Prayer: Where the Real Battles Are Fought
by Andy H.

I've observed a lot of spiritual growth and ministry for Mulberry, the man I have discipled for four years. It is a privilege to see with my own eyes the fruit that is born from him. I never know when, how or by whom intercession was made on Mulberry's behalf back here in the States, yet I know that you are praying. Only the work of the Holy Spirit initiated by prayer warriors on the home front can explain many of the things I have witnessed.

Still, I think I can point out a few benchmarks in Mulberry's spiritual maturity and some factors that might have mobilized many to pray:

• Spring 1996—Several newsletters were written, and a Xenos supporter came to China for a visit. About eight months later, Mulberry became a believer.
• Summer 1997—I returned to Columbus on home assignment and spoke about Mulberry. A few months later, Mulberry was successfully grounded in the local church.
• Summer 1998—Several newsletters were written. A few months later, Mulberry had led about five people at work to Christ and was conducting weekly Bible studies with them.
• Fall 1998—Another Xenos supporter visited China. Soon after this, I began to lose count of the number of people Mulberry had led to the Lord.

Now after three years, Mulberry has accomplished more ministry with his own people than I could have accomplished in a lifetime. But, the focus of this writing is to encourage all of you involved in prayer for Mulberry and for all missionary efforts. I think our shared ministry is similar to Peter's and the praying church recorded in Acts 12:3-16. The church prayed diligently in hope of results, while Peter witnessed God's response to those prayers. May it continue to be this way as you and I continue to co-labor, through Mulberry and many others, for God to grow His Church in China.