Life's Challenges

   Can you imagine going to a different country with another language and taking master degree level courses in a very different culture? That is what our Chinese and international friends are facing right now. And when you hear their stories, you know that even everyday life is very challenging for them. You know they are struggling when, though they are not even Christians yet, they ask you to pray for them.
    Many Americans are having their own difficulties now as well. From financial worries to personal issues, there are always challenges that we face on a daily basis. Yet, how often do we lift our concerns to the throne of God? I would venture to say quite often. So, how often do we pray for others like our Chinese friends? We are quick to say to others we are praying for them and just stop right there. I know I have done that time and again. The intention was there. The desire was there. But to actually take the time to be an intermediary doesn’t always take place. After all, we are busy. We have schedules. We get too tired. We wake up with so much on our minds. And really, there is a lot to pray for out of our own situations. We become self-focused. While praying for our own needs is important as we search out God’s will for our lives, if we don’t pray for others, who will?
   The names of some of those who attend our Bible studies are listed here. Will you take time and effort to pray for them? They have asked for it. They need it. Ask the Spirit to work on their behalf.
    Owen, a middle-aged man who’s family is still in China. Amber, from Taiwan who is a Christian however is too overwhelmed with school and is passive in evangelism. Chelsea from China, Amber’s friend who is not a believer but asks very probing questions during our Bible studies. Seiya from Japan who is has an incredible amount of pressure from his family to excel at school. Coco, also not a Christian yet often asks for prayer for herself and her friend who has medical issues. And Sandra, from China, who is full of questions. There are others. Others you know personally who need Christ in their lives. Romans 8:26. Please pray.