3 Reasons to Feel Happier at Work

What comes to your mind when you hear the word “work?”

For some, work means an opportunity to learn and earn. However, for those who are having a hard time with their jobswork might mean a burden or exhaustion.

If anything, your job is more than just spending 8 hours in the workplace and beating the deadlines. It could also provide a greater sense of purpose and joy!

This Labor Day, read on these 3 reasons to help you look at work from a happier perspective:

1.Work is designed by God

From the very beginning, God declared work to be very good (Genesis 1:31) after looking at His creation.

God has given you the ability to work, plan, and create beautiful things! You can always ask Him to guide and anoint the works of your hands, knowing that He ordained work and that He entrusted unique talents to you.

Like the prayer in Psalm 90:17“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!”

2. Your real boss is God 

When was the last time you felt happy and satisfied at work?

If you had a hard time answering that question, perhaps it’s time to re-calibrate your viewpoint about work. No work is easy, but may you embrace the truth that your labor is for God’s glory.

Whether you’re frontliner, essential worker, or you’re working from home right now, know that your real boss in heaven sees all the “hard work and heart work” that your boss on earth might have missed!

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)

And how do you work for the Creator of heaven and earth? You work enthusiastically, excellently, with humility, and with all your heart!

3. Your work is your worship 

No matter how overwhelming it might seem sometimes, your work is not a punishment. 

Rather, it is a great opportunity to worship God and serve othersYou can experience God’s provision, strength, and grace through your job – the same way you can be used by God to provide, strengthen, and extend grace to His people.

How?

By doing everything in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14)

Truly, Labor Day is not just another holiday. First celebrated on May 1, 1903 to fight for the rights of workers, Labor Day continues to honor the hard work of Filipino men and women. 

May this day remind you that as long as your work is honorable and you do it with God and for God, your labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). 

Take this day off to consider the worth and importance of work. May it inspire you to think about how you can contribute to a world that works for the glory of God.

Do you need prayers today? Call 8737-0700 or you may send in your prayer requests to the CBN Asia Facebook page. We would love to pray for you!

4 Ways to Support Loved Ones with Mental Health Struggles – Beyond Small Talk

Anyone can have mental health struggles and it can be difficult to recognize.

Unlike a physical wound that is easy to spot, mental struggles are internal wars hidden behind a smile, a hello, and the telltale phrase “I’m okay.”

According to Mayo Clinic, some of the warning signs you should watch out for are “excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt, significant tiredness, low energy, and inability to cope with daily problems or stress.”

If you recognize these symptoms from a friend or family member, check out these tips from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Sonjia Kakilala and psychotherapist Alain Dizon to know how you can better support them in their journey.

Make the person feel that nothing has changed 

You might feel awkward when approaching them, but just relax. Make them feel that you’re the same person they have known.  

Create a safe place for them to unload and share their struggles without judging nor condemning them. 

Ask them how you could help

It’s okay, to be honest, and to admit that you don’t know what to do, so ask them how you could be of help. Always take the cue from the person.

Tell them your limitations and boundaries when helping, but assure them that you’ll journey with them to recovery.

Learn how to listen

Avoid acting like an expert by trying to fix your loved ones’ problems. What they need is your heartfelt presence and listening ear to make them feel that you genuinely care.

Also, don’t force them to speak if they are not yet ready to open up. Just make yourself available whenever they are comfortable to finally speak. 

Educate yourself

One of the biggest challenges that people with mental problems have to deal with is stigma, but educating yourself will help you how to better relate to them and provide the best assistance. 

Did these tips help you? Feel free to comment on the online discussion of Beyond Small Talk! 

Catch the next webisode on Saturday, May 2, at 7:00 PM by followingThe 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Also, we would love to pray for you and your loved ones who are suffering from mental health concerns.

Don’t hesitate to call 8737-0-700 if you’re in Metro Manila. If you’re outside Metro Manila or the Philippines, contact us through theCBN Asia Prayer Center. 

Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez to Hold a Fundraising FB Live titled “One Music. One Hope.”

Ultimate singer-songwriter, Ogie Alcasid, and his wife, Asia’s songbird, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, are set to perform live for a night filled with music and real-life stories as CBN Asia presents “One Music. One Hope.” on Tuesday, April 28, at 8:00 p.m.

The power couple will be joined by top-performing artists, Tim Pavino, Janina Vela, and Lara Maigue, in aiming to spark hope to viewers amid the global pandemic, and raise funds for the front liners and most vulnerable Filipinos who lost their livelihood because of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ.)

They will sing some of their signature hits and share encouraging words while  The 700 Club Asia’s Peter Kairuz and Kata Inocencio will serve as hosts of the show.

“This livestream show is created to encourage our audience and at the same time, raise funds for our frontline ministries,” said John Valdes Tan, CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm, Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, has been providing much-needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), preventive care kits, and food packs to 60 public and private hospitals and more than 5,000 individuals affected by the ECQ all around the country.

The 700 Club Asia, CBN Asia’s flagship TV program, has been encouraging viewers to believe and trust God through real-life stories of COVID-19 conquerors, while their hosts lead people to pray for peace, healing, protection, hope, security, love and unity during the pandemic.

Superbook and Oyayi, CBN Asia’s TV shows for children, have been producing homeschool and art resources, as well as fun activities that families can use while on ECQ.

CBN Asia’s digital platforms continue to minister to millions by producing inspirational and instructional videos, articles, and infographics on social media and its websites, while the CBN Asia Prayer Center continues to bring hope to many distressed and hurting Filipinos by serving as an emotional and spiritual refuge especially during this time of the global pandemic.

You can also help front liners and vulnerable individuals in need!

Watch and support Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez together with Janina Vela, Tim Pavino and Lara Maigue as CBN Asia presents “One Music. One Hope.” on Tuesday, April 28, at 8:00 p.m. The livestream show will air on CBN AsiaThe 700 Club AsiaBatang Superbook, and Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines Facebook pages.

Want to Express your Heart for Missions While on Quarantine? Start Here

Does your heart long to bless the nations while staying at home during the enhanced community quarantine? 

Don’t worry! You can still reach out to others and be missional as you stay indoors. (nyicff.org)  

CBN Asia’s missionary training arm – the Asian Center for Missions (ACM)suggested 4 practical ways to spread the gospel online and support missionaries. Here’s how:

1. Pray

You can still reach out to Unreached People Groups through prayers! 

The Joshua Project is one of the online tools you may use to know the different ethnic groups of the worldIt also features prayer guidescalendars, and ideas to help you pray for a specific people group each day. 

You may also check out ACM’s Facebook page which suggests different countries to pray for, together with specific prayer points.

As said in Colossians 4:2, “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.” 

2. Care

In a season of quarantine and social distancing, technology paves a way to bring people closer together. 

Despite being stuck in your own room, you can still care for and connect to missionaries through applications like Zoom, Skype, or FacebookMissionaries would appreciate it that you remember them during this time! 

Because the prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much (James 5:16), you can also uplift their spirits during this challenging season by blessing them with a heartfelt prayer. 

3. Learn 

Are you interested to know more about missions?

This time of quarantine is a good opportunity to level up your learnings about missionary work. 

If you’re into missions courses, check out free intercultural ministry trainings online and start your journey of being a worker in God’s Kingdom.

4. Give

Help bring the love of God to the needy and the hurting! 

You can be a stay-at-home missionary by partnering with ACM in blessing the nationsWhenever you support the ACM, you help mobilize missions, care for existing missionaries, and train aspiring missionaries who are called to go and preach the gospel to the nations.

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:14-15) 

Do you want to know more about the work God is doing through the ACM? Visit their Facebook page to know how you can take part in blessing the nations. 

Amid COVID-19, How Can We Support ‘World Malaria Day 2020’?

The world’s health systems have never been more challenged than now due to COVID-19.

Although the world’s attention is fixated on the current pandemic, people – including you – are still at risk of other health problems. One of those health risks is malaria infection.

This World Malaria Day, know that zero malaria starts with you. Here’s what you can do:

1. Stay informed

You can remain protected from this disease by knowing what malaria is and how to prevent it.

According to the World Health Organization, malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease. It is caused by parasites transmitted by infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Although preventable and curable, the Outreach Network for Gene Drive Research reports that malaria kills 400,000 people per year, and 228 million cases were registered worldwide in 2018.

Keep your loved ones safe by practicing ways of malaria prevention, especially avoiding mosquito bites. Also, helping spread the word about its prevention is a lifesaving act.

2. Protect health workers

Research published in The Lancet Journals tells that during the outbreak of another disease in Africa, deaths from other causes like malaria rose because of overwhelmed health services and deaths of healthcare workers.

That is why in any season, supporting health workers is important.

Good thing, you can help maintain their health and welfare by partnering with CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm – the Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines. Operation Blessing goes out to hospitals and gives Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), preventive care kits, and vitamins to the brave health workers amid COVID-19.

Be a lifesaver now by supporting health workers through Operation Blessing!

3. Pray for protection

Just like how you pray to God to spare you and your loved ones from COVID-19, you can also ask Him to keep you from malaria, and any kind of disease.

Pray that His steadfast love, mercy, and protection be upon you and the people who are at higher risk of developing the disease. Remember, God is your refuge and He can deliver you from any danger, as what 2 Corinthians 1:10 says,

World Malaria Day is a good reminder that everyone has a role to play in the control and prevention of deadly diseases. You can protect yourself, your family, and your community from this health risk as you stay informed, protect the health workers, and pray for protection!

Do you need someone to pray for you? Send in your prayer requests to the CBN Asia Facebook page today!

How Do We Submit to Authorities During Quarantine? | Beyond Small Talk

Recently, the government has issued an order to arrest those who will not cooperate with the mandatory quarantine guidelines in the effort to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

Some people might find it hard to obey the authorities’ protocols, despite health risks and potential arrest, because of several reasons.

Breaking the law, however, doesn’t coincide with what the Bible teaches in 1 Peter 2:13-15 (ESV), “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.”

Knowing that, how do you submit to governing authorities especially in a crisis like this?

Learn from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Jericho Arceo, and Paul Herrera.

Be a good citizen

You are called to be a responsible and wise Filipino citizen. You are called to follow the rules and regulations and submit to the authorities.

As Paul Herrera said, “Whether you like the leaders or not, you have to obey the law.” Some people might find it hard to obey rules during a national crisis, particularly when their views differ from the governing authorities. However, disobedience might do more harm than good.

You can still air out your grievances. No one is withholding you because speaking your heart out is your right. However, in doing so, be careful to discern that what comes out of your mouth will not be dishonoring to the leaders of the land and will give glory to God.

As Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”

In the end, the leaders are accountable to God.

Be faithful in what you can do

Instead of pinpointing and blaming, you can be diligent in fulfilling your role as a good citizen.

One of the many ways is to help front liners who battle against the pandemic. At the same time, praying for the country and the leaders would also mean a lot!

Remember that change starts in you and that the safety of your loved ones and neighbors is in your hands. You can protect them by being obedient citizens.

The Philippines is not a hopeless country.

God promised in Deuteronomy 28:1-3 (NIV), “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country.”

How has this episode helped you? Share it in the comment section below!

Also, do not forget to watch and join the online discussion on the next episode of Beyond Small Talk on Saturday, April 25, 7:00 pm at The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Earth Day Turns 50: How to Celebrate the Environment on a Quarantine?

The planet we live on is a tangible display of God’s goodness, grace, and glory.

However, climate change and other environmental problems have ruined the world’s beauty. The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 to further efforts to save our planet, but the pandemic has put those activities to halt. Now, how do you celebrate the environment while staying at home? 

Here are 3 meaningful ways to celebrate the 50th World Earth Day this April 22: 

1. Join at-home Earth Day activities 

This year’s Earth Day remains a worldwide observation – just virtually. 

Although people are socially distancing, a few science and environment authorities have prepared online activities in commemoration of Earth Day

NASA will stage a NASA Science Live” broadcast and a live Q&A with an astronaut to discuss how technology helps in improving the environment. The Earth Day Network launched Earth Day challenges and is set to spark conversations on the environmental crises by bringing together artists, musicians, scientists, and leaders around the globe. Meanwhile, the United Nations has published an interactive report about man’s progress on climate actions.  

Share these activities with loved ones and inspire each other to show concern for the environment! 

2. Start a conversation about nature and God’s work in it 

Have you ever had a conversation with others triggered by what can be seen in nature? It could be a great tool in sharing the goodness of God! 

Mark Brown of Campus Crusade for Christ International has suggested 5 questions you may use in building conversations about nature and God with family and friends 

Promote harmony between man and nature by opening up simple discussions to show that everything is part of God’s creation, as said in John 1:3, “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 

3. Pray. 

Take a pause. Gather your loved ones. Take a moment to utter words of gratitude to God for the breath-taking creation His loving hands made. Praise Him and pray that He touches the heart of every man that they may also learn to love the environment we live in.

Pray for the healing of the land, the restoration of biodiversity, and the salvation of mankind – that the present and future generations may enjoy more sunrise, sunsets, and the fullness of His glory. 

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

Earth Day matters because God cares about how you treat the environment. More than just ditching plastic cups or shooting your trash directly into the bin, you are also encouraged to fully participate and be more involved in protecting the natural resources God has given.

Do you want to know more about the Creator of the world and all the good things He has done for youClick here to know more about Him today

Staying Home Doesn’t Have to be Boring | 3 Fun Things for Kids on ECQ

Are you struggling to keep your kids productive during this enhanced community quarantine?

Fret not! Here are 3 simple yet fun activities to do at home that will entertain your little ones and make their day a little bit brighter: 

1. Exercise with the kids 

Who says being healthy can’t be fun? 

Spending time with your children doesn’t have to be all about textbooks and problem-solving. You can also keep them entertained by putting your child’s favorite music on and starting simple exercise and dance routines. 

KidsHealth even claims that kids who are physically fit are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges. Strengthen your bond with the youngsters in a practical and healthy way! 

2. Cook nutritious meals 

From decorating bread or pastriesfrying eggs, to letting the kids collect ingredients from the fridge, cooking is a practical way of spending time together while you’re stuck at home. 

Letting the kids help you in the kitchen, according to Carolyn Tomlin of Early Childhood Newsencouragecreativitybuilds self-confidence, and develops their small motor control. 

Because bonding over food is an activity that other members of the family enjoy, a stay-at-home cooking show would be a great idea to uplift the household, too! 

3. Play educational games

Do you know that educational games are helpful tools in developing your children’s thinking process while keeping them engaged?

One of the educational games that will surely challenge their brains is the Oy! Oy! The Oyayi Game Show appYou and your kids can enter the world of Kuya Maki, Tama Raw, Bon Haribon, Diva Butanding, Dok Pil, and Tarsiera with over 300 questions about Family, Arts, Culture, Environment, Literature, and History! Your little ones can also learn from its fun trivia and laugh over the hilarious bonus questions! 

The good news? This app can be downloaded for free on the Apple App Store. 

Now that the kids are free from homework and classes, isn’t this quarantine a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with them? Aside from doing exercise, cooking, and playing, it’s a good time to show affection and influence them with good values that would come handy as they grow up. 

As Proverbs 22:6 says, Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.  

Do you need someone to pray for your family? You may send your prayer requests to the CBN Asia Facebook page and we would love to pray for you! 

How Can You Help Kids Cope with COVID-19?

Quarantine. Social distancing. COVID-19.

These words might sound confusing or overwhelming for children and may cause them fear and stress. In difficult times like this, kids need extra love, care, and attention.

Are you looking for ways to help your kids cope with COVID-19? Here are some tips, from OperationSAFE International:

1. Ask the kids how they feel

Ask, “How do you feel about our situation?”

Not every child can voice out what is going on in his or her head instantly. Ask how kids feel about the current situation and assure them that should they need someone to talk to, you’re always willing to listen. Listen closely to their concerns and respond in a supportive way.

2. Explain what’s happening in a way they can understand.

Ask, “What questions do you have?”

Speak calmly and provide clear information about what is happening. Try to explain in words kids can easily understand. Address their questions. It is also equally important to teach them about how they can reduce the risk of being infected by COVID-19.

3. Admit your concerns, but stress your ability to cope

Say, “Don’t worry. We’ll get through this together.”

As a parent, letting your children know how you feel about COVID-19 can help validate their feelings. Be truthful, yet calm; honest yet reassuring. Remind them that despite the situation, your family will get through this together.

4. Reassure them with a hug

Ask, “Can I give you a hug?”

Amid COVID-19, you are your child’s biggest supporter. Aside from lifting them up with encouraging words, giving them a warm embrace is another way to make them feel safe and loved. Your nurturing touch is like a blanket that covers them and makes them feel secure.

5. Spend extra time with them.

Ask, “What do you want to do today?”

Spending time with your kids is a good opportunity to model a positive disposition in the middle of this crisis. Playing, cooking, and doing chores together will surely help strengthen your bond with each other.

6. Re-establish your daily routine for school, play, meals, etc.

Say, “It’s okay. Things will be better soon.”

Whether it’s time for breakfast, exercise, play, or household chores, maintaining your children’s daily routine can help protect their physical and emotional well-being. It’s like telling them that things will get back to normal eventually.

7. Involve them and let them be a part of the recovery.

Ask, “Can we pray?”

Aside from reminding your children that medical frontliners are doing their best to fight the pandemic, allowing them to be a part of the recovery can help, too. Encourage them to write thank you letters for frontliners or help pack foods to be given away to neighbors who are in need. Most importantly, teaching them to pray for their family, for others, and for the country is one of the best ways to guide their spiritual journey.

As a parent, you might also feel challenged in taking care of your little ones because of your own worries and questions about the pandemic.

But you don’t have to fear for God is with you (Isaiah 41:10). Remember that you can always ask Him to help and equip you as you go through this season. He will protect you and give you the wisdom that you need to take good care of your loved ones.

As Psalm 32:8 says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

Do you need someone to pray for you and your children right now? You may send your prayer requests to the CBN Asia Facebook page.

Do You Want to be a Great Leader? Here are Qualities You Should Have

There are many great leaders throughout history, but there’s only one person who has set the standards and embodied the true meaning of leadership.

It’s none other than Jesus Christ – the greatest servant leader of all time.

Scroll down to see His life and remarkable leadership qualitiesthings you should aim for, as discussed by Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter Kairuz, Jericho Arceo, and Paul Herrera. 

1. A true leader knows how to sacrifice.

Even if Jesus knew He was God (Philippians 2:6-7), He chose to put Himself down to connect with His people and become a humble servant. He came to earth not to be served but to serve mankind and gave His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). 

A leader should be someone who will sacrifice, serve, and go the extra mile for his or her constituents. 

2. A true leader teaches and models how to lead.

He or she does not only instruct nor dictate what followers should do but models it. 

“Jesus modeled servant leadership by serving others through the washing of His disciples’ feet and dying on the cross,” Paul Herrera explained. 

3. A true leader allows his or her followers to do things on their own.

Jesus allowed His disciples to minister on their own and be able to apply what they have learned from Him. Doing so helps build accountability and encourages the followers to be leaders too. 

How has this episode helped you?

Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts! Join our online discussion and watch more webisodes of Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7:00 PM at The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel. 

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