Category: Life Issues

3 Tips to Increase Your Income during this Pandemic | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on 3 Tips to Increase Your Income during this Pandemic | Beyond Small Talk

Are you looking for ways to increase your income even amid this pandemic? 

If yes, then you’re in the right place!

Here are Beyond Small Talk guests Vic and Avelynn Garcia to share with you 3 simple yet significant ways to help you learn more and earn more during this crisis. 

 1. Know God’s plan for your life

The well-known Jeremiah 29:11 verse says that God knows His plans for you, and His plans for you are good. But, do you know exactly what those plans are? 

Knowing God’s plans and purpose for your life will help you realize His will for your finances. And how would you do that? By calling unto God – as told by the succeeding verses:

“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 NIV)

“Instead of calling the Lord, we tend to call our friends or someone who would lend us money. God becomes our last resort,” says Avelynn, emphasizing the importance of seeking God first before venturing into any business.

Seek God and ask Him what venture you must take, when, where, and how you can take it.  

 2. Pray with all your heart

You don’t know what to do? Tell God. You have no idea how you would earn money? Tell God and ask Him for wisdom.

If you are wondering whether you should get a new job, put up a new business, or take another sideline – here’s the good news: God knows which path is best for you.

So before you plan your next step, Vic suggests that you pray with all your heart and ask, “God, can You tell me what You know so that I could do Your will?” He added, “With the limited time and resources that we have, we cannot afford to guess and commit many mistakes.” 

3. Do not forget to give tithes and offering

During a financial crisis, it might be extra challenging to let go of any peso. Yet according to Avelynn, “Most of the time, you go broke because you do not give to God.” 

When you allow God to intervene in your finances, He will surely bless your obedience. After all, all things work together for good to those who love God, isn’t? That is the same promise Malachi 3:10 brings: 

“‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.’” 

Are you asking God for wisdom about your finances?

Allow us to join you in prayers. You may call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Has this article blessed you? Let us know in the comments section below.

Stay tuned for the next webisodes of Beyond Small Talk on Saturdays, 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia YouTube channel and Facebook page. 

How Can I Come Back to God?

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Have you ever felt so distant from God? Or perhaps, you feel like you never had a relationship with Him? Was there a time when you don’t feel like going to church or praying and you don’t feel His presence anymore? If you now feel that unexplainable sorrow, frustration, and emptiness in your heart – God is inviting you to come back to Him. God cares for you. God loves you so much that He doesn’t want you to feel lost. He wouldn’t want you to tread in the wrong direction. Like the prodigal son mentioned in Luke 15 who realized a life without his father is not worth living, you might be at the same point in your life. You ask, “How can I come back to God?” To fully experience His fatherly love and come back to His loving arms, start with repentance. What is Repentance? Repentance is the starting point of your new life. It starts when you acknowledge that you have gone in the wrong direction, and would like to turn back now. Repentance is turning away from your sins, rebellious ways and reckless ways of this world, and turning back to the righteous ways of God. As you encounter God in prayers and in reading the Bible, you will know that His kindness is intended to turn you from sin (Romans 2:4). The good news is, God is so gracious and compassionate! He will not turn His face from you if you return to Him (2 Chronicles 30:9b, NIV). In fact, your Heavenly Father will meet you the same way the father in the parable met his prodigal son.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20, NIV)
This is God’s heart when you come to Him in repentance. Change of Heart and Your Daily Walk with God In repentance, God will also move to change your heart. 2 Corinthians 7:10 gives a glimpse of what real repentance is, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” Worldly sorrow is experiencing fear for having to suffer the consequences of sins, while Godly sorrow is feeling truly sorry for breaking God’s heart. It brings life-changing repentance. Unlike worldly sorrow that brings nothing but spiritual death, Godly sorrow produces fruit and real change in character and in the way you live. “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” (Matthew 3:8, NIV) And because only God can change hearts, repentance takes humility and faith. It is confessing and surrendering to God and believing that no one can cleanse you of your sins but Him. It is an everyday journey of seeking His ways, living in His presence, and living out His glorious purpose for your life. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9, NIV) Come to your Heavenly Father now. He is waiting to receive you with open arms. Do you want to repent and find your peace in God?   You may call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 and we would love to guide you and pray for you!

Feeling Stressed because of COVID-19? | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Feeling Stressed because of COVID-19? | Beyond Small Talk

Last 2018, the Philippines ranked as the 2nd most stressed and most emotional country in the world in the Gallup’s Annual Global Emotions report cited in an article entitled Philippines among most stressed, emotional countries — Gallup report by Gaea Katreena Cabico of Philstar.

If you are one of those that experience sudden bouts of irritability, low energy, chest pain, and rapid heartbeat among others, you might be experiencing stress.

Know that you are not alone in this. Stress is something that everyone deals with even before COVID-19’s spread, but not all take it seriously despite its debilitating effects in the physical body, mental health, and relationships.

Now that a pandemic is going on, levels of stress and anxiety doubled and tripled.

In this season of Beyond Small Talk, learn how to manage your stress and anxiety, gain wisdom on the cause and effects of stress, and get to know practical self-care tips that will surely help you improve your work-life balance.

All that and more with your hosts Paula Salvosa, a youth pastor and mental health advocate, Archie Dela Cruz, counselor at Amara Counseling & Training Center, and your resident host, Peter Kairuz, CBN Asia President & CEO.

Catch it every Saturday, 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Are you stressed with the changes brought by the ‘new normal’? We would like to pray for you. Whatever hurdles you may be challenged with, you don’t have to carry that burden alone. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send us a message on the CBN Asia Facebook page!

Ready for the ‘New Normal’? Here are 5 Tips to Help You Cope

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Ready for the ‘New Normal’? Here are 5 Tips to Help You Cope

As the government begins to ease imposed quarantine in some parts of the country, you might be wondering what lies ahead of you in a post-pandemic world.

Truth is, nobody knows what the future brings or when all of this would be over.

But, you don’t have to worry! You can still prepare yourself as you enter the ‘new normal’ or ­the state of being after a dramatic change has transpired.

Here are some tips to help you adjust and gradually embrace the changes in your environment.

Tip #1: Accept the ‘new normal’

Without a doubt, the pandemic is changing the country’s transportation, education, health, and economic system. It is changing the way people live, too.

The question is, “Are you ready for change?”

If you’re still having second thoughts, perhaps it’s about time to embrace the reality that is right before your eyes. Being resistant to change and feeling angry about the ‘new normal’ could leave you powerless in facing what lies ahead.

The book Understanding and Enhancing Psychological Acceptance says acceptance can be a powerful tool in coping with the inevitable distress and helps one achieve important behavior changes which may lead to an enhanced quality of life.

Tip #2: Be wise and obedient

As you set foot once again onto the busy roads, bear in mind that the threat of being exposed to the virus is still present. Stay informed about the rules implemented in your community and workplace, and obey them accordingly.

Tip #3: Learn and unlearn

From everyday wearing of face masks to social distancing, be ready to learn and practice new habits. For your safety, you might also want to unlearn or avoid old ways of greeting such as handshakes, hugs, and even the Filipino custom pagmamano.

Adapt new skills or behaviour and start looking for new options and opportunities. Are you ready for online classes or work from home setups? What are your plans for your business? Rethink, re-imagine and reinvent how post-quarantine life would be.

Tip #4: Take care of your mental health

Clinical Psychologist Steven Taylor in his The Guardian article said that 25% of respondents of his ongoing research have developed COVID stress syndrome. They worry about the social and economic impact of the virus, persistently check COVID-19-related news, and have nightmares and intense fears about becoming infected.

And while staying at home keeps people safer from the virus, the isolation, confinement, and social changes brought by the pandemic can cause anxiety during and after the quarantine.

The good news? You can cope! Asia Society suggests some tips to help you with your mental health: Breathe and stay calm, engage more in healthy activities, stay connected with family and friends, take breaks from breaking news, and take online consultations if needed. Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health.

Be more patient and kinder to people, too. Everyone is adjusting and coping with the ‘new normal’, just like you.

Tip#5: Make prayers part of your ‘new normal’

In a world where everything can change in just one snap of a finger, the love of God remains constant. He is always by your side, and no pandemic can change that.

Connect with Him through prayers and be in faith that your Heavenly Father hears your prayers.

May you feel the depth, extent, and height of His love in the ‘new normal’ and beyond!

Do you have ideas and visions of what the ‘new normal’ is going to look like? Share it with us in the comments below! Also, our Prayer Center would love to pray for you as you navigate these life changes. Feel free to send your prayer requests to the CBN Asia and The 700 Club Asia Facebook pages.

Stay safe!

Is Your Mental Health Affected by the COVID-19 Crisis? Beyond Small Talk Wants to Help You

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Is Your Mental Health Affected by the COVID-19 Crisis? Beyond Small Talk Wants to Help You

The #COVID19 is a crisis and everyone is trying their best to cope right now.

If you are unable to perform your everyday tasks, isolating yourself from work or your loved ones, or physically abusing yourself, you are not alone.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the “outbreak of #COVID19 crisis may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in both adults and children.”

If you are feeling this way, you don’t have to go through this alone.

Beyond Small Talk is here to help you.

Watch as CBN Asia President & CEO Peter Kairuz, actress and influencer Sonjia Calit-Kakilala, and counselor and psychotherapist Alain Dizon reads letters from people who went through mental health issues and pray for your mental wellbeing.

This is a safe place so don’t hesitate to connect with us and voice out your pains and troubles in life.

Join the online discussion and don’t miss the next webisode of  Beyond Small Talk as they talk about stress and how to overcome it on May 16, 2020 at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel. 

If you feel overwhelmed by the pressure brought by this pandemic, we want to pray for you. Just call 8737-0-700, or contact us through the CBN Asia Prayer Center or CBN Asia Facebook page.

Debunking 10 Common Myths on Mental Health – Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Debunking 10 Common Myths on Mental Health – Beyond Small Talk

Judged. Mocked. Discriminated. 

These are what people with mental health struggles deal with every day because of stigma. 

In fact, the Department of Health, as cited by Philippine Star in their article DOH: It’s time to talk about, address depression made an alarming statement, “We need to start talking about depression to end the stigma surrounding mental health because, when left unattended, it can lead to suicide.” 

Learn, unlearn, and relearn the truths about mental health so you can help your struggling friend, workmate, or family member.  

Here’s what Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Sonjia Calit, and psychotherapist Zenia Panahon have to say regarding 10 common myths surrounding mental illness. 

Myth #1: Mental health problems can only be experienced at a certain age. 

Truth: Mental health problems could manifest at any age. According to Mayo Clinic in their article Mental illness in children: Know the signs, children can develop the same mental illness such as anxiety disorders, Schizophrenia, and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and the like as adults. 

Myth #2: People with mental health struggles are violent and unpredictable.

Truth: Not all who have mental health problems act violently. It still varies on the condition and as MentalHealth.gov says in their article Mental Health Myths and Facts, “only 3%–5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals living with a serious mental illness.” 

Myth #3: People with mental health struggles cannot deal with jobs and/or school. 

Truth: A lot of people with mental health issues are highly functional and productive members of society. This is why you should be careful to watch out for warning signs of mental problems in your loved ones. 

Myth #4: Personality flaws are often caused by mental health issues. You could snap out of it over time. 

Truth: Mental health issues can be sourced from different factors such as genetics, environment, socioeconomic standing, and temperament, says Zenia Panahon. Also, you can’t just snap out of it. You need professional help and ongoing family support which are both vital toward healing. 

Myth #5: Once you experience mental health problems, you will never get out of them.   

Truth: Mental illness is treatable. If you seek help and gain support, you can recover. 

Myth #6: Taking the pill is the only answer. 

Truth: There are some who need medication, but others recover from mental health issues with the help of friends, family, and health professionals. 

Myth #7: It’s impossible to prevent mental illness. 

Truth: You cannot really control life’s trials and challenges, so there are times that it may push you to your limit. But, Mayo Clinic explains in Mental Illness that “If you have a mental illness, taking steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help keep your symptoms under control.” 

Myth #8: Mental illness is a form of brain damage. 

Truth: Brain damage is physical. Mental health is how you feel, behave, and think as a person. 

Myth #9: I can’t do anything for those who are experiencing mental health issues. 

Truth: You can do something about it by being a good support system to them. Show your support by learning how to deal with your family members who have mental health struggles and accompanying them when seeking professional help, Zenia Panahon explained. 

Myth #10: If I seek help, others would think of me as crazy. 

Truth: When you seek help, you are investing in yourself, says Zenia Panahon. 

Join the online discussion and don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk on May 9, 2020, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel. 

If you feel overwhelmed by challenges and don’t know how to handle them, we want to pray for you. Just call 8737-0-700, or contact us through the CBN Asia Prayer Center or CBN Asia Facebook page.

How Do We Submit to Authorities During Quarantine? | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on How Do We Submit to Authorities During Quarantine? | Beyond Small Talk

Recently, the government has issued an order to arrest those who will not cooperate with the mandatory quarantine guidelines in the effort to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

Some people might find it hard to obey the authorities’ protocols, despite health risks and potential arrest, because of several reasons.

Breaking the law, however, doesn’t coincide with what the Bible teaches in 1 Peter 2:13-15 (ESV), “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.”

Knowing that, how do you submit to governing authorities especially in a crisis like this?

Learn from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Jericho Arceo, and Paul Herrera.

Be a good citizen

You are called to be a responsible and wise Filipino citizen. You are called to follow the rules and regulations and submit to the authorities.

As Paul Herrera said, “Whether you like the leaders or not, you have to obey the law.” Some people might find it hard to obey rules during a national crisis, particularly when their views differ from the governing authorities. However, disobedience might do more harm than good.

You can still air out your grievances. No one is withholding you because speaking your heart out is your right. However, in doing so, be careful to discern that what comes out of your mouth will not be dishonoring to the leaders of the land and will give glory to God.

As Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”

In the end, the leaders are accountable to God.

Be faithful in what you can do

Instead of pinpointing and blaming, you can be diligent in fulfilling your role as a good citizen.

One of the many ways is to help front liners who battle against the pandemic. At the same time, praying for the country and the leaders would also mean a lot!

Remember that change starts in you and that the safety of your loved ones and neighbors is in your hands. You can protect them by being obedient citizens.

The Philippines is not a hopeless country.

God promised in Deuteronomy 28:1-3 (NIV), “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country.”

How has this episode helped you? Share it in the comment section below!

Also, do not forget to watch and join the online discussion on the next episode of Beyond Small Talk on Saturday, April 25, 7:00 pm at The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

03202020_Would You Give Even When You’re in Need

Would You Give Even When You’re in Need?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Would You Give Even When You’re in Need?

Drowning in 13-million debt, Pinkki Sempio replied a resounding faith-filled “yes” to that question.

As a businesswoman, Pinkki learned to do her best to protect and grow her business.

However, amendments in her dealings’ contracts resulted in a huge amount of debt. Her loans from the bank started piling up and she cannot pay her employees on time.

Worst, Pinky came to a point that she cannot provide all her children’s needs anymore.

“I literally had nothing left. But whenever I look at my children and see them praying, I realize that there are a lot of people who still love and care for me,” Pinkki said, recalling one of the darkest moments in her life.

Distressed and worried about her company’s imminent bankruptcy, Pinkki called to God and remembered her father’s words before the latter passed away.

“He told me that there are 3 secrets in life. Number 1 would be love for God; number 2 is hard work; and number 3 is charity.” Pinkki held on to those words deep in her heart.

She started pawning her sets of jewelry, and donated part of it to CBN Asia in faith. She shared that she was inspired how the show, The 700 Club Asia, helps transform lives of its viewers like her, and how Operation Blessing reaches her underprivileged kababayans.

“I watched and saw Operation Blessing reached those who are difficult to reach. They would hike the mountains and cross the rivers. [Through the show], I am also reminded constantly that God can do miracles in my life too,”

Though she had too many needs of her own, she still thought about giving – doing it in faith and out of love.

In her life, Pinkki embraces God’s Word in Psalm 23:1-3, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”

God blessed her faithfulness! After a while, Pinkki was able to sell a property for 31 million pesos – enough to settle all her debts and start her life anew.

“If there’s a word beyond ecstatic, that would be it. My joy was indescribable because God has given me more than what I prayed for! As long as you believe that God is alive, there is hope,” Pinkki expressed.

She also thanked the show for encouraging its viewers to live out God’s purpose for their lives, “For all I’ve been through, thank you, The 700 Club Asia for reminding us that we really have to serve God and be kingdom-builders.”

Are you too caught up in your own needs that you tend to forget others?

The Word of God produced generosity in Pinkki’s life. She obeyed and allowed herself to be used as a vessel of God’s provision to the needy even when she, too, was in grave need.

Your heavenly father knows when you give out of love, and that love is in its purest form when you give out of your need. It’s the kind of giving that pleases Him.

Do you want to start your journey to generosity? The Operation Blessing is currently mobilizing efforts on COVID-19 emergency response. Visit their website and Facebook page to know how you can help.

(DSWD Authority/Solicitation Permit No.:DSWD-SB-SP-00018-2020)

Do You Want To Make Your Marriage Stronger? | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Do You Want To Make Your Marriage Stronger? | Beyond Small Talk

Marriage requires hard work. There will be bumps along the way and battles you have to win together.

When the road gets tough, do not give up.

You can make your marriage stronger and rekindle the romance by following these tips from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter and Christine Kairuz.

1. Practice God’s command to “Die to yourself.”

It means “when we die to ourselves, we crucify our pride and open our hearts to the healing, reconciling, and restoring love of God,” says Jennifer Slattery in her article What Does Dying to Yourself in Marriage Really Mean? in Crosswalk.

It is daily dying to your own will and allowing the Word of God to fully function in your life. As the Bible says in Ephesians 5, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord…. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. (https://fmcg-viet.com) ”

So, husbands, reassure your wives of your love, loyalty, and faithfulness. When you do that, it will be easier for your wife to respond with respect and submit to your leadership.

2. Always consider each other.

Philippians 2:3 in ESV said, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

It is not about your own interest anymore. Remember, as said in Mark 10:8, when you get married, the 2 of you become 1 flesh. It means that everything you and your spouse own becomes 1 – even your finances.

Don’t give your spouse any reason to doubt you. Combine your money together. Don’t keep a secret bank account because everything needs to be laid on the table.

Moreover, husbands, make it a habit to consider your wife when you plan. Your wife has to know your whereabouts and the people you’re with. It is your way of valuing and respecting her as your wife.

3. Speak words of life to your spouse.

“When you read God’s Word, you will realize more and more that words matter,” Peter Kairuz exclaimed.

It says in Proverbs 18:21 NIV, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

So, what words are you saying to your spouse every day?

Take time to reflect and ask God to give you the grace to obey His Word. Remember tip number 1, practice God’s command to “Die to yourself.”

We want to pray for you and your marriage! Just call CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.

Stay tuned for more wisdom-filled webisodes from Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!