MINISTRY / God’s hand in China’s economy

15 Days of Prayer for China began on Saturday, February 10. Our ministry blog during the Chinese Spring Festival will highlight matters we ask you to keep in your prayers. For more information about 15 Days of Prayer tap here.

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Massive Chinese job loss

Chinese employees are losing their jobs. The mismanaged economy is to blame. Christians are among those laid off.

For example, China's immense real estate development company, Evergreen, is bankrupt. It owes investors $300 billion. In addition, The nation’s entire property market is in a slump and, the stock market recently lost $7 trillion in value. This is terrifying for China's economy.

Because Evergreen created so many related jobs, other businesses are closing. No new businesses are starting. Employees are without income.

Christians’ concern

A Confessional Lutheran pastor in China recounts how a number of his members have lost their jobs. It has created turmoil for them. His counseling load has increased.

"Why would God allow this to happen?" they ask him. "I do Bible study. I worship regularly. This isn't fair. How will I support my family? My church?"

A need for prayer

This downturn in China's economy will continue to impact the Chinese Church for the foreseeable future. A solution we might pray for is a return to economic health. But our Father probably has a different goal: leading his people to rely on his grace rather than their wealth. And then for his people to share that message of hope with the over 90% of fellow citizens who don't know about his grace.

The economic problems in China did not come as a surprise to our God. He has plans to bring eternal good out of it. Thank him for his wisdom. Ask that his grace comforts his people. Pray that his gospel comes to more because of this.

Thank you for your petitions during 15 Days of Prayer and beyond.