beyond small talk Archives

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

Posted on April 28, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

Make the person feel that nothing has changed

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

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

Ask them how you could help

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

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

Learn how to listen

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

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

Educate yourself

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 23, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

Be a good citizen

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

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

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

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

In the end, the leaders are accountable to God.

Be faithful in what you can do

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

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

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

The Philippines is not a hopeless country.

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 16, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

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

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

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

1. A true leader knows how to sacrifice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How has this episode helped you?

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

3 Ways to Honor Our Leaders Even if You Disagree with them

Posted on April 8, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Filipinos shared different thoughts and mixed reactions to how the government has been dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak so far. Some expressed their support to #StayAtHome, while others were outraged and started voicing out their disagreements.

If Romans 13:1-2 NKJV states, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore, whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves,” how then can you honor and support the authorities that you disagree with?

Here are 3 things you can do to respect and treat our government leaders with humility, as shared by Beyond Small Talk hosts, Peter Kairuz, Jerico Arceo, and Paul Herrera.

1. Pray for your leaders

1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”

While someone else is getting angry at them, take the road less traveled and pray fervently. Ask God to give the government officials wisdom, grace, and a God-fearing heart as they lead the country.

2. Don’t condemn or curse them on social media

You have the right to voice out your opinions, but you can also disagree in a manner that is gracious and honorable.

As Paul explained, “Respect is earned, but honor is due to a position that is given to a person.”

3. Educate yourself and get involved

As a concerned Filipino citizen, it will be more productive to educate yourself on issues and take proactive steps to better the situation.

Instead of adding to the clamor, encourage yourself and others to be the solution that the country needs.

Things may have not turned out the way you wanted them to be, but you can put your trust in God who is in control and holds all things together.

The Word of God does not lie when it says in Psalm 33:12 NIV, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

Share with us what you have learned in this webisode!

Are you feeling anxious these days? We would love to pray for you! You may send your prayer requests to the CBN Asia Prayer Center or call 8-737-0-700.

Also, do not forget to watch the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk and join its online discussion on April 11, 2020, at 7 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

See you there!

4 Tips to Grow in Your Career Amid COVID-19

Posted on March 26, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Many employees were forced to work from home when the entire Luzon was placed under enhanced community quarantine due to the COVID-19 threat.

If you are one of those who feel stuck in your work-from-home setup, Beyond Small Talk can help you.

You can still make the most out of this time to level up your productivity at work by following these GROW tips – Give, Relate, Opportunities, and Word hard.

Scroll down to see more.

Give

“Give beyond whatever you’re paid for,” says Beyond Small Talk host Ardy Roberto.

Whether it’s a small task or a big one, give all that you have because God assigned you to do it. Acquire Joseph the Dreamer’s exceptional attitude toward work found in the book of Genesis, whether he was thrown at the prison or promoted by Pharaoh, he gave above and beyond what is expected of him.

Joseph succeeded in everything that he did because God was with him.

Relate

Do not just excel at your work assignments but be someone who is easy to get along with. Wherever you are, learn to be that person who is cooperative, dependable, and understanding.

Walk-in fruits of the Holy Spirit are found in Galatians 5:22-23 NIV, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Opportunities

Look for opportunities to serve your company and take the initiative.

Your leaders are looking for people who are always willing to learn and grow just like Ardy did.

“I was starting out as a junior manager of a company, but I talked to my boss and I saw that there was an opening for another position. I told him that I can do that job and my job at the same time. You don’t even have to pay me extra,” he narrated.

Do you know what the outcome was?

Although the main reason why he took the job is to learn more, His boss promoted him within 6 months and raised his salary double.

Work hard

Work hard as if you are working for God and joy will come from the fulfillment that you did your utmost.

“As a result, you will grow in your career, grow in your mind, grow in your capabilities and skills,” says Beyond Small Talk host Miriam Quiambao-Roberto.

Do you have any prayer requests? Send them to CBN Asia Prayer Center or call 8-737-0-700 so we can pray in agreement with you.

Stay tuned for more Beyond Small Talk webisodes every Saturday, 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

In this time of COVID-19 crisis, you are safe and secure in God’s promise.

Take heart in His Word in Psalm 91:9-11 TPT that declares, “When we live our lives within the shadow of God Most High, our secret hiding place, we will always be shielded from harm. How then could evil prevail against us or disease infect us? God sends angels with special orders to protect you wherever you go, defending you from all harm.”

Stressed from Work? Here are Tips to Overcome | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on March 19, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Do you feel unhappy with your job?

Struggling to cope with your difficult work environment?

Drained with tasks at work?

Watch out! Do not leave it unaddressed because it can result in burnout.

“Burnout is a reaction to prolonged or chronic job stress and is characterized by three main dimensions: exhaustion, cynicism (less identification with the job), and feelings of reduced professional ability,” Elizabeth Scott, MS explained in her article Burnout Symptoms and Treatment in Verywell Mind.

To help with that, here are tips from our Beyond Small Talk hosts on how to overcome your challenges at work and become productive again:

1. Remember that Jesus is your boss

There is a greater purpose why you are working and that is found in Colossians 3:23 NIV, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human master.”

Give your best at work not because you want to please men, but because you want to please God above all. Whatever good that you do, God Himself will surely reward you.

2. Check your heart

If you are at a point where you just drag yourself to work and you feel unmotivated, Beyond Small Talk host, Ardy Roberto, advises that you have to do some soul searching.

Ask God, “What is it that You want me to do? What is it that You have called me to do?”

As you wait for God’s answer, remember that it’s also not too late to learn to love what you are doing. God surely led you to that job not by accident but for a purpose.

3. Improve your work-life balance

You can be in love with your job but still get burned out if you don’t practice a healthy work-life balance.

It happened with Beyond Small Talk host Miriam Quiambao-Roberto.

Her advice? Do not let work steal your time with God.

“We need that moment where we have to connect with our Creator so that we can create more in our work,” she said.

Moreover, carve out special time with your loved ones and you will see how it can bring refreshment to your soul and strength as you face tomorrow.

Find comfort in God’s Word in Philippians 4:6 NIV, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Do you need prayers for your work? Perhaps, you are at the point of burnout.

Call CBN Asia Prayer Center now at 8-737-0-700 and we would love to pray for you.

Watch out for the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Woman, You Are God’s Masterpiece!

Posted on March 12, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

In case you forgot, with all the many hats you wear daily, your role as a woman matters. This month, Beyond Small Talk celebrates you!

Happy International Women’s Month to you who despite life’s pressure and daunting challenges still managed to stand up with beauty, honor, and excellence.

Like Miss Universe 1999 1st runner up, Miriam Quiambao-Roberto.

In this Beyond Small Talk webisode, she shared nuggets of wisdom she gained after braving through storms of life as a woman of God.

1. Don’t focus on material things or worldly achievements.

Miriam had everything – fame, career, riches – when she won the pageantry and married her 1^st husband.

But then, when she got divorced, she fell into depression and realized that marriage and riches can never satisfy the longing in her heart.

Miriam learned, “It is far more important to develop your character because material things fade away but character lasts forever.”

2. Get to know God and consult Him for every decision big or small.

Through a friend’s invitation in a bible study, Miriam came to know God’s beautiful plan in her life and accepted Jesus in her heart.

God brought her out of the pit of despair and powerfully used her testimony to lead the people through the saving knowledge of Jesus. She became one of the hosts of The 700 Club Asia and there she also found meaning, fulfillment, and direction.

“God loves you the most and He knows what is best for you,” Miriam encourages.

3. Look for a guy with a Godly character.

God gave Miriam a second chance at love when she married Ardy Roberto, a Christian author, and inspirational speaker. God even blessed her womb and she gave birth to their beautiful child, Elijah.

Her tip for all the single women out there?

“Look for a guy with character, has a relationship with Christ, and is capable of commitment,” Miriam said.

The next time you feel discouraged as a woman, be reminded that you are God’s workmanship. Your true value is found in Jesus, and you are worth dying for.

If this webisode blessed you, feel free to join our online discussion and watch this Saturday’s Beyond Small Talk at 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Do You Want To Make Your Marriage Stronger? | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on March 6, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Marriage requires hard work. There will be bumps along the way and battles you have to win together.

When the road gets tough, do not give up.

You can make your marriage stronger and rekindle the romance by following these tips from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter and Christine Kairuz.

1. Practice God’s command to “Die to yourself.”

It means “when we die to ourselves, we crucify our pride and open our hearts to the healing, reconciling, and restoring love of God,” says Jennifer Slattery in her article What Does Dying to Yourself in Marriage Really Mean? in Crosswalk.

It is daily dying to your own will and allowing the Word of God to fully function in your life. As the Bible says in Ephesians 5, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord…. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. (https://fmcg-viet.com) ”

So, husbands, reassure your wives of your love, loyalty, and faithfulness. When you do that, it will be easier for your wife to respond with respect and submit to your leadership.

2. Always consider each other.

Philippians 2:3 in ESV said, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

It is not about your own interest anymore. Remember, as said in Mark 10:8, when you get married, the 2 of you become 1 flesh. It means that everything you and your spouse own becomes 1 – even your finances.

Don’t give your spouse any reason to doubt you. Combine your money together. Don’t keep a secret bank account because everything needs to be laid on the table.

Moreover, husbands, make it a habit to consider your wife when you plan. Your wife has to know your whereabouts and the people you’re with. It is your way of valuing and respecting her as your wife.

3. Speak words of life to your spouse.

“When you read God’s Word, you will realize more and more that words matter,” Peter Kairuz exclaimed.

It says in Proverbs 18:21 NIV, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

So, what words are you saying to your spouse every day?

Take time to reflect and ask God to give you the grace to obey His Word. Remember tip number 1, practice God’s command to “Die to yourself.”

We want to pray for you and your marriage! Just call CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.

Stay tuned for more wisdom-filled webisodes from Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!

Do You Always Fight with Your Spouse? | Beyond Small Talk

Posted on February 28, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Misunderstandings and disagreements are part of marriage.

They are normal and are in fact, healthy!

According to David Klow, a licensed marriage and family therapist, as cited in the article How Much Fighting Is Too Much in a Relationship?, “Couples who are able to go through conflict into harmony end up having productive fights, which leads to greater intimacy.”

But then, if your fights are becoming more frequent and unresolved, you might want to reassess how you handle your conflicts.

In this Beyond Small Talk webisode, hosts Peter and Christine Kairuz, revealed the common causes of misunderstandings in marriage and how to solve them.

1. Lack of communication.

“When you talk of communication, there needs to be a listening part and a talking part,” says Peter.

Husbands, when your wife is talking to you, listen. This will show how you honor and respect her and her input.

On the other hand, wives, do not be critical when communicating with your husband. Give him a chance to explain his side in an argument as well.

As Philippians 2:4 ESV says, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

2. Lack of affirmation.

Christine revealed, “Wives get hurt when their husbands fail to appreciate them.”

Husbands, it does not take much to notice and appreciate the sacrifices your wife makes for you and your children.

If you have not, put down your phone and tell her, “I love you,” and “Thank you!” These simple words matter to her because it shows that she and her sacrifices are recognized by the person she loves.

As Proverbs 16:24 ESV says, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”

3. Disciplining your children.

Although you are raised differently by your own parents, you both should be on the same page when setting rules and regulations for your children.

You need to carve out time to discuss and agree on how you will discipline them.

4. Spending without permission.

Nothing should be done in secret – even in spending.

Consult each other first before you spend. What you can do is to agree on a certain amount or set aside a budget for both of your needs and wants.

5. Failing to fulfill the husband/wife role.

If you want to know your role according to what the Word of God says, read the Keys to A Successful Marriage.

Do you need prayers for your marriage?

We are here for you.

Do not hesitate to call CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.

If this webisode helped you and your spouse, share it in our online discussion and watch Beyond Small Talk every Saturday, 7 pm on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel!

5 Tricks to Spice Up Sex in your Marriage – Beyond Small Talk

Posted on February 20, 2020 by Jeaneth Panti | Leave a Comment

Are you missing sex with your spouse lately?

When you are too busy at work, raising a family, and running through your responsibilities at home, sex becomes a tiresome activity for you and your spouse.

What’s worse is that sex does not excite you anymore because you have been too familiar with it.

It’s time to spice it up!

According to Marriage.com in their article entitled 10 Health Benefits of Having Sex with Your Spouse Frequently, frequent sex with your spouse can actually help you reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost immunity, have better sleep, prevent heart attack or stroke, drive away depression, help look younger and attractive, and improve self-esteem.

Having said that, below are strategies from Beyond Small Talk hosts Peter and Christine Kairuz that will help you solve common sex problems in your marriage:

1. Wives, do not withhold your body from your spouse. Freshen up. Be ready for your spouse.

Take a shower. Brush your teeth. Spray on his favorite scent. Dress sexy for him. Your mindset should always be to prepare and make yourself beautiful and attractive before your husband comes home. Do not withhold your bodies from each other.

2. Husbands, build up the momentum.

Don’t just do it right away. You need to lay a foundation first. Begin by sending sweet and meaningful messages to her before you make love at night. Romance her. Communicate with her. Wives love it when they are being pursued.

3. Husbands, stay with your wife after making love.

Don’t just disappear or watch TV after sex. Continue to talk to her and romance her. Shower her with kisses and cuddle her. Don’t rush. Take time to enjoy each other’s presence.

4. Enjoy making love with your spouse.

“Especially for young married couples, you have no excuse not to have sex,” says Peter Kairuz.

You should be in total energy and enjoy the moment when making love with your spouse.

5. For the older married couples, exercise and take supplements.

Your age should not hinder you from enjoying sex with your partner. Do some exercises like push-ups and sit-ups to strengthen your muscles for better sex. Take vitamins and supplements to boost your sex drive.

Sex is the highest expression of love with your spouse. It is a sacred and beautiful gift from God that’s meant to be enjoyed between married couples.

As it says in 1 Corinthians 7:4-5 NKJV, “The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”

Do you find these strategies helpful in your marriage? Join our online discussion on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.

Catch Beyond Small Talk’s next episode as Peter and Christine Kairuz share about common causes of misunderstandings for married couples and how to deal with it this February 22, 2020, 7pm.

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