Prayer Counseling Archives

3 Thoughts to Ponder to Help You Find Peace Amid Grief

Posted on May 25, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Have you ever received the news? Yes, the one that drastically changed your life that is about a loved one who suddenly passed away.

If this has happened to you, you are very much familiar with the tears and the extreme pain that followed immediately after. You might feel like that lingering feeling will remain with you forever.

Thankfully, it’s possible to find peace amid grief. Actress and Beyond Small Talk host Bettinna Carlos-Eduardo can attest to that after she suffered a miscarriage early this year.

If you are grieving, know that God’s comfort is always available for you. Here are 3 thoughts to ponder that can help you find peace when you are grieving the loss of a loved one:

1. God is sovereign

Have you ever asked God why He allowed your loved one to die?

You are not alone. People who grieve and mourn try to find answers and explanations on why their loved one was called home soon. The answer to those whys may be obvious now, or they may never be answered in this lifetime.

But whether those questions are answered or not, you can find peace in the truth that Jesus Christ is sovereign. He is in control of everything. So, take all your questions and pain to God in prayer. Ask Him to help you trust and embrace His divine purpose and plans.

“God is the Creator; He controls everything. He was the cause of that life, and He is all powerful to continue that life if it’s His will,” Bettina said. She also shared her realizations after undergoing the procedure, “When my fallopian tube was taken out, there was pain. But there was peace even with that pain. There was peace knowing that God knew what He was doing.”

2. God is good

The world will tell you that there’s no good in goodbyes and there’s no good in grief.

The Word of God tells otherwise. During your brokenness, God is near to you (Psalm 34:18). During your times of mourning, He calls you blessed and promises that you will be comforted (Matthew 5:4). In times of grief, God’s goodness is magnified—and because He is good, His plans for you are good, too.

To find peace amid your grief, Bettinna suggests that you submit to God’s will and choose to see God’s character: That He is a good, gracious, and loving Father.

“And as painful as it was, it was good. I received it as good because I know God is good. It’s really up to His will. If it’s His will to give it, He will. But if it’s not the will of God, whatever we do, it won’t happen. God is wise and God is good! He knows what’s best for us,” Bettinna said.

**3. Appreciate what you still have**

Dealing with grief is not some scientific problem that needs to be solved. It is a complex emotional journey and process you should not rush.

As you journey toward your healing, may you find comfort knowing that there are people, things, and many blessings that God has graciously given you throughout your life.

“What helped me during that time is to see what I have. You don’t want to let the pain blind you from seeing what you have. I know you lost someone, I lost someone too. But don’t let that loss make you lose sight of what you still have right now,” Bettina encouraged.

The Lord gives and the Lord takes away (Job 1:21). Whether He gives or takes, whether you grieve or rejoice—may you find peace in the truth that God’s grace is always sufficient for you.

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NKJV)

Do you need uplifting prayers to help you cope with grief?

Contact the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you. If you want to know how Jesus Christ can give you peace, visit this page and begin your steps to eternal peace today.

For more inspiring content, catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, May 28, 2022, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

My Business Went Bankrupt, How Do I Start Over?

Posted on May 25, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Maybe, you are in a situation right now where you feel hopeless.

You feel restless.

You feel desperate.

You ask, “God, why is this happening to me?”

“Do You really see what I’m going through?”

“Do You really care about me?”

Maricris Sarmiento knows how you feel. She experienced it, too — desperate for God to deliver her from her troubles.

Like many people, her faith was tested during the height of the pandemic.

“We were in an agricultural business at that time. Our pigs got infected with Swine Influenza Virus. They all died because of the virus. As a result, our business went bankrupt,” Maricris recalled.

Despite of what happened to her, Maricris did not let her situation stop her from pursuing God’s best plan for her life. With a heart to help people and a belief that giving to the work of the Lord is a privilege, Maricris continues to donate to CBN Asia.

“Our money belongs to the Lord. So, He will be the one who will direct us on where we will put our money,” she said.

With hope in her heart, Maricris started a new online distribution business—an answered prayer and a declaration of God’s purpose for her life.

“God’s ways are different. Sometimes, a setback can be a setup for something bigger. God will reveal His power to us when we are at our lowest point. I am confident that He will take care of my future,” she shared.

Like Maricris, do you trust the Lord with your future? Do you believe that He can help you start over?

Indeed, God is faithful to His promises! He answered Maricris’ prayer — He blessed her new business and gave her a long-awaited financial breakthrough.

“It started from small. But right now, with the help of my business partners, our business is growing. All by God’s grace,” she said.

Maricris is living proof that God is greater than the struggles we face. If you lost your business or you are struggling with your finances, may her story remind you that God is willing to help you overcome.

“My faith grew stronger. What seems to be impossible is possible with the Lord,” Maricris ended.

God sees what you are going through. He cares for you so much.

When life feels hopeless and breakthroughs seem so far away, run to God’s presence so He can meet your every need.

Do you want to be a blessing to others like Maricris? Partner with us today!

If you have prayer requests, the CBN Asia Prayer Center is here to pray for your concerns! Call us at 8-737-0-700 or email prayforme@cbnasia.org.

Is Your Family Struggling? Here are 3 Ways to Overcome Family Problems

Posted on May 13, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

What’s causing you mental distress these days?

Whether they’re problems at work, financial concerns, or a medical issue, sometimes going home to a stable and loving family can make all the difference.

But what if the place that you consider as a sanctuary becomes more like a battlefield? What if your family is struggling with problems and you don’t know how to face them?

Through God’s help, you can overcome. Discover 3 ways to resolve problems as a family:

1. Forgive generously, love unconditionally

If you have a conflict with a family member, ask God to help you love and forgive just as He loves and forgives you.

Forgiving anyone who hurt you is hard, but it’s always better to mend relationships than give up on them. It may be hard, but it will be worth it.

Can you imagine how amazing it would be if parents and children would extend God’s grace through unconditional love and forgiveness toward each other?

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8 ESV)

2. Believe that God can make all things new

Sometimes, family problems and conflicts can make families feel like they’re at a dead end.

Thankfully, God is in the business of restoring families. As Deuteronomy 3:30 says, “God, your God, will restore everything you lost; he’ll have compassion on you; he’ll come back and pick up the pieces from all the places where you were scattered.”

Seasons change and there will always be a season of testing your faith. The good thing? There’s also a season of building and mending for your family! (Ecclesiastes 3:3,7).

Pray that God would reveal Himself to you and your family members, and trust that He can make ‘all things new’ for your household.

3. Pray as a family

Opening up to each other and bringing all your burdens to God through prayers allow yourselves to experience His mighty works.

When you pray together, each family member learns what it means to be intimate with God. When God answers a prayer, each family member experiences His power and presence despite the struggles.

So, take heart and pray! Never stop believing that God can help you overcome family problems. At the end of the day, troubles go away but His steadfast love for you and your family remains forever.

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:10 ESV)

Do you need a prayer for your family?

We are here to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

3 Ways to Pray After the Election

Posted on May 12, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

How are you feeling after the election?

The Halalan 2022 proves that every election triggers either happiness or distress for so many people. Some are satisfied with the results while others express their disappointment and frustration.

Shouts of victories and clamor resounded not just online, but in homes, government offices, schools, and churches across the country.

As the shock wears off, you might be wondering, “What now?” How to move forward when the nation still seems divided over political beliefs?

Whichever side you’re on, the Filipinos can all come together to help heal the nation. Here are 3 ways to pray after the election:

1. Pray for your leaders

Whether you voted for them or not, believers are called to obey and pray for elected officials. (Romans 13:1).

Pray that God will give the leaders wisdom, grace, and a God-listening heart as they lead the nation. The Lord can turn hearts, so pray and be in faith that He can turn the hearts of leaders.

Pray that they would be righteous leaders who put the needs of others before their own.

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV)

2. Pray for the right attitude towards your leaders

It’s true that you have the right to voice out your opinions. It’s also true that you can hold your leaders accountable whether they are able to accomplish their responsibilities for the country or not.

Just remember, you can disagree in a manner that is still gracious and in a way that still honors them.

You can air out opinions in a respectful way. And instead of condemning or bashing them on social media, it’s best to encourage them—by supporting government programs that will better the nation.

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” (Colossians 3:12-14 ESV)

3. Pray for ways to get involved in nation-building

Government leaders have a huge role in the rise or fall of a nation. However, the success of the country does not solely depend on them.

A successful Philippines requires not only effective leaders, but also supportive Filipinos. Citizens who will pray together, dream together, and work together toward achieving a better future for all.

That means you too, as an individual, have the responsibility and privilege to be involved in nation-building. So pray for opportunities to serve your kababayans. Be aware of the current political and social issues then ask yourself what you can contribute to improve the situation.

God has given you gifts—talents, resources, and abilities—may you use it in serving others, spreading hope to the nation, and bringing glory to the name of Jesus.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10 NIV)

Need prayers?

Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and our trained prayer counselors would pray for your concerns. You may also contact us through Viber, at 0943-144-4933.

5 Tips to Develop a Healthy Relationship with Your Mom

Posted on May 6, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

There are no perfect mothers.

They do what’s best for their child because they love them, but for some, those choices may not always necessarily be healthy.

As children grow up, things usually get complicated. Arguments may be frequent, differing opinions and misunderstandings increase, and parents begin to wonder what happened to the sweet child they used to play with.

This concern is commonly experienced—and is seemingly magnified by the upcoming elections where families struggle to maintain relationships due to polarizing political beliefs.

If you are looking for ways to improve your relationship with the ilaw ng tahanan, here are 5 tips to develop a healthy relationship with your mom:

Tip #1: Communicate with your mother

Good communication with your mother entails more than just talking. It is knowing when to talk, when to listen, as well as what to say and how to say it.

Family Education suggests some points to keep in mind the next time you chat with your mom: respect her privacy and boundaries, listen objectively, and do not interrupt or use words that are accusatory.

Tip #2: Make an intentional effort to develop a healthy relationship

A healthy relationship with your mother is a two-way street.

Sometimes, it is not a lack of love that ruins relationships but a lack of effort. Thankfully, there are many ways to strengthen parent-child relationships, which means there are many ways to show constant love and appreciation to your mother!

Tip #3: Do your best to understand one another

No one is perfect; people make mistakes – including your mother.

During times of conflicts or misunderstandings, know that you have the choice to forgive. Try to understand why your mother does what she does. Ask God to give you the power to see right through any differences and see your mother through the lens of love.

Tip #4: Keep your relationship God-centered

Oh, how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)

A God-centered relationship with your mother means Jesus is at work between the two of you. You speak and act with God’s love, joy, and kindness. It is a relationship where respect and grace abound.

You can have a healthy relationship with your mother despite differences, because you have received God’s love. Share that love with your mom and allow her to see Christ’s unconditional love through you.

“With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:2-3)

Tip #5: Pray for God’s grace and strength to sustain you

The flesh and heart may fail, but God’s sustaining grace will hold you together.

This piece of truth comes in handy when you want to develop a healthy relationship with your mother.

This Mother’s Day, pray for your mom and with your mom. Seek God and ask Him to give both of you mouths that speak life, hands that are gracious to comfort, and hearts that love unconditionally.

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV)

Are you struggling to have a healthy relationship with your mother?

We would love to pray for the both of you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center or email your prayer request to prayforme@cbnasia.org.

5 Qualities of a Good Leader

Posted on May 5, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

On May 9, you will make history.

Every voter—young and old, rich and poor—will all have the same power to change the nation.

Many Filipinos dream for a better Philippines, but the real challenge lies on electing qualified and dignified people into government positions.

How do you step up in picking out the best candidate among the rest? How do you make a God-honoring decision on whose name to shade on the ballot?

Here’s the key: Know the traits of a good leader and choose a candidate that possesses those traits!

So here are 5 qualities of a good leader to help you make an informed and empowered decision on who to vote for this Halalan 2022:

1. A good leader has a good track record

A politician’s track record, qualifications, and leadership experience show that they can lead the position they are running for.

Look at their educational background. Is their education enough to run this country, your province, or town? Look at their track record. What have they accomplished before? What are the projects and advocacies they’ve been involved with?

Research and see if a candidate is capable of fulfilling the promises and the deeds they have included in their platforms.

2. A good leader is competent

Governing a nation requires more than just basic knowledge and familiarity with principles of political governance, economic and financial management, social and health mitigation, and justice system.

It needs a competent and capable leader—someone who makes courageous decisions and sees the “big picture” within the context of an overall vision for the country. If they held government positions before, were they able to deliver their promises during their campaign? Look at their platforms. Do they have concrete plans to solve issues and better the lives of their kababayans?

Competence goes beyond words. In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, leadership guru John Maxwell adds that a competent leader shows up every day, keeps on improving, follows through with excellence, and accomplishes more than what’s expected of them.

3. A good leader has integrity and good moral values

You want a leader that has great leadership, but you also want a leader that has a great heart.

When a leader loves God and the country, they must have integrity. They value transparency in governance and accountability. So before choosing a leader, look at their sincerity of service. Do they have integrity, or do they have history of corruption? Were they convicted of a crime before?

Likewise, the values they hold greatly influence their decision-making, so see if they have strong moral values. Check if their platforms are morally sound. See how they conduct themselves during times of moral dilemma. See if they have the conviction to do the right thing even in complicated situations.

4. A good leader cares for people

A leader who loves God knows how to love others. They have the heart for the poor and powerless, they champion the cause of justice and truth. They treat their constituents with genuine love and care.

How to know if a leader really cares?

Check their agenda and know why they want to lead. How do they treat people under them? Who benefits from their projects? Good leaders mirror the servant leadership of Jesus (Matthew 20:25-28). They lead not for personal gain—but actually sacrifice themselves in service of the people.

5. A good leader inspires people

There is no perfect leader, but there are competent leaders who can inspire others toward a goal and attaining it. They are able to win people’s confidence, trust, and support as they pursue a government program.

Before you cast your vote, ask: Does this leader inspire people to do something for the country? Through their words, actions, and beliefs, can they unite others to take part in bettering the nation? Choose a leader who inspires others to dream more, do more, and become more.

This Halalan 2022, you have a right—as well as a responsibility—to elect good leaders.

It’s also a call to pray that whoever gets in the office, God will lead them and guide them, that they will be righteous leaders who will bring the needs of the nation first before themselves. Ultimately, pray that Jesus Christ will be their Lord.

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (Timothy 2:1-2 ESV)

Are you anxious about the upcoming elections?

We are here to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or email your prayer requests to prayforme@cbnasia.org.

Praying for a Child? If You are Considering Adoption, Here are 5 Tips for You

Posted on April 29, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Not every woman becomes a mother the same way.

Actress Princess Punzalan, for instance, found joy when she took on the journey of becoming a mother through adoption.

If you are like her and you want to become a parent by adopting a child, the Beyond Small Talk guest shares tips and things you can consider before making that life-changing decision.

1. Pray

If you are longing for a child and considering that adoption is the best option to have one, entrust that dream to God.

Trust that He knows what’s best for you (Jeremiah 29:11) and believe that if adoption is part of His plans, He will give you wisdom and clarity.

“If you want to adopt, pray first. Not all people are called to adopt so ask God, is adoption really for you? Each child is unique. Talk about it as a couple; if you are single, pray and think thoroughly,” Princess suggests.

2. Ask yourself what you are willing to give up and how much you can give

Your readiness is the number 1 thing you must consider as you start the process of adoption, the Adoption Network says.

So decide what you really want and what you don’t. Know your limits and be sure how much you can give in terms of time, finances, and all other resources—bearing in mind that this is a lifelong decision.

3. Be honest with yourself

The process of adoption can be long, complicated, and even emotional. That is why you must be clear and honest with yourself as to why you would want to adopt.

“Most importantly, why do you want a child?” Princess asks.

To Princess, raising a child is not something to be taken lightly, “If you want a child just for your own selfish reasons like, you don’t want to grow old alone or you want someone to take care of you, or you find it cute to have a baby in your home—let’s think carefully about it.”

4. If you already have children, make sure to consider their feelings

If you are considering adoption and you already have children, it is best to consider your children’s feelings, too.

Adoptive families take huge financial and emotional changes, that is why it is important to ensure that adoption is right for the whole family.

5. Ask for God’s guidance before making this important decision

The adoption journey is not easy, but like what many adoptive parents feel, it is also fulfilling.

So before you embark on this journey, pray. Pray that your heart will be sensitive to God’s leading and promptings. Ask for His divine guidance and acknowledge that you need His help every step of the way.

Whatever decisions He will reveal to your heart, you can rest assured that all of it is for your good and God’s glory.

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” (Isaiah 30:21 NIV)

Are you considering adoption?

Allow us to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and let’s present your concerns to God.

Join the online discussion and don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk on April 30, 2022, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!

Take Time to Take Care: 3 Tips to Stay Safe at Work

Posted on April 28, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

How’s work?

Most employees feel a sense of urgency to go back to their ‘normal’ working spaces, but regardless of how urgent or important a job may be, nothing’s worth risking your safety.

Whether you are back to working in the office 100% or doing a hybrid work setup, know that you can make your workplace a safer place!

This World Day for Safety and Health at Work, take time to take care. Check out these 3 tips to stay safe and well at work:

Tip #1: Take time to stop your assumptions

Many accidents at the workplace can be easily prevented if people were to stop assuming that everything will be all right all the time.

According to Safety Talk Ideas, making assumptions is almost never a good thing to do—especially when dealing with workplace safety. It is better to reflect on the safety of each situation before taking action.

Think: Will the ladder topple over? Should I stack so many boxes together? Is it okay to remove my mask during the meeting? To ensure everyone’s safety at the workplace, avoid making assumptions and take that extra step to think of the consequences of situations.

Tip #2: Take time to check your attitudes toward safety

No one goes to work intending to get injured. Yet the attitudes you bring to work on any day can have a large influence on your own safety and the safety of people around you.

Do you do things the right way because you don’t want yourself and your workmates to get hurt, or you just want to get the job done in the easiest possible way? Do you take shortcuts, or you take workplace safety rules to heart?

Do you see these rules as mere dos and don’ts, or you see them as guide so you can come home safe to your family at the end of the day?

Safety experts from Sentis agree and emphasized that your mindset and your attitudes toward safety will influence your decisions and working behaviors. So, take the time to check your mindset toward safety and adjust accordingly so you can comply better.

Tip #3: Take time to pray for protection and safety

Before you begin your workday, always ask God to protect you from any harm that may come your way.

Pray that His physical and spiritual protection may be upon you and that He may shield you from any harm or trouble. Pray that He looks after your family and the people you work with.

Ask God to give you the traveling mercies, focus, and wisdom you need in any situation. Pray for the strength and heart to honor workplace safety rules and value God-given lives.

As you ask your Heavenly Father to hide you under His wings, be in faith that He is your refuge, and He will keep you safe.

“If you say, ‘The Lord is my refuge,’ and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:9-11 NIV)

Do you need someone to pray with you as you seek God’s protection?

Our trained prayer counselors would love to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Healing after Infidelity: How Can You Recover from Extramarital Affair

Posted on April 15, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | 4 Comments

Have you just found out that your spouse has cheated?

This must be a painful, painful time for you. You feel angry, confused… lost. To you, there are no words to describe this life-shattering news that the person you love and trust had an affair with somebody else.

If you are in this difficult situation, here’s an encouraging message for you today: you can heal.

There is hope for your marriage despite all these things that just happened. It may seem like a far off, distant thing, but it is possible to heal after an affair as you and your spouse take the first steps toward change.

Here are some ways to help you recover from infidelity and rebuild your marriage, from CBN Asia’s Holy Week Special, Tanikala: Paghilom:

1. Pray and seek God’s help

Toni Miranda, played by actress Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz, found herself cheating on her husband John, portrayed by actor Marco Alcaraz. After realizing the weight of her sins, Toni fell on her knees and sought God’s forgiveness. She and her husband asked God to help restore their marriage and heal their broken hearts.

Thankfully, God is in the business of restoring broken things—especially marriages (1 Peter 5:10). Seek His guidance because His desire and design for your marriage is to be strong and healthy.

Pray that He gives you the strength, comfort, and wisdom you need to rebuild a relationship that stands the test of time. Trust that He can do miracles in your marriage and in this situation.

2. Choose forgiveness

It’s hard to forgive after all the texts you’ve read, the pictures you discovered, the conversations you overheard, or the numbing situation you walked into.

John knows exactly how you feel. In Paghilom, John’s world turned upside down after learning about his wife’s multiple affairs. Instead of lingering on the offense or punishing Toni, John chose to fix his eyes on Jesus. He chose to love and forgive his wife.

The pain of betrayal stings like no other, but forgiveness is like the healing balm that liberates you from the wounds of the past. You might struggle to forgive at first, but it becomes easier as you realize that when you needed forgiveness for your sins, God has freely forgiven you.

“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.” (Proverbs 10:12 NKJV)

3. Go to marriage counseling

Throughout their healing journey, Toni and John sought God. They also sought the help of trusted friends, marriage counselors, and signed up for a healing recovery program which helped them address their issues as a couple and as individuals.

Like them, you might want to consider consulting with a trained marriage counselor or family counselors at church. You don’t have to carry the pain alone—seek help. Both of you can make the decision to get some outside help and prayers.

Invest time for your marriage and be intentional in rebuilding your relationship with your spouse. As devastating as an affair is, God does some amazing things when a couple commits to rebuilding their marriage.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (https://louisvilleroofing.com) Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” (Proverbs 3:5-8 ESV)

Do you need God’s healing and restoration in your marriage?

We are here to pray for 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.

3 Thoughts to Ponder When You Find it Hard to Give

Posted on April 14, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

What comes to your mind when you hear about someone in need?

Do you think someone else will help them, or do you ask yourself how you can help?

Some people find it hard to give to those in need due to a lot of personal reasons. And if you, too, are struggling to lend a helping hand, here are 3 thoughts to ponder that can help you cultivate a generous heart, from Tanikala: Tugon sa Dalangin—an Operation Blessing Special:

Thought #1: “God will provide for my needs.”

Do you hold on to your resources with an iron fist, or an open hand?

Sometimes, people want to give but find it hard to give because of fear. Fear of losing resources. Fear of not having enough for yourself and for your loved ones. Fear of the future.

If fear keeps you from giving, it’s time to ask yourself: Do I trust that God will provide for my needs? Do I truly believe that God will take care of me?

Tugon sa Dalangin featured the story of sisters Janine and Rheine Doña. In the wake of Typhoon Odette, they offered prayers and encouragement to their neighbors—in faith that God will comfort them, too. Their family received relief items when Operation Blessing visited their community.

Trusting God with your needs can free you from fear. Next time you struggle to give, pray. Remember that God loves you and has a better life for you. As you care for others, trust that God will take care of you too.

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 NKJV)

Thought #2: “My giving is not in vain. God sees me, God is glorified.”

Some people struggle to give because they feel that their money, time, effort, or love won’t be appreciated.

Whenever you feel this way, ask yourself: What is my motivation behind my giving? Do I believe that God sees me?

If you give to receive praise from other people, there is a high chance that you’d be let down. But when you fix your eyes on Jesus—on being a vessel of His love and grace—you can be assured that your giving is not in vain.

This is what volunteer dentist Dr. Marissa Pascua believes. She joined Operation Blessing’s medical mission in Tacloban where she met Marilou Fabi—who was suffering from severe toothache. Upon receiving free dental surgery and medicines, Marilou concluded that it was God’s hand that led the volunteer doctors to their community.

God appreciates and is pleased with your small acts of kindness. God is glorified by your wholehearted service to others.

“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.” (1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV)

Thought #3: “Any help, no matter how small, can change lives.”

Do you ever feel so overwhelmed by the needs of the world that it feels like there is nothing you can do to make a difference? So instead of giving, you hold back—because you think it won’t change anything anyway.

Try to avoid thinking that what you give is not good enough. Focus on the reason why you are giving: Do I give to glorify God? Do I believe that every good thing I have is entrusted to me by God? Do I trust that God multiplies whatever I give?

For instance, giving a small amount to typhoon-affected families may not change their life instantly, but it will give them the food they need to survive the day. In the midst of their helplessness and hunger, receiving any help gives them hope that God answers their prayers.

Instead of finding a job in the city, teacher Irene Bertudez of the Dumagat tribe in Quezon chose to give back to her community. Amid the pandemic, she prayed for school supplies that they can use for modular learning. Her prayers were answered through Operation Blessing partners. These acts of giving continue to inspire Dumagat children bit by bit each day.

So next time you hear of a need and you can do something about it—even if it seems small—give it a try. In the end, you also benefit. God blesses you with a deep sense of joy and purpose that only comes from giving.

“You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:11-12 ESV)

Are you praying for a generous heart?

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.

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

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.

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