Teaching Archives

5 Things to be Grateful for This 2021

Posted on December 30, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

2022 is almost here.

But before you flip your calendar to the new year, take a moment to pause and reflect on the things that happened in your life for the last year.

What are you thankful for this 2021?

For some, 2021 is a year of overflowing blessings, so there are lots of things to be grateful for. For other people, this year had been so challenging that they could not find anything to be thankful for.

If you are one of the people who can’t think of a reason to be grateful for 2021, it’s ok to feel this way. However, you may still find a reason to be grateful as the year ends with the things you already have.

Here is a list of the little, used to be unnoticed things you can be grateful for this 2021 despite any situation you are in:

1. Family

First on the list are the people who have always been there for you – your family. Psychology Today identified parents and the rest of the people you have in your life as one of the good starting points when finding reasons to be grateful for.

In an article by UNICEF, it is emphasized that as much as the pandemic has damaged everyone at some point, it also gave an opportunity to reunite with the people around them.

Through the connection with family, you develop emotional resilience as you go through the highs and lows of the year.

2. Home

In connection to this, you are blessed when you and your family still have a home to reside in. With numerous typhoons entering the Philippines, it being on a typhoon belt, having a house is something to be thankful for.

Your gratitude should not be anchored to the type of house you have. Whether you own a house or rent a place to live in, having a home is enough reason to be grateful.

Cherish every corner of your home and be thankful for the lasting memories you have there.

3. Health

According to the World Health Organization, millions of people have been infected with COVID-19. Being able to withstand the global pandemic is another great reason to be thankful.

Sometimes, you tend to overlook the blessing of being able to breathe properly with your lungs because of the threat of the virus.

Lots of people are fighting for their lives in hospital beds, while some have lost their battle due to certain illnesses, so appreciate your health today!

4. Safety

Being free from the harm of injury, danger, and loss is something most people tend to take for granted.

Safety nowadays is not just limited to security against crime offenders, but also against the virus. Having a safe home is something to be thankful for.

So, as the year ends, take some time to pray and be grateful for safety and security, not just for you but for the people around you.

5. New Year

You made it to the end of the year! That is the greatest blessing to be thankful for today.

2021 might not be the year of your breakthroughs, but your growth, resilience, and courage, to get through all the odds are good reasons to celebrate about this new year.

If you feel frustrated as the year ends, be reminded of Jesus’ Word in John 16:33 “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Welcome 2022 with a hopeful heart knowing that Jesus has already overcome the world to save you!

Do you want to start your year with an act of gratitude?

Pay it forward! Partner with Operation Blessing and bless someone today.

If you wish to support the entire CBN Asia Family of Ministries, here are the ways to give.

New Year’s Resolutions or Faith Goals: What Should I Write?

Posted on December 28, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

2022 is here!

Have you set your New Year’s Resolutions yet?

By this time of year, people are already listing down their New Year’s Resolutions for the coming year. Meanwhile, others write down their Faith Goals.

But what are Faith Goals?

New Year’s Resolutions vs. Faith Goals

New Year’s Resolutions are the plans and promises you make to yourself to be better. On the other hand, Faith Goals are faith declarations—the things you are praying for—that you believe God will achieve in your life.

The biggest difference is who makes them happen. New Year’s Resolutions are achieved through your own efforts; Faith Goals are accomplished by God—through His divine will, strength, and power.

Why write down your Faith Goals?

Here’s one good reason to state your Faith Goals: God wants you to ask Him!

God invites you to come to Him and have all your needs provided for according to His will. He loves it when His children ask Him for things and surrender their plans to Him.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8 NKJV)

Likewise, you exercise faith by setting Faith Goals. You intentionally write them down. You include them in your prayers. You persevere and work hand-in-hand with God to reach them. You believe that those goals are statement of God’s will for you.

You trust that God willing, you will achieve them.

How to write Faith Goals?

1. Pray.

Before you write down your Faith Goals, spend time with God. Seek His will and direction by reading His Word. Listen to His promptings and write down what He is impressing on your heart. Continually ask, “God, what’s Your will for my life? What would You want me to do?”

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33 ESV)

2. Make focused and measurable Faith Goals.

After spending time with God and listening to His response, you can write down specific goals and prayer points. For example, “To build a better relationship with my parents” is not quite measurable. A specific, measurable goal would be: “To have weekly dinner with my parents.”

While measurable goals are important, you can be bold in asking God! Set goals that would stretch your faith—goals that will take you outside your comfort zone and inside the realm of God’s possibilities.

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)

3. Ask in faith.

Pray in Jesus’ name and ask for His will to be done. If your goals are based on God’s will for your life, He will help you and He will provide. Ask in faith and expect an answer! (magnumcompanies.co)

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” (1 John 5:14-15 NKJV)

What about you, what are your faith goals for 2022?

Let us know in the comments section below!

If you want to grow your faith this New Year, Tanglaw Devotional Book Volume 2 is your guide! Tanglaw brings you daily Bible verses, practical yet inspiring words of encouragement, and the ultimate experience of discovering God’s love and light. Grab your copies now through SuperGifts PH on Shopee and Lazada.

It’s Time to Let Go! 5 Things to Say Goodbye to in 2021

Posted on December 27, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Hello, 2021. Goodbye!

As 2021 comes to a close, take this moment to breathe, reflect, and see where you are and where you want to be in the coming year.

But before you flip that calendar over, are there any habits, things, or beliefs that you need to leave behind to make room for the best version of you?

Say hello to 2022 with a fresh start as you bid goodbye to these 5 things:

1. Goodbye, fear

Nobel prize winner Naguib Mahfouz once wrote, “Fear doesn’t prevent death. It prevents life.”

When fear sets in, thoughts start to spin out of control. It could rob you of your peace and block the joy and blessings God has instore for you.

The uncertainty brought by the pandemic is real, but whatever you may be facing right now, do not allow fear to take over the purposeful life God wants you to live. You can face 2022 with courage, through His grace!

“So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. (duckysonline.com) For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT)

2. Goodbye, unforgiveness

Have you been hurt or wronged this year?

It’s hard to forgive. You don’t need to sugarcoat that reality. God understands that it could be challenging for you to forgive those who broke your heart.

But like fear, unforgiveness is a poison that corrupts one’s heart. The Word of God promises that there is healing for you, and you can receive that healing as you decide to forgive. Remember, time alone doesn’t heal all wounds. Forgiveness does.

It’s about time to leave your past hurts behind so you can fully enjoy the years ahead – without baggage, without pain, without any residual anger.

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV)

3. Goodbye, pity parties

“I am not good enough. No one loves me. Their lives are better than mine. This pandemic made my life worse.”

It’s one thing to hear these words from other people, it’s another thing to hear it from yourself. If you feel sorry for yourself again and again, if you constantly think that you don’t measure up to the world’s standards, you might be stuck in a cycle of self-pity and insecurity.

Romans 12:2 ESV reminds that you don’t have to follow the ways of this world, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

It takes a changed mind to say goodbye to self-pity. It takes faith not to focus on what’s lacking and develop an attitude of gratitude.

4. Goodbye, regrets

Stuck in a limbo of could-haves, should-haves and what-ifs?

Regrets are like large rocks chained to your feet – they’re holding you back and they’re taking you nowhere. God’s beloved, there is more to life than those that scarred you. You are a lot stronger and wiser now because of where you have been. If you are still holding on to regrets, it’s high time to let them go.

Do not worry. Trust God! He makes all things new!

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV)

5. Goodbye, overthinking

Do you have the tendency to think about past decisions repeatedly? Do you have this habit of imagining the things that could potentially go wrong?

You are not alone. Thinking about the future and making decisions – whether big or small – are part of everyone’s life. But if you tend to overthink things that already have happened or things that haven’t happened yet, you might miss the life right in front of you.

Rest that busy mind and delight in the people around you. Recognize the opportunities in front of you and praise the faithful God that sustains you. Although you have to wrestle with overthinking daily, God will help you persevere.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)

How about you, what are you saying goodbye to in 2021?

Feel free to share it with us in the comment section below.

If you have trouble letting go of these things, we are here to pray for you! Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send in your prayer requests through our Facebook page. Our trained prayer counselors would love to encourage you through prayers.

Welcome 2021 with God’s Word and encouragement! Tanglaw Devotional Book Volume 2 brings you daily Bible verses, practical yet inspiring words of encouragement, and the ultimate experience of discovering God’s love and light. Grab your copies now through SuperGifts PH on Shopee and Lazada.

How’s Your Christmas? Experience Joy with these 4 Truths

Posted on December 24, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

It’s a “pandemic Christmas” again.

From masked gatherings, online chapels, and socially distanced gift-giving, it’s no doubt that the pandemic has reshaped how Filipinos celebrate Christmas.

With all these changes and challenges, one truth stands out: Nothing could stop Christmas. Not even a pandemic.

This Christmas, take some time to slow down and reflect on God’s goodness and the precious gift of Jesus Christ—the real reason for this season.

Rediscover the true meaning behind this celebration and its significance in your personal life! Experience joy this Christmas as you ponder on these 4 truths about Jesus:

Truth #1: Jesus is your Wonderful Counselor

Sin separated man from God (Isaiah 59:2). But God, who is so loving and merciful, wanted to reach out and save people from their sins and hopelessness. He sent his Son Jesus Christ—that whoever believes in His lordship would be reconciled with the Father and have eternal life.

Jesus was born in a manger, in a simple town and to human parents, Mary and Joseph. Fully God and fully man, Jesus was able to empathize with people’s sufferings and heal and lead people out of despair.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet he did not sin.” (Hebrews 4:15 NIV)

Do you need wisdom and direction during this uncertain time?

Seek Jesus and He will generously provide you the answers you need, He will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:6). Through His wisdom and understanding, you can receive guidance, help and deliverance for as long as you humbly come before Him and ask (James 1:5).

Truth #2: Jesus is your Mighty God

People need an all-powerful God who has the authority to save them from their sins.

Though Jesus performed miracles after miracles that no earthly god has ever done. He conquered the grave and touches people’s hearts, leading them to believe that He is the Lord and Savior.

Jesus as the Mighty God brings a sense of awe and wonder. He is God above all things, without limitation! Yet He humbled Himself, came down as a man, and shed His blood on the cross so you can be reconciled back to Him—to offer you a free gift of salvation.

“But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12 ESV)

Truth #3: Jesus is your Everlasting Father

Do you feel alone and sad this Christmas? Are you grieving because of the pandemic?

Take heart! You have a Father in Heaven you can always approach with boldness and confidence. He is a father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5 NIV) who sees the joy and pain of His children on earth.

You might be going through a rough patch this season, or you may be in deep sorrow because of the challenges you have faced this year. Rejoice, because your comfort comes from an eternal God!

This Christmas may not be what you expected, but you can find comfort in this truth: No one can stop God’s plans, and His plans for you are good.

“For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” (Romans 1:20 NLT)

Truth #4: Jesus is your Prince of Peace

Here’s one beautiful reason why you can still celebrate Christmas regardless of your situation: Jesus came not just to give material gifts and blessings—He came so your heart will no longer be troubled.

It is through Jesus that you can be at peace with God, with others, and with yourself. He restores broken relationships, provides peace and order in your life, and assures you of an eternal life.

“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:17-18 NIV)

Life isn’t easy. In fact, God said that you will experience hardships (John 16:33). But you can find joy in the truth that Jesus can give you the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

In good times and in bad, in loss and in abundance, God stands near and draws you close. Pray for His peace and joy, and you will surely receive—because He cares for you. He loves you.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 ESV)

Have a joy-filled Christmas!

Do you need someone to pray for you this Christmas? Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700. You may also contact us through Viber at 0949-888-8001 and Skype, just type The700clubasia.

Wondering How to Beat Holiday Blues and Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions?

Posted on December 23, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

The most wonderful time of the year is here!

And while many people are busy with the festivities, there are some who deal with stress, grief, and even depression.

There is a lot to unpack from a not-so-great 2021, and the pandemic is first on the list. Everyone has gone through something this year that made them feel down and blue. You, too, might be feeling that the holidays amplified the losses and grief you experienced during the pandemic.

If you are struggling with holiday blues, you are not alone.

The holiday blues are real and have affected many Filipinos, but you can overcome!

Join Registered Psychologist, Psychometrician, and Beyond Small Talk host Dr. Ali Ng Gui as she talks about holiday blues and how you can properly deal with grief and losses during the holiday season. Catch this webisode on December 25, 2021. (Xanax Bars)

Stay tuned because on January 1, 2022 webisode, Dr. Ng Gui will give tips on how to make your New Year’s Resolutions work and build habits that can make a positive change in your life in 2022!

Learn how you can make the most out of your Christmas and New Year!

Watch Beyond Small Talk and join the online discussion this Saturday, December 25, 2021 and on January 1, 2022, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Meanwhile, if you are struggling with holiday blues and don’t know how to handle it, we want to pray for you. Just call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send a message through our Facebook page.

Lonely this Christmas? Here are 3 Simple Tips to Ease Holiday Loneliness

Posted on December 22, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

For many Filipinos, Christmas is a joyful season packed with reunions, get-togethers, and parties. It’s the spirit of Paskong Pinoy!

As the whole country gears up for this festive time, however, some people find it hard to have a merry Christmas.

Financial stress, health challenges, or work and relationship problems could keep some of us from spending the holidays with their loved ones. It could create feelings of isolation and loneliness.

If you’re feeling sad and alone, don’t worry. You can still make the holidays merry and bright!

Here are 3 simple tips to ease your Christmas loneliness:

1. Ease loneliness through prayers

You are not as alone as you think. Through prayers, you could experience that Jesus Christ—the real reason for this season—is with you. You may be physically or emotionally away from others, but God promises that He will draw near to you as you draw near to Him.

Pour your heart out to God and allow Him to comfort you with His presence. Don’t let loneliness win. Beat it away by expressing gratitude! Pray and thank God for His sustaining grace.

Isn’t it amazing that even in all the chaos that happened, we’re still alive and celebrating another Christmas? If you’re feeling lonely this holiday, pray and thank God. Come close to Jesus and He will come close to You.

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8 ESV)

2. Ease loneliness by reading the Bible

Are you feeling lonely this Christmas? Open and read your Bible.

The Word of God is one of the best sources of hope and comfort. The Center for Bible Engagement found that those who read the Bible four or more times a week is 30% less likely to struggle with loneliness.

So, when you feel lonely, consider taking at least 15 minutes at the start of your day to read Scripture and pray. God’s character and promises are revealed through its pages, and you will find comfort in the truth that He is always with you.

“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Joshua 1:5 NIV)

3. Ease loneliness by reaching out to others

If you’re feeling lonely this Christmas, don’t isolate yourself. And instead of waiting for others to reach out to you, go ahead and reach out to them!

First, reach out to your family and friends. Second, reach out to people who might be feeling lonely too, and build friendships. You can still be close to people in the time of social distancing! Check up on people because sometimes, one text or call is all it takes to encourage others and yourself.

Lastly, fight loneliness by helping others. The Clinical Psychological Science Journal affirms that helping others can reduce loneliness—so find joy in giving gifts, volunteering to outreach activities, or donating to families in need!

See how you can bless others in your own little ways and experience the blessing in giving.

“Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” (Proverbs 11:25 ESV)

Are you feeling lonely this Christmas?

Find hope and joy while listening to Reverb Worship PH and Star Music’s heartwarming single, Dahilan ng Maligayang Pasko! Stream the song on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, YouTube, and all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

For more updates, follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

How to Find Joy and Peace This Christmas

5 Ways to Find Joy and Peace This Christmas

Posted on December 21, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | 2 Comments

How have you been feeling as Christmas is fast approaching?

If you are no longer enchanted by sparkling Christmas decorations and Christmas carols, you are not alone.

In an article on VeryWell Mind, it is said that more people are getting lonelier at this season. For a few to several reasons, many people are feeling anxious, sad, and frustrated during this time.

In the past year, maybe you are one of the people who have lost jobs, opportunities, or loved ones. And as you look back, you only see a year full of challenges and losses.

Amid these difficulties in your career, family, health, and finances, joy and peace this Christmas are still possible.

Here are 5 practical ways to experience a meaningful holiday:

1. Write a gratitude list

Graduate Professor Michelle Maidenberg said in an article on Psychology Today that practicing an attitude of gratitude helps you boost your confidence and positivity in life.

Furthermore, practicing gratitude helps you handle your stress well. So whatever situation you are in, always make room for gratitude.

Being grateful is not just limited to the remarkable things happening in your life. Sometimes, life gives you so many amazing things to be grateful for in the mundane things in life.

You can list all these things on a small notebook or journal which you can keep and revisit every time you feel like there is nothing good happening around you.

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

2. Encourage yourself

You might be someone who used to encourage others but this time, give it to yourself. As they say, you cannot pour from an empty cup so quench your thirst for encouragement.

So aside from keeping a list of the things you are grateful for today, having an encouraging Bible verse to keep you going is also helpful to keep you motivated.

The Word of God has stories and promises that are still relevant for you today. Meditate on God’s Word, and you will surely find joy and peace knowing that God has so many things in store for you.

Write down these scriptures and keep them in your heart and mind every day. Whenever you will feel lonely this holiday, Go back to these Bible verses and the joy of the Lord will follow you in whatever circumstances you’re in.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NLT)

3. Help someone today

As you encourage yourself, pay it forward, and help someone this Christmas season.

According to an article in Psychology Today, by shifting your attention to helping other people, you will not just make them feel better, but you will also feel better about yourself.

Random acts of kindness towards others can help you feel joyful and peaceful. Take note they do not necessarily have to be grand gestures. You can start by blessing someone today by reaching out to and praying for them.

Aside from this, you can also help others by blessing the disadvantaged people by donating to CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm, Operation Blessing.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV)

4. Spend time in prayer

Nothing beats prayer.

In whatever season of your life, whether you have a merry Christmas or a lonely holiday, never forget to pray.

According to an article of Crosswalk, prayer should be as natural as breathing, a way of life.

What’s more, God honors your prayer! Plus, He sees every tear from your eyes as you pray. So, if you want to seek unshakeable peace even in your situation, surrender all your problems in prayer.

As you pray, expect that you will receive unconditional joy from God who always cares for you.

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT)

5. Revisit Jesus’ birth story

Lastly, may you find joy and peace this Christmas season in the ultimate reason, which is the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Despite the things you have lost this year, you can find comfort in knowing that you have received the greatest gift you could ever have, and it is Jesus.

His birth that saved you from sin is more than enough reason for you to be grateful, joyful, and peaceful this Christmas season.

“The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!” (Luke 2:11 NIV)

Let the song Dahilan ng Maligayang Pasko remind you of the real reason for the season! It is out now on all digital streaming platforms! The song is produced by Reverb Worship PH, CBN Asia’s music arm, and ABS-CBN’s Star Music.

Stream Dahilan ng Maligayang Pasko and follow Reverb Worship PH on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more updates.

7 Common Triggers for Holiday Blues

Posted on December 17, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Feeling anxious, sad, or stressed this Christmas?

You are not alone. While many people are excited and filled with joy this time of year, the holidays bring negative feelings for others.

If you are feeling down and blue, perhaps you are wondering what causes those feelings so you can start addressing it.

Beyond Small Talk is here to help you figure that out!

Singer-songwriter Trisha Denise, Counselor at Amara Counseling and Training Center Archie Dela Cruz, and The 700 Club Asia host Peter Kairuz share 7 common triggers for holiday blues.

1. Early and long Christmas in the Philippines and the tendency to compare with other people.

To say that the Pinoys love Christmas is an understatement. As soon as “BER months” arrive, the holiday countdown begins!

And as lights and sounds fill the streets and malls, some people feel pressured into putting up decors or buying gifts. People tend to compare their holiday preparations with others, which might trigger the holiday blues.

2. Pressures on finances

December is a budget crunch time for many Filipinos. People are feeling the pressure of trying to make this year ‘extra special’ for their loved ones. And the pressure is amplified by the ongoing pandemic.

3. The pressure to lose weight and exercise

With Noche Buena, Media Noche, and a couple of holiday parties in between, staying in shape seem to be a challenging task for some.

Counselor Archie shares that people become more conscious of their bodies during the holidays, which adds to the pressure and holiday blues they feel.

4. Stress caused by heavy traffic

Now that the government has lifted lockdowns, more and more people are going out and meeting their loved ones face-to-face. This means that heavy traffic resumes, too! Traffic congestion and noise pollution are legit sources of stress, leading to holiday blues.

5. Lack of love life or romance

Known as a season of togetherness and love, some people feel lonely—and even pressured—that they don’t have a romantic partner to share the holidays with. Trisha observes this trend, too.

“As a songwriter, I am always asked to write about hugot Christmas songs during this time. I think some girls and guys of my age treat Christmas season as Valentine’s season too. They ask why they don’t have a significant other this Christmas,” she said.

6. When people go through a period of transition

It’s totally overwhelming to find yourself grieving or experiencing life changes during the holiday season.

“As a counselor, I’ve seen, witnessed, and heard people who go through mourning during the holidays, because apart from losing a loved one, transitions are always difficult and challenging,” Archie shares.

If you are going through difficult or major life changes, Peter has an encouragement for you: You can make it through.

“Every time we go through transitions or we enter a new season, there’s going to be changes and it’s going to be challenging. But if we apply ourselves properly, we’re going to come out of that situation as champions.”

7. Unnecessary or unwanted breakups

The holiday season is never a great time to have relational problems, but it happens. Breakups and tensions in relationships as Christmas and New Year arrive also adds to experiencing holiday blues.

What about you, what triggers your holiday blues?

Comment below so we can pray for you. You may also call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 and our trained prayer counselors will reach out to you.

If you need help in managing those negative emotions, catch the next webisode of Beyond Small talk to learn tips on how you can cope with holiday blues—streaming this Saturday, December 18, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Experiencing Financial Stress this Christmas? Check Out these 5 Tips!

Posted on December 16, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

The holiday season is officially here!

While it’s a season of merriment and cheer and ultimately celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, there are also people caught up in financial stress.

Overspending, paying off debts or bills, and buying gifts and Noche Buena are just some of the many things that cause financial stress during the holidays. In fact, many would agree that these challenges are amplified by the ongoing pandemic.

While we can all recognize the changes that the pandemic brings, there are ways that can reduce your financial stress this Christmas. Steer clear of unwanted holiday stress with these 3 tips:

Tip #1: Create a spending plan and stick to it

Before you dig into your pocket and purchase those gifts and meals, make a spending plan so you won’t go over budget.

The Business World cited a survey stating that since the start of the pandemic, more Filipinos are trying to save up. If you’re one of them, don’t reverse your progress with unnecessary shopping this year. List down how much you have and what you need, then spend within your means.

Tip #2: Talk to your family about holiday expenses

Income has changed for everyone during the pandemic. Whether you’re making more or less, it’s best to talk to your family about holiday budget and expenses.

Do you want to cut your holiday spending? Do you plan to recycle gifts or not give and receive gifts at all? Would you rather skip exchange gifts this year and help someone in need instead?

Tell them! Financial experts from NBC News affirms that it’s okay to set limits and communicate boundaries with your loved ones this holiday. Set and mention the expectations so there will be lesser stress on your end.

Tip #3: Revisit your financial goals

Christmas and New Year celebrations would still be different this year, but these changes can be good too. Changes help you adapt and reassess your financial goals.

With smaller meals and less travels, how much can you save this holiday season? Remembering your goals and redirecting those savings to your goal help ease financial stress, Help Guide agrees. It allows you to focus on long-term plans than short-term festivities.

Tip #4: Reexamine your attitude toward money

Have you ever wondered why some people are not stressed about spending beyond their means even though they don’t have much? Likewise, there are some who have the financial capacity but get stressed over purchasing inexpensive gifts.

It all boils down to a person’s attitude toward money. Do you allow money matters pressure you? Remember, you don’t need to force yourself to give gifts if you don’t have time and resources. You don’t need to reciprocate gifts.

Organize your values and mindset about money. When you know what you want, how much you have, and what you can afford—you won’t be too stressed.

**Tip #5: Remember the real reason for this season**

It’s normal to experience a little bit of stress during the holidays, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Afterall, you just want the best food, gifts, and experience in the most wonderful time of the year.

However, these things could also be the reasons why you’re caught up in the financial stress.

Though it’s good to give, it’s not the price tag but the spirit of the giving that makes it worthwhile. Though it’s good to share a feast, you can find peace in the fact that Christmas is more about being with your loved ones, being grateful, and experiencing Jesus Christ, our Savior.

May God’s joy, peace, and love be upon you this Christmas!

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 ESV)

Experience more of Jesus this Christmas and New Year with Tanglaw Devotional Book Volume 2! Tanglaw brings you daily Bible verses, practical yet inspiring words of encouragement, and the ultimate experience of discovering God’s love and light. Grab your copies now through SuperGifts PH on Shopee and Lazada.

5 Ways to Deal with Holiday Blues

Posted on December 15, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us once again.

Everywhere you look, you see people happy and excited for parties and gifts.

And then, even in the glow of Christmas lights and holiday festivities, there are also people who are dealing with loss, anxiety, and depression. Are you one of them?

According to Kendra Cherry in her article on Very Well Mind, people who are anticipating the holidays can also experience the blues during this time.

One of the signs and symptoms of holiday blues is the repeated feeling of sadness at the start of the holidays. A few symptoms of this are changes in mood, appetite, and sleeping patterns at around November and December.

So, if you are feeling blue this holiday season, here are a few tips to help you cope joyfully this time of the year:

1. Set Boundaries

Large gatherings and other compulsory corporate or social events may seem overwhelming these holidays.

It’s hard to avoid the flood of party invitations from co-workers, former schoolmates, or even family reunions coming from everywhere.

Psychologist Dr. Dawn Potter through Cleveland Clinic said in an article that one of the ways to cope with holiday stress and depression is to set boundaries.

Dr. Potter said that it is alright to decline invitations to events or parties you are not comfortable attending.

Being honest about how you feel could help you cope and eventually find peace amid your holiday blues.

2. Connect to people

As much as you want to limit your interaction this holiday season to avoid being overwhelmed, fight the urge to isolate yourself from others.

The Mayo Clinic encourages us to reach out through chat or call to close family members and our trusted circle of friends to help decompress the emotional stress building inside us.

You can also seek company from online support groups where you can meet new people even in this pandemic.

Aside from these groups, try joining social events that interest you or even volunteering for programs to help others.

Joining these activities could give you a new environment and perspective, as well as widen your network with new people.

3. Let go of the past

Sometimes, holiday blues come from past holiday experiences.

So, if reminiscing about the good (or bad) old times of holidays is negatively affecting your mental health, let it go.

In Counseling Today, licensed Professional Counselor Esther De La Rosa Scott said that positive actions combat holiday stress. One of these positive actions is letting go of the past.

Everything changes. Every holiday has its own unique story, and you should embrace and enjoy each one.

Furthermore, she said that you should not be disappointed in yourself when your holidays are not the same as the ones you used to have.

Instead of focusing on past events, write down your present blessings and things you are grateful for.

4. Rest and recharge

Holidays are not requiring you to stay active all the time. You can also use this season to rest and recharge your body.

While most of the people are taking this time to party all night, go ahead and take this time to have quality sleep. Embrace JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out) to get some rest.

Schedule 15 to 20 minutes of your day to enjoy quiet time. Spend a few minutes doing some of your favorite stress-relieving activities such as reading a book, listening to music, or strolling outside.

Find rest in the presence of God. After all, Christmas is about the birth of the Savior who can redeem you from all your burden and pain.

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

5. Be honest with God in your situation

As you come to the Lord, the best thing to do when you are feeling blue is to open your heart to Him.

Release every bit of sadness to Him comfort you. Go ahead and confess to Him your heart’s desires through prayer.

As you spend time with God, your heart finds rest and clarity. God’s presence can bring you peace even in the midst of the busy atmosphere this holiday season.

If you are feeling blue, remember this Word of God from Philippians 4:16 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Let go and let God.

Do you still feel sad and lonely this holiday season? Know where you can find the ultimate comfort and peace.

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

May you experience the joy of the Lord this holiday season!

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.

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