CBN Asia’s Tanikala is known for producing powerful, real-life films that inspire and awaken faith—and Preso is no exception.  

This special Holy Week tells the true story of Wendell, a man who found himself imprisoned not only by concrete walls but also by pain, regret, and the weight of his past. 

Tanikala: Preso dives deep into Wendell’s life journey, from a traumatized young man who lost his way in drugs and crime to a redeemed follower of Christ who found purpose even inside prison.  

But Preso is more than just a film; it’s a message for anyone who feels stuck, forgotten, or broken. 

Wendell’s journey reveals four powerful truths that offer healing to the deepest wounds: Freedom, The Power of God’s Word, Hope, and Forgiveness.

1. True Freedom Comes From God

Behind bars, Wendell met a pastor who shared words that pierced through walls and sorrow: 

“Even though we’re inside this prison cell, we have freedom. Even though I’m in jail, I am free,” the pastor said. 

The world often tells us that freedom means doing whatever we want. But the Bible tells a different story. Real freedom is found in Christ. Freedom from sin, shame, bitterness, and fear. 

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36, ESV) 

2. The Word of God Has Power

One night, overwhelmed and desperate, Wendell did something simple yet life-changing—he opened the Bible. 

He started reading. He didn’t understand everything, but something stirred in his heart. He became curious. He began asking the prison pastor questions. And little by little, God’s Word softened the hardened places in his soul. 

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NIV) 

God’s Word did what no lecture, punishment, or motivational talk could do, it transformed Wendell from the inside out. Once a man filled with hate and pain, he became a messenger of peace. Once an enemy of God, he became a child of God.

3. There Is Always Hope

Wendell was supposed to spend the rest of his life in prison. But miraculously, he was set free. 

That alone is powerful. But the greater miracle is this: Wendell found freedom and hope even before the prison gates opened. He learned that no matter how far you’ve fallen, God can still raise you up. 

“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, ESV) 

Even when it seemed like everyone had given up on him—his partner, his kids, even himself—God never left. And hope became real again.

4. Forgiveness Heals the Deepest Wounds

Wendell’s past was full of pain. His father, drunk one night, accidentally shot and killed Wendell’s brother. That trauma hardened Wendell’s heart. He entered the world of drugs, became a pusher, and eventually landed in jail. At one point, he was so angry he even wanted revenge. 

But God used someone close to him, his mother, to stop him. She stepped in when Wendell was planning retaliation and reminded him not to let hate take over. Her words helped soften his desire for vengeance.  

At the last part of the film, in a moment of unexpected compassion, his father, once distant and ashamed, reached out to help. 

“I didn’t expect my dad to help me. He hated drugs, and as a policeman, my situation brought shame to him. But he said, ‘I’ll help you. We’ll fight this case together.’” 

And then, the words Wendell never imagined he would hear: 

“I’m deeply struggling… but I love you so much, my son.” 

Later, one night when Wendell was hunted by his past, he prayed to God: 

“I give up, I can’t do this anymore. Help me, Lord. I need You.” 

That cry became a turning point. Forgiveness broke through. He forgave those who had hurt him. He forgave his father. He forgave himself. 

Wendell remembered what the prison pastor said. “Jesus paid for the sins we were supposed to pay for.” 

A Beautiful Redemption 

Wendell was released from prison. But more than that, he was restored—to God, to his family, and to his purpose. 

The final scene in Preso shows Wendell embracing his father in tears, joined by Wendell’s three children. A family once shattered, now reunited. Just like the story of the prodigal son, Wendell came home. 

“He set me free from everything. From my weaknesses, from all my fears. The Lord never abandoned me inside that prison. I’ve realized that life is truly joyful when the Lord is with you,” Wendell said.  

What about you? 

You may not be in a physical prison, but maybe you’re locked up in bitterness, regret, or sorrow. Maybe you’ve said, “There’s no more hope for me.” 

But there is. 

Like Wendell, you can cry out today: 

“Jesus, I need You.” 

He hears you. He loves you. And He is more than able to rescue and redeem you. 

Freedom is real. God’s Word is alive. Hope is always present. Forgiveness is waiting. 

Come home now. 

Tanikala: Preso is airing until Easter Sunday. Watch it on CBN Asia’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. Don’t miss this unforgettable story of healing, faith, and second chances! 

Help us create more films like this by supporting us. Visit this LINK for more details! 

Seasoned actor Gerard Pizarras takes on the challenging role of a drug-addict-turned-inmate in CBN Asia’s highly anticipated Holy Week Special, Tanikala presents “Preso”—airing this Good Friday, April 18, at 5:30 p.m. on GMA.

Preso follows the true-to-life story of Wendell Tolibas, a man whose life spirals into chaos after witnessing a traumatic incident. Consumed by pain and anger, he turns to rebellion, drug addiction, and crime while living in Davao. Arrested and publicly shamed in 2017, he found himself trapped behind bars and at rock bottom.

“When I first read the script, I said, ‘This person’s story is inspiring. Lord, thank You for this story because it encouraged me,’” Gerard recalled.

Having portrayed similar roles of incarcerated men in the past, Gerard found Preso to be unique. Unlike other stories that dwell solely on the suffering inside prison walls, this telecine inspires viewers that true redemption is possible and that there is life after prison.

Alongside his talented co-stars—his wife, veteran actress Jan Marini, and actor-influencer Jericho Arceo—Gerard brings to life a character whose struggles resonate not only with actual prisoners but with anyone who feels imprisoned by their addiction, past hurts, and difficult circumstances.

“Many people can relate, even if they’re not in prison. A lot of us feel trapped by mistakes, by tragedies. But this story gives hope.”

He adds, “This film is perfect for Holy Week. It’s a time for reflection—an opportunity to look back, acknowledge past mistakes, and make things right with God.”

Preso is directed by Timmy Yee, who also co-wrote the film with Gilbeys Sardea. The director hopes that this year’s offering will help anyone who watches it be ‘freed’ from anything that makes them feel trapped.

“During this Holy Week, it’s time to reflect on our lives and the areas that need freedom. Hopefully, this story will serve as a ‘trigger’ for everyone who watches it, that it would set us free from the things that have imprisoned us,” he shared.

This Holy Week, break free and embrace new beginnings. Watch Tanikala presents Preso this Good Friday, April 18, at 5:30 p.m. on GMA.

You’ve probably heard it countless times— “You should read the Bible.”

But why exactly? What can one gain from reading it?

If you’re wondering why reading the Bible is essential, here are five reasons that may inspire you to begin today:

Reason #1: The stories in the Bible are relatable.

When you read the Bible, you’ll find that many of its characters faced situations that still happen today.

Rejection, judgment, poverty, long-term struggles, addictions, betrayal—you can find these stories in the Bible.

These stories can offer hope and strength for whatever you’re going through. You might find yourself thinking, “If it happened to them, it could happen to me, too. If they overcame it, so can I.”

There’s something powerful about seeing how others handled their challenges. So, you begin to understand how to respond better to the situations in your own life.

Reason #2: It strengthens you.

People work out to build physical strength, eat vegetables to stay healthy, and read books and watch tutorials to improve their skills.

But what about emotional, mental, and spiritual strength? How does one build faith, especially in tough seasons?

By reading the Bible and meditating on the promises of God.

Psalm 119:28 (NIV) says, “My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to Your word.”

The Bible strengthens not just because of the words it contains, but because it’s alive and active (Hebrews 4:12), and God-breathed(2 Timothy 3:16). You can’t find these in any other book.

Reason #3: It sets you free.

You’ve likely heard the phrase, “The truth will set you free.” That actually comes from the Bible, and you can read it in John 8:32.

But here’s a question: What is truth?

If the truth sets people free, then what exactly is the truth? And what does it set them free from?

Jesus answered it Himself: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

Jesus is the Truth. To get to know Him, you need to read the Bible.

Through it, freedom becomes real. You can be free from sin, eternal death, pressure, confusion, bitterness, anxiety, the need to control, pride, and unforgiveness. It also gives you freedom from lies.

Lies like “No one loves you.”

“You’re all alone.”

“Your efforts mean nothing.”

“You don’t have a future worth hoping for.”

But here’s what’s true:

You are loved. (Romans 8:35–39)

You are never alone. (Joshua 1:9)

You will be blessed. (Psalm 128:2)

You have a bright future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Reason #4: The Bible brings clarity and direction.

Ever feel uncertain or stuck when making a decision? Not sure which path to take? Or maybe you simply don’t know where to begin?

Psalm 119:105 (NIV) says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

Author Paul Sohn, in Quarter-Life Calling, described the overwhelming number of choices people face daily: What to wear, what to eat, who to be with, what career to pursue… the list goes on. It can feel paralyzing. 

Too many choices often lead to indecision and second-guessing.

If that sounds familiar, maybe this is the right moment to tune out the noise and start listening to God, through reading the Bible.

Reason #5: It cleanses the soul.

Just as unhealthy food harms the body, toxic content harms the mind and heart.

Gossip, negativity, toxic environments, violent media, and pornography—these are all toxins for your soul. Just like junk food affects the body, these things damage emotional and spiritual health.

If you want it to be cleansed, read the Bible.

Jesus said in John 15:3 (NKJV), “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.”

God’s Word holds the power to purify and restore us.

But before pressure starts to creep in, remember this: You can always take it one step at a time. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but what matters most is that you begin. Reading the Bible brings such amazing impact to your life. It’s worth choosing every day, even just one chapter at a time, just as God chooses you every single day.

He loves you.

You’ll come to know that love even more, when you get to know God and His Word.

Don’t know where to begin? You can start here. 

Do you already have a list of things to do this Holy Week?

Going out?

Sleeping in?

Catching up on Netflix?

Or maybe all of the above?

Whatever the plan, Holy Week is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and be present.

Most Filipinos associate Semana Santa with traditions like Ash Wednesday, penance, palm branches, and abstaining from meat. These are common practices in the Philippines.

But is following them a requirement?

Not at all.

Holy Week is meant to be a time of remembrance and celebration.

It marks the moment when Jesus saved the world by dying on the cross and rising again after three days. That victory is something worth rejoicing in!

To celebrate Holy Week, here are five activities to enjoy your time alone or with loved ones.

Holy Week activity #1: Prepare a feast for the family

The Last Supper is one of the most well-known stories from the Bible. It was the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion.

Of course, this isn’t about having a “last meal” with family! Instead, why not prepare a special feast to enjoy together?

Busy schedules often make it difficult to sit down for a meal with loved ones. Holy Week is a great opportunity to slow down and create meaningful moments around the table.

Holy Week activity #2: Hunt Easter Eggs

Have you ever tried an Easter egg hunt? It’s a fun tradition, especially on Easter Sunday. The game involves hiding real or plastic eggs (often filled with small surprises) and letting participants search for them. The best part? The prizes are up to the organizer—whether it’s chocolate, cash, or something as extravagant as a house and lot.

Just kidding!

But why eggs?

According to History.com, “From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs symbolize Jesus’ emergence from the tomb and resurrection.”

Activity #3: Volunteer and help others

Many groups take this time to organize outreach programs, such as feeding initiatives, fundraisers, free medical checkups, community cleanups, and relief efforts.

There are plenty of ways to give back. This is a meaningful time to invest in something where the reward comes from the Lord.

Here are some verses about generosity and giving:

• “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, NLT)
• “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25, NKJV)
• “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38, CEV)

Activity #4: Clear your mind by cleaning your space

Ever been told to “Marie Kondo” your stuff? The phrase refers to decluttering and simplifying a space, inspired by Marie Kondo, a well-known organizing expert.

She believes that a tidy, well-organized space leads to a more peaceful environment. If something no longer sparks joy or serves a purpose, it’s best to let it go.

Holy Week is a great time to clear the mind, and one way to do that is by tidying up.

With the long weekend ahead, why not take advantage of it?

Holding onto candy wrappers from an ex or dried flowers from a past relationship? Maybe it’s time to throw them out—especially if they no longer bring joy.

Activity #5: Watch Tanikala presents “Preso” with loved ones

Here’s some exciting news! CBN Asia’s top-rated made-for-TV series, Tanikala, is back with another life-changing film! Tanikala presents Preso premieres on Good Friday, April 18, at 5:30 PM on GMA.

The film brings to life the true story of Wendell Tolibas—a man who lost himself to addiction and poor choices but eventually found redemption through faith.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss it!

Kids were thrilled to watch the show in their language, troubled teens found comfort in God’s love, and parents—some brought to tears and felt immense joy as they witnessed their children accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 

This is how the recent Superbook Bisaya Caravan: Sabay-Sabay Lilipad touched the lives of children and adults in Cebu. 

The caravan united donors, volunteers, and families with a shared passion for spreading God’s Word to the next generation. It made a meaningful impact on communities across Cebu. The event reached Guadalupe, Zapatera, Carreta, and a home center for children in conflict with the law. 

One of the event’s highlights was the screening of Superbook Bisaya. For many children, it was their first time hearing Bible stories in their own language, making the lessons more relatable and impactful.  

Parents and children alike expressed their appreciation for the events, recognizing how it reignited their faith and rekindled their love for God. 

Charlene Ambray, a mother of three, shared how Superbook played a crucial role in her children’s spiritual growth. As a longtime fan of Bible-oriented shows, she recalled watching The Flying House before she got married.

“Without God, nothing would be fulfilled,” she said, her eyes welling with tears. Additionally, she was especially moved when her son sang along to “The Salvation Poem” and prayed to accept Jesus into his heart. 

Jay (not his real name), one of the teenagers from the home center, reflected on how Superbook resonated with him. Once involved in a gang, he had strayed far from his faith. However, watching the Superbook episode “In the Beginning” deeply touched him. 

“God is important to me because He’s the One who guides me. Even in my struggles, He never abandoned me,” Jay shared.

Moreover, he found solace in knowing that despite his past, God’s love for him remained steadfast. By the end of the event, he prayed the salvation prayer and renewed his commitment to follow Jesus. 

Ela (not her real name), another teenager in conflict with the law, also found hope through Superbook. She had watched Superbook as a child but was amazed to discover its version in her language. For her, the event was a reminder of how important it is to stay close to God. 

“God is the prize that cannot be bought, and He’s the owner of my life,” she said.

Additionally, she expressed that “without Him, life is miserable.” 

The Superbook Bisaya Caravan was more than just an event—it was a God-sent appointment for many children and families in Cebu. Moreover, it demonstrated how powerful it is to hear God’s Word in one’s own language and how faith-based programs can shape young hearts. 

In a world filled with distractions and uncertainties, Superbook’s initiatives are important in keeping the next generation anchored in God’s truth. As one child’s prayer beautifully summed up, “Lord, I pray that every day, my family wakes up whole and together.” 

Indeed, Superbook is not just a TV program—it is God’s instrument to transform lives, one heart at a time. 

To learn more about Superbook, visit our website at cbnasia.org or message us at Superbook’s Facebook page. 

Forgiving someone who has hurt you is never easy. It’s already hard to forgive when it’s a friend or someone outside the family — but what if it’s your own family?

Someone you see every day, live with, or share the same blood with?  

The struggle is real. They say the people you love the most are the ones who can hurt you the deepest. 

So, what can you do when forgiving a family member feels impossible? Here are some simple tips that might help you take the first step toward forgiveness:  

1. Acknowledge the pain they caused

Sometimes, people try to excuse the hurtful actions of family members just because they’re family. You might hear things like, “Don’t take it to heart,” or “Just ignore it.” But ignoring the pain doesn’t make it go away — it only hides it until one day it might explode.

The first step to healing is to admit that you are hurt. When you’re honest about your feelings, you open your heart for God to heal you and help you forgive.

The Bible says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). God sees your pain. Talk to Him and let Him lighten the burden in your heart.  

2. Ask God to help you forgive

After admitting your pain, the next step is to ask God to help you forgive. Forgiveness is not easy, and we cannot always do it on our own. But God can give you the strength you need.

Just pray and be honest with God. Tell Him you want to forgive, but you’re struggling. God honors a humble heart, and He will help you. Remember, we are also called to forgive others because God has forgiven us (Luke 6:36).

3. Talk to the family member who hurt you

Good communication is important in any relationship, especially with family. If a family member hurt you, it’s important to have an honest conversation with them — not to attack, but to share how their actions affected you and to help heal the relationship.  

It might be hard, but it’s a way of showing love because, as the Bible says, “love covers over many sins” (1 Peter 4:8).  

When you speak, be honest but gentle, and be willing to listen to what they have to say. Humbling yourself to talk and listen shows that you care about keeping the relationship strong. 

4. Let go and let God

After talking to them, remember that you cannot control how they will respond. Your part is to be honest, loving, and forgiving. If they apologize and want to make things right, thank God!  

But if they don’t respond the way you hope, don’t lose heart. Let go and let God handle the rest.

Pray for them and trust that God has a plan for both of you. “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).  

If you want to learn more about forgiving a family member and be inspired by a story of forgiveness, don’t miss CBN Asia Holy Week Special “Preso,” starring Gerard Pizarras this Good Friday, April 18, 5:30 PM on GMA. 

What does it really mean to be a leader and lead like Jesus?

According to Vocabulary.com, “A leader is the one in charge, the person who convinces other people to follow.” 

Most definitions of a leader describe them as the head, the first, a ruler, a manager, or a decision-maker. In summary, a leader holds the highest authority in a specific group.

But what does the Bible say about leadership?

Matthew 20:26 (CEV) states, “But don’t act like them. If you want to be great, you must be the servant of all the others.”

Did you notice the difference? The world defines a leader as someone with the highest authority, while the Word of God says that a leader must be a servant to all.

One key quality of a leader is humility to serve. And this principle comes from the greatest leader of all time—Jesus. He didn’t just teach servant leadership; He modeled it Himself.

If you want to be a leader, here are three practical ways to lead like Jesus, based on a Beyond Small Talk episode with Jericho Arceo, Paul Herrera, and Peter Kairuz.

Lead Like Jesus – Step #1: Know yourself

First, you need to understand who you are. Here are some questions to help you with that.

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Why do you want to lead?

• What causes do you stand for?

• How can you serve the people?

• What do you still need to learn?

• Do you have a vision for the people you want to serve?

Leadership should not stem from selfish ambition or a desire for power—it should come from a genuine desire to serve others.

Paul emphasized, “I always believe that knowing yourself is winning half the battle. Sometimes, the reason it’s hard to lead others—even ourselves—is that we don’t truly know who we are. We don’t know our purpose, our identity, or where we’re headed. But once you do, leading becomes much easier.”

Lead Like Jesus – Step #2: Know the people you want to lead

The key here is understanding them on a personal level. These questions might help you accomplish this step:

• What generation do they belong to?

• What issues and problems are they facing?

• How open are they to change?

• What changes do they want to see?

• What are their weaknesses?

• Where do they excel?

• What do they value the most?

• What do they dislike?

Peter emphasized, “You have to understand them. That’s important.”

Knowing your people helps you understand how to lead them effectively. It’s difficult to lead people who don’t trust you. That’s why getting to know them on a deeper level can make or break your leadership. A good leader recognizes the unmet needs of their people and helps equip them to address those needs.

Most importantly, listen to them—so they know that you genuinely care.

Lead Like Jesus – Step #3: Surround yourself with the right people

Jericho shared, “For me, the people in my circle matter. I need to surround myself with those who are wiser and smarter so I can learn from them.”

Similarly, Peter added, “If you want to be wise, surround yourself with the wise.”

With that in mind, to grow as a leader, you must be around people who are more experienced or accomplished than you. Their wisdom—gained from years of trial and error—can help you avoid making the same mistakes.

After all, people often say, “Experience is the best teacher.” However, sometimes, learning from others’ experiences is even better than going through them yourself.

Peter put it this way: “Listen to older people’s advice. Not because they are always right, but because they have made more mistakes. Let’s learn from them so we don’t have to go through the same struggles.”

So, are you ready to be a servant-leader?

Indeed, it’s rare to find people who sincerely want to serve others. That’s why it’s admirable to hear it from those who genuinely mean it.

If you’re one of them, let this be a reminder that leadership comes with challenges. Even Jesus was betrayed and denied by some of His own disciples. This, in turn, shows that the road ahead won’t always be easy or smooth.

That’s why it’s always important to abide in God and lean on His word when making decisions. The Holy Spirit will be with you to guide and help you, too.

Ultimately, more than just the desire to serve, lead because God is calling you to do so. Because in the end, man’s ultimate goal is not to seek people’s approval but to hear the Lord say:

“Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:23, NLT)

Do you want to know more about God? Start your journey here. 

Beauty is subjective. Everyone has their own definition of what it means to be beautiful, and this definition changes over time.

How about you? How do you define beauty?

In Western countries, being thin and tall, and having light or tanned skin, is considered beautiful. It is widely known that in South Korea, having fairer skin is considered “yeppeuda” (beautiful). But here are some beauty standards around the world that you rarely hear about because they receive less representation in the media:

• For the Maori people of New Zealand, facial tattoos—especially on the chin—are considered beautiful. 
• Kayan women in Myanmar believe that the longer the neck, the more beautiful a woman is. 
• In Mauritania, Africa, women are encouraged to gain weight because, in their culture, that is a sign of beauty. 

How about in the Philippines? What are the common beauty standards you know?

The world has different definitions of beauty, and each person has their own preferences. Some find morena (tan-skinned) women more attractive, while others prefer fair-skinned people.

This only proves that everyone can be beautiful, but you cannot be beautiful to everyone.

Aside from that, people change. As time goes by, their opinions, beliefs, and principles change, too.

But there is Someone who is unchanging—He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings—Jesus.

Wouldn’t it be wise to understand what is beautiful in His sight and conform to that?

Here are three biblical truths that can help you focus on what truly matters—the kind of beauty that lasts for eternity.

Biblical Beauty #1: A woman who fears the Lord

“Charm can be misleading, and beauty is vain and so quickly fades, but this virtuous woman lives in the wonder, awe, and fear of the Lord. She will be praised throughout eternity.” (Proverbs 31:30, TPT)

Why should a woman who fears the Lord be praised?

If you have read the entire chapter of Proverbs 31, you will see that more than half of it describes the characteristics of an ideal, godly woman. Upon reflecting on it, you will understand why a woman who fears the Lord is worthy of praise.

Here are some of her qualities:

• “She is clothed with strength and dignity.” (Proverbs 31:25)
• “She speaks with wisdom.” (Proverbs 31:26)
• “She takes good care of her family and is never lazy.” (Proverbs 31:27)

The good news is you can be like her too.

Biblical Beauty #2: The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” (1 Peter 3:3-4, NIV)

This verse is a beautiful reminder that the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit is of great value in God’s eyes.

Although 1 Peter 3:3-4 is directed towards wives, we can also take this message to heart because Jesus is our bridegroom (Revelation 19:7-9), and the Lord, our Maker, is our husband (Isaiah 54:5).

But what does it mean to have a gentle and quiet spirit?

It does not mean that someone should be silent all the time or act fragile that you cannot even break a plate. This is not to be taken literally.

Notice that the word “spirit”follows “gentle and quiet.” This means it has nothing to do with your personality but rather with the state of your heart and soul.

This verse emphasizes having a gentle heart that is compassionate and a quiet soul that is not anxious but trusts in the Lord’s sovereignty.

The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit does not rely on outward appearance but is rooted in confidence in God’s perspective.

Biblical Truth #3: Chosen and accepted by the Lord

“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” (1 Samuel 16:7, NIV)

For context, this verse refers to a conversation between God and Samuel about King Saul.

Saul was handsome, tall, and physically appealing—qualities that made him the people’s ideal king. At first glance, even Samuel was impressed by his outward appearance.

But as time passed, Samuel was disappointed because Saul’s heart was not pure before the Lord. Though he had exceptional abilities, his intentions were not right.

That is when God told Samuel that He had rejected Saul as king.

What is the point of being physically attractive if God rejects you? It is far better to be accepted and chosen by the Lord than to base your worth on outward appearance.

This does not mean to say that all attractive people are like King Saul. The point is a person’s heart matters more to God than physical appearance. No external beauty can ever conceal what is truly inside.

All these biblical truths point to one thing: Conform to God’s beauty standard, which never changes—unlike the world’s ever-changing standards.

Because no matter what others say about your appearance, the truth is, even before you were born, “You are fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14, NIV)

Know how valuable you are by getting to know the One who created you. Start your journey here.