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Chinese Millennials Put College on Hold to Seek God in the U.S.

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American high school graduates aren't the only ones who sometimes take a "gap year" before entering college. 

Inspired by stories of Chinese Christians persecuted for their faith, some Chinese Millennials are putting college on hold to seek God in the United States. 
     
Sarah Liu is one of many Christians in China who almost lost her life because of her faith in Christ. Sarah's faith journey has motivated some young Chinese Christians to grow deeper in their faith. 

She shared her testimony at a recent Voice of the Martyrs conference.  She told how she was arrested for helping publish an underground Christian newspaper.  She was imprisoned and tortured both physically and mentally. With her feet chained, Sarah was beaten severely and forced to walk in her own blood across a prison cell. 

 Even though Sarah was locked up for 6 years, today, she doesn't hate the Chinese government. Instead, she prays for them until they find Jesus Christ. "Hatred doesn't solve anything," Sarah said. "Because I love Jesus, He teaches me not to hate my enemies, but pray for them. I know one day God will turn their hearts around. Prayers will be answered," she said.

Sarah also encouraged conference attendees to visit China to teach people about Jesus. "There is a famine in China, not of food, not of money, but of the truth," Sarah told the group. "I encourage everyone to pack up Bibles and bring them to the hungry people," she said.

 Carina Shi was born into a Chinese military family.  She was 14-years old she was introduced to Jesus in Beijing.  It was the first time she met God's people and read the Bible. She was excited to find out what Bible is all about. 
 
 "When I read the Bible for the first time with Americans in China, I was very curious about all the stories," Carina said.  "We read about the miracles Jesus did, and my American friends shared how God changed their lives. My eyes got watery while I listened," she recalled.

After becoming a Christian, Carina longed for a deeper understanding of God. Even though she was accepted by several Chinese universities, Carina believed God was prompting her to study in the United States. Today, Carina is actively involved in her church's youth ministry. She prays for persecuted Chinese Christians and uses their stories to inspire her fellow church members.
 
 "I am truly grateful about everything I have today," Carina said. "I am deeply encouraged by the stories of those persecuted Chinese brothers and sisters. I want to continue to pray for them and I know God will deliver them," she added.

Even though many older Chinese reject Christianity, the faith has taken hold among Millennials, and many Chinese youth are passionate about knowing Jesus.  

The overcoming faith of Christians like Sarah Liu has inspired young people like Carina to learn more about the gospel. They're also moved to share their faith with others and through their efforts they believe China will soon become the world's largest Christian nation.

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About The Author

Mengfei
Li