Thank you, Lord, that everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give us a spirit of unity among ourselves as we follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth we may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 14:4-6).

We know that when you are “out of your routine” with time and space not your own, it is sometimes harder to have consistent and significant times in the Word. Furlough is fraught with this reality, plus children and the expectation/need to engage with lots of people and share about your ministry and life. Holy Spirit would you lead each lady in creative, grace-filled times with you. Speak to them anew from your Word.

One cannot help but be overwhelmed by the numbers associated with the country of China. Over 1.3 billion people in the third largest country in the world. Some estimates have the number of Christians approaching 300 million, reflecting incredible growth in spite of a government that obsesses on control. Many cross-cultural workers from a wide range of countries are in China spreading the good news but not in traditional ways. From teaching English to compassion ministries, men and women are being used by God to reach this massive population. As the country continues on its road in becoming the world’s economic giant, many feel that the window of receptive hearts will be closing. Materialism may prove to be a far greater enemy of the gospel than any repressive regime. Pray that the church would continue to grow in spite of official persecution within the church house movement as well as the temptation of softening one’s witness in the churches officially recognized. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

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