IDEAS THAT CAN EITHER BREAK YOU OR MAKE YOU

If there would be a more exciting time to live on this planet, it would be, TODAY. Compared to the past 18th or 19th century, our present generation yields a more promising achievement that expands far beyond the expectation of any human being living in the 17th century. It had never occurred into their imagination that gathering of information would be as swift as a simple clicking of a mouse. Easy access on every information unquestionably makes life easier, convenient, and more exciting.

Be that it may, did it ever crossed your mind, however, that if there would be a more dangerous time to live on this planet earth, could it ever be safe to say that, there is no other time but, TODAY, as well?

What do you think are the reasons behind all these?

In today's information age, the bulk of information that anyone can access into concerning any subject, is capable enough to make anyone succumb to confusion and error, not knowing which among the source is, indeed, a reliable one. 

Moreover, the immense source of information is so mind-blogging that anyone could either be a potential victim of a wrong information gathering or a fortunate beneficiary of the right ones. Either way, however, will end up to be wallowing on the crossroad of uncertainty at the end of the day, should they not equip themselves accordingly.

Why? Because despite this breakthrough, more people are finding it hard to determine which among these information is valid enough to satisfy their need to unearth the truth that will ultimately give them the desired authentic and productive result.

In addition, internet platform has been bombarded with various 'gurus' claiming to have discovered secrets and right formula in addressing life issues, problems, and every kind of needs that humanity has. However, many had been the desperate victims of frauds and hoaxes whose main motivation is to amass large sums of money from among their prospected victims who believed their ploys, schemes, and bogus opinions.

What's more alarming is the fact that the scheming agenda were not only been confined and perpetrated within the sphere of some of these 'gurus,' but it sadly crept into the supposedly, more respected echelons of the religious, political, and business circles. All for the sake of money and greed, they created a mammoth number of people across the globe who ended up to be the poor, confused, and disillusioned victims.

All of these transpired simply because they trusted and believed the information, opinions, and deceptive promises they received and acquired from this generation's modern day platforms of the media and the internet.

Of course, as I've said beforehand, we generally believed on the benefits of these developments, but the big question now is, "How are we going to help the people not to become the perpetual victims in today's progress-based generation wherein such progress had been exploited, as well, by the shenanigans?"

I am not in a position to make myself add to the number of these 'gurus' which I've mentioned before, while giving you some of my inputs. My only concern is to share tested principles (not opinions) that would somehow put a stop on these exploitation agenda by the schemers, and further help the people around the globe to shield and protect themselves against the perpetrators.

A one respected and renowned personality once declared, "What lies ahead of us and what lies behind us, are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."

Now, by allowing me to borrow the above lines, let's move on further.

First and foremost is this:  Everything on earth starts with an idea. People decide based on an idea. Idea emanates from within us. Whether a person decides correctly or not, the end result of his action is a direct result of his idea being put into action. In fact, the mere fact that somebody concluded that you have decided correctly or not, is simply his or her opinion based on his idea that was formed in connection with his experiences, observation, and others' opinion, as well. Such opinion, therefore, does not have to become your reality. It doesn't even, define you.

What do I mean by that? ... and why am I saying this in relation to our topic?

What I am trying to point out is this... Whether we like it or not, we will be bombarded in life with multiple situations which require corresponding decisive course of action. It is during this point in time that the ideas and opinions that we have within ourselves shall play vital roles in coming up with wise decisions that will yield desired success. It is also during this time that loved ones, friends, relatives and peers may interfere or influence our decisions because they, themselves, have their own ideas and opinions concerning certain issues that they may give or share to us.

Now, it is during this period in time that we will be needing, within ourselves, a firm, secure, and established idea or opinion on the matter based on an equally firm, secure, tested, and established principles. It is also during this time that we need a strong resolve to accept or reject the opinions of others.

I remember a mentor when he said, "He who has no opinion of his own, but depends on the opinions of others, is a slave."

It is very crucial that we need to create an OPINION of our own based on the King’s principle, and you’ll never get wrong.

Likewise, it’s too dangerous to rely on other’s opinion especially when the other guy solely depends on his own wit, but puts less regard on the Spirit of the Living God.

Now, I might sound too religious here, but NO. I hate religion and I do not vie on religious dogmas and doctrines. It's just how life really is. We need tested and universal principles in which to base and anchor our opinions and ideas. In fact, there's no other option, believe me or not.

Moreover, another factor that may affect or influence our ideas and opinions are those people whom we regard, esteemed, and whom we pay submission unto. We need to submit to these authorities. Be loyal them, be faithful to them, but not at the expense of uprightness. I witnessed people and leaders destroyed by continually adopting practices emanated from their head leader whom they did not recognize nor discern as pulling himself away from the principles of righteousness and uprightness.

The Book of Psalms wisely reminds us that, "It's better to take refuge in the LORD than to put confidence in men. It's better to take refuge in the LORD than to put confidence in princes."

There are people who esteemed their leaders so highly that they are even willing to subordinate themselves for them and be subservient, and further placing themselves under servitude.

Remember that fanaticism is tantamount to occultism. Furthermore, keep in mind that you're indeed a cherished possession, but definitely not somebody's possession.

Indeed, the 21st century is filled with overwhelming information that can either make us or break us. But since we have now the confidence to armor ourselves with ideas anchored on universal principles, we are assured that any further development in the future would all be for our advantage.

May we still all be there in the mid of the 21st century.

"Anyone who lets himself be distracted from the work I plan for him, is not fit for the Kingdom of God." - Yeshua (Luke 9:62 TLB)

THE WAY TOWARDS A REALLY FULFILLING LIFE

The story is told about a certain lady named Mila. Mila is working in a company for two years. Sensing other opportunity outside, she resigned from her job and grab the one opened up for her. After a year of working from this job, she again left her second job and look for a third one, then for a fourth one, fifth one and so on.

Not finding real satisfaction from her job as an employee, she put up her own business and started out excited as an employer. However, after less than a year of running her business, Mila wants to leave and go to work again as an employee.

Anyone you know like Mila? The story looks familiar, isn’t it? In fact, there are a lot of Milas in the world today, running from one job to another. After encountering a little hardship here, a little friction there with their boss and co-workers, they immediately run. A little irritation would trigger them to escape and take the shortest route. What they thought to be an easy road, however, would actually turn out to be a “rotunda” circle giving them no direction at all.

On the other side of the coin, there are those who stayed on a job they do not like. Even if they don’t love it and are not really enjoying it, they have no other recourse but to stay on it. Their main reason for remaining is because the job provides for their needs, so they would just bear all the unnecessary stresses just for them to earn a living. When opportunities arise for a change, they won’t venture out for the unfamiliar.

Both of the above cases are the condition of a lot of people today. They are really confused, burdened, dissatisfied, unfulfilled and without direction. Just like a roller coaster they just keep on rolling and spinning in the avenue of life, going nowhere.

If you find yourself in the same condition, don’t worry! Don’t lose hope. Rejoice! It may be that the Providence allowed you to find this blog for you to find your niche in life. You see, a lot of people today have lost on their track especially now that emerging gurus are proliferating everywhere giving advices of various kind causing people to sway from what is really intended for them.

You are not alone on this journey. In fact, I myself, have the same experience before. That’s why I’m so eager and now have the courage to share with you what I did to be on track again and find the right direction.

You see each individual person is created unique and especial. Whether you believe it or not, you have a purpose especially intended for you and until you find that purpose, you’ll never find the right direction, the way towards a fulfilling life.

Just like any gadgets you have in your house, the manufacturer has intended a purpose for each of them. You will only find the exact and complete purpose of a gadget through its manufacturer. There is no better way who could guide us accurately except him.

Just so with us as human beings. There is no other way we could ever find our purpose except through our Manufacturer, the Sovereign Lord. I might be sounding religious here but that’s the way it is. No other option could lead us towards an authentic direction.

In the book of Matthew it says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life (I am the way to the truth that gives you life – orig Hebrew). No one comes to the Father except through Me.” – (John 14:6)

I firmly believe without any iota of doubt that the Sovereign Lord, Himself, is the way not only towards heaven but also the way towards our lives’ purpose, direction, and the elusive fulfillment in life. If we can really capture this truth, everything else in our lives will fall into its proper places... Why not ask Him?

Ask Him now…

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’” – The Book (Isa. 30:21)

YOU CAN ABSOLUTELY CHOOSE TO BE HAPPY, NOW

I remember talking to an Air Force Officer one day telling him, "Sir, do you know that you can be happy even in the most desolate place?"

He stared at me, and with a combined look of curiosity and confusion, turned his back from me and went back to his cubicle.

Along with other military officers, subject officer was one among those who were accused of committing treason and rebellion against the government. Consequently, they have to be restrained and detained in a military camp and suffer the boredom of confinement while awaiting series of Court Martial proceedings.

Incidentally, a team of comrades and I were assigned to that detention cell to render security for both of these detainees and in favor of the government, as well.

To my utter surprise, the Officer went back to my place, gave me a hardbound book as a token, and a very cordial and meaningful conversation began.

You may or may not be in a desolate place or situation right now. I don't know but, can I make a friendly suggestion? Would you please allow the next 24 hours of your life stunningly different from your previous hours, days, and years regardless of whatever situation you are in?

Because if you again let this day past without savoring its inherent gift, it would probably be like those ordinary days filled with its exhausting routines and mundane tasks inevitably dominated by tedious labour and toil, not withstanding, of course, the seemingly insurmountable burdens of life. And what a waste of time, strength, and energy this will create, if such would be a perpetual cycle of experience in anyone's life.

By this time, some maybe asking, "But Ed, do you know what I am going through right now? You seem to be saying that I must be happy in spite of my condition. Are you pretty sure aware of my current situation?”

Honestly, I don't want you to be unrealistic about life's events, because life really does not promise a constant 'bed of roses' experiences. The scripture itself even say, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous..." - (Ps. 34:19). Look, even the righteous doesn't guarantee to get protection or spared from trials. That's the fact about life.

How then, are we going to get the most out of this day in spite of its accompanying ebb and flow of laughter & tears, joy & sadness, and the smooth & tough sailing in life?

If you try to ask people of this specific question: "When are you going to be really really happy?" The following answers would be among the list:

• When I get out of this mess.
• When I get my dream job, my dream house, my dream car, or my dream wife.
• When my salary increases.
• When my business does not fail but booms.
• When this shenanigan co-worker gets fired.
• When this overbearing supervisor gets transferred.
• When my son or daughter graduates from College.
• When all my debts are paid.
• et cetera...

Though the above answers are understandably valid reasons as to when to be happy, waiting for such condition to happen would destroy the value, significance, and essence of the preceding days prior to the occurrence of your desired dream or destination. And those days are loaded with gifts capable of increasing you personally, emotionally, physically, mentally, and so forth. Why not enjoy the path and the journey too, as well as the destination?

One renowned personality wisely observed, "There is no better time to be happy than right now. Tomorrow might be late, for tomorrow is never guaranteed."

Yes, tomorrow's security is never guaranteed... enjoy while you can 'NOW,' ... and you can choose to be happy! Absolutely, yes you can.

In the spiritual realm, the forces that are for you are greater than the forces that are against you.

In the Book of Philippians, it says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice." - (Phil. 4:4).

And in Thessalonians, it reminds us, "Be joyful always..." - (1 Thes. 5:16).

If we could just know how to unearth the hidden treasure behind each day, we are not going to wait till tomorrow before happiness is embraced. Again, we can choose to be happy, now.

Emerson said, "Write it on your heart that everyday is the best day of the year."

The most important thing in our lives is what we are doing now: "This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it."

I will never forget the amiable looks and the display of a happy countenance emitted from the face of the Officer, right after the short conversation that we had.

If time allows for us to meet again in the future, I will show him the hardbound book he gave to me with his autograph in it, and say, "Sir, thank you for this book. This token shall continually reminds me that anyone can really be happy even in the most desolate place."

"Come to me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke (Government) upon you... for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - The King (Matt. 11:28-30).

MERELY A CHALLENGE TO CONQUER

Did you know that whatever maybe the burden that you’re carrying right now, it doesn’t just simply come to your attention or reach your shoulder without your strength being screened and tested first? Look at 1 Cor. 10:13 of the Scripture one moment and let’s examine it.

The solemn truth is that, the burden which seems to disturb your peace right now, is not really a PROBLEM to bear, but a CHALLENGE - to test the real you.

It is not aimed at weakening you nor to destroy your peace, but to test the inherent strength that you already have as a  WINNER and a CHAMPION. You will never loss nor be defeated because you have the DNA of your Creator, and you were destined as more than a conqueror through His invincible Spirit.

You might even look at your situation right now and sees it as a terrible CRISIS. But look! You are looking at your condition in a shallow perspective using only your limited point of view. Why not try to view your circumstance in the light of your Creator’s perspective? In this way, you’ll be able to see that what you’re experiencing today is not really a debilitating crisis, but a revitalizing OPPORTUNITY.

Opportunities are no reasons to whine, complain, and wail. These are the times to celebrate and the season to rejoice.

Did you know that “Adversity is the breeding ground for miracles?”

One of God's expertise is to make a way where there seems to be no way.

Likewise, when you go through some tough times down in the pit, God is preparing your character for your promotion.

Whatever difficulty you're encountering is God's way of refining your character. That's why we're suppose to count it all joy when we encounter various trials. God is in full control of every given circumstance, so we got nothing to worry about.

The crisis that you think you have is only for a season and is temporary. It is actually an opportunity in disguise in order for you to “see” how your Creator is going to manifest His power in your life.

In the Book of Deuteronomy, it says, “The LORD your God who is going before you will fight for you… BEFORE YOUR VERY EYES.” – Deu. 1:30

Remember that "No problem is too large for God's intervention, and no person is too small for God's attention."

May you see His power work in you.

“For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk, but of power.” – 1 Cor. 4:20

PURSUE NOT AFTER THE LESS IMPORTANT MATTERS

This is what I occasionally tell my children every time we're together at dinner time:

"Do not work for money... you don't have to work to get money. Instead, work to where your gifts, passion, and purpose lead you."

Work is not a matter of doing. Work is a matter of becoming.

Do not work in order to acquire; work in order to become.

Do not work in order to accumulate; work in order to expand.

... because expansion, and not accumulation is the real purpose of work.

When you work for a job, your equity limits you to a mere paycheck. But when you work for your purpose, your equity leads you to an unlimited fortune.

Did you know that "the greatest failure in life is being successful in the wrong assignment?"

I heard someone said, "The poorest person on earth is not without money but without purpose. Without purpose, the only thing you can do is grow older."

Money is not the end, in itself. It is not the purpose of our work. It's just a means to an end.

Running after money is a shabby pursuit... You will end up either catching greed or subjugating others.

Meanwhile, do what you have to do until you can do what you want to do.

Likewise, do not work for money... let money work for you.

"Do not work for food that spoils..." - Yeshua (John 6:27)

ISRAEL AGAINST THE WORLD

Once again, Israel is confronted with a new kind of strength-building challenges. Right after the declaration of US President Donald Trump last week, recognizing Jerusalem as the official capital of Israel, hundreds of protesters from among neighboring Arab countries expressed their blatant refusal of the pronouncement.

Most of us knew that Israel is not unfamiliar with these kind of experiences. Since the beginning of their liberation in 1948 up until now, many of us knew of all the struggles they went through and that how they continue to emerge and remain as the triumphant few in spite of the ordeals.

Many ancient Bible prophecies concerning Israel and Jerusalem have already come to pass in previous decades, including the foretold restoration of the Jewish state and the Jewish rule over Jerusalem. The still remaining prophecies lead to an international confrontation over Jerusalem that will cater to something you surely wouldn't like to happen.

According to this prophesy, Jerusalem would become a problem for the whole world. Then, the nations would unite in an attempt to enforce a remedy:

"Jerusalem will be a heavy stone burdening the world... all nations of the earth unite in an attempt to move her..." - Zechariah 12:3 TLB

The Scripture makes it clear that the restoration of Jewish control over Israel and Jerusalem would lead up to a military action against Israel by the rest of the nations. The ancient prophet Joel quoted God as saying, "'At that time, when I restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem,' says the Lord, 'I will gather the armies of the world into the valley of Jehoshaphat - a certain location in Israel.'" - Joel 3:1-2 NLT

I don't want to be presumptuous here as to what would really might happen on the next several weeks or months ahead. Neither do I want to become complacent especially during this season where this unfolding event is apparently leading us into something different- maybe preparation and purification of our spirit, soul, and body is wise to be adhered into. But one thing is sure here; I don't intend to instill fear among the brethren. The Bible reminds us that, "For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." - 2 Tim. 1:7

Moreover, while the initial international clamor was that the said declaration is premature - citing that it may inhibit the success of the ongoing peace process among neighboring disputes - Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Jewish people hailed the decision.

We may not know yet what would be the ultimate implication of this unprecedented development in Israel, but one thing is sure: Their Arab neighbors shall in no way sit on the table to allow one of Israel's dream to come into fruition - that is - to absolutely guarantee that 'Jerusalem' will be their's as its official capital. I could just imagine the neighboring Arabs saying, in effect, "Touch everything in us, but never touch Jerusalem... that would be equivalent to something in which we are more than willing to bet our very lives with."

Adding to Israel's ordeal is the international outcry that the decision is not right and untimely. Though there are few countries who rejoiced with Israel - including my own country, hopefully - it appears that majority of nations are unconvinced.

Meanwhile, what would then be our part on this changes? What would be our role then as Kingdom citizens? Are we merely going to be indifferent, remain as spectators, and just succumb to a wait and see kinda attitude?

The Book of Isaiah timely reminds us by saying, "For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem's sake I will not remain quiet till her vindication shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch." - Isa. 62:1 NIV

Can I ask you a favor? I hope I would not be taking much from you if - as the Spirit leads us - we could just include Jerusalem, Israel, the Arab nations, and the rest of the world, in our daily time of prayers. This is very significant, especially during this time, for the leaders of nations to gain Godly wisdom in making the right choices concerning international affairs, particularly about Israel. Pray also that your own nation would take side on what is right, fair, just, and pleasing to the Lord.

Could it be that the culmination of the Kingdom of God is drawing nigh?

"Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is near." - Matt. 4:17

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure." - Ps. 122:6 NIV

GO BEYOND YOUR GOOD RELIGION AND TAKE YOUR SCEPTER

You may still be familiar with this 1994 American animated epic musical film produced by Walt Disney, entitled, The Lion King. Though the film had been released more than two decades ago, garnering awards and honors, I'm just impressed by the way it continues to collect accolades up until this time. Just last year, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant." And you might be surprised to learn that less than a couple of years from now, a remake of the film is scheduled to set off for a July 19, 2019 release in the United States.

There must be something priceless and unique about The Lion King that makes the film remain productive and prolific until now.

Whatever inspired the staff to develop the story - or whatever their moral background maybe - the film carries with it a significant amount of truth that portrays Kingdom principle in operation.

The story of The Lion King is virtually about restoration of kingship; and to refresh us of the stirring account, here is the summary of the story:

In the Pride Lands of Africa, a lion rules over the animal kingdom from Pride Rock. King Mufasa's newborn son, Simba, is formally introduced to the assembled animals by Rafiki, a mandrill who serves as priest and advisor.

Mufasa shows young Simba the Pride Lands and explains to him the responsibilities of kingship, and what they call as the "circle of life" which connects all living things.

Mufasa's younger brother, Scar, covets the throne and plots to eliminate Mufasa and Simba so he may become king. He tricks Simba and his best friend Nala - to whom Simba is betrothed - into exploring a forbidden elephants' graveyard, where they are attacked by three hyenas who are in alliance with Scar. Mufasa is alerted to the danger by his steward, the hornbill Zazu, and rescues the cubs. Though angry with Simba, Mufasa forgives him and explains that the great kings of the past watch over them from the night sky. And one day, he will watch over Simba.

Scar lays a trap for his brother and nephew, luring Simba into a steep chasm and having the hyenas drive a large herd of wildebeest into a stampede that will trample him. He informs Mufasa of Simba's peril, knowing the king will rush to rescue his son. Mufasa saves Simba but ends up hanging perilously from the chasm's edge and is betrayed by Scar, who sends him falling to his death.

Scar convinces Simba that the tragedy was Simba's fault and advises him to flee the kingdom. He orders the hyenas to kill the cub, but Simba escapes. Scar tells the pride that both Mufasa and Simba were killed in the stampede and steps forward as the new king, allowing a large pack of hyenas to live in the Pride Lands.

Simba fainted in a desert and is rescued by Timon and Pumbaa, a meerkat and warthog who are fellow outcasts. Simba grows up in the jungle with his two new friends.

Now a young adult, Simba rescues Timon and Pumbaa from a hungry lioness who turns out to be Nala. She and Simba reunite and fall in love, and she urges him to return home, telling him the Pride Lands have become a drought-stricken wasteland under Scar's reign. Feeling guilty over his father's death, Simba refuses and storms off. He encounters Rafiki, who tells him that Mufasa's spirit lives on in Simba.

Simba is visited by Mufasa - in a trance - at the night sky, who tells him he must take his rightful place as king. Realizing he can no longer run from his past, Simba decides to return home.

Supported by his friends, Simba sneaks past the hyenas at Pride Rock and confronts Scar. Scar taunts him over his role in Mufasa's death and backs him to the edge of the rock, where he reveals to Simba that he killed Mufasa.

Angered, Simba pins Scar to the ground and forces him to reveal the truth to the rest of the pride. Pumbaa, Zazu, Timon, Rafiki, and the lionesses defend themselves against the hyenas while Scar, attempting to escape, is cornered by Simba at the top of Pride Rock.

Scar begs for mercy and attempts to blame the hyenas for his actions. Simba spares his life but orders him to leave the Pride Lands forever. Scar attacks his nephew, but Simba manages to cast him easily from the top of the rock. Scar survives the fall but is killed by the hyenas, who overheard him betray them to Simba.

With his enemies gone, Simba takes over the kingship. The rains begin to fall, restoring life to the land. Later, with Pride Rock restored to its former glory, Rafiki, the priest, presents Simba and Nala's newborn cub to the assembled animals, continuing what they call "the circle of life."

As I've said earlier, the story depicts restoration of kingship. Though it may not be the focal point to which the film was intended, this story conveys a very important message through which the entire human race must have to capture and internalize. A very relevant issue of restoration that covers the whole of humanity must be seriously sought into in order to address major challenges that baffle the whole world. Even the scriptures, themselves, were aimed by the great Author for men to realize their need for this restoration. Unfortunately, man's insatiable quest for religion makes himself vague to see the need.

By the way, in an ecclesiastical level, what do I mean by Restoration of kingship? In an in passing - as I've discussed some of it already in our previous discussion - allow me to share that we are kings, destined for rulership and dominion. But somehow, just like the fake King Scar in the above story, man allowed an unemployed sheriff to lure and trick him into exploring a forbidden elephant graveyard - entertaining strange ideas - thinking that maybe the real King is withholding him of something more beneficial than his inherent and delegated dominion.

Consequently, man was stripped of his power and authority to rule over his environment and circumstances causing him to suffer unrelentingly for hundreds of years, and up until now.

Fortunately, the promised deliverer and restorer has come. The Book of Isaiah recounts, "For unto us, a child is born. To us, a son is given. And the government will be on his shoulders... and of the increase of his government and peace, there shall be no end..." - Isa. 9: 6-7

Likewise, the Book of Deuteronomy assures us, declaring, "Then the Lord your God will restore you from captivity, and have compassion on you, and will gather you again from all the peoples where the Lord your God has scattered you." - Deut. 30: 3 NASB

Moreover, this was reinforced also by Peter the Apostle when he stated, "And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." - 1 Pet. 5: 10 NIV

Indeed, the Restorer has come, saying in effect, "Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. Restore his royalty, authority, and kingship!" - Luke 15: 22

... and Yeshua confirms it further, saying, "Behold, The Kingdom of God is within you!" - Luke 17: 21

To the King!!

"For He has rescued us out of the darkness and gloom of satan's kingdom, and brought us into the kingdom of His dear Son who bought our freedom with His blood, and forgave us all our sins." - Col. 1: 13-14