎮兒童中就有一名是流動兒童。因為沒有城市戶口，他們不能進入公立學校，只能上昂貴的私校。許多教會雖有心幫助他們，但卻缺乏資源。求主感動教會能憑愛心繼續擺上，深信神必能用「五餅二魚」，使「流動兒童」得著適切的課後輔助，讓孩子認識神的話語。
星期三
受人口流動影響的兒童總數從2000年的4272萬人增加到2013年的1.06億，佔中國兒童總數的38%。其中流動兒童和留守兒童的比率是1 對2。農村信徒流失，不單是成人，也包括兒童。「教會的新一代在哪裡？」是迫切的危機。我們求主加添信心和智慧給當地的教會領袖，幫助他們有異象，亦有應對的策略。
星期四
因著中國的戶口制度，大多數農民工無法改變他們的戶籍，當他們遷移時，孩子會在新環境中遭遇到各種困難和歧視。我們來為信主的農民工家庭禱告，求主加添他們信心，在新落脚的城巿裡不失去信仰，更鞏固和睦的家庭，也願主為他們就近預備合宜的屬靈之家。
星期五
即使民工的孩子在城巿出生，也不能去當地的公立學校就讀，私校是唯一的選項。大城巿的租金高，工資低，私立學校的學費昂貴，往往令他們養不起孩子。來自農村教會的民工，也很難在新城市裡找到能被接納的教會。求主更多提醒我們，滿有基督的憐憫和接納，教會也不應持有「民工事工沒有回報」的錯誤觀念。
星期六
「流動兒童」由於民辦學校收費較高，加之部分大齡流動兒童過早進入勞動市場，使得流動兒童的輟學率高於當地同齡兒童。 我們為輟學的青少年信徒禱告，求主親自安慰鼓勵並堅定他們的信心，相信永活的神愛他們，必與他們同在，也為他們的工作開路。
星期日
有些打工父母認為自己用勞力掙的錢可能比大學生還多，所以認為「讀書無用」。往往對子女沒有明確的要求，順其自然。求主幫助信徒家長，決不有「愛不愛神，都任由孩子」的心態，乃是認定「子女是神所賜的產業」，父母的職責是靠著主的恩典培育出敬虔愛主的後裔。願我們天天為孩子能親近神來祈求，以身教做成愛主的榜樣。
星期一
「能讀書就讀，讀不好去打工也能賺錢」的觀念在中國青少年中間極其普遍。農村教會的青少年教育程度及成績明顯不如城巿。我們來為民工信徒的子女有健康的身心靈祈求，他們當中多有自卑、自憐和頽廢的心態。求主親自吸引他們，叫他們愛慕追求認識主，也順服主的教誨。
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Prayer Request 6/20 - 6/26
Tuesday
China has gone from grinding poverty to an economic powerhouse in the span of a generation. It has become a phenomenal market for companies like Apple, Starbucks and Audi, who have made fat profits selling high-priced gadgets, coffee and rides to Chinese consumers who want to show they have made it. We pray for God in His mercy to change the attitude in China that Christianity is a foreign religion and rid them of their resistance to the gospel. At the same time, we pray the good new of Jesus Christ will not be cheapened as a ticket to material blessing and prosperity only.
Wednesday
In China, wealth is still concentrated in the hands of a few of the elite and the average consumer has only a fraction of the spending money that the average American does. It is true that believers in China are much better off financially now than they used to be, but giving to churches has not increased proportionally. We pray for faith in God so we will value His work and give with thanks instead of merely following the rules and tradition of giving to Him.
Thursday
In the past, manufacturing jobs in China gave so much job security that they were called the "iron rice bowl". The growth of the service sector, however, has led to more jobs that focus on appearance, leading some women to aim for what is now referred to as the "rice bowl of youth". Some believers sell beauty or nutritional products in their churches and cause a great deal of confusion. We pray that the fellowship of the saints will live with a good conscience and be worthy of the Lord without any intent to gain profit or unbiblical motives.
Friday
In China, service sectors hire women who must have a good appearance or be able to convey certain messages. A slim figure and winsome look implies youth. Pale skin denotes a life spent indoors rather than outside working like a farmer.We pray for more young people coming to church and that churches will also intentionally attract the younger generation with more vibrant worship and practical messages, helping them to know the truth and engaging them to serve in church.
Saturday
In 2012, China finally passed its first mental-health law, calling for more facilities and staffing an increase in their staff and efforts to raise awareness and reduce discrimination of mental illness in schools, universities and workplaces. Older Chinese pastors see mental illness as a lack of faith or strictly as a spiritual weakness. We pray for a change of attitude in the churches so they will be able to see it not merely as a medical illness, but be able to help all with mental illness to know the Lord and to interact and help them the way God would.
Sunday
The new mental-health law in China advised against confining sufferers against their will. When the law was passed, about 80% of the people in mental hospitals were there involuntarily by some estimates. There are more and more Christians with diagnoses of mental illness, especially depression in China. We pray that churches will not discriminate against them or label them as sinners who have not confessed their transgressions and that they will offer real and practical support to them.
Monday
Nearly sixty percent of the migrant workers in China are men sixteen to forty years old. About eighty percent of them have only a junior high education. Almost all the construction workers and coal miners there are migrant workers who are often looked down on because they are not sophisticated. We pray that urban churches will truly accept their brothers and sisters in Christ from the countryside because we are all one body in Christ.
星期二
在幾十年的時間裡中國從赤貧發展到經濟強國。外國名牌，如蘋果、星巴克和奧迪等公司見有廣大的市場，趁機面向那些希望彰顯自己成就的中國消費者，銷售價格高昂的產品賺取了豐厚利潤。目前基督教在中國仍然要剋服一般人刻板的「洋教」形象，求主恩待中國，軟化百姓的硬心，讓福音的好消息也不落為信耶穌必得世界好處的「成功神學」。
星期三
雖然近年中國經濟起飛，但財富集中在少數精英手裡，一般中國百姓的消費能力和發達國家的人民仍無法相提並論。現今信徒明顯比昔日富裕多了，但是許多教會的奉獻並沒有增加。求神給信徒信心，看重神的工作，不是以守律法的心態來奉獻，而是以感恩、敬虔的心把神所賜的獻給神。
星期四
過去中國製造業的工作穩定性很強，甚至被稱為「鐵飯碗」。服務業的增長，促生了更多注重外貌的工作，導致有些女性把目標對準「青春飯碗」。教會中有些人從事美容保健品的推銷，造成一些混亂，求主憐憫教會，信徒之間的交往是清心向主，彼此建造與扶持，並不摻雜有賺錢和各樣不合聖經的動機。
星期五
在中國職場上徵求的女性員工有著幾個要求，特定的外貌傳遞著特定的信息。纖細的身材和惹人喜愛的容貌意味著年輕可愛；白皙的皮膚意味著在室內工作，不是像農民那樣在戶外勞動。求主帶領更多年輕人來到教會中，教會也願意向年輕人分享福音，透過活潑的崇拜，實用的信息例證，幫助他們更深認識真理，也鼓勵他們參與教會各種服侍。
星期六
經過多年的醞釀，中國終於在2012年通過第一份「精神衛生法」。該法案要求為精神病患提供更多設施及工作人員，並努力在學校及職場中提高各人對該病的認識，禁止歧視。老一代的中國傳道人多認為精神病都是信心軟弱，靈命有問題。求主改變教會對精神疾病的態度，幫助信徒把難處帶到神面前，以神的眼光來解釋和應對。不要直接咬定全是罪的問題或簡單認為心理問題僅靠藥物即可解決。
星期日
新「精神衛生法」建議不要強制患者住院。據估計在法例通過之前，精神病院裡約有八成患者不是自願進去的。現今患有精神疾病的信徒越來越多，尤其是憂鬱症。誠然罪可能導至抑鬱，但還有更多複雜的誘發因素。我們求主幫助教會不歧視他們，一味地當作有沒有對付罪的後果，而是能提供實質有效的支持和幫助。
星期一
將近60%的中國流動人口是16到40歲的男性。五分之四的中國流動人口至少完成了初中教育。絕大多數的建築工人和煤礦工人都有流動背景。民工是外地人不容易被本地人接受。 雖然在文化與生活背景上大有不同，求主幫助城鎮教會能真心接納基督徒民工，不輕看他們。因為每個人都是主耶穌的寶貴兒女，在神的家中同為兄弟姊妹，互為肢體。
China has gone from grinding poverty to an economic powerhouse in the span of a generation. It has become a phenomenal market for companies like Apple, Starbucks and Audi, who have made fat profits selling high-priced gadgets, coffee and rides to Chinese consumers who want to show they have made it. We pray for God in His mercy to change the attitude in China that Christianity is a foreign religion and rid them of their resistance to the gospel. At the same time, we pray the good new of Jesus Christ will not be cheapened as a ticket to material blessing and prosperity only.
Wednesday
In China, wealth is still concentrated in the hands of a few of the elite and the average consumer has only a fraction of the spending money that the average American does. It is true that believers in China are much better off financially now than they used to be, but giving to churches has not increased proportionally. We pray for faith in God so we will value His work and give with thanks instead of merely following the rules and tradition of giving to Him.
Thursday
In the past, manufacturing jobs in China gave so much job security that they were called the "iron rice bowl". The growth of the service sector, however, has led to more jobs that focus on appearance, leading some women to aim for what is now referred to as the "rice bowl of youth". Some believers sell beauty or nutritional products in their churches and cause a great deal of confusion. We pray that the fellowship of the saints will live with a good conscience and be worthy of the Lord without any intent to gain profit or unbiblical motives.
Friday
In China, service sectors hire women who must have a good appearance or be able to convey certain messages. A slim figure and winsome look implies youth. Pale skin denotes a life spent indoors rather than outside working like a farmer.We pray for more young people coming to church and that churches will also intentionally attract the younger generation with more vibrant worship and practical messages, helping them to know the truth and engaging them to serve in church.
Saturday
In 2012, China finally passed its first mental-health law, calling for more facilities and staffing an increase in their staff and efforts to raise awareness and reduce discrimination of mental illness in schools, universities and workplaces. Older Chinese pastors see mental illness as a lack of faith or strictly as a spiritual weakness. We pray for a change of attitude in the churches so they will be able to see it not merely as a medical illness, but be able to help all with mental illness to know the Lord and to interact and help them the way God would.
Sunday
The new mental-health law in China advised against confining sufferers against their will. When the law was passed, about 80% of the people in mental hospitals were there involuntarily by some estimates. There are more and more Christians with diagnoses of mental illness, especially depression in China. We pray that churches will not discriminate against them or label them as sinners who have not confessed their transgressions and that they will offer real and practical support to them.
Monday
Nearly sixty percent of the migrant workers in China are men sixteen to forty years old. About eighty percent of them have only a junior high education. Almost all the construction workers and coal miners there are migrant workers who are often looked down on because they are not sophisticated. We pray that urban churches will truly accept their brothers and sisters in Christ from the countryside because we are all one body in Christ.
星期二
在幾十年的時間裡中國從赤貧發展到經濟強國。外國名牌，如蘋果、星巴克和奧迪等公司見有廣大的市場，趁機面向那些希望彰顯自己成就的中國消費者，銷售價格高昂的產品賺取了豐厚利潤。目前基督教在中國仍然要剋服一般人刻板的「洋教」形象，求主恩待中國，軟化百姓的硬心，讓福音的好消息也不落為信耶穌必得世界好處的「成功神學」。
星期三
雖然近年中國經濟起飛，但財富集中在少數精英手裡，一般中國百姓的消費能力和發達國家的人民仍無法相提並論。現今信徒明顯比昔日富裕多了，但是許多教會的奉獻並沒有增加。求神給信徒信心，看重神的工作，不是以守律法的心態來奉獻，而是以感恩、敬虔的心把神所賜的獻給神。
星期四
過去中國製造業的工作穩定性很強，甚至被稱為「鐵飯碗」。服務業的增長，促生了更多注重外貌的工作，導致有些女性把目標對準「青春飯碗」。教會中有些人從事美容保健品的推銷，造成一些混亂，求主憐憫教會，信徒之間的交往是清心向主，彼此建造與扶持，並不摻雜有賺錢和各樣不合聖經的動機。
星期五
在中國職場上徵求的女性員工有著幾個要求，特定的外貌傳遞著特定的信息。纖細的身材和惹人喜愛的容貌意味著年輕可愛；白皙的皮膚意味著在室內工作，不是像農民那樣在戶外勞動。求主帶領更多年輕人來到教會中，教會也願意向年輕人分享福音，透過活潑的崇拜，實用的信息例證，幫助他們更深認識真理，也鼓勵他們參與教會各種服侍。
星期六
經過多年的醞釀，中國終於在2012年通過第一份「精神衛生法」。該法案要求為精神病患提供更多設施及工作人員，並努力在學校及職場中提高各人對該病的認識，禁止歧視。老一代的中國傳道人多認為精神病都是信心軟弱，靈命有問題。求主改變教會對精神疾病的態度，幫助信徒把難處帶到神面前，以神的眼光來解釋和應對。不要直接咬定全是罪的問題或簡單認為心理問題僅靠藥物即可解決。
星期日
新「精神衛生法」建議不要強制患者住院。據估計在法例通過之前，精神病院裡約有八成患者不是自願進去的。現今患有精神疾病的信徒越來越多，尤其是憂鬱症。誠然罪可能導至抑鬱，但還有更多複雜的誘發因素。我們求主幫助教會不歧視他們，一味地當作有沒有對付罪的後果，而是能提供實質有效的支持和幫助。
星期一
將近60%的中國流動人口是16到40歲的男性。五分之四的中國流動人口至少完成了初中教育。絕大多數的建築工人和煤礦工人都有流動背景。民工是外地人不容易被本地人接受。 雖然在文化與生活背景上大有不同，求主幫助城鎮教會能真心接納基督徒民工，不輕看他們。因為每個人都是主耶穌的寶貴兒女，在神的家中同為兄弟姊妹，互為肢體。
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Prayer Request 6/13 - 6/19
Tuesday
Beijing keeps a watchful eye on the development of culture and the arts, and anything too hip or interesting gets shut down. In Korea, by contrast, artists and entertainers thrive in a space that is highly commercialized but also quite free of interference by the state. Churches in China emphasize tradition and conformity. Let us pray they will stay culturally relevant and not disconnected from society. We pray that many churches will make it their priority to reach out to young people.
Wednesday
Korean culture has deeply influenced all of Asia and especially the young people. The popularity of Korean drama has extended to the movies, music, and even food in China. In contrast, the only part of Chinese culture that has been exported is the Kung Fu movies. Churches in China boast of having millions of believers. We pray they will soon have a great impact for God's kingdom in the world but first they must become a shining testimony for the Lord in China.
Thursday
The "Korean Wave" profoundly affects both the entertainment and education industries in China. The Korean fever first started when the Hunan Satellite TV Company ran the soap opera "Dai Jang Geum". Korean movies are also very popular in China. The contribution and influence of Korean Christians to the church in China is deep and profound. We praise God for all the seminaries and training centers supported by Korean churches. We thank the Lord, too, for Korean praise music which is especially popular among young Christians in China.>
Friday
When the Korean fever swept through China, many actors and directors openly criticized the trend. Recently, Chinese government has clamped down on anything Korean. The majority of leaders in the Chinese churches are either ignorant of or antagonistic to popular culture which makes it difficult for churches to attract and engage young people. We pray that churches will be more open and accepting of present-day life so sinners can feel loved by the Body of Christ.
Saturday
South Korea, which has a population of only twice that of Shanghai, could capture all of Asia and reap a huge profit in the process. K-pop concerts in both Hong Kong and mainland China are very lucrative and Korean artists are well-positioned to sell their wares in the world's largest music market--China. Korean influences are evident in churches in China, especially in the cities and among college students. There are close to eight thousand Korean missionaries in China. We pray for their ministries that the Lord will give them much good fruit and a large harvest.
Sunday
In its early years, the "Korean Wave" didn't seem to be so imperialistic as American culture but more recently there has been a backlash from a loud minority of the people. This year China passed a law limiting the amount of foreign programming that can be shown on television. Historically, Chinese youth have not seen churches as friendly or welcoming. In the majority of churches it is hard to find any young people. We pray that more churches will put forth the effort to attract young people. We also ask the Lord to change the biased attitude many church leaders have toward young people.
Monday
The "Korean Wave", far from seeming to be a benign export from a non-threatening country, is now commonly described as an "invasion" as though it were a sort of mental Asian carp that is clogging the minds of young Asians. Many Chinese youth adore and imitate the looks and fashions of K-pop artists. Young Chinese Christians badly need mentors who provide role models of faith. We pray there will be many more mature believers who see this unmet need and step up to inspire young people to serve.
星期二
在中國，文化和藝術的發展都被政府嚴謹注視，任何過度異類或太前衛的形態及内涵都會被禁止。相比之下，韓國藝術家與藝人有極大並商業化的表現空間，也不會被國家干預。中國教會一向強調傳統與一致性。我們來為教會的展望禱告，既能保留與文化相關的事物，又能不與社會脫節；更求主幫助教會能有更迫切和前瞻性的策略來接觸年輕的一代。
星期三
近年韓國文化深深影響了全亞洲，尤其是年輕一代。韓劇普遍受歡迎，也帶動了韓國電影、音樂和食品廣被青睞。相對之下，唯一在海外遠近馳名的中國文化，就只有功夫電影。中國教會常以擁有數以千萬計的信徒為榮。讓我們為中國信徒能在神的國度裡有更大、更多的獻上祈求。願神賜屬祂的人在中國社會中持續有美好的生命見證。
星期四
「韓流」不但影響娛樂業，還影響中國教育。在娛樂業方面，湖南衛視播放《大長今》，風靡一時。其他韓國電影也非常受歡迎。韓國基督徒對中國教會的貢獻與影響是深而廣的。我們為他們支持的神學院和培訓點祈求。韓國的讚美音樂也非常受年輕信徒喜愛，願眾人都衷心讚美主，也為他們的所有擺上感恩。
星期五
由於韓流在中國盛行，有中國大陸演員、導演批評韓流使演藝界受到打擊。近半年的「限韓令」與「禁韓令」已經把先前的韓國熱潮冷卻了。中國教會領袖們一般輕看流行文化，甚至反對，如此的固執態度很難服事年輕一代。我們求主幫助中國教會能更開放、正面地接受潮流的挑戰，用諸般智慧傳揚神的道，讓眾罪人能透過基督的身體感受到神的愛。
星期六
南韓還不到上海人口的兩倍，竟能捉住全亞洲的心，也知道如何飽賺亞洲人的錢。 K-POP演唱會，在香港和中國大陸非常賣座，場場爆滿，深深地佔據著全世界最大的音樂市場 — 中國。在中國教會裡， 韓國的影響力也處處可見，尤其在城市和大學生事工中。在中國大概有近八千位韓國宣教士，我們來為他們的事工禱告，求主幫助他們撒種與收割，更為神栽培出更多願意一生委身事主的人。
星期日
早年中國人認為「韓流」沒有美國文化的帝國主義威脅；然而近來已開始有人對「韓流」相當反彈。今年初，中國通過一項規定，限制中國電視播放外國節目的時間。從歷史上看，中國年輕一代對教會感到陌生，許多教會中，年輕人寥寥無幾。求主校正教會領袖的眼光，不要對年輕人存有偏見與誤解。我們也為教會能更看重青少年事工，更積極尋找到接觸年輕人的渠道來禱告。
星期一
韓流在過去似乎被視為是一種良性的進口，但是近來有不少人認為是韓國文化的侵略，霸佔了年輕亞洲人的腦袋瓜。許多中國年輕人風靡崇拜及模仿韓國藝人的的外觀與時尚。年輕中國信徒迫切需要信仰的榜樣與屬靈的導師。求主興起成熟的信徒，幫助年輕人堅固信仰， 激勵年輕信徒忠心委身並服事，又活出耶穌基督的生命，把更多年輕人引到主面前。
Beijing keeps a watchful eye on the development of culture and the arts, and anything too hip or interesting gets shut down. In Korea, by contrast, artists and entertainers thrive in a space that is highly commercialized but also quite free of interference by the state. Churches in China emphasize tradition and conformity. Let us pray they will stay culturally relevant and not disconnected from society. We pray that many churches will make it their priority to reach out to young people.
Wednesday
Korean culture has deeply influenced all of Asia and especially the young people. The popularity of Korean drama has extended to the movies, music, and even food in China. In contrast, the only part of Chinese culture that has been exported is the Kung Fu movies. Churches in China boast of having millions of believers. We pray they will soon have a great impact for God's kingdom in the world but first they must become a shining testimony for the Lord in China.
Thursday
The "Korean Wave" profoundly affects both the entertainment and education industries in China. The Korean fever first started when the Hunan Satellite TV Company ran the soap opera "Dai Jang Geum". Korean movies are also very popular in China. The contribution and influence of Korean Christians to the church in China is deep and profound. We praise God for all the seminaries and training centers supported by Korean churches. We thank the Lord, too, for Korean praise music which is especially popular among young Christians in China.>
Friday
When the Korean fever swept through China, many actors and directors openly criticized the trend. Recently, Chinese government has clamped down on anything Korean. The majority of leaders in the Chinese churches are either ignorant of or antagonistic to popular culture which makes it difficult for churches to attract and engage young people. We pray that churches will be more open and accepting of present-day life so sinners can feel loved by the Body of Christ.
Saturday
South Korea, which has a population of only twice that of Shanghai, could capture all of Asia and reap a huge profit in the process. K-pop concerts in both Hong Kong and mainland China are very lucrative and Korean artists are well-positioned to sell their wares in the world's largest music market--China. Korean influences are evident in churches in China, especially in the cities and among college students. There are close to eight thousand Korean missionaries in China. We pray for their ministries that the Lord will give them much good fruit and a large harvest.
Sunday
In its early years, the "Korean Wave" didn't seem to be so imperialistic as American culture but more recently there has been a backlash from a loud minority of the people. This year China passed a law limiting the amount of foreign programming that can be shown on television. Historically, Chinese youth have not seen churches as friendly or welcoming. In the majority of churches it is hard to find any young people. We pray that more churches will put forth the effort to attract young people. We also ask the Lord to change the biased attitude many church leaders have toward young people.
Monday
The "Korean Wave", far from seeming to be a benign export from a non-threatening country, is now commonly described as an "invasion" as though it were a sort of mental Asian carp that is clogging the minds of young Asians. Many Chinese youth adore and imitate the looks and fashions of K-pop artists. Young Chinese Christians badly need mentors who provide role models of faith. We pray there will be many more mature believers who see this unmet need and step up to inspire young people to serve.
星期二
在中國，文化和藝術的發展都被政府嚴謹注視，任何過度異類或太前衛的形態及内涵都會被禁止。相比之下，韓國藝術家與藝人有極大並商業化的表現空間，也不會被國家干預。中國教會一向強調傳統與一致性。我們來為教會的展望禱告，既能保留與文化相關的事物，又能不與社會脫節；更求主幫助教會能有更迫切和前瞻性的策略來接觸年輕的一代。
星期三
近年韓國文化深深影響了全亞洲，尤其是年輕一代。韓劇普遍受歡迎，也帶動了韓國電影、音樂和食品廣被青睞。相對之下，唯一在海外遠近馳名的中國文化，就只有功夫電影。中國教會常以擁有數以千萬計的信徒為榮。讓我們為中國信徒能在神的國度裡有更大、更多的獻上祈求。願神賜屬祂的人在中國社會中持續有美好的生命見證。
星期四
「韓流」不但影響娛樂業，還影響中國教育。在娛樂業方面，湖南衛視播放《大長今》，風靡一時。其他韓國電影也非常受歡迎。韓國基督徒對中國教會的貢獻與影響是深而廣的。我們為他們支持的神學院和培訓點祈求。韓國的讚美音樂也非常受年輕信徒喜愛，願眾人都衷心讚美主，也為他們的所有擺上感恩。
星期五
由於韓流在中國盛行，有中國大陸演員、導演批評韓流使演藝界受到打擊。近半年的「限韓令」與「禁韓令」已經把先前的韓國熱潮冷卻了。中國教會領袖們一般輕看流行文化，甚至反對，如此的固執態度很難服事年輕一代。我們求主幫助中國教會能更開放、正面地接受潮流的挑戰，用諸般智慧傳揚神的道，讓眾罪人能透過基督的身體感受到神的愛。
星期六
南韓還不到上海人口的兩倍，竟能捉住全亞洲的心，也知道如何飽賺亞洲人的錢。 K-POP演唱會，在香港和中國大陸非常賣座，場場爆滿，深深地佔據著全世界最大的音樂市場 — 中國。在中國教會裡， 韓國的影響力也處處可見，尤其在城市和大學生事工中。在中國大概有近八千位韓國宣教士，我們來為他們的事工禱告，求主幫助他們撒種與收割，更為神栽培出更多願意一生委身事主的人。
星期日
早年中國人認為「韓流」沒有美國文化的帝國主義威脅；然而近來已開始有人對「韓流」相當反彈。今年初，中國通過一項規定，限制中國電視播放外國節目的時間。從歷史上看，中國年輕一代對教會感到陌生，許多教會中，年輕人寥寥無幾。求主校正教會領袖的眼光，不要對年輕人存有偏見與誤解。我們也為教會能更看重青少年事工，更積極尋找到接觸年輕人的渠道來禱告。
星期一
韓流在過去似乎被視為是一種良性的進口，但是近來有不少人認為是韓國文化的侵略，霸佔了年輕亞洲人的腦袋瓜。許多中國年輕人風靡崇拜及模仿韓國藝人的的外觀與時尚。年輕中國信徒迫切需要信仰的榜樣與屬靈的導師。求主興起成熟的信徒，幫助年輕人堅固信仰， 激勵年輕信徒忠心委身並服事，又活出耶穌基督的生命，把更多年輕人引到主面前。
Monday, June 05, 2017
Prayer Request 6/6 - 6/12
Tuesday
Most people with mental disorders in China never receive treatment. There is a stigma attached to such ailments. Some think that people with psychiatric conditions are possessed by evil spirits. Many people in the church still see mental illness as either devil possession or merely a medical problem. We pray that churches will be willing to reach out and care about these people showing love and compassion and helping them to grow spiritually.
Wednesday
Many Chinese people see mental disorders as a sign of weakness and regard them as socially contagious people. A relative of someone with a serious disorder may find it hard to get married. Families sometimes have their kin treated far from home to hide the "shame" of their condition or even keep them hidden at home. Very few of the pastors in China have any training or even the time to care for people with mental illness. May the Lord give mercy and strength to the families of those thus afflicted. We pray that family members can find a support system among believers.
Thursday
China is woefully ill-equipped to treat mental conditions. The psychiatric system was largely dismantled after the Communists seized power in 1949. Under Mao, those who displayed symptoms of depression risked being viewed as traitors to the socialist cause, which was supposed to fill everyone with enthusiasm. Today, depression can be easily managed by medications. We pray that the Great Physician, the Lord Jesus will heal of those who are weary and heavy-burdened.
Friday
Few Chinese were diagnosed with depression until the early 1990s. By then China's health system was beginning to lose state funding. Hospitals were having to support themselves, and psychiatric services were not seen as money-makers.Caring for those with mental illness can never be a task for pastors only. We pray that more believers will rise up to minister to those who are mentally ill in churches and provide practical help, in love and with the love of Jesus.
Saturday
The taboo against mental illness is fading and attitudes are beginning to change in China. Outpatient visits have increased by more than ten percent each year.The use of antidepressants is rising fast and young educated urbanites are increasingly using the Internet to seek help privately for their mental health problems. Churches in China are still hesitant to accept those who are “different and disabled”, but believers cannot love preferentially. So, we pray the Lord helps us to help all who need the healing of the Great Physician, with His compassion and thus overcome our fear of these precious people.
Sunday
In China, under the new religious regulations, finances of religious groups will be greatly scrutinized. Theology students who study abroad could be monitored more closely. And people who rent or provide space to illegal churches may face heavy fines. Much of the transactions in churches are not transparent or properly recorded, easily become the evidences of government’s accusation of financial impropriety. We pray for integrity of all church leaders in how they handle church finance, so they will be “above reproach...dishonest in business dealing.” (Titus 1:7)
Monday
Many unregistered churches rent their meeting places while the landlord turns a blind eye, but under the new policy, they will be highly reluctant to lease to churches. Many house churches have tried to apply for the official registration with the government but have not been successful at all. We pray for these churches, so they will make the best decision and their faith in the Lord will not be shaken.
星期二
大多數中國精神病患者從未接受治療。這種疾病往往被社會大眾污名化，有些人甚至認為精神病患者是被邪靈所附。不少教會仍然簡單化地看待精神疾病是屬靈問題，或理解為醫學問題。求主幫助教會願意接觸和關心憂傷的心靈，給予精神病患者愛和憐憫，以及提供屬靈上的幫助。
星期三
不少人認為精神疾病是患者意志力薄弱的表現，並認為是社會性的傳染病：患有嚴重失調的人的親屬可能很難結婚。家庭有時會把他們的親人送到遠方，去隱藏他們病情的「恥辱」，或者把他們藏在家裡。一般教會牧者沒有心理資訊的知識的裝備，更缺時間去幫助精神患者。求主憐憫添力量給家中有此病患者的信徒，幫助他們能體諒患者的波動情緒，並聯同其他信徒形成支援系統來幇助患者和家屬。
星期四
中國嚴重缺乏治療精神病的條件。1949年共產黨掌權之後，便廢除精神病學系統。在毛澤東帶領下，期望每一個人都熱切崇拜社會主義，而那些表現出抑鬱症狀的人則被視為叛徒。現今，抑鬱症患者已可用藥物控制病情，治療過程也並不複雜。懇求我們偉大的醫生主耶穌，能親自撫平憂鬱的心靈，也供應病患適切的醫護幇助。
星期五
在上世紀九十年代以前，很少人被診斷患有抑鬱症，這全因那時的衛生部缺乏國家的經濟支持；醫院為要養活自己，不得不放棄被視為「不能賺錢」的精神病服務。 關心教會中在心理健康方面有需要的人，這絕不是牧者一人能獨自承當的。求主興起各教會，呼召人願意付上愛心與時間，關注這個社群需要的肢體，能給予實質上的幫助。
星期六
中國人近來終於意識到心理疾病不能一味忌諱不談，態度亦有所轉變。精神病患門診人次每年增長超過10％，抗抑鬱藥的使用亦正迅速上升。也有越來越多年輕及受過教育者使用互聯網尋求心理輔導。有些教會還是無法完全接納 「異常」和「有殘障」的人。求主幫助弟兄姊妹體會主愛人的心腸，越過人的軟弱去幫助憂傷的靈魂。
星期日
在新的宗教政策之下，已經向政府登記宗教團體的財務會受到更加嚴格的審查。前往海外學習的神學生也會受到更嚴密的監控。中國教會過去沒有設立健全的會計制度，往往無法通過政府審查。求主幫助眾教會的領袖手潔心清，經得起神與人的檢驗，做「神的管家，必須無可指責……不貪無義之財。」(多1：7）
星期一
過去，房東出租給沒有註冊的家庭教會，可以裝著不知道其用途。但在新的宗教法之下，向非法教會出租或提供空間的人，可能會面臨巨額罰款。有些教會曾嘗試租用或購置會堂，但每每受到政府的干擾，合約不明不白地被終止了。我們為各地未登記的家庭教會禱告，求主保守他們，帶領他們在這樣艱難的環境下，知道該如何調整。
Most people with mental disorders in China never receive treatment. There is a stigma attached to such ailments. Some think that people with psychiatric conditions are possessed by evil spirits. Many people in the church still see mental illness as either devil possession or merely a medical problem. We pray that churches will be willing to reach out and care about these people showing love and compassion and helping them to grow spiritually.
Wednesday
Many Chinese people see mental disorders as a sign of weakness and regard them as socially contagious people. A relative of someone with a serious disorder may find it hard to get married. Families sometimes have their kin treated far from home to hide the "shame" of their condition or even keep them hidden at home. Very few of the pastors in China have any training or even the time to care for people with mental illness. May the Lord give mercy and strength to the families of those thus afflicted. We pray that family members can find a support system among believers.
Thursday
China is woefully ill-equipped to treat mental conditions. The psychiatric system was largely dismantled after the Communists seized power in 1949. Under Mao, those who displayed symptoms of depression risked being viewed as traitors to the socialist cause, which was supposed to fill everyone with enthusiasm. Today, depression can be easily managed by medications. We pray that the Great Physician, the Lord Jesus will heal of those who are weary and heavy-burdened.
Friday
Few Chinese were diagnosed with depression until the early 1990s. By then China's health system was beginning to lose state funding. Hospitals were having to support themselves, and psychiatric services were not seen as money-makers.Caring for those with mental illness can never be a task for pastors only. We pray that more believers will rise up to minister to those who are mentally ill in churches and provide practical help, in love and with the love of Jesus.
Saturday
The taboo against mental illness is fading and attitudes are beginning to change in China. Outpatient visits have increased by more than ten percent each year.The use of antidepressants is rising fast and young educated urbanites are increasingly using the Internet to seek help privately for their mental health problems. Churches in China are still hesitant to accept those who are “different and disabled”, but believers cannot love preferentially. So, we pray the Lord helps us to help all who need the healing of the Great Physician, with His compassion and thus overcome our fear of these precious people.
Sunday
In China, under the new religious regulations, finances of religious groups will be greatly scrutinized. Theology students who study abroad could be monitored more closely. And people who rent or provide space to illegal churches may face heavy fines. Much of the transactions in churches are not transparent or properly recorded, easily become the evidences of government’s accusation of financial impropriety. We pray for integrity of all church leaders in how they handle church finance, so they will be “above reproach...dishonest in business dealing.” (Titus 1:7)
Monday
Many unregistered churches rent their meeting places while the landlord turns a blind eye, but under the new policy, they will be highly reluctant to lease to churches. Many house churches have tried to apply for the official registration with the government but have not been successful at all. We pray for these churches, so they will make the best decision and their faith in the Lord will not be shaken.
星期二
大多數中國精神病患者從未接受治療。這種疾病往往被社會大眾污名化，有些人甚至認為精神病患者是被邪靈所附。不少教會仍然簡單化地看待精神疾病是屬靈問題，或理解為醫學問題。求主幫助教會願意接觸和關心憂傷的心靈，給予精神病患者愛和憐憫，以及提供屬靈上的幫助。
星期三
不少人認為精神疾病是患者意志力薄弱的表現，並認為是社會性的傳染病：患有嚴重失調的人的親屬可能很難結婚。家庭有時會把他們的親人送到遠方，去隱藏他們病情的「恥辱」，或者把他們藏在家裡。一般教會牧者沒有心理資訊的知識的裝備，更缺時間去幫助精神患者。求主憐憫添力量給家中有此病患者的信徒，幫助他們能體諒患者的波動情緒，並聯同其他信徒形成支援系統來幇助患者和家屬。
星期四
中國嚴重缺乏治療精神病的條件。1949年共產黨掌權之後，便廢除精神病學系統。在毛澤東帶領下，期望每一個人都熱切崇拜社會主義，而那些表現出抑鬱症狀的人則被視為叛徒。現今，抑鬱症患者已可用藥物控制病情，治療過程也並不複雜。懇求我們偉大的醫生主耶穌，能親自撫平憂鬱的心靈，也供應病患適切的醫護幇助。
星期五
在上世紀九十年代以前，很少人被診斷患有抑鬱症，這全因那時的衛生部缺乏國家的經濟支持；醫院為要養活自己，不得不放棄被視為「不能賺錢」的精神病服務。 關心教會中在心理健康方面有需要的人，這絕不是牧者一人能獨自承當的。求主興起各教會，呼召人願意付上愛心與時間，關注這個社群需要的肢體，能給予實質上的幫助。
星期六
中國人近來終於意識到心理疾病不能一味忌諱不談，態度亦有所轉變。精神病患門診人次每年增長超過10％，抗抑鬱藥的使用亦正迅速上升。也有越來越多年輕及受過教育者使用互聯網尋求心理輔導。有些教會還是無法完全接納 「異常」和「有殘障」的人。求主幫助弟兄姊妹體會主愛人的心腸，越過人的軟弱去幫助憂傷的靈魂。
星期日
在新的宗教政策之下，已經向政府登記宗教團體的財務會受到更加嚴格的審查。前往海外學習的神學生也會受到更嚴密的監控。中國教會過去沒有設立健全的會計制度，往往無法通過政府審查。求主幫助眾教會的領袖手潔心清，經得起神與人的檢驗，做「神的管家，必須無可指責……不貪無義之財。」(多1：7）
星期一
過去，房東出租給沒有註冊的家庭教會，可以裝著不知道其用途。但在新的宗教法之下，向非法教會出租或提供空間的人，可能會面臨巨額罰款。有些教會曾嘗試租用或購置會堂，但每每受到政府的干擾，合約不明不白地被終止了。我們為各地未登記的家庭教會禱告，求主保守他們，帶領他們在這樣艱難的環境下，知道該如何調整。
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