MINISTRY//Don't mention Jesus

"Don't mention God or Jesus or prayer." 

That's what a Chinese friend told me. That’s what Chinese Christians are telling us as they change their internet messaging before March 1. 

China’s new internet restrictions

When the new month turns up on the calendar, China has decreed that, unless it comes from a government-approved organization, no one can mention anything about religion on the internet. China has been moving toward this law for many years. Now it appears determined to enforce this decree.

But Christians there are not simply giving up. That same friend in China has told me that Christians are working on code words they will use to replace normal Bible words. Of course, Christians in China have a history of developing workarounds for restrictions to practicing their faith. This time it will be no different. 

Pray now and keep praying

How the determination of Christians will match the determination of China remains to be seen.

But here's where you can help tip the balance. Add your prayers to those of thousands of others during 15 Days of Prayer -- then keep on praying. Daily prayers for 15 Days of Prayer are here. You can also download a free prayer guide for each day of a month. Tap here.