Category: Prayer Counseling

choosing a church - why join a church

Choosing a Church

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti

So, you have decided to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and you want to grow deeper in Him. While it is true that there are many ways for you to grow spiritually, finding a church that is right for you is one of the most important decisions you need to make.

Now, you might be asking, is there a right way to choose a church?

Is church even necessary?

Why a church is essential to your spiritual growth 

The first thing that would come to your mind when you hear the word church is probably a building, a location, or a denomination. But the church that the Bible describes is more than that.

The Bible refers to the church as the people, a community of believers who are followers of Jesus Christ. The church is the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27).

Church is necessary because it’s a place of worship, fellowship, a place to study His Word, and ultimately, a place to fulfill the Great Commission. Hebrews 10:25 gives another reason why the church is essential to your spiritual growth.

“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:25 ESV)

Why join a church 

Following Jesus and obeying His teachings are shared goals. It means you need a spiritual family to help you grow and become spiritually mature.

Through the church, Christians are encouraged to bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:1-3) and to uplift each other by sharing stories of God’s faithfulness.

How to choose a church that is right for you 

Choosing a church that is right for you is something that should be done with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To help you start, here are some important factors to keep in mind as you make this very important decision in your life. 

1. Doctrine 

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a church is its accordance with the Bible. Select a church that bases all its teachings on the Word of God and believes in the power of the Holy Spirit and salvation through Jesus. You can check this in the church’s mission and vision statement and in their statement of faith.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV) 

2. Leadership 

Do the pastors and leaders demonstrate a lifestyle you would want to follow? While not everyone is perfect, pastors and church leaders are called to lead the congregation. They should be Biblically qualified leaders, spiritually strong, and have a firm hold on the biblical truths of their faith. 

“For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.  He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” (Titus 1:7-9 ESV) 

3. Ministry 

A good church encourages its members to serve and use their gifts to build up and equip one another.

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies–in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV)

4. Fellowship

Christian fellowship is essential to spiritual growth. Many aspects of your spiritual life depend on being together with other believers to encourage, teach, serve, and share life together through weekly services, or bible study groups.

These activities cultivate strong relationships with fellow believers and help deepen your faith in Christ.

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24 ESV)

5. Church Size

Would you opt for a large church or a small one? The answer will still depend on your spiritual needs and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Both can faithfully uphold the same truth and address your spiritual needs. Smaller churches tend to be more intimate and can offer personal care and accountability to their members. Meanwhile, larger churches can minister to a broader range of people and offer diverse programs to the congregation.

Above all, as a Christian, you belong to a church.  You are part of the community of believers whose ultimate purpose is to serve, love, and worship Jesus Christ and make Him known throughout the world. So, choose a church where you feel God’s presence the most!

Do you want to connect to a church near you?

If you are looking for a church, the CBN Asia Prayer Center has hundreds of faithful church partners who can help you live a fruitful Christian life. Call us at 8-737-0-700 so we can connect you to the nearest church in your area.

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Are You Thinking about Suicide?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Are You Thinking about Suicide?

If you are, then you can relate to the story of Marinel Ulang. 

Depression was commonplace in Marinel’s world when she was first diagnosed with it in 2017.  

Thankfully, things got better somehow. She managed to overcome, but as the pandemic started to raze the country, Marinel lost her job as a freelance bookkeeper while her father was hospitalized due to severe asthma. 

Her father was placed under intensive care and was automatically tagged as Person Under Investigation (PUI) for COVID-19 because of his respiratory illness. Jobless with an ailing father and increasing hospital bills, Marinel found herself slowly spiraling into hopelessness once again. 

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As days went by, her thoughts became darker. 

“I was thinking of ways to end it all. When I saw a knife in our house, I was back to the nightmare I experienced in 2017. I was back and I needed help,” Marinel said while holding back tears. Suicidal thoughts started to engulf her. 

At the seeming end of her rope, Marinel came across a post about the CBN Asia Prayer Center on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page. 

She tried to contact the Prayer Center through Skype and received a call that changed her life. 

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“I received a call from a prayer counselor. That time, my mind was a mess. But what she told me struck me. She said, ‘God loves you and you’re not alone in your struggles. God will send someone to help you. God is always there for you,” Marinel recalled. 

Who would have thought that because of those simple yet assuring words, Marinel will experience God’s love? 

It gave her the strength to hold on to life and believe that God has a greater plan for her future.  

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He surrounded her with people who supplied food and helped her settle their hospital bills. Through God’s grace, her father recovered and is now strong and healthy. Marinel is also blessed with a job that enables her to provide for her loved ones. 

It was the glimmer of hope that she’s been waiting for. 

“No matter how dark it is, God is there. He will send people to help you. My experience made me realize that God’s love will never forsake us, so why would I be afraid?” Marinel gladly shared. 

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Do you feel like you are at the end of your rope? Do you feel like you have lost all hope to live anymore? Are you thinking about suicide? 

Hang in there. 

No matter what you are going through, know that your pain is temporary, and God’s love is permanent. Wherever you are at right now, God wants to meet you because He knows your situation. You may not see it right now, but you have an assurance that He loves and cares for you, and He has greater plans for your future. 

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) 

Hope is God’s promise for you. 

Receive His hope by visiting this page or calling the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700. You may also reach us through Skype (The700clubasia), and we would love to encourage you through prayers. 

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Do You Believe that God is Bigger than Autism?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Do You Believe that God is Bigger than Autism?

Yes, and if you believe in God’s healing, then you will receive. 

This is what Daisy Callanta and her son Josiah witnessed in their lives. 

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Just like all children, Josiah was born an exceptional boy. But when he stopped talking and responding when his parents called his name at the age of 2, Daisy knew that something was wrong. 

They took him to a doctor and in just 5 minutes, they found out that their worst fears have now become a fact. Josiah was diagnosed with Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Pervasive Development Delay (PDD). 

They were told that Josiah was “zero to non-functional”. They were told there was no cure. 

“At first I was angry at myself,” Daisy recalled. “I was angry at my husband, at the world and I was angry at God. I said if God really exists and He’s loving and kind, why would such a loving, cute boy be exceptional, then suddenly not? It just doesn’t make sense.” 

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Hoping to find some sense into what’s happening to her beloved son, Daisy buried herself into research and started looking for support groups. But the more she discovered about autism, the more she felt hopeless and alone. 

Soon after, the marriage of Daisy and her husband suffered. He sought comfort in the arms of another woman and even became physically abusive to his wife. Their eldest, on the other hand, tried to find comfort from his friends and became rebellious for a while. 

Daisy found nowhere to turn to while all these were happening at the same time. 

“I was tired of fighting,” she recalled. 

Like Daisy, have you ever found yourself in a seemingly hopeless situation? Where do you seek strength in the midst of uncertainty? 

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Amidst the hopelessness and anger, Daisy encountered the transforming love of God. Daisy knew that after attending a prayer gathering, God touched her heart and helped her forgive her husband.  

“The Lord showed me that love and forgiveness are the keys for the divine kingdom to open. So when I started being close to the Lord, the battle now is on bended knees,” she said. 

Daisy and her husband sought counseling, anger management sessions, and spiritual advice left and right to restore their family. She allowed herself to forgive and heal. She believed that God could heal Josiah from autism. 

Little did she know, her personal encounter with Jesus will lead to a supernatural experience. 

Six days after her encounter, God led Daisy to pray over her kids. But as she softly laid her hands on Josiah to pray, his reaction shocked her. 

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“I touched him lightly, but he suddenly pushed me and said, ‘You’re hurting me don’t touch me!’ The Lord said, ‘Just touch because there’s a spirit of infirmity.’ So I started praying and praying, but Josiah was fighting it off!” Daisy said. 

The mother also testified that while praying, they heard a loud thud on their roof and shaking of their window, as if somebody wanted to get in. Knowing that the enemy is at work, Daisy continued to lay her hands on Josiah, and fervently prayed from dusk till dawn. 

The next morning, miracles started to unfold before their eyes. 

“God spoke audibly to me, ‘Daisy, Josiah is healed. Autism is not from me, it’s from the enemy. All sicknesses came from the enemy to put sicknesses to the lives of many,’” Daisy shared. 

Boldly believing in the power of Jesus, Daisy texted her son’s specialist, “Think me crazy, but the Lord just told me Josiah’s healed and I receive it in faith.” 

To which the specialist affirmed medically, delivering the great news that there is no trace of autism at all in Josiah. 

It was a miracle, and they’re up for another one. At five years old, Josiah suddenly spoke. 

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Daisy recalls the scene vividly, “We were in a cable car and he saw birds flying. He pointed and flapped his hands. We were all surprised because Josiah spoke all of a sudden, ‘Mommy, look! Birds are flying.’” 

It was a joyous moment for their whole family. From zero to non-functional, Josiah became highly functional. When asked about his healing journey, Josiah answered, “I remember the day when I got healed. I was feeling happy.” 

He is now living proof that there is no sickness nor situation that the Lord could not carry. A living proof that God is bigger than autism. 

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Being a witness of God’s supernatural healing, Daisy was moved to be an evangelist and founded Jesus HUGS Ministries, an NGO which aims to show God’s love to people and communities. 

If you or your loved one is on the autism spectrum, Daisy has a message for you. 

“There’s nothing impossible with the Lord. Never lose hope because, in God, there is hope. If we believe in faith that there is healing, healing can be received. The healing is not about the Lord not wanting to give, it’s about us not being able to receive.” 

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Do you find it hard to believe that God is bigger than autism? 

This Autism Awareness Month, know that there is supernatural power in the name of Jesus! Pray and believe that He loves and cares for you. Surrender and see that you will experience His goodness personally! 

“But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 ESV) 

If you or your loved one is on the autism spectrum, it would be our joy to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

Has this story blessed you? Allow others to be blessed too by sharing this article with your social media accounts. 

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Keep the Environment Thriving even during the Pandemic! Here’s How

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Keep the Environment Thriving even during the Pandemic! Here’s How

Whether you’re a nature-lover or not, every person on this planet is called to care for the environment. 

So how should you care for God’s creation during a pandemic? How can you keep the environment thriving even when – and especially when – times are challenging? 

Consider these practical tips: 

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  1. Respect the environment like how you respect your body

There’s a greater connection between your body and the environment than you think. Both your body and the earth were made to glorify God (Proverbs 16:4). Likewise, both will perish one day. 

However, the end of your body and earth doesn’t make either of them worthless. Both will perish, but both are precious. 

That’s why it is important to take care of the environment the same way you take care of your own body – with love, accountability, and respect. 

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  1. Turn that respect into action

God is so good that He richly provides us with everything to enjoy (1 Timothy 6:17 ESV). This earth – this home, is a good gift from above. Along with that gift is the calling to protect it for His glory and for the generations to come. 

So now is the time to take bold steps to protect this planet! If you have the heart to take part, the Earth Day organization suggests that you go plant-based, switch to green power, and lessen carbon emission by reading instead of streaming.  

Apart from these, you can start a mini garden in your yard, manage your wastes properly, and support environmental advocacies. The list goes on, but it all boils down to one point: loving God’s creation is not just a “thinking” thing – it’s a “doing” thing. 

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  1. Encourage others to do the same 

Due to the pandemic, families are stuck at home. However, the deterioration rate of your bigger home is ever-increasing. 

Thankfully, your influence can turn things around. Yes, you. 

You can stir up one another to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24 ESV). You can encourage your family and friends to love and do good things for the planet: introduce them to your favorite eco-friendly products, or share relevant content on your social media accounts. 

When this pandemic is over and you get to reunite with your friends again, let them see that you’re using reusable containers. The act may seem simple, but it can kindle a fascination and passion for the environment. 

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  1. Pray for the earth and every person on it 

God’s children are at a crossroads where they can choose to cooperate in saving this planet or carry on regardless. Sadly, not everyone is open to safeguarding the creation. 

In the words of natural historian David Attenborough, “No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.” 

That’s why praying for the people’s hearts is essential. Pray that your brothers and sisters in Christ will also be moved to intentionally care for the surroundings. 

Pray that one day, the 7 billion people on this planet will wake up and see God’s love through the environment, and they will reflect that love back to His creation. 

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It may seem hard to save the environment, but isn’t it that success is the sum of small efforts done together by people who care? 

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you; 

    the birds of the air, and they will tell you; 

ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you; 

    and the fish of the sea will declare to you. 

Who among all these does not know 

    that the hand of the Lord has done this? 

In his hand is the life of every living thing 

    and the breath of every human being.” (Job 12:7-10 NRSV) 

 

We would love to join you in praying for yourself and others this Earth Day. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you. 

If this article has helped or inspired you in any way, share it on your social media accounts so others will be inspired, too. 

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Feeling Stressed Right Now? Here are some Tips to Help You Manage Stress

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Feeling Stressed Right Now? Here are some Tips to Help You Manage Stress

Do you feel overwhelmed, burned out, or extremely stressed? 

If so, you are not alone. 

Many people, even those who identify themselves as Christians, can still have days that are harder than others. Some even feel a certain kind of guilt whenever they are anxious or stressed out, falling prey to the fallacy that once you become a believer or follower of Jesus, you will be spared from feeling stress or even sorrow. 

But truth be told, life has stress. And stress is a valid feeling! 

Thankfully, your faith can help you cope with stress. Here are some practical tips from the Word of God on how you can better manage your stress levels: 

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  1. Learn when to say “No” or “Not Now” 

Do you allow yourself to be dictated by the timeline of others? 

In John 11:3, Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus – wanting Him to heal their sick brother, Lazarus. Although it was a clear emergency and Jesus loves Lazarus, Jesus stayed where He was for the next 2 days (John 11:5-6). Further in the story, Jesus brought Lazarus back to life. 

Stress mostly stems out from pressure or fear of disappointing other people. But like Jesus, the schedule and emergency of others don’t have to pressure or weigh you down. Simply saying, “No, I can’t do this,” or “I can’t do this right now,” will help you manage or even avoid stress. 

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  1. Remember your purpose and priorities

When you forget God’s purpose for your life in this season, life’s hurdles can easily overwhelm you.  

The crowd followed Jesus wherever He went because they wanted to hear His teachings and experience His healing. But in Mark 1:38, Jesus said that He wanted to go “somewhere else” to preach the gospel. He knew that is what He was called to do. 

“Jesus replied, ‘Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.’” (Mark 1:38 NIV) 

A pandemic, financial crisis, or family problem could single-handedly stress you out and even make you do things that are not related to God’s calling for your life. To manage stress, list down your purpose and priorities then ask God to help you focus on what truly matters. 

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  1. Seek help

Not wanting everyone to know your struggles or see your weak side is understandable. If you’re one breath away from burnout, here’s something to comfort you: You don’t have to go through everything alone. 

God wants you to seek help from others and trust that they can really support you. He showed this trait when He called His 12 disciples and gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease (Matthew 10:1 NKJV). 

Jesus could’ve done all the miracles but chose not to. Instead, He empowered His disciples to work miracles. In the same way, trust that other people can help you! Reach out to someone and ask for help when you need it. 

Above all, seek help from your Heavenly Father and trust that He will help you (Isaiah 41:10). 

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  1. Schedule your rest days

The Bible recounts a busy ministry time for Jesus and His disciples that they didn’t even have time to eat. Though there was still a lot to be done, Jesus did not force themselves to keep going. He took the disciples to a quiet place to rest. 

“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” (Mark 6:31 NIV) 

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Jesus needed rest and so do you. So don’t stress that much! Schedule a time for rest and relaxation without feeling guilty. Go to your quiet place. Take days off and allow yourself to breathe, recharge, and rest in the presence of God. 

Rest is sacred, so rest well and rest intentionally! 

Are you stressed?  

Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and our trained prayer counselors are willing to comfort you through prayers. 

If you are looking for a good docufilm to watch while you rest, we’ve got something for you! For your gift of Php 1000, you will receive exclusive online access to Whose Land Is it? – a two-part special examining the facts behind both the Jewish and Arab claims to Israel. Visit whoselandisit.cbnasia.org  for more details. 

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Who is the Holy Spirit and What is His Role in Your Life?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Who is the Holy Spirit and What is His Role in Your Life?

You’ve probably encountered the term Holy Spirit many times as part of the scriptures you read, or prayers and songs you heard.  

Most of the time, the ideas about the Holy Spirit are boxed in the image of a dove, smoke, or even of a ghost.  

But who really is the Holy Spirit? What are the roles of the Holy Spirit in your life as a follower of Jesus Christ?  

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Who is the Holy Spirit?  

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity with the coeternal Father and His son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, the Holy Spirit is not another God or less than God. The Holy Spirit is God.  

This truth is emphasized in the great commission when Jesus stressed the equal importance of the Trinity as the disciples proclaim the Good News of salvation among the people of the earth.  

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19 NIV)   

But you may be wondering, who then is the person referred to as the Holy Ghost, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit of Christ, or Spirit in the Bible?   

All these terms are interchangeable and still point to the Holy Spirit which can be observed in Romans 8:9, “You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”  

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 What is the role of the Holy Spirit in your life?  

Knowing the Holy Spirit means understanding that the Lord is always with you and present in your life. The Holy Spirit acts as an ever-present representative of God within you in your walk with Him.  

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV)  

Jesus emphasized before He ascended to heaven, that the Holy Spirit will be with you to help you do things according to the will of God.   

But there’s more to that.  

The Holy Spirit is giving you not only the ability to deny sin but also the gift to live holy lives. 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 NIV)  

The fruits of the Holy Spirit will guide you to have a life that mirrors the values of Jesus Christ.  

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How do you encounter the Holy Spirit?  

The Holy Spirit, indeed, offers to bear great fruits in you. But these fruits will never be possible if you have not personally encountered the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus said in John 3:5, “No one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.”  

On top of all the good things that the Holy Spirit has to give is the greatest gift you could ever receive – the baptism of the Holy Spirit which is the gift of salvation.  

This is a promised gift to those who are willing to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. 

“Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.” (Galatians 3:14 NLT)  

The power of the Holy Spirit will enable you to live as a new creation with a new identity, free from sin and shame, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the grace of God, the Father. 

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Do you want to encounter the Holy Spirit today? 

As Acts 2:38 says, “Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”  The Holy Spirit is always with you – guiding and leading you to the unending grace of God, displayed on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.  

May you commit your life to the guidance of the Holy Spirit not just today, but forever!  

Do you want to live a life that is filled by the Holy Spirit? Don’t hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray with you. 

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Do You Want to Receive God’s Comfort?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Do You Want to Receive God’s Comfort?

When Cecille Marasigan prayed for God’s comfort, she received it and more. 

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She experienced God’s faithfulness when she flew to Saudi Arabia and served as a nurse for 17 long years. Through that noble job, Cecille was able to provide a comfortable life for her children and allowed her to support her parents in the Philippines. 

However, in 2014, she had to let go of her growing career to take care of her beloved father who suffered from a stroke. 

Like Cecille, have you ever had to choose between career and family? If so, then you can relate to her story. 

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“I was taking care of other patients, but I was not able to do it for my own father. So, I had to go home to take care of him,” Cecille recalled. She and her 3 children flew back to the country while her husband remained in Jeddah to support the family.  

They were trying to make ends meet, but they have scraped out what was left of their savings when their children got sick. Their son suffered severe asthma while their daughter was brought to the hospital due to stomach problems. 

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“It was the most challenging season of my life. We came to a point when we only have Php 3,000 in our wallets,” she narrated. That moment, she was left torn and wondering how they would stretch their resources for the medical expenses of her ailing father and children. 

Where do you find comfort during times of trouble? 

Cecille found comfort in the arms of her loving God. 

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During one of her sleepless nights, she chanced upon The 700 Club Asia and was blessed by how God used the ministry in reaching out to people in need.  

Cecille realized that God has comforted and sustained them against all odds. With the limited resources that she had, she trusted God’s, unlimited love. 

She prayed and immediately took out Php 1,000 from their remaining budget and donated to CBN Asia, “I learned that as you give, you glorify God. Gratefulness overflowed in my heart.” 

Although she was not expecting anything in return, a mighty rain of blessings started to pour into their lives.  

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God healed Cecille’s loved ones and opened a business opportunity for their family. He also blessed them with a product center of herbal supplements and a health and wellness clinic. Her husband already went home because they even surpassed their earnings while they were working abroad! 

Having experienced God’s comforting love, Cecille can reflect that comfort to the people around her. And as she continues to give, lead, and care for her neighbors’ well-being, she also learns that God’s love is indescribable because it has no limits. 

“It’s a joy for me to help. God’s mathematical equation when it comes to giving is multiplication. The more we give, all the more will He course His blessings through us,” Cecille ended. 

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Are you struggling to believe that God can comfort you? 

Whenever you feel that way, you can always come back to this truth: His comforting, saving love came down to reconcile you with the Heavenly Father, so you can experience the fullness of His grace. And through trials, God’s compassion for you will always remain.  

No love compares to that. 

“‘Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,’ says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10 NIV) 

It is our joy to comfort you through prayers. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700. 

If you are also moved to support the ministry, you may do so through this link.  

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Are You Feeling Insecure?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Are You Feeling Insecure?

Kristine Briones knows exactly how you feel. 

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She too, struggled with insecurities and low self-esteem when she was bullied by other kids at such a young age. The harsh words they hurled towards her carved a huge impact on how Kristine sees herself.  

“I was bullied when I was young. They used to call me names such as “flirt” and told me that I do not belong with them. I felt that I was not beautiful and there was no place for me anywhere,” Kristine recalled. 

Deprived of love and acceptance from her peers, Kristine grew up longing for security. So when love knocked at her door, Kristine willingly let him in. 

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She thought that maybe, this romantic relationship can give her the sense of worth and belongingness that she was craving. Maybe, this relationship can make her feel safe and secure. 

Maybe, just maybe, this person can fill the void in her heart. 

Kristine admitted, “I fell in love with this man. He is a Christian like me, so I thought I can be secure in this relationship. I had that kind of mindset before.” 

How about you, have you ever tried to find security in your relationships? How did things turn out? 

As for Kristine, things did not turn out the way she hoped. 

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Her then-boyfriend had to move abroad, leaving her crushed and broken. In just one snap of a finger, all her hopes came crashing down. 

While trying to nurse a broken heart all by herself, Kristine chanced upon CBN Asia’s program, Superbook. Who would have thought that an animated show for children would speak to her, right? 

“It was an episode about ‘What’s the Isaac of your life?’ God rebuked me that I am overly attached to somebody else, so even when it’s painful, I had to surrender the relationship to Him,” Kristine shared.  

Not long after, she saw the hosts of The 700 Club Asia on her television screen, praying for a brokenhearted person who needs healing. 

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“They asked, ‘What’s one thing that you need to surrender? That moment, I found hope and realized that I can rely on God,” Kristine said, sharing that putting all her faith in God helped her face all her insecurities. 

As a chapter of her life closes, doors of opportunities opened. Kristine got into acting and started appearing as a television extra. She also starred in TV commercials of famous brands and landed roles in reenactments of The 700 Club Asia. 

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More than finding her security, worth, and personal healing, Kristine is delighted that her acting stint with The 700 Club Asia became a way for her to share God’s Word with her loved ones and viewers. 

“The best thing Jesus did for me, is He allowed me to have a relationship with Him. He made me dependent on Him. Despite what the world tells me – that I am not good nor beautiful enough, He appointed me to this industry. God has a purpose, and though I had fears, the Lord replaced my fear with my love for the craft,” she ended. 

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Are you feeling insecure? 

Know that even when other people push you away, God will always welcome you with a loving embrace.  

And whenever you feel insecure, take a deep breath, and remember this truth: You are beautiful just the way you are because you were created by a beautiful God. You were made to be free and confident of who you are in Jesus Christ! 

We are here to pray for you. Do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

Has this story blessed you? Find out how you can show your support to the ministry by clicking this link. 

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How do You Pray for Healing?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on How do You Pray for Healing?

How do you pray for the sick? 

You might have uttered a couple of healing prayers for a sick loved one or even prayed them for yourself. But is there a way to make your prayer more effective? 

Discover how you can pray for healing today, from CBN Asia’s Holy Week special: Tanikala presents Isa Pang Hiling: 

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1. Ask God for help

JarolynMoulder, played by actress Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz, saw her world turn upside down when her husband and son suffered from COVID-19. Although she believes that she is a strong person, she surrendered everything to God in that particular situation and covered their family in prayers. 

Like Carolyn, acknowledge that God is in control of everything. Humble yourself before Him and ask for His help. Allow God’s mercy to surround you and your loved one, and watch healing unfold before your eyes. 

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV) 

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2. Pray in the name of Jesus

If you know God’s character, you know that He wants to heal and restore people. Your Heavenly Father is the Lord who heals (Exodus 15:26). 

In Isa Pang Hiling, Jarolyn believed that there is power in the name of Jesus, so she kept on praying in His name. She wanted her beloved son to be spared from death, and God heard her constant prayers. 

You have an assurance that Jesus will do whatever you ask in His name (John 14:13). So whenever and wherever you are, pray in faith – and pray in His mighty name! 

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3. Seek God, not the reward 

Who wants a healing miracle? 

Of course, you want to see your loved one be miraculously healed from COVID-19, or whatever sickness they may have. Of course, you too, would love to experience God’s healing prowess. 

Although it’s true that God rewards those who earnestly seek him (Hebrews 11:6), He wants you to focus on Him and not on the reward. 

Focus on the Healer, not the healing. Focus on the Miracle-worker, not the miracle. 

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4. Pray for spiritual healing

All throughout their COVID-19 battle, Jarolyn sought God. She praised God for the healing they received, but the most important restoration God bestowed to their family is spiritual healing. 

While you are concerned about the physical healing of your loved one, God is more concerned about their spiritual healing. After all, everyone will soon perish, but the spirit will return to God. 

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So when you pray for your loved one’s physical healing, pray for their heart and soul, too. Pray that God uses their physical restoration to open the door for their spiritual restoration.  

Pray that their healing journey will be a journey of discovering the saving love of Jesus, the ultimate healer. 

Are you praying for healing? 

Allow us to pray with you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

If you are blessed by this year’s Tanikala and you want to bless the ministry, you may do so through this link. 

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Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19?

Do you have somebody at home that has asymptomatic COVID-19? 

Do you want to support a family member or a friend who is hospitalized due to the disease? 

Supporting a loved one who tested positive for COVID-19 can be extremely challenging, but don’t worry! God is your ever-present help! (Psalm 46:1) 

Here are simple yet meaningful ways to support them, from CBN Asia’s Holy Week special: Tanikala presents Habang May Ngayon: 

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  1. Ask what help they need 

Carla Manas, played by actress Karen Timbol, faced tremendous challenges when she battled the deadly virus. She was hospitalized on her 50th birthday, was separated from her loved ones, and even suffered the fear of death. 

Despite all these, she overcame them through the unwavering support of her family, friends, and medical frontliners taking care of her. Just like her and many other COVID-19 patients, your loved one needs people to rely on.  

So, ask them how you could be of help. Though there are limitations and boundaries when helping, it would boost their spirits to know that you are willing to journey with them through the sickness and into recovery. 

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  1. Regularly check up on them

In Habang May Ngayon, Carla received constant encouragement from her doctors, nurses, and loved ones. She was inspired to carry on because she was assured that whatever storm COVID-19 brings, she is not alone. 

Ask how your loved one feels about their current situation and assure them that should they need someone to talk to, you are always willing to listen without any judgment. 

Listen closely to their concerns and respond in a supportive way. Remind them that despite the situation, you will get through this together. 

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  1. Pray for them, pray with them

Not everyone has the chance to personally care for a loved one with COVID-19. Some of you would have to endure being away from the patient, hoping that things will be better the next time you see them. 

Carla’s family experienced the same situation. When her condition got worse, she was left with no choice but to isolate herself from her beloved husband and children. But there’s one thing that held them together even when they were apart: prayers. 

If the situation allows, call your loved one. Pray that God will comfort, protect, and restore them from the inside out. Surrender everything to God and trust that healing will soon come. While you’re at it, pray that He will also protect and bless the hands of frontliners who take care of your loved one. 

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As you pray, have faith in His timing. Surely, God will answer and show his miraculous mercy. (https://locals.md/)  

“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) 

Are you struggling to believe that God can heal your loved one from COVID-19? 

Let God’s peace be your assurance. 

We would also love to encourage and pray for you, so do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

Devotionals

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What It Takes To Believe in God

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3you with unfailing kindness.

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The Fearless Life | God’s Word Today

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3

img

What It Takes To Believe in God

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3you with unfailing kindness.

img

The Fearless Life | God’s Word Today

His love for you is endless. That’s the kind that never fades. He reminds us all of his love for us in Jeremiah 31:3