Teaching Archives

Experiencing Pandemic Stress? Here are 5 Tips to Cope

Posted on December 10, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Imposed quarantines from time to time, news about the rise and fall of COVID-19 cases here and there, plus health and safety reminders everywhere. Can you believe that the world has been battling this pandemic for over a year and a half now?

How are you holding up?

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

God gives you the power to break free from stress!

You can manage your pandemic stress! Here are essential tips from inspirational speaker and Beyond Small Talk guest, Carl Pascua.

Tip #1: Slow down and rest

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

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

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

Tip #2: Exercise and stay healthy

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

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

The American Psychological Association support’s Carl’s assertion and states that as your mental health declines, your physical health can worsen, and if your physical health declines, you can feel mentally “down.”

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

Tip #3: Talk about your problems

Whether it’s with a family member, a trusted friend, or a mentor, sharing your thoughts and concerns with other people can help relieve stress.

Likewise, you can help others feel that they’re not alone, too!

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

Tip #4: Let go of the idea about control

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

No one.

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

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

Tip #5: Put your faith in Him

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

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

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

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

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

Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed?

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

Mark your calendars and catch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, December 11, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel!

Are You Woke? 3 Ways to Fight for the Rights of Our Kababayans this Human Rights Day

Posted on December 10, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Woke.

It’s time to discuss that word.

In the age of online activism and cancel culture, the word ‘woke’ has taken on a different meaning.

But the original meaning of the word is quite powerful—to be woke is to open your eyes to what is happening in the world outside of yourself. To be woke is to be socially aware and involved with the world around you.

Believers are called to be woke to the rights and needs of others. It’s just natural for them to glorify God by actively standing up for and reaching out to the most vulnerable.

This Human Rights Day, it’s time to reclaim its meaning! Stay woke and advocate for the basic rights of your kababayans with these 3 simple ways:

1. Stay woke for the hungry

Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights cited food as one of the basic rights of every individual. Sadly, food has now become a privilege to many underserved Filipino families.

The pandemic continues to affect the livelihoods of many people, super typhoons continue to batter parts of the country. These continuing calamities have left many Filipinos unsure of where to get their next meal.

Operation Blessing, through its #OBAgainstCOVID initiative, continues to provide nonstop relief efforts to ensure that the most vulnerable families won’t have to endure hunger in these extraordinarily difficult times.

You too, can reach out to the hungry! Stay woke and partner with Operation Blessing today to bless more families with adequate food and other much-needed items.

2. Stay woke for the homeless

Imagine not having a secure place to live in. Imagine being homeless in a time of pandemic while a strong typhoon devastates your community.

This time, imagine being the person that gives hope to people in these dire situations. You can do more than dream about making this world a better place!

With every donation to Operation Blessing, you help families who have lost their homes because of the recent disasters have a roof over their heads. You can help provide shelter materials and even a new, safer home to your kababayans in need!

3. Stay woke for the youth

Lack of education is one of the grim realities Filipino youths living in poverty have faced for a long time.

Even now, education remains to be a faraway dream for those who weren’t given the opportunity.

The good news? You have the power to help them change their lives!

You can give them the opportunity to better their lives through education, by supporting Operation Blessing’s Back-to-School program and One Student, One Gadget campaign!

Both programs aim to provide educational assistance to underprivileged yet deserving students, so they can continue their education – even during the pandemic!

As you stay woke to the needs of others, may God continue to use you as a vessel of His love, hope, and comfort to your kababayans!

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 ESV)

Are you ready to advocate for the rights of others amid the pandemic?

We are inviting you to join our family!

Be our partner by donating to Operation Blessing. You may also support the entire CBN Asia Family of Ministries today.

3 Ways to Prevent Violence Against Women

Posted on December 9, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Violence against women is one of the most prevailing and pressing issues today, according to Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM).

Your mother, sister, daughter, niece, or any woman around you could be a victim of gender-based violence.

The World Health Organization (WHO) consider violence against women as a major clinical health problem and, at the same time, a public concern since it is a violation of women’s rights.

With these disturbing facts, there is no better time but now to advocate ending violence against women.

The change starts in, and with, you. Here are some ways you can help prevent violence against women:

1. Educate yourself

Before anything else, you must learn more about the violence happening to women.

You may start by understanding these different forms of violence against women.

Generally, gender-based violence happening today can be in the form of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.

Aside from this, you can also read more about specific types of violence happening around the world.

UN Women identified these forms of violence on women that you should know:

Domestic violence – known as intimate partner violence, and is one of the most common forms of violence on women

Femicide – intentional killing of women because of their gender

Sexual Violence – can be in the form of sexual harassment, rape, corrective rape, and rape culture

Human Trafficking – exploitation of people by force, deception, or coercion of women

Female Genital Mutilation – causing injury to genital organs of women

Child Marriage – making girls below 18 years old become child brides

Online or Digital Violence – cyberbullying, non-consensual sexting or sending explicit messages, and doxing or releasing the information of victims online are a few of the forms of violence on cyberspace

By learning about the forms of violence on women, you can now better understand the experiences of the survivors.

This way, you too can help to prevent violence from happening to you or your loved ones.

2. Listen to the voices of survivors

It’s difficult for a woman to share her story of the violence inflicted on her. Listen to them when they find the courage to speak up and help her break the cycle of violence in the community.

Victim-blaming is never a right thing to do, especially in these kinds of cases. UN Women highlighted that the perpetrator is the sole reason there is violence against women.

Establish a safe space for every woman who experienced this kind of violence by starting a conversation with them.

Women are now speaking up. They need someone to listen to them, and that is you.

Very Well Mind identified believing and validating the victim’s feelings are crucial to your conversation with them.

Let them know that you believe them, and it is not their fault they experience such kind of violence.

Moreover, help them understand that experiencing violence is never normal and seeking help is the best way to end the cycle of abuse.

When you listen to their stories with empathy, you can better understand this advocacy of preventing these acts of violence to happen again.

3. Speak out about violence against women

Listening to their stories is just the first step towards ending the violence.

There may be women who are starting to speak up for themselves, but there are a lot more who are suffering abuse alone.

One of the ways you can help them speak out is by offering them specific support. Look up contact details of authorities who can help them get away from the perpetrators.

As much as you can be an ear to listen to them, pray for them. You can also be their hands and feet when they cannot reach out for help.

You can be their voice when they cannot speak for themselves.

Even the Bible tells us to speak for those in need.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” (Proverbs 31:8 NLT)

Ending the violence against women is possible with you and each of every person who are willing to stand up and speak out.

If you are a survivor of violence in the past, and you are now in the process of recovery from that trauma, allow us to comfort you in prayers.

Feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

You are not alone. We are here for you.

5 Tips to Overcome Back-to-Work Anxiety

Posted on December 7, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

For nearly two years since the onset of the pandemic, you are probably one of the employees who have been working from home.

But just recently, with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the continued vaccination efforts of the government, going back to the office became a talk among employees.

According to Anxiety and Depression Association of America, as much as employees love to reunite with colleagues, transitioning to face-to-face work may induce anxiety among them.

An article published by the University of California featuring an interview with a psychologist points out that people who are coming out to work onsite are concerned about their safety against the virus, new onsite setup, financial adjustments, and personal issues at home.

Do you also have the same concerns?

Here are some tips to help you overcome your anxiety about going back to the office and continue to work joyfully:

Tip #1: Acknowledge your anxiety

It all starts with accepting that you are having anxious thoughts about transitioning to onsite work.

Identify where the anxiety is coming from. Maybe it’s because of health concerns, financial adjustments, or location.

To cope with your anxiety, try breathing exercises. The quiet time will help you process your overwhelming thoughts and release the negativities cluttering your head.

Tip #2: Voice out your concerns

After clearing your mind from anxious thoughts, you may still have some second thoughts about reporting back to the office due to personal reasons.

It’s time to analyze your situation. List your concerns and discuss them with your supervisor. Schedule a one-on-one conversation with them to not only share your concerns but to also walkthrough the policies and precautions prepared for onsite workers.

Be transparent about your concerns, whether they are emotional, mental, physical, or financial reasons.

Through this conversation, you and your employer can come up with possible solutions such as a hybrid work setup as you adjust to the new policy.

Tip #3: Develop a new routine

As much as some people are given the freedom to choose their work setup, not all jobs are suitable for flexibility.

Another way for you can overcome your anxiety about going back to the office is to develop a new routine.

Psychiatrist Renju Joseph of Priory Hospital suggests adjusting your daily routine days or weeks before the first day of your onsite duty to help you adjust easier.

Try to still schedule the habits that you used to do while working from home. Maintain a schedule where you are available for doing workouts, visiting your mini garden, or simply reading books.

You can always find time for the things you love.

Tip #4: Maintain minimum health standards

Aside from adjusting your schedule, practice minimum COVID-19 health precautions while at home for a seamless transition to onsite duty. To ease your worries, come prepared.

Cleveland Clinic advises that you continue to practice social distancing—and let others know that you do. Wear a face mask, and bring hand sanitizer with you at all times.

When you continue to practice these health precautionary measures, you not only ease your anxiousness but also the worries of others within your department while working onsite.

Tip #5: Pray for protection

Most of all, be still before God and pray. Surrender all your anxious thoughts to Him, and let Him do His part. Rest your heart knowing that He is in control of your life and in all situations.

Before you step out from your home, pray for God’s protection to be with you in your commute and work inside your office.

You can always rely on God, so be at peace!

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3 NIV)

Do you still feel anxious about working back in your office?

Let us pray for you. Call CBN Asia’s Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 anytime.

And if you want to experience the fullness of God’s protection, visit this page to start your journey of faith today.

3 Tips to Support Kids’ Mental Health in the New Normal

Posted on December 2, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

You know better than anyone how your child’s life has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although many kids are remarkably resilient, some are still struggling to adjust with the changes.

This is natural. The routine that once made them a sense of control and freedom have been erased. Classrooms have become computer screens, playgrounds were closed, and their friendships were put on pause.

It’s understandable that they might feel irritable, frustrated, or even sad sometimes.

Wondering how you can support your child’s mental health? Here are 3 tips:

1. Talk to your child

Children feel big emotions that they don’t always have the words for.

So it’s best to ask and help them identify how they feel about the current situation. Validate their emotions. Explain why they can’t go out. Ask if they have concerns or questions then answer in a truthful, calm way.

Reassure them that you are always there whenever they need someone to talk to.

2. Encourage healthy habits

Kids can feel and do better during this challenging time if they get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly.

That’s why it’s important to re-establish your family’s daily routine—including your child’s online classes, household chores, and relaxation.

Encourage activities that boost their mood, such as watching child-friendly shows like Superbook.

3. Help them develop a sound mind

Everyone—including your child—is prone to stress, cabin fever, and moments of fear.

Help them develop a sound mind and find comfort in God by teaching them how to pray.

Superbook opened its Kids Prayer Line to help kids pray!

Children may call (02) 8-737-0-700 or send their prayer requests through Batang Superbook’s Facebook page.

is it ok to believe in zodiac signs astrology

Is it OK to Believe in Zodiac Signs? Here’s What the Bible Says about Astrology

Posted on November 29, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | 2 Comments

Virgo sun, Capricorn moon, Scorpio rising.

Sounds familiar?

If you recognize these words, there’s a chance that you’ve peeked at the horoscope page of a newspaper or read about zodiac signs online.

Zodiac signs and all things astrology had its heyday in ancient times but people’s fascination with it clearly didn’t go away. In fact, a growing number of people jump into the zodiac craze these days to find meaning, answers, and purpose in life.

Some use their zodiac sign to explain their feelings, issues, personalities, and even allow it to guide their relationships and decision-making. Others are convinced that it’s totally fine and use it for entertainment purposes—as it seems fun, relatable, and harmless… or is it?

Quite the opposite. If you’re still wondering if it’s okay to believe in zodiac signs and if believers can dabble in them, read and find out what the Bible says about astrology:

Zodiac signs explained

The future is written in the stars—that’s what the ancient Babylonians believed when they tapped into astrology around 2,500 years ago.

Encyclopedia Britannica defines Astrology as a type of divination that involves the forecasting of earthly and human events through the observation and interpretation of the sun, moon, stars, and the planets.

When the ancient people gazed up the night sky, they believed the heavenly bodies affected their harvest, weather, and everyday life, so they assigned meaning to the placement of stars and planets within 12 sections of the sky. Those are the zodiac signs that you are familiar with.

For astrology fans, a person’s zodiac sign provides a description of their self, ego, and identity. Perhaps, it’s the reason why people remain fascinated with zodiac signs and horoscopes—curious if the sun, moon, and stars could actually influence their personality and destiny.

What does the Bible say about astrology, zodiac signs?

Astrology is a practice of divination, and divination is a practice of seeking knowledge of the future of the unknown by supernatural means.

In the Bible, God warns His people about astrology and divination.

“There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, one who uses divination, one who practices witchcraft, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts a spell, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD; and because of these detestable things the LORD your God will drive them out before you. You shall be blameless before the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 18:10-13 NASB)

God doesn’t just discourage these practices — it’s an abomination to Him!

And though it seems harmless to answer “I’m a Sagittarius” whenever someone asks you what’s your sign, or to peek into horoscopes once in a while, dabbling into astrology could endanger your spiritual health. It could lead to idolatry, as it puts man’s concepts before God’s ways.

“And when you look up into the sky and see the sun, moon, and stars—all the forces of heaven—don’t be seduced into worshiping them. The LORD your God gave them to all the peoples of the earth.” (Deuteronomy 4:9 NLT)

The Bible has long disproved that astrology can tell or impact your destiny. In Daniel 2, the royal astrologers of Babylon were powerless to interpret the king’s dream and thus, were sentenced to death. Prophet Daniel saved the day by interpreting the king’s dream according to what God showed him. The outcome? The king acknowledged that only God can reveal all mysteries.

What happens to astrologers and people who consult them? God has a stern warning: judgment will come. Isaiah 42:13-14 cemented the fact that astrology displeases God.

“All the advice you receive has made you tired. Where are all your astrologers, those stargazers who make predictions each month? Let them stand up and save you from what the future holds. But they are like straw burning in a fire; they cannot save themselves from the flame. You will get no help from them at all; their hearth is no place to sit for warmth.” (Isaiah 42:13-14 NLT)

The creation vs. the Creator

Why go to astrologers or look at the sky for guidance, when you can go to The One who created the entire universe?

The sun, moon, and stars were created by God for signs and seasons, to help us keep track of place and time (Genesis 1:14). Though they can’t tell what lies ahead, they remind us of God’s faithful, promise-keeping nature. They awaken wonder of God’s power and wisdom.

And because true wisdom comes from God (James 1:5), there’s no need to look at zodiac signs to find insights. The Word of God is your guide through life (Psalm 119:105). Trust and worship the Creator, not the creation.

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5 NLT)

Your identity is in Christ, not in zodiac signs

According to Scientific American’s article Is Astrology Real? Here’s What Science Says, astrology fans believe that a person’s personality and psychology type can be characterized by their zodiac sign.

God’s children are not defined by zodiac signs. Astrological identities are of this world, but anyone who is born of Jesus Christ finds their identity in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17). They receive the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13) and the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV).

You can’t be led by a zodiac sign and Holy Spirit at the same time. When you come to Jesus, you leave those earthly things behind. You are new.

Now, you don’t need to rely on the sun’s position on your birth to make sense of your thoughts, emotions, and personality – your Creator knows what’s going on inside you (Psalm 139:1-24). He knows even your future!

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

Where do we go for guidance and hope?

The Scriptures speak of where and how you can find truth, counsel, and hope. Here are 3 ways to find guidance from the right sources:

1. Get in God’s Word
If you’re tempted to turn to zodiac signs for answers, perhaps it’s an indication that you need to spend more time getting to know God. Read your Bible. Devote time in prayer. Ask God to reveal His plans for you and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your path.

“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)

2. Surround yourself with the right people
Who do you surround yourself with? Without advice plans go wrong, but with many advisers they succeed. (Proverbs 15:22). Go to church, seek mentor and friends who can inspire you and help you grow in faith because they know God’s law by heart.

“The godly offer good counsel; they teach right from wrong. They have made God’s law their own, so they will never slip from his path.” (Psalm 37:30-31 NLT)

3. Obey God
Do your best to live by God’s commandments, follow His will, and trust the dreams He placed in your heart. Obey first, so He can reveal to you the next steps you should take.

“This is what I told them: ‘Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Do everything as I say, and all will be well!’” (Jeremiah 7:23 NLT)

The idea that the trivialities and complexities of life can be explained by the sun, moon, and stars is enticing. But at the end of the day, you are faced with the question: Where, or who, do you put your faith in?

As you put your faith in the almighty, all-knowing, and all-powerful God, you can be assured that He will lead you to peace and direction.

Isn’t it comforting to know that your identity, future, and hope don’t lie somewhere up the sky, but right inside the palm of God’s hands?

If you need God’s guidance and direction for your life, we are here to pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or email prayforme@cbnasia.org.

3 Ways to Spend Your 13th Month Pay and Christmas Bonus Wisely

Posted on November 19, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

For hardworking adult employees, the holiday season isn’t just about the songs and the gifts.

It’s also about the 13^th month pay and Christmas bonus for a job well done throughout the year.

Though it’s normal to use this money to help around the holidays or simply treat yourself and your loved ones to something nice, your hard-earned money can actually go a long way if you spend and manage it wisely.

Here are 3 simple yet wise ways to spend your 13^th month pay and Christmas bonus:

1. Pay off your debt

Are you in debt?

Once people get their 13^th month pay or Christmas bonus, it’s easy to spend, spend, spend!

However, it’s not good to keep on spending your extra cash if you still haven’t paid off your debts. You will feel a lot better checking out those items on your shopping cart when you know that you’ve already paid back the money you borrowed.

Pay for your debt first so you can enter the new year guilt-free and debt-free—or at least with lesser debts.

2. Save and invest

The Filipinos take pride in being family-loving. Everyone wants to make sure that their families are taken care of during the most beautiful time of the year through pasalubong or aguinaldo.

Still, you can’t take care of your family if you don’t take care of yourself first.

To pay yourself first, Expert Financial Planner Randell Tiongson suggests that you put aside 20% to 30% for your savings. You can also use your money to build your emergency fund or invest in something that would earn you more over time!

What about the remaining 70%? That you can use for your holiday expenses. But before you spend, save the 30% first.

3. Budget your money

When people receive their 13^th month pay and Christmas bonus, it’s so easy to immediately head to the shopping malls or open that shopping app, pick things up at random and take advantage of the holiday SALE.

The next thing you know, your money is gone!

It’s important to budget your money so you know where it goes. Financial experts from The Balance suggest that you create a Christmas list. Write down your expenses and stick to your budget. Avoid buying gifts that are not in your list.

Save, then budget your money, because if you don’t save first, you might end up spending everything!

Christmas is a great season to celebrate the birth of Jesus and share His love to others through gifts and treats. But before diving head first into the holiday season, it’s best to plan how you would be a good and wise steward of God’s blessings.

May this be a season of merriment and prosperity for you and your family!

“Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.” (Proverbs 21:5 NLT)

How about you, how do you plan to spend your 13^th month pay and Christmas bonus this year? Comment your thoughts below!

If you need prayers about your finances, feel free to call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

3 Keys to Remain Hopeful Amid Challenging Season

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

Are you losing the reasons to keep going in your life?

Are you weary and feeling defeated from the seemingly never-ending series of challenges during the pandemic?

You are not alone.

Here are three tips to remain hopeful amid challenging times from Beyond Small Talk guest, Ruther Urquia who has also gone through rough patches in his own life this pandemic.

1. Trust God

Your situation today is not your final destination.

Keep on believing that God is using these challenges to lead you to the best destination. The roadblocks you are facing today are part of your journey towards a purpose-driven life.

“You should not measure your life with just a single episode. God is using all these events in your life to create His plan,” Ruther explained.

More than that, believe that these circumstances will eventually be part of a beautiful testimony of God’s faithfulness in the future.

2. Choose to thank God

“You can’t choose to be happy,” Ruther remarked.

And probably, you are in this season of your life when happiness is not in the offering, but there is always room for gratitude.

You can always choose to thank God for your life today regardless of your situation.

It may not be the breakthrough that you are expecting, but choose to thank God for the blessing of life and daily provision that He continuously provides for you.

3. Remain grateful to God

Amid the challenging season of your life, keep a grateful heart.

Remaining grateful to God every day will keep you grounded and hopeful that our all-knowing God can turn things around in His perfect time.

God will never abandon you even in this season of your life.

“Whatever you’re going through, God is with you,” Ruther encouraged.

So, the next time you will feel defeated, frustrated, and dismayed in your life, remember to fix your eyes on the Lord. You will receive the unshakable hope from Him even during your challenging season.

Have you been experiencing a tough time in your life lately?

Begin with your steps to peace today!

And if you need someone to talk to about these challenges in your life, let us pray for you. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Stay tuned for the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Happy watching!

3 Tips to Improve Your Mental and Emotional Health During the Pandemic

Posted on November 10, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Have you been feeling really overwhelmed lately?

When we neglect our mental and emotional health, especially during these trying times, it can start to worsen – sometimes to the point that it becomes anxiety and depression.

Good news! There are ways to get our mental and emotional health back on track!

Here are three ways we can improve your mental and emotional health, from Licensed Clinical Counselor, Mental Health Advocate, and Beyond Small Talk guest, Dr. Tito Almadin:

1. Accept the reality

It is time to stop resisting reality.

The pandemic is real. The troubles we’re experiencing right now are actually happening. The changes might be hard to accept, but you can only move forward when you learn to accept that they are happening.

Acceptance isn’t a passive state of contentment. Psych Central says it’s good to practice radical acceptance. Radical acceptance means accepting life on life’s terms. Doing so helps you conserve emotional energy and gain clarity on what you need and how to get it.

Embrace the past and find ways on how you can move forward today!

2. Behave appropriately

“When is this pandemic going to end?”

If you’ve asked this question to yourself, you are not alone. Everyone deals with the uncertainty brought by the crisis, and many have spiraled into overwhelming panic.

Do your best to focus on what you can control, plan for what you can, and ease your “pandemic panic” by refusing to succumb to negative thinking.

As Dr. Tito puts it, “Let’s not panic. Let’s not be too paranoid and scared or think negative thoughts so that we don’t get discouraged.”

3. Commit to be better each day

You can make the changes you need to improve your mental health. But to be able to do that, you need to commit.

You need to commit to take steps to improve your condition. Seek help from loved ones and mental health professionals. Make a commitment to yourself that you will take care of yourself more.

You’re not stuck! Find support. Seek help. Seek God’s help.

“Adjust every day. Give yourself a chance to get better. Find people who can help you and talk to them about your feelings and struggles. Don’t keep your problems to yourself,” Dr. Tito encouraged.

Are you struggling with your mental and emotional health?

Begin your steps to peace today and allow us to encourage you through prayers. Call the CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700 or send your prayer requests to our Facebook page.

Stay tune for more tips about mental health! Watch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk this Saturday, November 13, 2021, at 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

See you there!

6 Tips for Parents with a Child Struggling with their Mental Health

Posted on November 8, 2021 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

No parent ever wants their child diagnosed with a mental illness.

But the truth is, mental health disorders know no age. It could happen to anyone, even to young children, teens, and older adults. Knowing what to do to help their child struggling with their mental health is a big challenge for most parents.

If you’re wondering how you can support your child, Beyond Small Talk guest Paolo Punzalan shares 6 parenting tips to help your child on their mental health journey:

Tip #1: Make your home a safe space for your children

Everyone needs a safe place to flourish. To fully support your child, make sure that your home is a safe place to come home to – both physically and emotionally.

Assure your child that you are willing to understand and listen to their concerns. Start a conversation, and allow them to open up when they want to or when they’re comfortable.

“I tell my children that no matter what happens, they can always come home. Our home should be a place where they can be themselves. That doesn’t mean we won’t discipline or put boundaries. But it should be a safe space. So we listen, we validate. Sometimes we just hug them and not force them to talk,” Paolo shared.

Tip #2: Don’t take things personally

Does your child keep ignoring you? Do they seem rather irritated and a little less than friendly?

Don’t take it personally. Symptoms of mental illnesses differ from one another, but they all affect how your child respond to their environment. Use empathy, not argument.

Paolo recalled, “That became my problem, too. I took it personally. I’d tell them, ‘Why don’t you talk to me? I want to help you but you’re ignoring me!’ It was painful, but we just really need to be there. Those were some of the lessons I learned as my children went through different things during this pandemic.”

Tip #3: Turn to God

No matter how you try to carry everything on your own, you can’t do it all alone. There is no need to be overwhelmed. You can always pray and seek God’s strength, hope, and comfort for you and your child.

“If we love our children, God loves them more. We can surrender all our worries to God,” Paolo reminds.

Tip #4: Be very patient

Looking after anyone who is struggling with their mental health can be physically and emotionally draining. If you find your patience being tested, take the time to think about what your child is going through and remember to take care of your own mental health, too.

Paolo has a suggestion for you, “I know sometimes we want to question them why they wouldn’t talk to us or even want to eat. But that’s not the time to correct them, it’s a time to be patient.”

Tip #5: Ask for help

It’s good to ask for help. Sometimes, people want to help you and your child, but they do not know how. Give people the opportunity to bless you however they can.

Likewise, Paolo encourages you to seek help from doctors and mental health professionals, “Mental health problems are treatable. I know there’s a stigma, but God can bring healing. If there’s a need to go to a professional, it’s perfectly okay to go to a counselor or a psychiatrist.”

Tip #6: Be present

Every parent should be intentional about “Present parenting.” It’s challenging, but don’t just find time—make time for your child. And whenever you’re together, it’s best to give them your undivided attention.

“More than anything, be present. Love them unconditionally. Tell them, ‘No matter what happens, anak, I’m here. I will love you.’”

As you connect with your child, gently connect them to Jesus, too. Everyone—including you and your child—will go through challenges in life, and you can’t be around them 24/7, forever. But when they get to know God, He can guide them.

Be present, pray, and teach your child that they can turn to God every time.

Is your child struggling with their mental health?

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.

For more meaningful content, catch the brand new webisodes of Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7:00 PM, on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube channel.

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