Category: Teaching

11112020_Affected by Disasters Here are 6 Ways to Help You Cope

Affected by Disasters? Here are 6 Ways to Help You Cope

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Affected by Disasters? Here are 6 Ways to Help You Cope

Super Typhoon Rolly wreaked havoc in the Bicol region and nearby provinces last week. Inquirer reported that according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the typhoon was by far the strongest this year.

Disasters like typhoons can have a lasting impact on people’s lives. It can serve as a lesson to better prepare people for the next calamities or it can cause traumas and anxieties among those who were severely affected. It can take a heavy toll on people’s physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual health.

So, how do you cope with disastrous events such as super typhoons?

Here are 6 things you can do to help yourself and your family overcome catastrophic events.

1. Take care of yourself  

It may be hard to start at first but taking care of yourself is an important part of coping with disasters. Make sure you continue with your normal routines such as eating healthy, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly. Verywell Mind says that practicing self-care will help you cope better physically, mentally, and emotionally.

2. Limit sources of stress  

One of the helpful steps you can do following a disaster is to stay away from sources that add stress. 

This could mean lessening your exposure to visual pictures of this event. It is wise to be informed but it is also wise to prevent yourself or others, especially children, from anything that may add feelings of fear and anxiety brought by this natural disaster.

3. Talk about it 

Voicing out your feelings to your family on how this event has affected you can help alleviate stress.  It can comfort you knowing that others share the same sentiments, too. 

Verywell Mind also explains that early intervention, resources, and support from others can be a major factor in helping people overcome the negative impact of a catastrophic event. Reaching out to people can make a huge difference.

4. Get professional help for mental and emotional distress 

Are you extremely disturbed about the recent disaster? 

If you feel that this event has caused you post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a type of trauma that resulted from natural disasters, do not be afraid to seek professional help from psychiatrists, psychologists, or counselors. Treatments can range from series of psychological therapies to medication that would help you go through this very challenging season.

5. Find ways to help others 

You may be on the other side of the boat who just witnessed a member of your family or a friend go through a tough time during a disaster. One way you can lessen their burden is to reach out and extend a helping hand.  

In the article Are We Biologically Wired to Help Others During Crisis?, Psychology Today stated that according to research, a particular part of the brain is activated when people donate to causes they care about. Helping others can give you a sense of purpose, that even in bad situations, you can make a positive impact in the lives of people.

If you have the resources, you can partner with the Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines and lend a helping hand to those who were also severely affected by the typhoon.

6. Pray for your family and community 

One of the best ways to rise above this disastrous event is to look out for each other, pray for one another, and lean on God as your source of hope and strength. 

Matthew 18:20 NIV says, “For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.” 

At times like this, coming together in prayer and promoting peace encourage people not to stay in that place of despair. It is an opportunity to know God more and reassure yourself and others that He is your comfort in times of trouble. 

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 NIV) 

If you and your family are deeply affected by this disastrous event, we would love to comfort you through prayers. You may reach out to the CBN Asia Prayer Center or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

10302020_Are Ghosts Real What Does the Bible Say About Them

Are Ghosts Real? What Does the Bible Say About Them?

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Are Ghosts Real? What Does the Bible Say About Them?

You probably have seen shows or films about people who encountered ghosts during their lifetime.

Some are just fictional funny stories, but some bring real crippling fear.

Maybe you’ve already heard of countless spooky ghost stories from people you know. And for those with real encounters, this has become an evident source of fear and paranoia.

Are ghosts even real? Can they hurt you? What does the Bible say about them?

What are ghosts, anyway?

Therefore, they are perceived as spiritual beings.

If your definition of ‘ghost’ is just the lurking spirit of a dead person in the living world, then you might be in for a surprise.

Ghosts are spiritual beings, but not of humans who once walked the earth.

What does the Bible say about ghosts?

The Bible tells that there are spiritual beings that can appear in the physical world. There are good spirits such as angels (Hebrews 1:14 NLT) and there are bad ones that want to steal, kill, and destroy the lives of people— the demons. (John 10:10 NLT).

Hebrews 9:27 ESV says that it is impossible for the spirit of the dead to be roaming around the earth, “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” They either face heaven or hell on their judgment day.

But why do some people claim that they have seen the soul of their departed loved ones?

These “ghosts” causing mischief and fear in their lives are demons in disguise (2 Corinthians 11:14-15 ESV). They inflict mental and emotional unrest for the people left here on earth.

If you used to believe in and fear ghosts, you are not alone. The Bible has recorded some events of people who believed and were terrified of ghosts.

One of the instances was when the disciples thought Jesus was a ghost walking on water (Matthew 14:26 ESV).

Another one was in the Old Testament when King Saul sought direction about his war and went to a medium to summon Samuel’s spirit. However, the said ghost of Samuel did not help but instead inflicted a burden for his past wrongdoings (1 Samuel 28 ESV).

While there are accounts of ghosts in the Bible, one thing is clear: do not believe every spiritual being you encounter. Test them if they are from God or not (1 John 4:1 ESV).

Should you be afraid?

Even the characters in the Bible got frightened when they thought they have encountered a ghost. The truth is the enemy will seize any opportunity to inflict fear in you.

Don’t worry. God’s Word will help you to be strong in Him. Ephesians 6:10-11 says that putting on the whole armor of God will help you fight against these evil schemes.

Jesus is your light and salvation and the stronghold of your life (Psalm 27:1 ESV). With Him, no fear can conquer you and no dark force can take a hold of you.

Ghosts such as apparitions, phantoms, poltergeists, and all other forms of evil spirit may seem to scare the life out of you. But remember, you are from God and He is inside of you. He has already won the victory against those evil spirits.

“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 ESV)

Do you want to find comfort amid your fears?

Know that God is with you and He is willing you give you peace. If you want to break free from your fears, we would love to stand with you in prayers. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center 8-737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Is Church Necessary?

Posted on by dev-cbn

You probably grew up knowing that the church is just a building that people visit every Sunday. However, in a Christian life, a church is much more than that.

 

What is church, really?

The church that the Bible refers to comes from the Greek word “ecclesia” which means congregation, assembly or meeting.

It is not a structure but an assembly of people who believe and are followers of Jesus Christ. Matthew 18:19-20 says that as long as people gather together in Jesus’ name, He is in their midst.

Jesus is the one who builds the church, as He said to Peter, one of His disciples, “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18 ESV).

He brings together people of different tribes and languages to be one body in Christ (Romans 12:5 ESV).

In addition, the Word of God describes the church as different parts of the body which are essential to one another.

“The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. (https://vigora.clinic) ” (1 Corinthians 12:21, 26 ESV)

Simply put, the church is the people of God connected with one another—being one in mind, goal, and spirit through Jesus.

 

What is church for?

1. A place for fellowship

One of the church’s purposes is to provide people a safe place where they can share lives together. Churchgoers need to be built relationally so they can grow together in their relationship with God.

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” (Acts 2:42, ESV)

2. A place of sound doctrine

The Bible warns the people to be vigilant with false teachings being spread around. That’s why one of the important roles of the church is to teach sound doctrine, study the scriptures, and help people grow spiritually.

Ultimately, it is God who enables the members of the church in helping each other grow in the faith.

“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,” (Ephesians 4:11-13)

3. A place of comfort

When people pray, encourage one another, and show love and compassion to each other, they show the heart of the church.

“Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.” (Hebrews 10:25 GNT)

4. A place of worship

It is a safe place where you can worship your Heavenly Father. Praying, giving tithes, and singing songs of praise are some of the many ways to show your love for God.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16 ESV)

5. A place to fulfill the Great Commission

Lastly, the body of Christ is built for a communal purpose and that is to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Called to reach out to the lost and share the Good News, followers of Jesus are also chosen to represent Him in every way and be a witness to people of who He is and what He has done.

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20-21 ESV)

Diverse religious shoot

 

Should people go to church?

After learning all the purposes and benefits of going to church, you might have asked yourself, “Should I go to church, too?”

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 tells that God created people as relational beings.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

As people of God, followers cannot truly spiritually grow without the church. They will easily fall and give up in their walk with God. But having people you can rely on in your spiritual journey helps you go further and deeper in your relationship Him. If that is your goal, then being part of the church is an essential element of your Christian journey.

Most importantly, a church is a place where you could feel the transforming love, power, and presence of God.

Do you want to experience God’s presence through the church?

If you are looking for a church, the CBN Asia Prayer Center has hundreds of faithful partner churches who can help you live a fruitful Christian life in Christ. Call us at 8737-0700 so we can connect you to the nearest church in your area.

 

Keep Your Child Focused and Engaged while Learning at Home! Here’s How

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Keep Your Child Focused and Engaged while Learning at Home! Here’s How

What are the challenges that you and your child encounter during distance learning?

For some children, it can be challenging to maintain focus and stay engaged as they learn inside your home-slash-classroom-slash-quarantine place.

The good thing is, with your support, they can still thrive amid challenges. You can ensure that they would participate well during their classes and accomplish their distance learning tasks.

To help keep your child focused and engaged, check out these simple yet helpful tips from online educator and Beyond Small Talk guest, coach Lyqa Maravilla.

Sit by your children in the same room 

Just like how children want to see their parents while having classes at school, they will also be at peace knowing that there is an adult who looks after them while they learn from home.

“If the kids know that there is an adult supervising them – even though they are busy with their own tasks – can keep them from dozing off or not paying attention to their teachers,” coach Lyqa explains.

The Family and Children’s Agency agrees that being around your child is a huge help. Also, it would be helpful if you start and finish the day with a simple check-in with your child. Ask them about their learnings, schedule for the day, and resources or help needed.

Set up a reward system for your child 

Keeping your child engaged in lessons for several hours a day is not easy. But with a bit of effort and a sprinkle of creativity, you can encourage them to stay on track. 

Coach Lyqa suggests that you reward your child for completing their distance learning tasks and assignments.

“If they participate in their online classes, if they follow their schedule, it would be nice if they can trade it for points. It could be an extra screen time for movies or other activities as a reward. That way, they have additional incentives and something to look forward to,” she shared.

Providing immediate positive feedback, according to the John Hopkins School of Education, is also a great way of rewarding your child. Apart from sincere words of praise, a reward could be a simple star, ice cream, or extra minutes to play before bedtime.

Parents like you are now juggling more responsibilities than usual. Yes, the new learning setup is a huge challenge. But, it is also a great opportunity.

It is an opportunity for you to spend more time with your little ones, teach them, and learn new things together. And who knows, you might learn new things from your child, too.

As you begin to see it that way, may you lean more on God’s wisdom. May you pray more and trust more, knowing that God will find ways to return your trust and prayers.

Be in faith that He will guide, lead, and protect you and your beloved child.

“The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” (Psalm 28:7 NLT)

Do you have worries about your child’s learning this pandemic?

We hear you, and we are here to pray for you. Do not hesitate to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

For more tips about learning amid pandemic, catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 7:00 PM at The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel. 

10132020_Thank you, Pastor! Pastor Appreciation Month

Thank you, Pastor! | Pastor Appreciation Month

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Thank you, Pastor! | Pastor Appreciation Month

2020 has been no ordinary year.

Pastors like you have endured much more than expected.

Church lockdowns, financial challenges, and unexpected shift to digital discipleship are just some of the many challenges that you and the church face head on.

Yet, you continue to trust God in times of difficulties and seek ways to look after His flock of sheep. You actively devote yourself to reach out to the hurting and the hopeless, and bring them to the saving love of Jesus.

This Pastor Appreciation Month, here are words to honor, appreciate, and celebrate you for who you are and all that you do:

Thank you for your labor in the kingdom of God.  

Nobody knows the kinds of sacrifice you had to make just to say “yes” to this vocation.

Thank you for responding to God’s great call in your life. Thank you for courageously stepping out of your comfort zone and stepping into the harvest field. Thank you for remaining faithful to the ministry to which God has called you.

Thank you for helping transform lives, spreading the gospel, and making every person feel valued and embraced in the house of God.

Thank you for your wisdom.

The way you meticulously pick and weave your words to ensure that God’s message would pierce hearts powerfully is admirable. The way you rebuke without crushing is utterly uplifting, but when it does, it surely is soul-solidifying.

Thank you for the moving preaching, wise counsels, and anointed prayers. Thank you for always guiding everyone in understanding the Word of God and introducing people to His unfathomable love.

Thank you for your leadership. 

Ministry can be difficult, especially now that the world is in the middle of a pandemic. Despite the highs and lows, your faith remains unwavering.

Spiritual parent, your servant leadership is inspiring. Thank you for graciously leading people into spiritual maturity. Thank you for working enthusiastically for God. Thank you for being the living proof that there is joy in serving Jesus.

Thank you for loving God and His people.

You constantly face attacks from the enemy and there might be times that you are misunderstood even by the people closest to you. Your calling had cost your ambitions, your home, and even your own comfort – yet you chose to love.

You chose to love because deep down in your heart, you know it’s all worth it.

Thank you for laying aside your own life for the sake of serving God and caring for the spiritual health of others. Thank you for trying your best to save souls and strengthen faiths as faithfully as you can. Thank you because you do these things out of genuine love.

Beloved pastor, thank you for leading like Jesus, loving like Jesus, and being a friend like Jesus. The world needs more hearts like yours.

As you serve, pray, listen, lead, preach, and love – may God continue to bless you, your family, and your ministry so abundantly in every way possible. May you always feel His presence, strength, leading, and anointing more than ever in the years to come!

Thank you, Pastor. And we thank God more for your life.

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.” (Philippians 1:3 NLT)

Dearest pastor, it would be our joy to honor and encourage you through prayers. You may call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

(eltiempolatino.com

Who is Your Real Enemy?

Posted on by dev-cbn

When faced with conflicting beliefs and opinions, people can have the tendency to pit against each other and treat neighbors as enemies.

It can also become easy for a man to hate others when faced with overwhelming struggles.

Likewise, you can be really frustrated when you encounter barriers in sharing the Word of God to other people. It’s like someone is preventing you from sharing God’s love, isn’t it?

Have you ever wondered where all these originate from? Are you just surrounded by bad things and bad people?

The Bible uncovers that people and situations are not your real enemies.

Who, then, is the real enemy?

 

Knowing your real enemy

Ephesians 6:12 says that the battle is beyond what the physical eyes can see. Your battle is not with people who are made up of flesh and blood. The real battle is against the evil and unseen enemy named Satan.

“For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12 NLT)

Satan does not want you to live an abundant and purposeful life. That is why he works hard to steal, kill, and destroy you (John 10:10, ESV) and every beautiful thing God has made.

His agenda is to steal your joy, kill your hope, and destroy your relationship with your Heavenly Father. He creates conflict and chaos.

Your ultimate victory

1 John 5:19 ESV says that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one, but it also says that we are from God. And no evil is more powerful than God!

God’s love for you has already paved way for victory over evil schemes. As a result of the sacrifice Jesus did at the cross, no death nor demon can now separate you from His saving love.

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:37-39 NIV)

How to overcome the schemes of enemy?

Because God loves you, He will help you open your eyes and win the battle between good and evil. Most importantly, He wants you to participate in fighting the battle against the real enemy!

You can overcome Satan’s deceitful schemes by praying at all times in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18) and by putting on the whole armor of God, as said in Ephesians 6:13-17 ESV:

“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

The next time you find yourself in conflict with others or whenever you are caught in a tough situation, take a moment to step back and remember who your real enemy is.

Stay close to God through prayers, resist the devil and it will flee.

Discover more truths about the real enemy.

Subscribe to CBN Asia’s YouTube channel and watch The Seat of Satan, an in-depth documentary about the ancient Pergamum’s Altar of Zeus that was taken to Germany and inspired Adolf Hitler – one of the greatest dictators of all time.

 

10052020_Dear Teacher, Here’s a Prayer for You

Dear Teacher, Here’s a Prayer for You

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Dear Teacher, Here’s a Prayer for You

Dear Teacher,

How are you?

How are you coping with this year’s back-to-school scenario?

Perhaps, you are a little exhausted because of all the preparations. Lately, you’ve been going the extra mile to make sure that your students would learn despite the challenges brought by the pandemic. 

Maybe you are anxious – about your students’ safety, about your own safety – and you might be wondering how things would unfold with distance learning. 

You ask, “Would my preparations be enough? Would I be effective?”

Chances are you, too, are affected by the crisis. You are worried about how you can best serve your students while providing for and taking care of your own family. 

Teacher, you do not have to carry all the burdens alone.

Jesus, the greatest teacher, is here to help you, guide you, and comfort you as you navigate the new normal way of teaching. This World Teachers’ Day, may these prayers resonate in your noble heart:

To the teacher who is tired 

God never overlooks anything. He sees all your efforts and He knows how much love you pour into your craft and calling. Take all the sleepless nights and all the busy days to your Heavenly Father and allow Him to restore your strength.

May your mind, body, and soul be renewed while you rest in His presence. In Him, may you find the rest that rests not only your body but also your heart.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

To the teacher who is worried

Your worries are not hidden from God. Right now, He is waiting for you to surrender them at His mighty feet. 

May you find confidence and peace knowing that no matter what happens, He promised that He will never leave you. He will bring you to a wonderful moment of calm in the midst of storms.

As you entrust your profession to God, be in faith that He will hide you under His wings to make you safe. He will give you wisdom and bless the works of your hands.

As you seek Him through prayers, be in faith that He will make your paths straight.

 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)

To the teacher who needs provision

Praying for your finances? May you rest in God’s promise that He’s already got the things you’ve been praying for. God is fully able to provide all your needs according to the riches of His glory.

God is able to accomplish far more and provide greater blessings in your life. As you thank Him for paving the pathways of provision for you and your loved ones, may you always see and feel how He miraculously provides for every single need you have. 

Be ready to receive the abundance of favor and blessings that He has stored for you.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 NIV)

Dear teacher, the road ahead is quite challenging.

When the going gets tough, know that you can always come to Jesus, soak in His promises, and rely on His strength. Thank you, for answering a great calling, and receiving the gift of teaching.

As you surrender every challenging assignment, every responsibility to enrich the growth of your students, and all your personal needs to your Heavenly Father, know that He is looking at you with love.

While you teach His beloved children, be comforted that He is with you. Be confident that in time, God’s promise for your life will be fulfilled.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8 NIV)

Teacher, allow us to honor you in prayers. You may call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700, or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

10012020_Distance Learning 5 Back-to-school Tips Every Parent Should Know

Distance Learning? 5 Back-to-school Tips Every Parent Should Know

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Distance Learning? 5 Back-to-school Tips Every Parent Should Know

Back to school during a pandemic? It’s another first for many parents.

As learning goes on now that the Department of Education stands firm on reopening the classes on October 5, schools, teachers, students, and parents like you will be navigating new modes of learning such as online classes, radio and TV broadcasts, and printed learning modules.

You and your child might be wondering about how to survive and thrive distance learning.

Grab your pen and paper and check out these 5 back-to-school tips that will help you support and protect your children while they continue their education:

  1. Prioritize health

Even when classes will be conducted at home, it’s best to practice safety measures to lessen the risk of contracting the virus. Gently remind your child about social distancing, washing their hands often, and using sanitizers.

It’s also important to prepare healthy meals that will help boost their immune system and encourage them to take vitamins, do physical exercise, and get enough sleep.


  1. Set up a conducive learning space

Here’s the truth: not every household is conducive to learning.

As a parent, you can still try your best to make your child’s learning a bit more comfortable by designating a specific study area in your home. It doesn’t have to be a new room; just somewhere quiet, well-lit, and free from clutter and distractions.


  1. Pay attention to your child’s concerns 

Ask your child, “What do feel about the reopening of classes? What do we need to prepare? Do you have concerns? How can I help?”

If you have a job to attend to or they ask for something that’s beyond what you can give, go ahead and explain your situation. Initiate the conversation – ask them and listen intently to what they have to say. Reassure them that you got their backs as they cope with education’s new normal. 

  1. Take care of yourself, too

Your child’s education is important, but so is your own mental health and overall well-being.

As you set up a routine for your child’s learning and for the whole family, don’t forget to include time for your own rest and relaxation. Take care of your health and spend quality time with your loved ones, too. Remember, it would be hard to take care of your child’s wellness if you don’t feel well yourself.

  1. Cover your child in prayer

At the end of the day, your child is God’s child too. Pray for your child and with your child. Prayer is the greatest weapon you can give them. Ask God to protect, strengthen, and give them wisdom even when the country’s current situation is less than ideal.

Be in faith that despite the changing seasons, God’s love for the both of you remains unchanging. After all, He promised that all things would work together for those who love Him, didn’t He?

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 ESV)

Are you overwhelmingly concerned about your child as classes reopen this October?

Allow us to comfort you through prayers. Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700 or send in your prayer requests to our Facebook page. 

09232020_Feeling Down Shake the Pandemic Blues Away with these OPM Songs

Feeling Down? Shake the Pandemic Blues Away with these OPM Songs

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Feeling Down? Shake the Pandemic Blues Away with these OPM Songs

Saying that Filipinos love music is an understatement.

In good times and in bad, the Pinoys seem to always find songs fit for any occasion. There is an anthem that reflects any emotion and suits every situation.

And as the world continues to fight the pandemic, it’s not a surprise to see people tapping into songs as a source of strength and inspiration. Music becomes a healing balm that soothes weary souls.

If you’re feeling down lately and looking for a breather, here are 5 inspiring OPM songs to add to your playlist. Take a deep breath, turn up the volume, and let these anthems uplift your spirits and heal your soul:

1. Manalangin – The Juans   

“Hangga’t may nakikinig sa panalangin 

‘Di mawawala ang pag asa natin 

Ikaw at ako 

babangon tayo.”

Manalangin kicks off by telling you that your worries about the pandemic are valid, and a lot of people feel them too. A few beats after, The Juans delivers the message of hope pretty clear: solidarity – in prayers and in good deeds – would soon spark hope. There is light, after all.

Likewise, its music video adds a heavy weight to the song’s already impactful message – a montage of our kababayans’ plight during the pandemic and the frontliners’, people’s unity in the fight against the unseen enemy.

2. This Too, Shall Pass – Rico Blanco

“I don’t know how, I don’t know when 

But I know love will find a way again 

This too shall pass.”

Rico Blanco sings about one of the most comforting pieces of advice you can possibly give to yourself right now: this pandemic will soon pass. 

This quarantine anthem hits close to home as it acknowledges the tears, fears, and confusion this crisis brings. Its music video, on the other hand, shows people around the globe holding on through difficult times. Heart-warming and at the same time, cheery, “This Too, Shall Pass” rallies toward hope and love during dark times.

3. Lilim – Victory Worship

“Mananatili sa Iyong lilim 

At sasambahin Ka sa dakong lihim 

Mananatili sa Iyong lilim 

Nang masumpungan Ka sa dakong lihim.”

Although the song was released months before the pandemic, “Lilim” stays relevant due to its timeless message of hope and comfort that can only be found in God.

This lullaby-like hymn encourages you to find shelter in God, cling to His promises, and receive the rest He freely gives you. It’s an assurance that when you seek God, He will meet you and will take away all the anxiety, sadness, or pain.

4. Bukas Wala Nang Ulan – Christian Bautista and Janine Teñoso

“Pero ang ‘di mo alam, hindi ka nag-iisa 

Nakaagapay sayo, tiwala lang 

Masisilayan mo din ang bahaghari 

Dahil bukas ay wala nang ulan.”

Christian and Janine’s hopeful duet comforts you that you are not alone. If you think there is nobody to turn to and nowhere to go, if you feel that the problems are pouring nonstop – hold on.

Trust that there is a better future in store for you. Though it might seem that it’s all doom and gloom right now, the rain will soon end, and there’s a rainbow after it. There is hope, light, and healing for you.

5. Beautiful – Ogie Alcasid and Moira Dela Torre 

“Beautiful, beautiful 

Everything You’ve done is simply beautiful 

Wonderful, glorious 

I just stand amazed to hear Your name.” 

Ogie and Moira’s collaboration is a great reminder that in the midst of storms, there is a powerful, beautiful God who weathers the storm with you.

The song emphasizes that even though it’s hard to see all the good things right now because of the fear and troubles brought by the pandemic, still, everything that God does is simply beautiful. From its soul-solidifying lyrics to its calming melody, “Beautiful” is a hopeful declaration, a prayer, and a song of praise rolled into one.

In this time of uncertainty, let music inspire you to keep hoping in a God that holds the future.

Do you have other songs that comfort and uplift you during this season? Feel free to add to this list in the comments below.

If you are feeling down because of the pandemic, the CBN Asia Prayer Center is here for you. Call us at 8737-0700 and we would love to comfort you through prayers.

09212020_Feeling Restless Here are 3 Ways to Find Peace in a Pandemic

Feeling Restless? Here are 3 Ways to Find Peace in a Pandemic

Posted on by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment on Feeling Restless? Here are 3 Ways to Find Peace in a Pandemic

In a world that is marred by violence, conflict, and differences, peace might seem a far-fetched dream rather than a tangible reality.

But what if there is one day in the world when people would just focus on peace? More so, what peace can come out of a pandemic?

This year’s International Day of Peace tells us that we are not each other’s enemies. In fact, with peace in the midst, we can be each other’s strength!

Here are ways to find and promote harmony around you, and most importantly, inside of you.

1.Be a peacemaker  

The first step towards peace is acknowledging that the absence of peace such as war and hate, are by-products of envy, discrimination, and selfish ambition. As said in James 3:16, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

As the pandemic continues to ravage the world, the call for peace is more important than ever. It’s never too late to demolish envy or selfishness that leads to arguments.

It’s time to heal conflicts, embrace understanding, and respect differences.

It’s time to be the peace you wish to see in this world.

With these in mind, the next time you’re tempted to clap back with someone – whether online or in-person – you may want to breathe and ask yourself first, “Will this bring me peace? Is it worth the conflict?”

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13 NIV)

2.Organize or support groups that promote peace 

Truth is, there are decades-long wars and conflicts that cannot be solved overnight, yet you can still make a difference in your own little ways for mercy and truth to meet together. (Psalm 85:10 NKJV)

As odd as it may sound, there are opportunities for peace that come with a global pandemic. 

As a start, you can support peace-loving groups or organizations that encourage unity while helping communities.

“The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17)

3.Pray for peace

What can you do to find and promote peace today?

You can do anything that makes the world a better place. And at any day, prayers are the guiding light for all nations. They are so powerful that they can shape the future and shape peace in trying times.

Pray that God would break the spirit of conflict, and touch the hearts of warring parties that they would lay down their weapons and work together for harmony.

Pray and believe that no matter the chaos around you, you will remain in God, and He will give you His peace that transcends all understanding.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT)

Have you been restless recently? Do you feel that this pandemic has been robbing you of your peace? Are you praying for peace in your household and community?

Allow us to pray for you. You may call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8737-0700, and take your first step to peace today. 

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