Category: Teaching

04052021_Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19_1

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

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

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

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

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

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

04052021_Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19_1

  1. Ask what help they need 

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

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

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

04052021_Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19_2

  1. Regularly check up on them

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

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

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

04052021_Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19_3

  1. Pray for them, pray with them

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

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

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

04052021_Are You Looking for Ways to Support a Loved One with COVID-19_4

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

“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 NIV) 

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

Let God’s peace be your assurance. 

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

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_1

What to Pray for this Holy Week?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on What to Pray for this Holy Week?

Now that many communities are back to Enhanced Community Quarantine, a lot of people are left wondering: when will this pandemic end? 

Nobody knows for sure, except God.  

But if there is one thing you can be sure of, it is this: God hears prayers. That’s why this Holy Week, take this perfect opportunity to pause, ponder, and pray.  

As God says in 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV, “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.”   

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_1

  1. Pray for your family

“Heavenly Father, thank You for everything that You have done and continue to do in the lives of my loved ones. 

I trust that You love them more than I do, and You are willing to take away any fear, any sickness, or anxiety that they feel. Thank You for drawing them close to Your heart, and I pray that You will continue to protect, bless, and meet them in their point of need.” 

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_2

  1. Pray for frontliners and all essential workers 

“Lord, amid the lifesaving work of our frontliners, health experts, and essential workers, we know that they are exhausted. They’re risking their lives in the front lines while barely having the time to look after themselves or their own families. But Lord, we know that their work is not in vain! 

We ask for your mighty hands to sustain and protect them. Thank You for pouring out Your grace, mercy, and provision to their families. I declare that You will restore them physically, mentally, and most importantly, spiritually.” 

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_3

  1. Pray for COVID-19 affected families 

“Heavenly Father, I may not know all their names, but they surely need Your loving grace. May Your healing power surround each and every COVID-19 patient and comfort their families.  

We also remember our kababayans who lost their jobs and those who are struggling or hurting. Father, strengthen and bless them, and allow them to see the hope that is in You! Lord, I pray for the revival of Your people, and I claim that they will encounter Your saving love during this crisis.” 

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_4

  1. Pray for the Philippines and the world

“God, I pray for our country’s leaders – from the highest seat up to the leaders in our barangays. We lift them up to You and pray that they may reflect Your wisdom and compassion to people, and not be swayed by selfish interests. 

At this very moment, Father, may You touch the hearts of all the world leaders so they will work in harmony. Give them the courage to make bold decisions according to Your will, and according to what is good and pleasing to You. May You use this time to turn their eyes upon You.” 

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_5

  1. Pray for God’s family

“Lord, even in trying times, I pray that the gospel will be proclaimed and that Your people will be even more strengthened to do Your work. 

I pray for the body of Christ and trust that You will bless and keep all church leaders, missionaries, and everyone involved in Your ministry. Heavenly Father, I pray that every worker will be salt and light in their respective churches and communities! 

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_6

  1. Pray for faith and personal guidance from God 

“Heavenly Father, we’re back to ECQ without the end in sight, but I praise You, Lord, for sustaining me through and through! 

I pray that Your loving grace will continue to guide all my decisions, comfort me, and cover me every day as You strengthen my faith. Help me be strong and courageous, and to always wear Your full armor of God.  

03312021_What to Pray for this Holy Week_7

May You open my eyes to the plight of others and grant me opportunities to help those who are in need. Here I am Father, use me as a channel of Your love, grace, and mercy to the people around me! 

Ultimately, I pray that love and compassion will spread like a pandemic and that people will seek Your presence in times of crisis. I declare that in Your perfect time, the world will conquer COVID-19. I declare and believe that You – Jesus Christ, the living God – is greater than any crisis! 

Thank you, Father! All these we ask in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen!” 

Rediscover and celebrate the risen God’s victory this Holy Week! Download CBN Asia’s Holy Week Devotional, The Hope for Redemption. Visit this page and complete the form to receive your FREE copy! 

If you need prayers and encouragement right now, you may send your prayer requests to CBN Asia Prayer Center or call 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you. 

How to Overcome Insecurity? Beauty Queen Answers in Beyond Small Talk

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on How to Overcome Insecurity? Beauty Queen Answers in Beyond Small Talk

You’ve had enough. 

You are fed up with insecurities ruling over your life. 

You are tired of faking confidence in front of others and you just want to be a really confident person. 

Beloved, to be insecure is not part of God’s plan for you. As a matter of fact, you were made to be free and confident of who you are in Jesus Christ! 

And yes, you can stop being insecure. Beauty queen and Beyond Small Talk host Venus Raj suggests tips to help you overcome insecurity and fully embrace your God-given identity. 

Tip #1: Ask yourself why you are feeling insecure 

Only when you know the real cause is when you can heal the root and liberate yourself. 

So instead of wallowing in your insecurities, the first step is to face and analyze them one by one. On your journal, write down all your insecurities and ask yourself, “Where do I think this insecurity comes from? Why do I compare myself with others?”  

It’s time to recall that life experience or deeply rooted childhood trauma that caused your insecurities and fear, so you can start to heal. Overcoming insecurity doesn’t happen overnight, but you can start praying for them and re-writing a positive belief about yourself. 

Tip #2: Stop comparing yourself with others 

To Venus, comparing yourself to others can be healthy if you want to learn and improve. However, if the comparison brings you to a point where you feel bad about yourself or you feel better than other people, then you should stop. 

She admits that despite being a beauty queen, she also had a fair share of insecurities, and eventually learned from them, “I realized that the main reason of my insecurity was actually comparison. Comparison kills, and comparison is not glorifying in the eyes of the Lord.” 

Tip #3: Be honest with God. Let Him know what you feel. 

Insecurities are deeply rooted in fear — fear of not being enough, fear of what other people will think of you, fear of exposing your weaknesses to the world. 

It could be hard to overcome your insecurities when you’ve been living with them for so long. 

Thankfully, the Word of God is here to remind you of this truth: 

“The Lord is my light and my salvation— 

 whom shall I fear? 

The Lord is the stronghold of my life— 

    of whom shall I be afraid?” 

(Psalm 27:1 NIV) 

The solution to insecurity is not to attempt at perfection, but to rest in the stronghold of your life – Jesus. You cannot knock out all your insecurities at once, but you can work on them one at a time with the help of a perfect God that covers all your imperfections. 

So don’t be afraid to be humble, honest, and vulnerable to God. Whether it’s physical, emotional, financial, or intellectual insecurity, you can pray and ask Him to heal them one by one. 

Don’t allow the standards of others to dictate how you feel about yourself. As Venus puts it, you might struggle with your insecurities, but they don’t define your identity. 

“We cannot overcome insecurity apart from the one who gives us security, and that is the Lord. Your emotions are valid, but I pray that you would find your security in the Lord again. Nothing can fill in the void that is in our heart that’s supposed to be filled by the Lord alone,” she ended. 

You are whole.  

You are fully accepted. 

You are loved. 

So starting today, keep your head up high. You are precious in your Heavenly Father’s eyes! 

Are you still struggling to find your worth, value, or identity? Are you crippled by insecurities? 

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

Watch out for the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, March 3, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!   

3 Keys to Effective Prayer, According to Tanikala Actress Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on 3 Keys to Effective Prayer, According to Tanikala Actress Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz

What are you praying for today? 

Whatever you may be praying for — healing, restoration of relationships, or provision — you can be assured that God acts on your behalf. But do you know that the condition of your heart when you pray is such an important factor to bring God’s response? 

This Holy Week, unlock the 3 keys to effective prayer according to Tanikala presents Isa Pang Hiling actress Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz: 

Key #1: Simply pray

Prayers are powerful – there’s no single ounce of doubt about that.  

Prayers are powerful because the God who hears them is all-powerful. Likewise, the effectiveness of your prayer does not rely on rituals, length, or big words. Prayers don’t have to be complicated. 

So, what does it take for your prayers to be effective? 

Simply pray. Do not heap up empty phrases (Matthew 6:7) and simply present your honest self to your Heavenly Father. That said, there is no limit as to when and where you can pray!  

Key #2: Pray with faith

Do you pray confidently? Do you pray in faith? 

Prayer and faith go hand-in-hand because, without faith, it is impossible to please God! (Hebrews 11:6). That’s why when you pray, you must believe and not doubt at all (James 1:6).  

If you pray about something yet you still worry about it, isn’t it defeating the purpose of praying? Let go of your worries and doubts.  

Have faith that there is a loving God who hears your prayers. Have faith that He will answer. Have faith that whatever you are praying for right now, know that it is safe in God’s hands. 

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24 ESV) 

Key #3: Pray with thanksgiving 

Through prayers, bodies are healed, relationships are restored, lives are transformed. 

That’s how good God is. And praying is not just about presenting your requests to God; it is also an opportunity to worship God and reflect on His goodness.  

Saying “thank you, God,” covers a lot of things. First, it is a powerful act of acknowledging that God is in control. Second, it pleases Him when you pray without ceasing and give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). 

So if you’re praying for something and it’s a yes, a not yet, or even a loving no from God, pray with thanksgiving. After all, whatever the outcome is, God is worthy of praise and honor. 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 ESV) 

But before you focus on the results of your prayers, know that praying is a blessing itself. Imagine, an opportunity where you can commune with the Creator of heaven and earth!  

And though He wants to bless your prayers, God does not want you to place your faith in the outcome. He wants you to place your faith in Him. 

Do you have prayer requests? 

It is our joy to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

This Holy Week, discover the power of prayers in battling the pandemic. Watch Tanikala presents  

Habang May Ngayon on April 1, and Isa Pang Hiling on April 2, at 10:00 AM on GMA.  

If you are looking for a free devotional app as you reflect this Holy Week, download Tanglaw App – the first Filipino devotional mobile application in audio and text format! It will feature devotions especially written for Holy Week, starting Maundy Thursday, April 1, up to Sunday, April 4. 

Download Tanglaw app from Google Play or the App Store for FREE, or stream it on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and all major podcasts worldwide. 

Are All Human Lives Sacred?

Posted on by dev-cbn

What comes to your mind when you hear the word sacred?

What about when you hear people say that life is sacred?

For some, treating life as sacred is just about religion and spiritual inclination. It seems like mentioning the word alone puts the ball in the religious court.

This usually leads to century-old discourses: Are all human lives sacred, or is it only for those who believe in God? Does the sanctity of life or the right to life ends when free will begins? Is it just an issue of spirituality, or morality?

And if life is sacred, how should people protect it?

To help you decide where to stand, here are some eternal, Bible-based truths that paint a clear picture about the sanctity of life:

Imago Dei and the sanctity of life

Regardless of what the world believes, every human life is priceless in the eyes of the Heavenly Father. It is so valuable that unlike any other creation, man was intricately formed in the Imago Dei, the Latin translation of “image of God.”

“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27 ESV)

The beautiful story of creation shows that a man’s life is worth more than just a single cell. But as the debates go, when does life begin?

In a 2018 study titled, Biologists’ Consensus on ‘When Life Begins,‘ 95% of all biologists affirmed the biological view that a human’s life begins at fertilization.

The Bible reveals much more than that. It says that the fruit of the womb is a reward (Psalm 127:3 ESV) and that God knows and consecrates human beings before they were born (Jeremiah 1:5 ESV). These verses mirror that even before conception, God values human life and treats it as sacred – deserving of utmost respect.

Is the sacredness of life universal?

Here is a seemingly tiny yet very important detail in creation: all lives are sacred.

Genesis 1:26 NET confirms, “Then God said, ‘Let us make humankind in our image, after our likeness, so they may rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move on the earth.’”

It’s good to point out that the Bible did not say man alone or people who are good, wealthy, strong. It says humankind and that speaks volumes!

Some beliefs try to define a human being by various characteristics, capabilities, or functions, but the Creator Himself says otherwise.

So, whenever you are caught up in a discussion about abortion, euthanasia, suicide, wars, human trafficking, or any dialog about the sanctity of human life – whenever you struggle and question the value or sanctity of your own life – you can rely on the truth that God created each and every person in His sacred image, and that all lives are worthy of respect and protection.

God calls His children to protect life

Because God is the Creator of all life, He does not want anyone to destroy it.

This Day of Sanctity and Protection of Human Life, may you be reminded that you are called to protect the sanctity of the breath that you are breathing, the life that you are living. As a child of God and as one of His creations, you are called to restore not just the respect but ultimately, the love for life.

All human life is sacred. All human life, including yours, is priceless and precious. Not one exists without a purpose!

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:13-16 NIV)

Do you want to experience a new life with God?

Visit this page to begin your journey with God today.

If you need someone to pray for you, do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

 

 

Growing in Your Faith in God: 7 Benefits of Daily Devotional Reading

Posted on by dev-cbn | Leave a Comment on Growing in Your Faith in God: 7 Benefits of Daily Devotional Reading

Do you remember the first time you encountered Jesus in your life? It is like falling in love, isn’t it?

You suddenly want to spend time with Him every day reading and soaking in His Word.

But sometimes, it is not enough to just “feel” love. You must also develop that discipline of knowing more of Him so that your knowledge and love about Him can grow deeper.

One way you can effectively do this is through daily devotional reading of His Word. It is not just a daily routine that must be done randomly, but it is allotting a sacred, undivided time with the Lord.

So if you feel lazy or simply busy to do your daily devotionals, read through these 7 benefits that will surely keep you inspired:


1. Daily devotional reading helps build your faith

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” (Romans 10:17 NIV)

It is by hearing God’s Word that faith increases. The Bible has a lot of faith stories about God doing the impossible. To name a few, He turned water into wine, provided manna to thousands of followers, healed the sick, brought the dead to life, parted the Red Sea and many more.

So if you are in fear and doubt right now, reading Scriptures that talk about miracles would help build your faith.


2. Daily devotional reading draws you closer to God

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:8 ESV)

As you intentionally meet the Lord in your quiet place, be assured that He will always meet you there. Invite Him to your heart and get to know Him through His Word. True as they say, if you invite Him and He will surely show up. This is your confidence when storms of life come your way.


3. Daily devotional reading helps you focus on God

“Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Romans 12:12 ESV)

There can be a lot of distractions competing for your attention towards God. The busyness of life may get you. And sometimes even the good things such as goals and dreams can take His place in your life. The world could entice you away from God but through daily devotional reading, God’s truth helps you focus on His beauty alone.


4. Daily devotional reading helps you persevere in life

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV)

As you meditate on the accounts of people in the Bible like Moses, Joseph, Mary and even Jesus, you will find out that their lives are epitome of perseverance of faith. Though they had a difficult time here on earth, they fought the good fight of faith not because they are strong but because God is with them. God will also give you the grace to persevere as you learn to surrender to Him daily.


5. Daily devotional reading helps you gain deeper understanding of the Bible

“You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.” (John 5:39 NIV)

God’s Word has the final authority over your life. The Bible is like a ruler that sets the standard to distinguish the crooked line from a straight line. And the more you know God’s truth, it will be easier to differentiate which one is not.


6. Daily devotional reading helps you apply God’s Word in real-life situations

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NIV)

Spending time with the Lord through daily devotional reading helps you apply Biblical principles that will be useful in life. Whether you need wisdom, comfort, direction, correction, reproof, and training in righteousness, God’s word is always available. He teaches you to depend on Him and not on other voices or opinions.


7. Daily devotional reading helps you find peace and joy

“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” (Psalm 119:165 NIV)

Lastly, relying on God’s word and communing with Him through prayer give peace which surpasses all understanding. It gives joy in the midst of difficulties.

Are you weary about many things lately? Come to Him daily and see what He has to say about your situation.

Who wouldn’t want a one-on-one “coffee session” with the King of kings?

If you have no idea where and how to start this habit of daily devotional reading, the devotional book “Signpost: 366 Days of Journeying with Jesus” is here to help you! Visit this link to grab your copy today.

If you are looking for a good devotional app for 2021, you may download the Tanglaw app for FREE starting January 1! You can also stream it on Spotify and Apple Podcast, and all major podcast directories worldwide.

 

Does God Care About How You Treat the Environment?

Does God Care About How You Treat the Environment?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Does God Care About How You Treat the Environment?

Absolutely.

God cares so much about His creation, and how you care – or not care – for the environment says a lot about how you value what’s important to Him.

To help you have a firm grasp on that thought this Environmental Awareness Month, here are 3 straight-from-The-Bible reasons why you should care for the creation, too:

1. The environment shows God’s goodness.

More than just retelling how the planet we live in was made, the Bible paints a clear picture of God’s creativity, grace, and glory.

Psalm 24:1-2 tells us about these works of God’s hands, “The earth is the Lord′s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.”

God’s creation is good, and it is a mirror of His goodness, too.

As you are called to reflect His goodness, so should you also care for the environment so other people can continue to be amazed of God’s work.

Abusing and neglecting the environment equate to destroying His creation.

2. You are called to be a good steward.

Vast blue skies, seas, breathtaking mountains and forests that are full of flora and fauna – God has indeed blessed mankind with a majestic natural environment.

You have a role to play to protect God’s creation. He has entrusted you the role of preserving its goodness. As it is said in Genesis 2:15, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”

He had called you to practice good stewardship of those blessings right from the world’s beginning.

3. Environmental stewardship is worship.

“Moreover, it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Taking care of the environment doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially when you look at it as an act of worship to God. Whether it’s conserving energy or reducing waste, when it is done with love for God, it is worship and pleasing to Him.

Are you living up to that environmental stewardship God has called you in?

God wants all creation, not just humans, to survive and thrive. As a temporary resident of this planet, you are called to respect, love, and take good care of His creation.

The environment is groaning from abuse for far too long. 2020 is the time to show that you can take part in resuscitating it, through self-discipline and best environmental practices – not just for your own good, but most importantly, for God and the generations to come.

Isn’t it wonderful to see every human working together to enhance the magnificent beauty of this planet for the glory of God?

Are you ready to be a good steward of God’s blessings?

Ask Him to give you a heart that cares for His creation. The CBN Asia Prayer Center is here to pray with you. Call 8737-0-700 or visit cbnasia.org/prayer-requests.

Do you have an Attitude of Gratitude Here are 3 Ways to Express it

Do you have an Attitude of Gratitude? Here are 3 Ways to Express it

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Do you have an Attitude of Gratitude? Here are 3 Ways to Express it

Are you ready for the year 2020 to be done? 

After all that has happened – from the threat of volcanic eruption to a deadly pandemic, the aftermath of the back-to-back typhoons to the loss of your livelihood even loved ones – you might have muttered, “Can this year end already?” 

Is it possible to be thankful to God in the midst of all the troubles and challenges you face? Indeed, it is. 

The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV). 

Being grateful is not ignoring nor dismissing the raw feelings of hurt and hardship you have at the moment. According to Dr. David Murray in his article featured in Tabletalk Magazine, the key to being grateful is in finding cause for thanksgiving whatever circumstances we are in. 

Moreover, gratitude isn’t just a word – it is an action word. You start, you go and you give with thanksgiving in your heart. Gratitude expresses your faith and here are some ways to demonstrate it: 

  1. Start with a smile

Isn’t it amazing to start your day with a bright smile and thank God for the gift of life? 

It is good to note that despite all the chaos, you are still here – breathing and living the moment. You have food to eat, the roof above your head, and a chance to spend time with your loved ones. Those are more than enough reasons to smile and thank God for His goodness, faithfulness, and love! 

Smile, look around you and see how it would positively affect others and set the atmosphere right. Psychological Science says that smiling can help reduce the intensity of the body’s stress response, so use it as an opportunity to display God’s kindness and glorify Him! 

  1. Go and thank someone

When was the last time you sincerely thanked someone? When was the last time you actually stopped and appreciated the people around you? 

Maybe you need to go and thank the cleaner in your office who keeps your space clean, the delivery man who brought your item just in time, or your spouse who constantly makes you a cup of coffee. Perhaps, you need to say ‘thanks’ to a friend who checks up on you or your parents. Thank people for simply existing and blessing you with their lives! 

Utter some words of appreciation and see how their faces would light up! 

  1. Give and bless someone

It is one thing to survive a crisis and another to thrive in the aftermath of it. One way to show gratitude for what you have and show empathy to people who lost their jobs or loved ones is to bless them. 

Know how it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35c NIV). You can be a blessing by serving free meals, raising funds for affected families, or partnering with organizations that bring relief and encouragement to kababayans in need. 

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” (Psalm 100:4-5 NLT) 

The attitude of gratitude does not mean denying your own needs or feelings. It is boldly believing that the storms won’t last. It is holding on to that faith that no matter what happens, your Heavenly Father is ready to take you through – with sustenance, love, and grace. 

Are you looking for ways to demonstrate gratefulness and gratitude? You can partner with us today in bringing hope and aid to our kababayans! 

If you need someone to pray for you, do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 and we would love to stand with you through prayers.

Beneath the Wonders are Woes 3 Ways to Genuinely Care for Indigenous Kababayans

Beneath the Wonders are Woes: 3 Ways to Genuinely Care for Indigenous Kababayans

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Beneath the Wonders are Woes: 3 Ways to Genuinely Care for Indigenous Kababayans

Aetas. Lumad. Mangyan. Dumagat. Matigsalug.

Have you heard of any of these Indigenous Peoples groups before? What comes to your mind when you hear about them?

You would surely agree that indigenous communities are rich in traditions and culture. When it comes to livelihood, nature is their friend as they are talented in fishing and agriculture.

More than the vibrant-colored garments and tribal patterns, they take pride in their solid sets of beliefs, innate resiliency, and the ability to thrive on their own without having to conform to the standards of modernity.

However, beneath the beauty and wonders of indigenous communities lie countless woes.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples estimates that there are 14 million indigenous peoples in the Philippines. Even though they make up only 13% of the country’s total population, they are among the country’s poorest. 

Because they mostly reside in the mountains or far-flung areas, they have limited access to healthcare, education, and other basic needs. They are often excluded, discriminated against, and poorly represented. And while there isn’t one face to abuse and exploitation, the United Nations reports that the women and children of indigenous communities are among the most vulnerable.

Alleviating their difficult situation is possible, but with your help!

In your own little ways, you can support and uplift indigenous communities. Here are 3 ways to genuinely care for our indigenous kababayans:

1. Care to be informed

How well do you know your indigenous kababayans?

There are several reasons why people do not care for them. Most of the time, people are reluctant to support indigenous peoples because they are not aware of the latter’s unpleasant conditions.

Who are the indigenous peoples in your community? What help do they need? What happens to them when disasters strike? Is there an organization near you that supports them? 

As you educate yourself about their situation, you can help break stigmas surrounding them. More so, your compassion toward them could grow. You might find it easier to lend a hand out of love, not out of guilt or compulsion.

2. Care to invest in indigenous youth

Like any other Filipino, indigenous peoples have the right to quality education. Education doesn’t just help them escape poverty, it also helps them pave a better future for themselves and their families. 

Likewise, education could protect them from abusers, or anyone who might try to take advantage of their condition. 

However, due to worsening poverty, education becomes a privilege especially to our indigenous kababayans. And now, the current pandemic makes life even harder for their youth. 

If you are asking what additional value you can bring to the community, supporting the education of indigenous youth is one of the best gifts you can give. You can make a lasting impact in their lives by partnering with the Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm. 

Operation Blessing’s Back to School program offers scholarship and other assistance to underprivileged yet deserving indigenous students. And your help, no matter how small, is important to make a change.

3. Care to pray for indigenous peoples

The diversity of indigenous peoples is rarely celebrated; their communities are rarely supported. At the same time, they are rarely prayed for.

But your indigenous kababayans need your prayers, now more than ever. 

Lifting them up to God is one of the purest expressions of your concern for them. Pray that God would protect them and meet their needs according to His riches. Pray that they, too, would also experience the saving love of Jesus.

Ask for healing and reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. Ask Him to open the hearts of Filipinos and allow them to listen compassionately and without judgment. 

Lastly, ask for blessings, guidance, and discernment, that He may equip you to help those who are in need – one indigenous kababayan at a time.

“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” (Galatians 6:10 NASB)

Do you want to know more about the wonders and woes of our indigenous kababayans?

CBN Asia, in partnership with Kalayag Child Care and Youth Community Center Inc., produced the film OLIGASE which aims to shed light on important and long-pressing issues that plague indigenous Filipinos. Watch out for its exclusive online screening this December 12-20, 2020! 

Read more about the film and advocacy by visiting Oligase’s website and Facebook page.

(https://crystalbaypoolsva.com/)

World Diabetes Day Declaring God’s Truth Over this Disease_1World Diabetes Day Declaring God’s Truth Over this Disease

World Diabetes Day: Declaring God’s Truth Over this Disease

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on World Diabetes Day: Declaring God’s Truth Over this Disease

Diabetes is a life-changing disease. 

If not treated and managed properly, the chronic disease could lead to various complications in the body system.  

If you have diabetes, managing the disease could not have been easy.  

The “normal” you once knew had to change. Diet needs to be improved. Lifestyle needs to be reshaped. Restrictions need to be implemented. And your family needs to be equipped with your new way of life. 

Even though you had to go through major adjustments, the good news is, you are not alone in this battle. You have your family and the entire world to support you. 

Due to diabetes’ prevalent increase worldwide, the World Diabetes Day campaign was created to raise awareness and support for people with this disease. 

Organizations and campaigns are helpful to practically address this health issue. But aside from these, there is someone greater who can help you through this: God.  

Here are 5 truths about God that you can declare over Diabetes: 

1. God is your sustenance 

“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.” (Psalm 54:4 NIV) 

Because your lifestyle can easily affect your blood sugar levels, you have to be mindful of your food intake, physical activities, and medication.  

Whenever you come to a point of exhaustion from all these things, God is reminding you that He is the one who sustains your life. He will help you become disciplined with your routine so that you will not just survive but thrive in your battle.

2. God is your strength 

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:29 NIV) 

Though this disease may make you vulnerable, Scripture says that God is the one who gives you strength. He gives you the ability to be strong and face this head-on because He is an all-powerful God.  

3. God is your constant  

“For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.” (Malachi 3:6 ESV) 

The fact about Diabetes is that your blood sugar level has the tendency to drop abruptly or rise irregularly. And sometimes, dealing with these changes may cause you anxiety about what your future holds. But the Word of God says that though your situation may change from time to time, His love for you remains the same.  

Regardless of what the doctors have also said about your situation, God is reminding you that He is your sure foundation. He is the one who gives you the stability to live life victoriously even in the presence of any sickness. (https://nyicff.org/)  

4. God is your satisfaction 

“The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” (Isaiah 58:11 NIV) 

At some point, you may have longed to get back to your old self—a life of limitless food options and activities. But the Bible reminds that God is your satisfaction. God knows what can truly satisfy your soul. More than the food or a disease-free body, it is a life that is deeply connected to Him. 

5. God is your restoration 

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10 NIV) 

Though you may have been suffering from this disease for years already, God promised to restore your earthly bodies into glorious ones for eternity. 

As you seek more of your Heavenly Father, may you find pure joy in his loving hands. God in His rich mercy would want you to receive the best healing for your soul right now. 

For now, as you battle this disease, surround yourself with people who can fight with you. Faithfully follow the medical guidelines to manage your health properly. Continue to hold on to God who is your ultimate healer.

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the LORD, ‘because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.’” (Jeremiah 30:17 NIV) 

If you or you know someone who is struggling with Diabetes and would want to receive prayers of healing, please call us at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to the CBN Asia or The 700 Club Asia Facebook pages. 

Devotionals

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

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