Leaning on the Rock

Posted on 19 February 2010.

Your prayers play a vital role in supporting our China-based co-workers. While many are having a powerful impact in the areas where they serve (see, for example, Tending the "Garden"), they also face numerous challenges in a culture and environment very different to their own.

As you read the following extracts from letters our co-workers have sent, please use them as an inspiration to press through in prayer:

"I returned to my apartment to find that the radiator in my upstairs neighbour's had been leaking. This flooded my study. Now if you think that getting a tradesman to fix something in your part of the world can be a chore, let me enlighten you! It took almost 6 weeks for this to be repaired. During that time, I had to get up every two to three hours during the night to empty buckets to prevent the room from flooding again." - ‘K'

"Both of us have colds and are still feeling fatigued. This has been going on for a long time now. Pray that we will have renewed energy and health." - ‘V & H'

"I experienced huge culture shock on re-entering an environment that is extremely polluted. The winter season is the worst, as temperatures often drop below freezing and the air is saturated with coal dust churned out by heating systems, as well as factories producing heavy metals and concrete. In our first week or so being back, I kept thinking, ‘China is not a place to raise a baby!'" - ‘B'

"Maybe it's tiredness as the long semester draws to an end, maybe it's the smog and cold getting us down, or maybe it's the thought of spending another Christmas away from home. We all seem to be feeling a little low and worn out. Please do lift us up and pray for protection, as we are very aware that we are in a battle here and it's not against flesh and blood." - ‘J'

"It's been really good for us actually to stop and realise who God is and to reflect on the fact that He really is in control of everything. Even when we have tough times, He walks us through and is the Rock that we lean on to help us through. We really thank all of you for your prayers and support. God loves us all so much and He has really used this situation to show how much love we have from you guys, so thank you!" - ‘A & N'

Give thanks that the Lord is indeed walking through each difficult situation right alongside these co-workers. Pray that each one might know that truth deep in their hearts and that they might turn to Him for the strength and encouragement that He longs to provide.

Pray for protection over all our China-based co-workers as they live in situations where health issues, pollution, equipment breakdown, spiritual oppression and so many other pressures cause regular challenges.

Pray for renewed energy and vision for these co-workers as they return to their various cities following the annual get-together during the spring break.

Pray that more people from around the world will realise the importance of standing with those serving in China. Pray that many will commit to support them through regular prayer, finance and practical support.