Prayer Counseling Archives

Siete Palabras: 7 Thoughts to Ponder About the 7 Last Words of Jesus

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

Blood, sweat, and tears.

One afternoon 2,000 years ago, Jesus, the Son of God endured shame, pain, and mockery. Hours before He died on the cross, He uttered 7 statements which proved that He is true to His love and commitment to save mankind.

This Holy Week, ponder on Jesus’ 7 last words and remember the love that saved the world:

1. Jesus spoke to the Heavenly Father

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Luke 23:34 gave a glimpse of Jesus’ heart in the midst of suffering. Despite the unimaginable pain He experienced from the hands of His people, He was still thinking of them as He asked His Heavenly Father to forgive them.

2. Jesus spoke to the criminal

“I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”

In Luke 23:43, Jesus showed that He is a God of forgiveness and salvation. When one of the criminals crucified beside Jesus acknowledged Him as the Savior, Jesus assured the dying man of forgiveness and a place in heaven.

3. Jesus spoke to Mary

“Dear Woman, here is your son!”

Even while confronted with the impending death before Him, Jesus continued to show concern for others, this time, for His mother, Mary. John 19:26-27 recalls the moment when Jesus entrusted Mary to John, one of His trusted friends.

4. Jesus spoke again to the Father and cried out

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

In Matthew 27:46, Jesus’ agony and extreme suffering were noticeable as He neared His death.

But, why? Didn’t He already know His fate?

John Piper of Desiring God explained that Jesus bore the judgment and wrath that was meant for mankind – and it necessarily involved a kind of abandonment. God the Father gave Jesus up to suffer the weight of all sins, and Jesus faced the forsakenness that was meant for His people.

Jesus knew it was coming – and He wasn’t seeking for an answer, rather, He was expressing desolation and fulfillment of the Scripture. All of which can only be understood through the lens of faith.

5. Jesus thirsted

“I am thirsty.”

Hanged on the cross and badly wounded, John 19:28 shows that Jesus lived and suffered in a human body. He felt the thirst brought by the physical effect of crucifixion. And as He knew that everything was finished at this point, He fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 69:21 by drinking the vinegar offered to Him.

6. Jesus fulfilled the prophecy

“It is finished!”

John 19:30 records the fulfillment of the prophecy. Jesus was sent to this world to live and die for the redemption of mankind from sin. He performed every prophecy that was said in the Scriptures. The Savior’s task was completed. Mankind was saved. It is finished.

7. Jesus spoke His last words

“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!”

In Luke 23:46, Jesus knew that He already won the victory over sins, Satan, and eternal death. Putting His life to the Heavenly Father’s hands, He cried out these words and breathed His last.

The 7 last words of Jesus showed His undying love for mankind. At the cost of His own life, Jesus bought salvation and eternal life for those who believe. As Romans 5:8 says, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Everyone who accepts Him has to fear neither physical nor eternal death. There is now no condemnation for those whose freedom from sin has been given.

Jesus’ finished work is the beginning of life for every man.

Are you willing to accept the salvation God freely gives you? Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center today at 8-737-0-700 and experience the life that is made alive in Jesus Christ!

How to Trust God during Difficult Times?

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Are you going through a challenging season in life?

How do you remain unshaken when the struggle is very, very real?

It is easy to trust God when everything in life goes well. But when life takes an unexpected turn, you might find yourself struggling to put your hope in Him.

To encourage and help you reflect this Holy Week, here are 3 tips on how you can grow your trust in God, even in difficult times:

Tip #1: Know God’s character

Who is God in your life?

What are His plans for you?

Do you believe that He is trustworthy, loving, sovereign, and kind?

It’s hard to trust someone you don’t know. Thankfully, the Bible will help you discover who God is.

Once you get to know God’s character and ability through His Word, you will know that He is fully able to deliver (Psalm 34:17). Knowing His unchanging character will help you trust in Him during changing times.

Tip #2: Build a personal relationship with God

Whatever it is that has shaken you today; whatever it is that does not go as you planned; whatever it is that makes you worried, frustrated, or even scared—you are faced with an important question: do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?

It’s not easy to go through trials, but a personal relationship with your Savior gives you a different perspective in life. As you pray constantly and persevere unwaveringly, you begin to trust that God is with you, and that He is in control.

“…And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 NLT)

Tip #3: Cling to God’s promises

Who is blessed according to the Bible?

Those who keep God’s Word and seek Him with all their hearts.

“Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.” (Psalm 119:1-2 NIV)

During trying times, you can cling to this truth and to the hundreds of truths in the Bible. Allow God to remind you of who He is and what He promises to you.

Let His Word help you grow in faith and trust Him, even when, and especially when times are rough.

Are you having a hard time trusting God during difficult times?

God wants to give you a peaceful heart today. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to uplift you through prayers.

This Holy Week, be inspired by people who continue to trust God during difficult times. Watch Tanikala replays Habang May Ngayon on April 14, Isa Pang Hiling on April 15, and Suklob on April 16, on GMA Pinoy TV and TBN.

Tanikala Replay airing schedule:

4 Safe and Meaningful Ways to Observe Holy Week in the New Normal

Posted on April 11, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

How did you spend the Holy Week during the pandemic?

You may have spent the last two years cooped up in your own home—waiting and praying for the pandemic to end so you can observe Holy Week the “normal” way you would.

Like you, many Filipinos missed visiting churches, going to prayer mountains, or simply spending a relaxing vacation with their loved ones.

Things will be a bit different this year.

As travel restrictions ease, churches have resumed religious activities while more and more people are travelling. In fact, the Manila Bulletin has reported that the government is preparing for the biggest Holy Week traffic surge.

If you’re wondering how you can spend a safe and meaningful Holy Week during the new normal, consider these 4 ways:

1. Spend time with God

The world needs your prayers, always.

Whether as an individual or as a family, the new normal is a season to spend more time with God. Close that door, open the Bible, and meditate on God’s Word.

Ask, “What have I learned during the pandemic? How can those experiences lead me closer to God? Jesus, what can I do to be more like You today?”

Apart from praying for protection, provision, and continuous healing of this nation, may your prayer times be as what CBN suggests on their article titled Lent: What Is It Good For? The days of Lent and Holy Week are a time of meditation, fasting and repentance. It’s a time to wage war against desires that may be contrary to God’s Word.

2. Spend time with family

Spending quality time with your family is one of the many things you can do during the Holy Week.

It doesn’t have to be a lavish out-of-town trip. You may simply gather at home and watch shows that foster good family values like forgiveness, or shows that teach what it means to give and share love like Jesus.

It could be a perfect time to express love, restore relationships, and create meaningful conversations with your family members.

3. Be wise and obedient

As you set foot once again onto the busy roads, remember that the threat of being exposed to the COVID-19 virus is still present.

Stay informed about the rules implemented in your community, churches, and the places you plan to visit—and obey them accordingly. Spend a safe and meaningful Holy Week by observing basic rules such as wearing face masks and practicing social distancing.

Show how you value your God-given life and the lives of others. This Holy Week, honor God through your actions wherever you go.

4. Extend help

Aside from spending time with your loved ones, God also calls His people to show compassion to those who are in need.

You might feel as if the pandemic is over. You might think that everything is going back to normal. But truth is, many of your kababayans are still struggling because of the pandemic.

Observe a meaningful Holy Week by sharing hope to families in need. Support them by giving to humanitarian organizations, like Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines. As you experience more of Jesus this Holy Week, let others experience His love through you.

May you have a safe and a meaningful Holy Week!

Do you want to know more about Jesus, and the real meaning and importance of Holy Week in your life?

Know Jesus by visiting this page.

If you need prayers and encouragement, we are here for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to prayforme@cbnasia.org.

Feeling Hopeless? Here are 3 Ways to Overcome and Find Hope Again

Posted on April 7, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Are you losing the reasons to keep going in your life?

Perhaps, you have experienced a series of challenges that left you feeling weary and defeated today.

No matter how bad things might seem right now, know that you can always overcome. Beyond Small Talk is here to help you!

Learn these 3 tips to find hope again amid challenging times, from guest Ruther Urquia who has also gone through rough patches in his life during the pandemic:

1. Trust God

Your situation today is not the end of your journey. Keep on believing that God is weaving these challenges to lead you to the best destination. The roadblocks you are facing today are part of your journey toward a purpose-driven life.

“You should not measure your life with just a single episode. God is using all events in your life to create His plan,” Ruther explained.

Trust and believe that these circumstances will eventually turn out to be your great testimonies that would bring glory to God and uplift others in the future.

2. Choose to thank God

You are probably in this season of your life when happiness seems a blurry choice to make, but there is always room for gratitude.

You can always choose to thank God for your life today regardless of your situation.

“You can choose to be happy,” Ruther remarked.

It may not be the breakthrough that you are expecting but choose to thank God for He has sustained you all this time. Hope is possible when people choose to look at the blessing of life and daily provision for whatever you need.

3. Continue to have a grateful heart

In the face of hopelessness, gratitude has the power to give life.

Letting go of what was lost and being grateful for what you still have can keep you grounded and hopeful. Remain grateful every day and remember that your all-knowing Heavenly Father can turn things around in His perfect time.

God will never abandon you even in this season of your life.

“Whatever you’re going through, God is with you,” Ruther encouraged.

So, the next time you feel defeated, frustrated, and even dismayed in your life, remember to fix your eyes on Jesus. With His help, you can overcome. You will receive the unshakable hope from Him amid your challenging season.

“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)

Are you experiencing a tough time in your life lately?

Let Jesus comfort you. Begin your steps to peace today!

And if you need someone to talk to about your challenges in life, 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.

Stay tuned for the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, April 9, 2022, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

See you there!

How to Maintain Relationships Despite Political Differences?

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

It’s election season and yes, the heat is on!

It isn’t just a time when candidates present their platforms and woo their kababayans, it has also become a time of mudslinging, name-calling, and dropping friends and family members who disagree with political beliefs.

Do you feel that the upcoming elections uncover huge differences you haven’t seen before?

People you thought were reasonable and intelligent seemed like strangers. You think to yourself—or even tell others, “How could you think that? How could you support that candidate? I thought you were smart!”

If you’ve been shocked, frustrated, and maybe even angered by ongoing political conversations, you might be wondering how you can keep politics from ruining your relationships. Here are 5 practical tips to maintain relationships despite political differences:

Tip #1: Choose dialogue over debate

While debates may be helpful in some situations, dialogues are more likely to increase people’s ability to connect in healthy ways, University of Michigan suggests. A dialogue creates an environment that is safe, affirming, and fair for everyone.

It’s easy to lash out or argue when the other person disagrees, but by asking questions respectfully, you can get to a place of true understanding. So instead of coming from a place of judgment, be genuinely interested to learn their motivations, values, and concerns.

Tip #2: Practice healthy disagreement

While it’s true that some people are misinformed or joining a bandwagon, it’s also possible that they support a candidate because they truly believe that it’s the right direction for the country.

Sometimes it’s best to “agree to disagree.” Psychology Today suggests how healthy disagreement looks like: people with different perspectives coming together as equals, to reason with and sharpen each other.

Welcome strong opinions and emotions but avoid coercing them to your beliefs.

Tip #3: Seek unity

What comes to your mind when you think of someone with a different political stand?

When you get frustrated or irritated about someone’s political belief, seek unity. Try to find a common ground—an approach that is proven to bring people together during a conflict, says BetterUp. Focusing on what you have in common—like your passion for the country—can help you feel more at ease even though you don’t agree with each other.

Walk in love, respect, and humility—so you can show the world what unity really looks like and bring glory to God.

Tip #4: Slow down

It’s easy to get angry, frustrated, or just downright confused at people’s political choices. Before you say something that might damage the relationship, perhaps it’s time to hit the brakes and slow down. Step away, say a prayer, and ask God’s help.

Before things get intense, Harvard Business Review suggests that you watch for your tipping point. Is your heart rate going up? Face turning red? Breathing becoming shallow?

Slow down and step back from the conversation. Take a few deep breaths and ask for God’s guidance, then try to bring empathy into the conversation.

Tip #5: Trust God

While it’s true that the election has a significant effect on the country, it’s important to remember that God’s kingdom is bigger than any government, nation, or political outcome.

The Philippine election is under God’s plan and He will accomplish His purpose for the nation. Whenever you talk about politics, remember and practice the highest call—to love Jesus and love your neighbors (Mark 12:30-31).

You don’t need to solve every political problem or meet every need at the expense of your relationships. Find what you can do and take small steps toward bettering your country—all while praying for the candidates and the nation—and trusting that no matter what happens in the elections, God is still in ultimate control.

“Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” (Daniel 2:20-21 ESV)

Are you worried, frustrated, or angered about the upcoming elections? Are you having a hard time maintaining relationships because of politics?

Do you need someone to pray with you?

Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700, email prayforme@cbnasia.org, or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

3 Tips to Break Free from Worry

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

How are you feeling today?

Two years into the pandemic and the world is still living in uncertainty. If anxious thoughts and excessive worrying have caused feelings of suffering and even hindered your daily life, you might be wondering how to overcome.

This is your reminder that you can break free from worry!

Here are 3 simple tips to help you overcome worry and anxious thoughts:

1. Identify your worries

One helpful technique to overcome anxious thoughts is to acknowledge your worries, Helpguide suggests.

Ask yourself, “What worries me the most?” Is it financial worries brought by the pandemic? Is it physical health, emotional, relational, or spiritual?

If you can identify the source of your worry and anxiety, then you can start addressing and treating it.

2. Take control of your thought life

A lot of people have struggled with anxiety, but now even more. Thankfully, you have the power to defend yourself from these negative thoughts.

Luke 21:14 encourages you that you have the power to “make up your mind not to worry.”

It means you have a choice to center your mind on negative thoughts, or center your thoughts on God and His promises. He can free you from anxiety and worry, but first, you must believe it and take hold of it.

3. Improve your prayer life

Whenever you are feeling worried about anything, pray. Pass that weight to Jesus and receive His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Likewise, help eliminate your worry by relying on the Word of God to help you concentrate on the comfort that God brings. It would be helpful to stick to your prayer times, read your Bible, and find comfort by reading devotionals about COVID-19 and the pandemic.

Overcoming negative thoughts isn’t easy, but through time, practice, and prayers, you can move forward away from a life of worry.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

Do you want break free from worry?

Keep those anxious thoughts at bay with the help of God’s Word! Find courage, joy, and comfort through CBN Asia’s FREE 14-Day Devotional for COVID-19. Download the devotional today and discover how you can deal with worry, fear, and grief brought by the pandemic—and how you can find hope and everlasting peace.

If you need someone to pray for you, feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700. You may also comment your prayer requests below or send them through our Facebook page.

How Can I Break Free from the Cycle of Pain?

Posted on March 1, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Emotionally damaged people tend to inflict pain on the people around them.

Sometimes, it is inevitable to experience pain, sorrow, sufferings, and conflicts.

Since we are living in a broken world, everyone’s vulnerable from all kinds of hurt, unhealthy patterns, and toxic relationships.

And that reality hit Sathy Arancis when she chose to work as a domestic helper in Hong Kong despite finishing a bachelor’s degree in nursing in the Philippines.

“As a domestic helper, I was treated like a slave,” Sathy painfully recalled her bitter experience with her employer.

“Though there’s no physical abuse, there’s emotional abuse. My employer always belittles me, insults me, and tells me, ‘You told me you finished college, but you know nothing,’” she shared.

Can you relate to Sathy’s pain?

You have not experienced being beaten, kicked, punched, or hit, yet you felt so hurt and harmed?

There was no physical force, but you still felt so abused and deeply injured?

If yes, know that your pain is valid. Acknowledge how you feel and the way you respond to that hurtful situation. Remember, pain is more than just a physical sensation.

In Proverbs 18:21, God’s Word reminds us that our tongue, not our hands nor feet, can bring death or life. It means our words have power to either heal or kill.

Whenever we choose hurtful and harsh words, we are like shooting arrows with poison to the people we are talking to and dealing with.

As the adage says, “Hurt people hurt people,” the cycle of pain continues when we operate on our own will and emotions.

This is what happened when Sathy tried to endure and hide her pain.

She looked for people and activities that would help her forget her agony.

But her effort to escape her pain only led her to do things that would harm herself.

She learned to go to the club and do vices, gave in to impulsive shopping, disregarded her curfew, and even disrespected her employer.

Like Sathy, was your effort to escape your distress only led you to the wrong path? You thought you would be able to heal, forget, and be fine. But it only made you feel worse and devastated?

Take heart! Your situation is not hopeless, and so are you.

Change is coming to you, too. Just as how God encountered Sathy when she was totally drunk and ashamed of what she has become. Help is on the way for you!

That night when Sathy knew she deserved to be scolded, her employer shown great concern towards her.

Convicted by the kindness of her employer, God led her to The 700 Club Asia Facebook page.

“When I opened The 700 Club Asia’s page, I thought it was about night clubs. But then, I realized it features different testimony of people,” Sathy said. “I was delighted and touched. And I wondered if it was real,” she added.

Encouraged by the testimonies she watched, her curiosity about living a transformed life grew deeper and wider.

As she sought God’s way, the Lord started moving in her life.

Today, Sathy is happily married while serving God with her husband, and working as a nurse in Canada.

“People share who they were before and how the Lord changed them. They teach you how to pray and how to confess your sins to God. The Lord really guided me every step of the way,” Sathy gratefully shared how she started journeying with the Lord through watching The 700 Club Asia.

Are you also longing for a change in your life?

Do want to be set free from the cycle of pain, toxic patterns, and unhealthy lifestyle?

By the grace and mercy of God, you will experience hope, healing, and restoration, and transformation.

God is faithful and will grant the desires of your heart as you delight yourself in Him.

Jesus has carried all your sins in His body when He died on the cross. He died that you might die to sin and live a life that is pleasing to your heavenly Father. Because of Jesus’ wounds, healing is available for you (1 Peter 2:24).

He is your Wounded Healer. He knows, understands, and feels your pain. And He is there to heal, restore, and renew.

Would you like to experience a new life that is free from the hurt, guilt and shame caused by sin?

Come to Jesus! He is there waiting for you. He longs for you to give you a life that is abundant, victorious, and full of joy.

Is God prompting you to support us in inspiring people to live a transformed life? It’s our joy to welcome you as our partner in the ministry.

May the Lord comfort you, heal you, and save you.

God bless you!

Are You a Breadwinner in Your Family?

Posted on March 1, 2022 by Jeaneth Panti | 2 Comments

Are you often worried about your family’s finances?

If so, then perhaps you would relate to Jho Valera.

Like you, Jho felt all the worries when she lost her job for 4 years because of bankruptcy. She was her family’s breadwinner. Losing her job meant she could not provide for her loved ones anymore. Because of this, she became depressed and started having anxiety attacks.

“I couldn’t sleep. I had no peace of mind. I was wondering where I could borrow some money,” she shared.

She tried selling barbeque but it wasn’t enough to feed her family. She even had to pawn her cellphone so she could have money.

Can you relate to Jho’s struggle?

Do you also feel emotionally and financially drained?

One night, after selling barbecue, Jho chanced upon The 700 Club Asia on television. Through the show, she gained the courage to face her problems. She remembered that God is with her no matter her situation.

“The host shared that ‘God can carry you. God can help you. Trust in God,’” Jho recalled.

She also saw how Operation Blessing helps our needy kababayans. This inspired her to give. With just Php 500 left in her wallet, she gave half to the ministry.

“They show where the donations go and how it helps other people,” she shared

Little did she know that her act of faith would open the door of blessings in her life.

Soon after, she received Php 500 from a friend who owed her. She also received a face painting gig which paved the way for her to own an event design business.

Now, she’s managing a physical therapy clinic which allows her to travel abroad and be a blessing to her family.

May Jho’s story remind you that we can never outgive God. In His Word it says,

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap.” (Luke 6:38 NLT)

Maybe today you are like Jho and you’re also worried about your finances. May you remember that you have a living Hope and that is Jesus. He is your Provider, Comforter, and ever-present help in times of need.

Do you feel hopeless, scared, and worried about tomorrow? The CBN Asia Prayer Center is here 24/7 to pray for you.

Help us help more people like Jho to know about God’s promises! Be a CBN Asia partner today.

To Love and to Hold: 7 Tips to Stay in Love in Marriage

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

Are you wondering how to make your relationship last?

Here’s the thing: A strong marriage doesn’t happen overnight. Marriage is hard work. It takes commitment, compromise, forgiveness, and a whole lot of effort and prayers.

So whether you’ve been together for a year or 30, you can still learn, unlearn, and re-learn a couple of things so you can preserve a loving relationship that stands the test of time.

Here are 7 tips to stay in love in your marriage:

Tip #1: Prioritize regular quality time together

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day activities, but if you want a happy and lasting relationship, spend quality time with your spouse.

The National Marriage Project found that couples who spend quality time at least once a week were approximately 3.5 times more likely to report being “very happy” in their marriages compared to those who didn’t.

So, do lots of things together! You don’t have to do everything together—just make sure you have regular quality time doing things you both enjoy. It could be as simple as doing household chores together or movie marathon, to taking a weeklong vacation.

Tip #2: Give lots of positive affirmation

What are the good things you see in your spouse? Tell them. Be their biggest cheerleader.

Verywell Mind agrees, and adds that offering words of affirmation to your spouse can help nurture emotional intimacy, which plays a crucial role in relationships.

What about their imperfections, or things that they do wrong? Sometimes, it’s helpful to confront them—sometimes it’s more helpful to pray about them and just encourage them in the good things that they’re doing. If needed, correct them in a gentle, loving way.

Tip #3: Use your words as you ask for what you need

Asking for what you want in marriage can make you feel vulnerable, but The Healthy Marriage affirms that being vulnerable about your needs makes it easier for your partner to meet them.

Do you need or want something? Communicate it to your spouse. Kindly saying, “I would really like it if you cooked dinner,” or “I need this,” keeps your marriage going forward and saves the both of you from unnecessary frustration.

There’s nothing wrong with asking for what you want. If there’s a need inside that’s not being met, ask your spouse if you can work on it together. Be clear, kind, and specific. Having that constant communication is one of the big keys in marriage.

Tip #4: Use gentle tone of voice

Surprisingly, the words you use are only a small part of the message. Body language researcher Albert Mehrabian claims that communication is 55% nonverbal, 38% vocal, and 7% words only.

This means that a significant portion of the message is your tone of voice and body language. Your tone affects your relationships—especially your marriage! Encourage healthy communication with your spouse by speaking in a calm, gentle voice.

If you’re unsure how they interpret your message, you can ask for feedback. Ask, “How did my tone come across? Is it edgy, does it turn you off, does it hurt you, is it coming through in a good way?” Ask and listen to what they say.

Tip #5: Continually lean towards your spouse

Having personal space and time to yourself is important, but make sure that your frame of mind is always in the posture of leaning towards your spouse.

In a research conducted by The Gottman Institute among newlyweds, couples who stayed married after 6 years are those who turned towards one another 86% of the time. Couples that divorced averaged only 33% of the time.

It’s easy to pull away from each other when marriage gets tough, but study shows that lasting marriages are between husbands and wives who lean towards each other. Initiate physical touch. Check up on them regularly. Pay attention to their needs.

Tip #6: Avoid airing your “dirty laundry” in public

When you have disagreements, be very wise in the way you confront your spouse about it—not in front of other people. Definitely not at the dinner table with your in-laws or on social media.

It’s best to avoid arguing in public for a couple of reasons. According to psychotherapist Melanie Shapiro, fighting in public threatens intimacy. Not to mention that it could be awkward for everyone else in the room.

Moreover, when someone is exposed in public, their instinctive response would be protecting their reputation—not dealing with the issue. So if something is wrong, let your spouse know that you’d like to settle it privately. If you need to talk about an issue with other people which can be helpful in certain situations, make sure your spouse agreed about it ahead of time.

Tip #7: Pursue your spouse

What are you doing to pursue your spouse?

Many people think that courtship and dating is only for the early years of a relationship. Once you’ve tied the knot, pursuing each other suddenly becomes unimportant.

Here’s the truth: Marriage isn’t a destination. It’s a lifelong journey of practicing the art of love to one another. So husbands and wives, find ways to pursue each other every day!

Pursue your spouse romantically and do your best to initiate intimacy. What does your spouse like? What makes them feel loved? Initiate opportunities for those things.

Most importantly, pursue your spouse by praying for them. Ask God to bless, protect, and strengthen them. Pray for your marriage, that you continue to grow in love. Ask for more patience, forgiveness, and humility.

Thank God for blessing you with someone to love and to hold, someone to cherish life with. Pray that He changes the both of you into the man and woman He wants you to be.

“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV)

Do you need someone to help you pray for your marriage?

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

3 Signs of a Toxic Relationship and How to Break Free

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

Are you trapped in a wrong, toxic relationship?

It’s time to leave the past behind and find emotional freedom in your relationships. So how do you let go when love turns into abuse, betrayal, or heartaches?

Discover how beauty queen and Beyond Small Talk host Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz found freedom and healing from a toxic romantic relationship.

But first, what does a toxic relationship look like?

When you are in a toxic relationship, it could be hard to see the red flags. So here are some telling signs to help you weigh:

1. When you love your partner more than you love God

Jesus Himself calls you to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind,” (Matthew 22:37 NIV). If you love your boyfriend or girlfriend more than you love God, if your relationship hinders you from honoring God, that relationship is not healthy for you.

2. When your world revolves around your partner

If you find it impossible to focus on anything but your relationship, if you don’t spend time with your family, friends, or church because all your attention goes to your partner – it’s an obvious sign that the relationship is toxic, Healthline says.

3. When the relationship becomes emotionally or physically abusive

“When your partner tells you mean things, or you yourself turn into a mean person; if you are always fighting and shouting at each other, these are clear signs that you’re in a toxic relationship,” Lara shared. Relationships have highs and lows, but when a man disrespects you, you know that you have to let it go.

If you ticked all the boxes above, don’t fret. You can get out of that rut! Here are some ways to break free from toxic relationships:

1. Cry out for help

Letting go of a relationship that you care about is a difficult thing to do, even if that relationship hurts you. So don’t hesitate to ask for help – from the people who loves you, from the God who loves you.

“Cry out for help to God. You pray, ‘Lord I want to get out of this relationship because I know that it’s wrong. Will you please help me, will you please strengthen me?’ Lara said, learning from a wrong relationship she had when she was younger. “I tell you, it’s difficult! Even though my toxic relationship ended, I still wanted to get back to that person that time because my heart wasn’t right with God yet.”

That’s why it’s important to seek God’s help. The hold of a toxic relationship on you could be very strong, but God can help you escape the bondage of pain and help you walk in total freedom.

2. Surround yourself with people you can trust and guide you

Do you have a life group or a Bible study group?

Who are your trusted family members, friends, or churchmates?

You need to be surrounded by people who love you enough to tell you that the relationship is wrong. These people want the best for you and are willing to be accountable for you when you tell them what is happening in the relationship.

3. Make yourself busy in improving yourself

Dr. Jeffrey Bernstein of Psychology Today suggests that you can get out of a toxic relationship if you keep knowing your value.

Work on yourself, focus on your growth, pay attention to your other relationships, and try to get a new hobby that would occupy your mind. Focus on the things God has revealed to you. See life through His eyes and watch His goodness unfold!

4. Be intentional in spending time with God

God promised that there is healing.

For you to receive His healing, you need to intentionally open your Bible, pray, soak in His promises each day, and remind yourself of your identity in God’s eyes.

If you are scared of making this huge decision, Lara left an assuring message for you:

“If you think you cannot leave because no one will love you, that is not true. That is a lie because Jesus loves you so much! You just need to set your eyes on Him. Allow Him to strengthen you to get out of that relationship. If God was able to take me out of that relationship, He can do the same for you.”

Take a deep breath. You can do this. You can overcome with the love of God – the love heals you, comforts you, and remains for you.

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35, 37-39 NKJV)

Are you looking for people who can pray for you and be accountable for you?

The CBN Asia Prayer Center is here to join you in prayers. We also have hundreds of faithful church partners across the country, just call 8-737-0-700 so we can connect you to a church near you.

Catch the next Beyond Small Talk webisode this Saturday, 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

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