Prayer for China amid increasing religious persecution

I apologize that you have not received prayers for the past couple weeks. I was overseas and had unforeseen technical difficulties. I trust you continued to pray to change the world. -SZ

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Lord God, we pray for China, which received a strong condemnation from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). While China has been named for 20 years in the USCIRF report of nations highest in persecution, it is noteworthy that this year's report was particularly strong in its criticism of the nation. With China shutting underground churches, jailing pastors and arresting human rights activists, the country seems to be moving backward, rather than forward, toward freedom. Lord God, we pray for Xi Jinping and the rest of the Chinese government. Give them clear eyes to see what is best for their people, their nation. Help them recognize the value of freedom of religion and the support of human rights. May those believers who find themselves persecuted have courage and supernatural strength to not only endure, but to be lights for you. As the psalmist wrote, put their feet on a rock and give them a firm place to stand. Put a new song in their mouths, a hymn of praise to their God. Protect those who need special protection. Reassure those who need extra reassurance. Despite the persecution, may your church thrive under these negative circumstances, as has been the case throughout history time and time again. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.