6 Simple Health and Wellness Tips for Fathers – Beyond Small Talk

Raising a family takes a whole lot of effort and energy.

Fathers who focus on providing for the family are often preoccupied with work, marriage, sending kids to school, and making sure that there is food on the table. Oftentimes, self-care is the last priority of dads — if it’s even included on the list.

Dads, don’t forget that God cares about your physical health too.

Reminder: when you take good care of yourself, you are in a better position to take good care of your loved ones.

So here is coach, motivational speaker, and Beyond Small Talk host LA Mumar who shares 6 simple health tips for busy fathers like you:

Tip #1: Seek help from mentors

Do you want to live a healthy lifestyle, but don’t know where to start?

Seek advice from family members, friends, and health experts. Look for mentors who can teach you the proper way of eating and exercising. Look for people who can encourage you to be the healthiest you.

Tip #2: Always go back to your vision

List down the goals you wish to achieve and do your best to stick to it. For LA, being healthy and fit enable him to take good care of his family and bond with them.

“It is important to have a vision. I always need to go back to the vision of having a healthy lifestyle – for God, for my family, and for my job so I can do it properly,” he shared.

Tip #3: Practice self-discipline

Mastering self-discipline is key to good health!

In the article “Self-Discipline: Persisting Until You Reach Your Goals,” Mind Tools shared tips for developing self-discipline. You must choose a goal, find your motivation, identify obstacles, replace old habits, and monitor your progress.

Tip #4: Make small steps toward your goal

Eat right. Drink lots of water. Get enough sleep. It all sounds simple, right?

These seemingly simple things can make or break your overall health. It’s true that the small things make the biggest difference!

As LA puts it, “When we think of these things, we think, ‘Do they really have a purpose?’ But, when we combine all these, they make a world of difference.”

Tip #5: Maximize your current space

Got no room to exercise? Even when you are stuck at home, you can do simple exercise routines! You only need a small space and the willingness to do it.

As a basketball coach, LA believes that if there is a will to stay physically active, there is a way.

“Some people in my team do not have spacious homes, but they find ways to exercise. Your determination is important. Even if you have a small space, there are many ways to exercise,” he said.

Tip #6: Search for workout ideas online

If you are worried about your safety and your budget, you don’t have to enroll in a fancy gym.

Stay healthy and practical with the help of the internet! With just one click, you can find thousands of free exercise routines and workout videos — no equipment needed.

“Body exercises are good, and that’s what we do in our team. With various ways to exercise and our access to internet, our limited budget cannot limit us.” He continued, “As we keep on pursuing and plowing in, eventually, we will see the fruits of our efforts. We can do this!”

For more meaningful content, catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, June 19, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan_1

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan

Celebrating Araw ng Kalayaan yearly reminisces so much about the Philippines’ rich history and victory from the colonizers in the past centuries.

123 years later, is this freedom still relevant to be celebrated?

Absolutely yes!

More than just a national holiday, Araw ng Kalayaan remembers the heroic deeds of the people who fought for the freedom that you are enjoying right now.

You too can be a modern-day hero and a defender of freedom while being a follower of Jesus. Here are 3 ways to do that:

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan

1. Stand against oppression

To avoid relational conflicts, most Christians nowadays tend to flee from political and societal discussions in the country, online and offline. These topics seem taboo in some churches, bible study groups, and even just inside Christian homes.

As much as this mindset seemed ideal and comfortable for some people, just sitting back and letting things be, this is so paradoxical especially if done by believers of Jesus – who is the epitome of freedom.

Proverbs 31:8-9 says that Christians should “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Not speaking up for the oppressed is also like siding with the oppressor – siding with gradually losing freedom. In these pressing times, standing up against oppression is much more needed in upholding the nation’s democracy.

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan

2. Submit to authorities

As you stand up against oppression in the country, it is also timely to reiterate the point of submitting to authorities. It is important to check the context of this commandment to better understand it.

The scriptures never promoted that you blindly follow the authorities. There are commands from the ungodly authorities that promote evil and as emphasized earlier, Christians are never for oppression but rather, for the good of the people.

When you start to blindly follow abusive rulers, you tend to lose freedom simply because you are being controlled. As a Christian, it is always great to be reminded that there is a higher authority that must be followed, and it is God.

“Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29 NIV)

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan

3. Exercise your right to vote

Are you frustrated about your leaders? Are you worried about the threats against freedom? There is still hope, and that is you.

You can always do something to defend the freedom and democracy in the country by choosing the right leaders of the nation.

“When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding.” (Proverbs 28:12 NIV)

Help in building a nation free from oppression and ungodly authorities by making a difference in your choice of leadership.

It all starts with you, the modern-day hero who will defend the nation’s freedom.

3 Ways to be a Modern-Day Defender of Freedom this Araw ng Kalayaan

Make this 123rd Araw ng Kalayaan a day for you to not just reminisce the triumph of history, but also a start of making every day an Independence Day – through creating a change in yourself, community, and nation with these Biblical truths.

Do you want to start having freedom in the Lord?

Visit this page and call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.

5 Meaningful Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Mom

When you look at your mother, what do you see?

Do you see the world’s best chef, a genuine friend, or a great provider? Is she your cheerleader, teacher, and responsible housekeeper?

While all mothers wear many hats, one of the most important roles they play is to give their children nurturing love.

Thankfully, there are some things you can do to thank them for all the love and sacrifice they have done and eventually, keep your bond strong!

Coach and Beyond Small Talk host LA Mumar, son of actress Coney Reyes, shares 5 meaningful ways to help you strengthen and improve your relationship with your mother:

1. 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 operates 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.

“At the end of the day, we can have great relationships with one another despite our shortcomings, because we receive God’s love. We can share that love with our moms and with the people around us. I think that’s the most important part,” LA shared.

2. Do your best to understand one another

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

When all is said and done, you have the choice to forgive. Try to understand why they do what they do. Ask God to give you the power to see right through any differences and see your mother through the lens of love.

LA agrees, “Let’s have a deeper understanding of one another, let’s understand both ways. I am a son, and I am also a parent. Let’s love our parents and understand what they are going through.”

3. Communicate with each other

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.

4. Make a continuous effort to strengthen your relationship

As LA succinctly puts it, “Of course, this 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!

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 strengthen your relationship with your mother. Seek God and ask Him to give you a mouth that speaks life, hands that are gracious to comfort, and a heart that loves unconditionally.

“With the grace and strength God has given us, I am sure, relationships can flourish,” LA said.

Watch out for more inspiring content from Beyond Small Talk this June!

Catch the next webisode this coming Saturday, June 5, 2021, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

Can you remember the trouble you once experienced that challenged your faith?

Surely, you can.

Trials and testing are part of life. Storms come and go. So now, the real question emerges: how can you respond to them?

Here are 3 steps that can help you hold on to God during hard times:

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

1. Anchor yourself to God

It is easy to hold on to God when everything is good and happy. It is easy to trust God when life is steady. But what happens when storms come your way?

Sometimes, it could be challenging to pray and trust God – but these are the wisest things to do!

And if you pray and things don’t turn out the way you wanted, that doesn’t mean you should quit praying. That doesn’t mean God is not listening. God has His way in the whirlwind and in the storm (Nahum 1:3) and you need to anchor yourself to this truth.

So don’t stop praying! Don’t stop spending time with Jesus. Feed yourself with God’s Word and encouragement and trust His process.

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

2. Check what weighs you down

What’s rocking your boat at this moment?

Is it bitterness? Is it anger or unforgiveness? Could it be envy, worry, and bad habits?

If you are already facing a huge problem, these negative habits and emotions would only add weight to your shoulders. Do not allow them to sink you down to hopelessness.

Remember, God has given you the power, the love, and self-discipline! (2 Timothy 1:6-7) Ask God to check your heart and cleanse you from whatever holds you down.

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

3. Recalibrate your perspective

What kind of storm are you in right now?

Very honestly, there are storms that people bring to themselves. These storms either emerged out of bad decisions or disobedience (Proverbs 14:12). Then there are storms that you don’t invite. These troubles come even when you seek God.

Either way, God allows troubles for a purpose. Remember the storm that God’s disciples experienced?

“Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!” (Matthew 8:23-27 NIV)

They experienced a huge storm while they were following Jesus!

But if we are to see it from a bigger perspective, if they had not been in the storms, they would not have discovered God’s character.

Yes, the storms in your life will help you discover truths about Jesus – the truth that He will never leave you nor forsake you amid storms of life.

The truth is that He is a miracle-working God.

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard Times

Be encouraged to hold on to God during hard times!

Watch out for Reverb Worship’s newest single, “Kumapit” by Yeng Constantino – a song about God’s unwavering love amid life’s storms and darkness. The song is produced in partnership with Star Music.

Kumapit: 3 Steps to Help You Hold on to God during Hard TimesStay tuned to our website and social media channels for exclusive updates about Kumapit’s release date.

These 5 Tips can Help You Build Positive Relationships with Your Children!

Are you wondering what are steps you can take to build strong, positive relationships with your children?

Sit down, relax, and let Beyond Small Talk guide you!

Actress, mother, and Beyond Small Talk guest Princess Punzalan talks about parenthood and shares 5 practical tips to help you improve your ties with your little ones:

1. Praise your children

According to the parenting website Raising Children, praise is when you tell your child that you like what they are doing or how they are behaving. Telling them praises such as “Good job!” or “What you did was amazing!” nurture their confidence and sense of self.

Likewise, it lets them know that you love them and believe in their abilities.

“I noticed that praising them is important. When they do something right, they are happy when we notice it. We are human beings; we want to be appreciated. We want to be loved. Our children respond well when we praise them,” Princess explained.

2. Do fun things together

Raising children is a challenging task – especially during this pandemic when you are all cooped up inside your home. But it is also fulfilling, and it can be fun!

Having fun doesn’t need to involve a serious activity or expensive trip. It can be as simple as riding a bike or playing a game together – as long as everyone enjoys it. Whatever floats your boat!

As Princess puts it, “It’s good to build memories where you are having fun with your kids.”

Parenting NI agrees, noting that spending special time with your children helps encourage communication and strengthen family bonds.

3. Talk about their feelings

When was the last time that you asked your children about how their day went? What about how they are holding up during this pandemic?

If you haven’t talked about their feelings yet, today is a good time to start!

“Let’s ask them how they feel. For some people, it will be harder to express their feelings, but I have seen that the more we talk about our feelings, the easier we can deal with them,” Princess suggested.

4. Join a support group

Support groups – whether online or offline – can bring comfort and friendship.

Whether they are your trusted friends and relatives, churchmates, or people in your community, it is helpful that you have the support of other parents who are going through the same situation.

These people can guide you, pray for you, and empower you to become a better parent.

5. Write down what you appreciate about your children and share it with them

What are the things that are praiseworthy about your children? Write them down.

Jot down those well-meaning words on your post-its, gratitude journal, or note app on your phone. Then, share it with your children.

The act may seem simple, but an encouraging remark from you every now and then could be all that your children need to feel that they are seen, heard, and loved.

May the love of the Lord rule in your home!

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15 ESV)

For more tips about nurturing relationships, watch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, May 29, 2021, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity?

If you’ve been attending church for quite some time now, hearing the phrase “In the name of the Father, the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” is not new to you.

Perhaps, the first word to come up on your mind upon hearing this is simply, the Trinity.

This seven-letter word is a concept most would have difficulty understanding. However, despite the mystery surrounding the word, it also reveals the astounding character of God.

To help you understand more about this theological mystery, here are some Biblical truths that explain the Trinity as our one, true God.

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity?

One God

When discussing the Trinity, a typical question always comes up: Why do Christian believers utter these three names: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, yet say they only worship one God?

God is one, not three. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are the three Divine Persons of the one and only God. Each of the three has their equal and undivided activity within the only God.

It is important to note that these three Divine Persons are not mere representations of God’s function in three, but the identities of the one and only God.

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deuteronomy 6:4 NIV)

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity?

Three-in-one God

The Bible recognizes these three Divine Persons many times. Look at these events from the scripture.

First, God as the Father – the Creator of heaven and earth – is the one who sent His Son to save the sins of the world. This character of God as a Father acts as the One who created a way for all things to be revealed according to the divine plan.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 NIV)

Second, God as the Son is “the way, the truth, and the life”. The person of God here is the savior of the world.

Jesus Christ became man as a way for you to be redeemed from the consequences of sin. He spoke the truth as a spokesman of God, and He is the way for you to have eternal life.

Jesus Christ became 100% man-holy and without sin. At the same time, Jesus is also 100% God. He is the representation of the invisible God.

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. (Colossians 1:15)

Lastly, God as the Holy Spirit though commonly least understood among the three, is the One who helps you in your walking in faith.

The Holy Spirit is not another God or less of a God. The Holy Spirit is God.

Jesus Christ emphasized the role of the Holy Spirit as your Helper before He ascended to heaven.

But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you.” (John 14:26 AMP)

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity?

Equal Power of the Trinity

After understanding each of the individual activities of the three personas of God, it is important to keep in mind that there is no hierarchy of power among the three.

The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have each of their functions and identity but with equal power.

Paul uttered the benediction emphasizing the Divine Persons of Trinity in 2 Corinthians 13, in which he identified the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, the amazing love of the Father lavished through His Son, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit to be with the people, forever.

“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14 NIV)

The concept of the Trinity is considered to always be one of the great theological mysteries. It is important to understand that each of the Divine Persons is fully God that act a significant role in the Christian faith.

There is only one God with three coeternal personas – the Trinity.

How Can I Better Understand the Trinity?

Do you want to experience the full extent of God’s moving in your life?

Visit this page to begin your journey of faith today!

If you want to know more about God, the CBN Asia Prayer Center can connect you to a church that can help you grow in faith. Call us at 8-737-0-700 or email prayforme@cbnasia.org.

5 Keys to Strengthen Parent-Child Relationships – Beyond Small Talk

There is no such thing as a perfect family.

Despite good intentions and best efforts, parents can still fall short. As children grow up while parents grow old, disagreements may arise. Misunderstandings may become frequent, too.

If you can relate to the statements above and you are wondering how you can better your relationship with your parents, Beyond Small Talk is here to help you!

Actress Princess Punzalan, who wears the hats of a daughter and a mother, shares 5 keys to improve and strengthen parent-child relationships:

1. When you see your parents trying to reach out to you, do your best to respond.

Have you heard the famous adage, “It takes two to tango?”

It is also highly applicable to nurturing your relationships. Say your parents are trying to reach out to you, be willing to respond.

It does not have to be a lot. Spending a few minutes each day to have meaningful conversations with them can help strengthen your bond. Communication is key!

2. Tell your parents how much you appreciate them.

In his article on Psychology Today, Dr. Neil Farber noted that emotion plays an important role in the development and trajectory of parent-child relationships.

Appreciation is such a powerful emotion. So take the time to tell your parents how much you appreciate them.

If you are still working on expressing it verbally, Princess has a suggestion to help you start, “Maybe you can write something to your parents and tell them how much you appreciate them.”

3. Thank your parents for what they have done for you.

What are the things that you love about your parents? What are you grateful for?

Think of the things that make you thankful for your parents, then tell them. Your well-meaning words may come as a surprise at first, but they will never go unappreciated.

Sure, not everyone is good at expressing their feelings. But thanking your parents once in a while for what they have done for you would be a great practice.

4. Point out what you love and appreciate about your parents.

Your parents may already know that you love them, but wouldn’t it be nice if they hear it straight from you?

You may never know all the sacrifices and tough choices they had to make for your own good, but if you recall any, let them know that you see their efforts.

Princess recommends, “If you recall a tough decision that they had to make for you, it would be nice if you can point that out and thank them for it. And I am sure it will warm their hearts.”

5. Learn to let go and forgive.

Adulting is challenging, but parenting can be hard, too.

Every person who walks on this planet has his fair share of mistakes and shortcomings – and your parents are not exempted. Holding on to your parents’ mistakes would do you more harm than good.

“If in case you have resentments and you feel that your parents are not ready to talk about it, just let it be. Let’s forgive,” Princess said, assuring that you can always bring your pain to Jesus.

There is no such thing as a perfect family, but there is a perfect God.

Nurturing a harmonious relationship with your parents takes effort, mutual respect, and most importantly, unconditional love. Pray and believe that God can help your family be united in His perfect love.

Do you find these tips helpful in strengthening your relationship with your parents?

Let us know in the comment section below!

For more inspiring content, don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, May 22, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!  

Do You Want to be a Mom through Adoption? – Beyond Small Talk

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. 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) 

What are your thoughts about adoption and motherhood? 

Join the online discussion and don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk on May 15, 2021, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel! 

Prayers for those who Struggle with their Mental Health

Prayers for those who Struggle with their Mental Health

Do you want to pray for your mental health, but you cannot find the words to say?

Are you willing to pray for a loved one who has a mental health concern, but you do not know where to start?

This Mental Health Awareness Week, here are some powerful prayers to help you start. Let us gather and declare that the power of Jesus Christ is bigger than any mental health struggle!

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:16 NLT)

A prayer if you are dealing with anxiety: 

Heavenly Father, as I come to you today, I ask that you cleanse my heart. I release any anger, resentment, or negative feelings in me. Help me forgive everyone who wronged me as I also seek Your mercy for all the wrong things I did.

I come to You believing that You can heal not just my body, but also my anxious mind.

Jesus, You said that if we ask anything in Your Name, then we will receive. So today, I receive your grace. I receive Your comfort and strength.

When I am crushed by my fears or worries, remind me that I have already received Your peace. Whenever my mind’s like a raging storm, help me express grace to myself. Remind me that I do not have to fear any storm when my Savior is on board.

Thank You, God, because I know that my mental health and healing are important to You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

(Read John 14:14, Romans 5:1)

A prayer if you are dealing with depression: 

Heavenly Father, I come to You today to ask for help. I may not understand what I feel but I declare that You are freeing me from this depression – in the Name of Jesus!

Lord, take the spirit of heaviness away. I release painful experiences that weigh me down and I welcome Your healing.

Whenever I feel lost in my own thoughts, God, take over my mind. Take over my mind, body, and soul for they all belong to You.

Thank You, Lord, for Your love, patience, and boundless grace.  I praise You for healing me and delivering me from depression. I praise You, Jesus, for filling my mind with what is good, pleasing, and perfect. Amen.

(Read Psalm 100:3, Romans 12:2)

A prayer if you are dealing with psychotic disorders or other mental illnesses: 

Heavenly Father, I surrender my life to You. Whenever I lose touch with reality, in times that I cannot control my own mind and body – help me, God.

Help me focus my eyes on You. I humbly ask that You comfort and relieve me from this condition. Jesus, allow me to experience Your supernatural healing. Please restore my health, mind, and spirit.

I also pray for others who are challenged by serious and chronic mental illnesses. I lift the patients who cannot pray for themselves.

God, nothing is impossible with You. May You rescue us from our affliction, cover us and our families with your hedge of protection, and allow us to experience Your miraculous healing.

Father, I trust that everything will fall into place according to Your sovereign way, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Read: Hebrews 12:2, Psalm 30:2, Matthew 19:26)

A prayer if you are dealing with addiction: 

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my strength and hope. Thank you because I believe that You will not allow me to be stuck in this pit of addiction and self-destruction. Thank you, God, for Your patience and grace.

Help me forgive myself as You have forgiven me. I pray that Your mercy will untangle me from the snares of the enemy. May You deliver me from all temptations and help me find the strength to overcome my addiction.

Thank You for loving me more than I could ever imagine. I also pray for the love and patience of others as I work through this condition.

I praise You, Jesus, because You have prepared a good future for me. Help me to lead the rest of my life in reverence of You and Your glory. Jesus, my Lord, I receive healing in Your mighty Name. Amen.

(Read Corinthians 10:13, Jeremiah 29:11)

If you are struggling with your mental health, we are here to pray for you.

Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or contact us via email (prayforme@cbnasia.org) or Skype (The700clubasia).

Ready to Quit Drinking? Overcome Alcohol Addiction with these 5 Tips!

You drove by a liquor store and could not help but buy a drink. You went home and opened the first bottle, the second, the third… until you lost count. You have been binge-drinking for months and the quarantine only triggered your alcohol use.

Deep down you know there is something wrong – and you are struggling to stop drinking.

Do not worry, your help comes from God! (Psalm 121:1)

Here are 5 practical tips to help you overcome an alcohol addiction, from The 700 Club Asia and Beyond Small Talk host, Erick Totañes.

Tip #1: Surround yourself with the right people

Alcohol addiction could be an incredibly confusing thing. You need people who can help you set things straight.

Who are the people that you surround yourself with? Do they encourage you to curb your drinking, or it is the other way around?

Whoever they are and whatever they do, Erick has a suggestion for you, “Make sure that they will lead you to the right influence.”

Tip #2: Look for a church community that will journey with you 

The road to recovery is not a straight path. Temptations are everywhere so relapse could happen. The pandemic, along with other life troubles can make you seek comfort in a bottle of liquor. One wrong move and you are down the rabbit hole again. 

That’s why it is important to have a solid support group by your side.

These people who love you with the love of God will correct you out of genuine concern. These people will journey with you toward recovery. These people will let you confess your sins and weaknesses to each other and pray for you that you may be healed (James 5:16).

Tip #3: Be open and teachable 

Keep an open mind and be willing to acknowledge your mistakes – then forgive yourself. Ask God to help you accept criticism, advice, and wisdom from others.

“Humble yourself. We must have a teachable heart. When the people who care for us give us advice, let’s accept it,” says Erick, which leads you to Tip #4.

Tip #4: Listen and follow godly advice 

No matter what age you’re at, remember that learning doesn’t have to stop. You can learn, unlearn, and relearn things that will help you overcome alcohol addiction.

Erick realized the value of heeding godly advice when he himself struggled with alcohol addiction before becoming a pastor, “To the young people, follow your parents. To older ones, listen to the good advice of your friends and loved ones.”

Then, pray for discernment. Prepare your heart to receive, filter, and apply those words of wisdom to your life.

Tip #5: Start today 

Start seeking ways to overcome your triggers. And if you suspect that you are no longer in the driver’s seat of your life, start seeking medical treatment. Start changing your mindset and lifestyle. Start finishing your recovery by starting today.

How?

If you don’t know where to start, Erick affirms that you can always start with God, “If we come to God with humility, acknowledging that we are sinners and we have made a lot of mistakes, God is faithful to cleanse and forgive us from all sins.”

You can start today because there is a God who loves you. Nothing is too late nor too heavy for Him. Surrender your life to Him and He will do the heavy lifting of all your stress, troubles, and even alcohol addiction.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NASB)

If you want to break free from the shackles of alcohol addiction, we want to journey with you through prayers. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you.

Looking for more inspiring content? Catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, May 8, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

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