Category: Teaching

choosing a church - why join a church

Choosing a Church

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti

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

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

Is church even necessary?

Why a church is essential to your spiritual growth 

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

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

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

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

Why join a church 

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

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

How to choose a church that is right for you 

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

1. Doctrine 

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

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

2. Leadership 

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

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

3. Ministry 

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

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

4. Fellowship

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

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

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

5. Church Size

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

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

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

Do you want to connect to a church near you?

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

3 Tips to Protect Your Mind from Anxiety during the Pandemic

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on 3 Tips to Protect Your Mind from Anxiety during the Pandemic

To say that the pandemic has been a difficult season would be an understatement for many. 

Some people have lost their loved ones, others lost their jobs. All the health, economic, and political turmoil many have gone through have been perfect recipes for anxiety to rise. 

If you feel that everything that is happening around you has brought bouts of worry, fear, or even loneliness, you might be wondering what you can do to protect your mind from anxiety.  

Keep anxiety at bay with these tips from the inspirational speaker and Beyond Small Talk guest Carl Pascua: 

  1. Reconnect with your loved ones

The more you keep your negative emotions to yourself, the more it gets worse. 

Life happens, that is why it is important to have people around you during tough times. Whenever you are down, anxious, or frustrated, trust that your family and friends are willing to listen to you and cheer you up.  

If you don’t know where to start, here’s a challenge for you: Name 3 people in your life that you can talk to about your anxious thoughts. Call them. Ask how they are doing and tell them what you are going through.  

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2 NIV) 

  1. Spend time praying and reading the Bible

How’s your prayer life? 

Whenever you feel anxious about anything, you need to pass that ball to Jesus Christ. Slow down and spend time with your Heavenly Father.  

“Why?” Carl asked. “Because our greatest comforter is the Lord.” Every time you pray, God gives you peace – the kind of peace that would guard your heart and mind amid any pandemic. 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7) 

  1. Do something that can give you fulfillment and a sense of purpose

Try to identify the source of your anxiety, then make room for something that would take your mind off it. 

What are the things that give you joy, fulfillment, and purpose? What activities do you enjoy the most? 

Whether it’s supporting pandemic-hit families, encouraging other people, or sharing God’s goodness, know that God is pleased when you do things for His glory. 

Isn’t it wonderful to know that you can be the light and love this world needs? 

“We can share the goodness of the Lord amid unwanted circumstances. It’s all about what Jesus can do if we do things for His glory. All we have to do is trust God in good times and in bad; to obey him, then favor will come. Blessings will overflow,” Carl ended. 

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14 ESV) 

Do you feel like your anxiety has reached an all-time high during the pandemic? 

Let us know in the comments how you are doing so we can pray for you. You may also call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or email prayforme@cbnasia.org. 

For more meaningful content, don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, May 1, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!  

This is How You can Cope with Pandemic Stress | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on This is How You can Cope with Pandemic Stress | Beyond Small Talk

Imposed quarantines from time to time, news about the rise and fall of COVID-19 cases here and there, plus health and safety reminders everywhere – as you may have realized, the world is battling this pandemic for over a year now.  

How are you holding up?  

If these unsettling scenarios create feelings of stress and anxiety to you, know that God wants you to be free from all worries (Psalm 34:4). 

God gives you the power to break free from stress! 

This Stress Awareness Month, know how you can help yourself in dealing with your pandemic stress, with some essential tips from an inspirational speaker and Beyond Small Talk guest, Carl Pascua. 

 

Tip #1: Slow down and rest 

Did you find yourself feeling extra stressed when the pandemic started? You are not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during the pandemic. 

Perhaps, uncertainty becomes the gasoline that fuels your stress fire. 

Don’t worry. You don’t need to force yourself to be okay all the time. Carl suggests that you process your emotions, know where the sadness or stress comes from, and do not forget to take a much-needed rest. 

Tip #2: Exercise and stay healthy 

Science has long proved that your mind and body are strongly linked. 

“Remember, a healthy body can result into a healthy mind and a good emotional condition,” Carl reminds. 

The American Psychological Association backs this up and specifies that as your mental health declines, your physical health can worsen, and if your physical health declines, you can feel mentally “down.” 

So get off the couch and start a simple exercise routine, and be extra mindful of what you eat! 

Tip #3: Talk about your problems 

Whether it’s a family member, a trusted friend, or a mentor, sharing your thoughts and concerns with other people can help relieve stress. Likewise, you can help others feel that they’re not alone, too! 

Like you, each person you know could be fighting a battle you don’t know about. So don’t hesitate to reach out. Encourage each other and build each other up! (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT) 

Tip #4: Let go of the idea about control 

Who would’ve thought that by 2020, going to malls, restaurants – or even work – could be a health risk? Who would’ve thought that by the summer of 2021, you would be cooped up in your home and praying for a pandemic to end? 

Nobody. 

But it happened, and this goes to show that no matter what your plans are, you cannot control everything. Ease your pandemic stress by letting go of your need to control things, and trusting that Someone greater is always in control – Jesus Christ. 

As Proverbs 19:21 ESV puts it, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” 

Tip #5: Put your faith in Him 

If anything, the pandemic proved the famous saying, “Everything changes, except the word change.” 

If you put your happiness and trust in things that change – like career, health, or even relationships – you might feel stressed when things don’t work out the way you hoped. It’s high time to put your joy and faith in a God who never changes. 

“Other people may not understand everything that is going on in your life, but God knows. That means you can go to Him, cry to Him, and you can seek help from Him. Problems can be big, but our God is bigger, our God is stronger!” Carl ended. 

No matter what you’re going through, keep going! You can always find comfort and overcome through the help of your merciful God! 

“In the multitudes of anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19 NKJV) 

Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? 

We are here for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we will pray for you. 

Mark your calendars and catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, April 24, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!  

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

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

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

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

Consider these practical tips: 

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  1. Respect the environment like how you respect your body

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

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

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

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  1. Turn that respect into action

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

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

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

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  1. Encourage others to do the same 

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

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

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

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

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  1. Pray for the earth and every person on it 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    and the fish of the sea will declare to you. 

Who among all these does not know 

    that the hand of the Lord has done this? 

In his hand is the life of every living thing 

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

 

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

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

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5 Life Lesson We can Learn from the Story of Esther

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | 2 Comments on 5 Life Lesson We can Learn from the Story of Esther

A beauty like no other turned a simple Jewish girl from being an ordinary citizen to being the queen of an entire nation! But there is something more about her than what meets the eye—she possessed a courage that helped save her entire race from annihilation.

Here are five lessons you can learn from the story of Esther:

  1. You Are Where You Are for A Reason

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God led Esther’s steps and used her as an instrument to save the Jewish people from being wiped out.

Esther became the Queen of Persia after King Xerxes’ wife, Queen Vashti, was deposed. Among all the beautiful women in the empire, Esther’s beauty and personality stood out. The king was so delighted in her that she was declared queen! Upon the request of her cousin, Mordecai, she kept her nationality a secret and later on revealed it to save her people from the impending danger Haman had planned.

God has a purpose for your life, and He allows things to happen for a reason. Like Queen Esther, God may have brought you where you are for a special purpose. Maybe you are in a workplace filled with workmates who need to hear about Jesus. Or in a campus surrounded by students who need the Lord in their life. Maybe you’re the only Christian in your family who God will use so your loved ones could hear about Him. If you find yourself in a position like Queen Esther, remember her story. Who knows? God may have placed you there for such a time as this.

  1. You Can Run to God in Times of Trouble

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When Queen Esther learned about Haman’s evil plan toward the Jews, she asked Mordecai to gather all the Jews in Susa to fast with her for three days and nights. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that Christians do. We fast to acknowledge our dependence on God and focus on Him.

Esther knew that the first thing we should do is to run to do God. Only He can help us face and win life’s biggest battles.

  1. Have Courage

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During the time of Queen Esther, it was against the law to approach the king without being summoned. But even if it meant risking her life, Esther went to see the king. In Esther 4:16, she bravely said, “And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.”

With her faith in God and her people standing with hers in prayer, Esther took the most difficult decision of her life, faced the king, and saw God’s deliverance.

  1. Pride and Hatred Lead to Destruction

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Haman’s anger was aroused when Mordecai chose not to bow down to him. Because of this, he decided to kill all the Jews. Haman asked for the king’s approval to issue a decree that would have all the Jews killed. Before something tragic happens, Queen Esther had already approached the king and planned a way to stop their annihilation. In the end, the Jews were saved, and Haman was executed.

  1. God is Sovereign

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The Jews may have feared for their lives when they learned of Haman’s evil plan, but God proved that He is sovereign overall. God used Queen Esther to stop Haman’s plans. She invited Haman for a banquet with the king and exposed His evil plans of destroying the Jews. When the king learned about this, He was angered! He ordered the execution of Haman.

God is with us through difficult times. Always remember that He is actively working behind the scenes and His plans will always prevail in our lives.

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May we face our obstacles like Queen Esther—fearless and with hearts full of faith. Watch and learn from her story. Get your “Esther—For Such A Time as This” Superbook DVD here. You may also get the entire Superbook Season 2 DVD set here.

Follow us on Facebook for more #SuperNews! (www.facebook.com/batangsuperbook)

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

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

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

If so, you are not alone. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  1. Remember your purpose and priorities

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

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

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

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

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  1. Seek help

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

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

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

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

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  1. Schedule your rest days

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

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

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

Rest is sacred, so rest well and rest intentionally! 

Are you stressed?  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Who is the Holy Spirit?  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But there’s more to that.  

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

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

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

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How do you encounter the Holy Spirit?  

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

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

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

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

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

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Do you want to encounter the Holy Spirit today? 

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

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

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

Check Out these 5 Holistic Tips to Stay Healthy amid the Pandemic!

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Check Out these 5 Holistic Tips to Stay Healthy amid the Pandemic!

The numbers don’t lie. The COVID-19 cases in the country are hitting an all-time high, and it’s taking a heavy toll on people’s minds.  

If like many people you’re afraid to get sick, then you might be doing a great job of heeding the experts’ advice about washing your hands, covering your mouth when you cough, or wearing face mask and face shields whenever you go outside. 

But if you are looking for something more to support your health and well-being, Beyond Small Talk is here to help you! 

Learn some useful tips to stay safe and sane during the pandemic, from The 700 Club Asia host and COVID-19 survivor, Joyce Burton-Titular. 

Tip #1: Make good use of your time 

The recent quarantine orders mean more time to stay at home. Aside from taking a good rest, what are the things you do to make the best use of your time? 

It’s a tough season for everyone, but you have a choice. You can allow anxious thoughts about the pandemic to pester your mind, or you can fill your head with useful learnings and new memories. 

There are loads of opportunities, like starting a hobby! To Joyce, starting a new hobby is also healthy because it helps occupy your mind. So whether it’s painting, journaling, or vlogging, adding these simple yet productive activities to your daily routine is helpful to your mental health. 

Tip #2: Eat mindfully 

It is not a secret that what you eat has a profound impact on your overall health.  

That is why as a COVID-19 survivor, Joyce suggests that you become more mindful of what you eat each day, “You have to have your mind and heart into what you eat. There are many diet books out there that talk about good diets.” 

Tip #3: Exercise 

Even when you’re stuck at home, you can boost your cardio fitness by doing simple exercise routines. Some people accomplish this through brisk walking in their yard, doing jumping jacks, or even dancing. 

“Move. Move that body! My husband and I exercise on our patio where there is sunlight. I go on YouTube and look for exercise videos, and we exercise together,” Joyce said. 

Tip #4: Practice breathing exercises 

From the onset of the pandemic, you may have noticed that breathing became a concern for many. People isolate themselves in rooms, wear masks each time they go outside – it seems like it is now harder to breathe. 

But breathing is crucial. Proper breathing exercises don’t just strengthen your lungs – they also ease pandemic stress and anxiety. So out with the old, stale air and in with new fresh air! 

Joyce shares, “Now with COVID going around, breathing is one of the biggest problems. People only breathe shallow; we only breathe through our upper chest. But people who exercise breathe to the bottom of their lungs.” 

Tip #5: Get enough sleep 

If you’re having a hard time getting a good night’s sleep these days, you may be experiencing COVIDsomnia – a heightened sleep disturbance linked to pandemic stress. But when you don’t sleep well, your body won’t have the strength and highly functioning immune system to fight off viruses. 

That’s why you need to be more proactive in getting that full night’s sleep! Your body needs sleep to stay healthy and strong, and God wants you to rest so you can experience His peace and healing. 

As Joyce puts it, “When we sleep, we tap into the miracle healing of God.” 

And though it requires efforts to stay healthy and safe from COVID-19, know that God is your ultimate protector and healer. So if you or someone you know is battling the virus right now, Joyce has a prayer for you. 

“I pray that you put your trust in God, 100%. Ask for His presence, ask for Him to be with you. It’s the best thing that you can have in the middle of the worst storm of your life.” 

Do you find it hard to stay safe and sane during the pandemic? 

Do not worry, we are here to pray for you! Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.  

For more tips about coping with the pandemic, catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, April 17, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel! 

Afraid of Rejection? Here are 6 Tips to Help You Overcome

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Afraid of Rejection? Here are 6 Tips to Help You Overcome

Have you ever been rejected? 

Many people have experienced some kind of rejection and it changed how they feel about themselves and the world. Some were deeply hurt, while others remain crippled by the fear of being rejected again.  

If you are one of those people, this article is for you! 

Check out these 6 practical tips to help you conquer your fear of rejection, from an inspirational speaker and Beyond Small Talk guest, Carl Pascua. 

 

Tip #1: Know that it is normal to be rejected

Rejection comes in many forms. It could be as big as being turned down for a dream job or as “mild” as a friend put you on “seen” when you invited them to hang out. 

You see, people will experience rejection at least once in their lifetime. Rejection hurts, it’s almost inevitable. But accepting that rejection is part of life will help you deal with it. 

 

Tip #2: Understand that fear of rejection will limit you 

In an interview with NBC News, social and personality psychologist Mark Leary says concern with rejection is normal. However, the fear of rejection might prevent you from seizing good opportunities. 

“But being excessively worried about it — to the point that we do not do things that might benefit us — can compromise the quality of our life,” he warned.  

Don’t allow the fear of rejection to stop you from doing new things, taking risks, or chasing your dreams. If you are too scared of what other people might think of you, you might want to ask yourself, “Whose life am I living?” 

 

Tip #3: Learn self-affirmation 

No one can ever invalidate you if you have already validated yourself. 

That is one of the reasons why positive self-affirmations are important. They are phrases or statements that you repeat to yourself, to restore self-regard and help you overcome negative thoughts, based on Claude Steele’s Self-Affirmation Theory. 

So whenever you feel like you’re caught up in negative self-talk or struggling with fear of rejection, list down the positive affirmations to encourage yourself. As a start, take a deep breath and tell yourself: 

 

“I am free from fear of rejection!” 

“I accept rejection with a positive mind.” 

“I accept myself no matter how others may think. I am worthy and loved!”  

 

Tip #4: Have a support group 

Simply put, surround yourself with people who will encourage you and love you enough to tell you which areas in your life need improvement. 

As Carl suggests, “It’s important to have a group who can motivate us and can be honest about what we can improve about ourselves.” 

 

Tip #5: Take rejection as an opportunity for growth. 

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! 

Instead of wallowing in sadness, see rejections as redirection or an opportunity for growth. Remember, you have the power to turn that seemingly negative experience into a positive one. 

Ask yourself, “Is there something that I need to improve?” “What does God want me to learn from this rejection?” Nobody is perfect, but everybody can grow! 

 

Tip #6: Hold on to Someone bigger and greater 

The idea of rejection doesn’t have to hold you back, because God’s got your back. 

“If we see ourselves as small and inadequate, we can hold on to Someone who is powerful and greater – and that is our Creator. No matter what other people think of me and my abilities, I believe that God is sovereign over all,” Carl affirms. 

Whenever the fear of rejection creeps in, praise God for who He is and who He made you be. 

Praise God that you are loved! 

You are worthy! 

You are special! 

You are God’s masterpiece! 

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14 NIV) 

 

Are you struggling to overcome your fear of rejection? Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you. 

Don’t miss out on the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this coming Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!  

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How do You Pray for Healing?

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

How do you pray for the sick? 

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

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

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1. Ask God for help

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

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

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

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2. Pray in the name of Jesus

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

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

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

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3. Seek God, not the reward 

Who wants a healing miracle? 

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

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

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

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4. Pray for spiritual healing

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

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

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

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

Are you praying for healing? 

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

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

Devotionals

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What It Takes To Believe in God

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

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The Fearless Life | God’s Word Today

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

img

What It Takes To Believe in God

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

img

The Fearless Life | God’s Word Today

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