Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Fine Tuned!?? written in 1998 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1998.

Fine Tuned!??     v20n35

“You see, faith must come from what is heard, (for without faith, it is impossible to please God) and what is heard, must come from Word of Christ.” Romans 10:17 Moffatt translation.

“But I ask, have they never heard? Indeed they have. Their voice carried over all the earth, and their words unto the end of the world.” Romans 10:18 Moffatt translation.

“But I ask, have they not heard? Yes indeed: To the whole world the preachers vices have sounded forth, and their words to the remotest parts of the earth.” Romans 10:18 Weymouth translation.

We have to hear the message of Father, through His Son Jesus Christ in order for us (the individual, you or I) to be born again. We have to hear this message of truth, in order for us to act upon His Word, and become that new creation in Christ. However, do we hear this message with the physical ear, or with the spiritual ear? (Those that are after the flesh, do mind the things of the flesh; so then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.)

As we hear the Word of God, this (the Word) is what feeds, nourishes, and strengthens our spirit man. However, unless we have ears and a heart that are willing to hear, listen to, and obey, what will happen to us?

Many claim to be listening to the Word of God, but in fact and all reality, what they are listening to are well-constructed stories and or fables. (2Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (KJV)) They are held hostage, kept captive, by the things of this world.

2 Timothy 2:25-26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (KJV)

Jeremiah 13:15-17 Hear ye, and give ear; be not proud: for the LORD hath spoken. Give glory to the LORD your God, before he cause darkness, and before your feet stumble upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for light, he turn it into the shadow of death, and make it gross darkness. But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD's flock is carried away captive. (KJV)

John 5:34-35 But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. (KJV)

God is a spirit, and they that worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth; His Word is truth! To have fellowship with Father, we have to be living and operating in the spiritual realm, not the fleshly. (If any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His!) Jesus Christ said quite clearly, very plainly, that the words that He spoke are spirit and they are life. The flesh profits nothing.

Faith, our ability to believe God, comes and is developed by the time that we take, to stop all that we are doing and have fellowship with Father in and through His written Word. However, many do not take the time each day to fellowship with Father. They have not built up a personal and intimate relationship with Him. They have not learned, nor know how to trust Father for their daily bread, no, not the physical or the spiritual.

We need to learn to become selective in all that we hear, since it is our hearing that will either draw us closer to God, or lead us further away from Him. Where do your words have you? Is all that you hear, all that you are listening to, bringing you into a closer relationship with Father?

Psalms 119:9-10 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: (KJV)

We need to teach and instruct ourselves on how to give heed to His Word. Many times to what the Word of God says, but we do not hear the guidance and instruction that it is giving us for our daily life. (Now faith is!)

Many will sit in front of the TV set for hours each day, and listen to all of the commercials suggest to them, of what they should have for good health each day. They will take their vitamins each day (and the more they cost, the better they must be). They will sit down and eat their breakfast, and eat what the world has told them is best for them. They will have their snacks or rolls with the morning coffee. They will have a fast food lunch; and then gorge themselves at dinnertime. Can one really believe that all that they have ate that day has truly been healthy for them?

What we hear, advertisements, peoples recommendations, and every other such thing, is much of what determines what we buy; what we eat; where we go; and whom we choose for friends. How often do we turn to the Word of God before we make any of these choices or decisions?

The decisions that we take from other people and try, we then recommend or suggest to other people. We share those recommendations and suggestions with them and tell of our opinions. We have now become an endorser and promoter of the products or things that we have suggested to others.

Likewise, what we hear about God; we then too make decisions and choices. We go off of what sounds good; or feels good. We go off chasing what we have seen other people do. And then we will eventually recommend it to others. (Have we forgot, that Father will hold us accountable for anyone that we lead astray?)

However, unless we have a personal and intimate relationship with Father, how do you know that that which you are recommending to someone else, is what is truly good for their spiritual well being? How sure are you of what you are sharing that it is straight from the throne of God Almighty?

It is no different than when most of us go into a bakery, we do no get what is best for us; rather we get what pleases us. And this is what most also do with God. They do not seek that of His Word for what is best for them, but rather that which most pleases them, that which will make them most a part of the crowd. We need to become selective in what we allow ourselves to hear and listen to. We need to be sure that what we hear is truly good for our spiritual well being. They have to be words that will bring us into a closer relationship with Father.

2 Timothy 3:14-17 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (KJV)

Are your ears fine-tuned to the voice of God? Or, are you one of those that have turned aside unto fables?

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
​Larry Gazelka

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Stay Tuned written in 1995 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1995.

Stay Tuned     V17n29

How often have you talked to yourself, and made statements that you hear, but did not pay much attention to?

For myself, I can recall asking God to be a little clearer, on what He would have me do.  Looking for God to take me by the hand, and lead me down this path, so I will not make any mistakes.

Yet, we know that the scriptures tell us, "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed."  It also tells us, to "be a doer of the Word, and not a hearer only."  I have to walk the walk, as well as talk the talk.  I have to set an example that people will know is achievable.  They have to see that they too, are capable of hearing God, and doing as He asks of us, as individuals.

For those of you who are around my age or older, you will remember the radios that we had a few years ago.  They had tubes instead of transistors.  You had to be real exact in setting the tuning, if you wanted to get real clear reception of any station.  If you set it in a hurry, you ran the risk of having the station fade in and out.  The end result is, that you could miss the most important part of the program that you are listening to.

Christianity - our walk with God, is much the same way.  Our relationship with God is like that tune radio.  It takes a real fine-tuning, to hear and maintain our fellowship with the Father.  What we have to take the time to hear and understand is, what does it take, to keep ourselves fine tuned, just as that old radio?

First off, we have to remember that the radio needed a power source, 120 volts.  So, you have to be at a place where a power source is available.

We as Christians, have to recognize our source.  Faith only comes by developing a relationship with Jesus Christ.  The moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour, we are given the measure of faith (Romans 12:3).  We have received the gift of Christ (Eph. 4:7).  We become a new creation, old things pass away, and I have a new lease on life (II Cor. 5:17).

Now that I have a power source for my radio, I can turn the set on.  Since this is a tube radio, it will take a little time for the tubes to warm up, and become operational, for the purpose that it was intended.

Now that I am born-again, I too have a power source for my life.  I have the ability to stay plugged into it at all times.  Yet, I also have a free will, so that if I choose to stray from it, I will come unplugged.  The glow of the tubes goes out, and until I get plugged back into the proper power source, I will no longer be capable of hearing the instructions that Father has for me.

Once I get plugged back in again, it takes awhile for the tubes to again get warm, to where the radio will be operational.  It will be a short time until I can again have clear reception.  All because I choose to stray from the power source.

God's Word, (the Bible) is my power source.  I have the choice to stay plugged into it each and everyday of my life.

If I choose to walk away from it, whether for several days, several weeks or several years, the result is always the same.  I have broken the communications link with the Father.  It is not always easy re-establishing that link.

Too often, we have gotten ourselves in spiritual hot water, and we want an answer right away.  We want immediate results.  Yet, we can no longer hear Father's voice as clear, since we had been disconnected from "the" power source.

Faith, my ability to believe Father, is maintained by hearing Father's Word.  "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God."  I have to maintain clear reception on my radio, so I can always hear Father's instructions and guidance clearly.  Staying in His Word, maintains the power source.

In our society, we have so many distractions that try to disconnect us from our power source.  We have television, which tells us everything, but what we need to know.   It gives us all kinds of visions of things that satisfy the flesh, but little of what nourishes the spirit man.

The radio has many stations that will tell us many things that sound good to us.  It will give us entertainment.  But, it will take real fine-tuning to find the station that will give us what we need to hear.  It too, senses mostly signals that satisfy the flesh.

So, how do we stayed tuned, in a world that is programmed to lead us astray?  How do we stay focused?  How do we stay tuned?

Just as with the radio, where we have the tuner positioned, will determine what kind of message we will receive.  Likewise, in our spiritual walk, where we have ourselves hanging out will be indicative of our spiritual health.  If we have ourselves around loose lips, the evil communications will have an effect on us.  (I Cor 15:33, Matt 12:36).  This is why we have to keep ourselves fine tuned. Eliminating the interference gives us clearer reception of the signal.  This makes the message more understandable.

As radio's developed, they learned to design filters for the radios that would filter out a good portion of the background noise, thus giving us a much better signal, with less static at the speaker.

As Christian's, as we learn and become effective at hearing and applying God's Word, it in effect is similar to a filter.  As our knowledge of the "Word" grows, it sheds light on the darkness.  It is love, overcoming fear.  God has not given us the spirit of fear (II Tim. 1:7).  Perfect love casts out fear.  (I John 4:18).  We have the ability as Christians, to set up filter systems for our reception.  We are able to filter out everything that is not from above (James 1:17).  But, the choice is ours.  No one can force anything on you.

Also, with our old tube type radios, reception at times was a little bit perturbing.  You would have to turn the radio a little one way or the other, to get better reception. Or, even where it was located in the room would raise havoc with the incoming signal.

Sound real similar to our Christian walk?  Where are we facing?  Which direction are we headed?  If you are seeking the wealth of the world, which direction are you headed?  How clear will the message of salvation be received?

If all we are seeking, are signs and wonders, and not a working knowledge of the Word, which direction are we headed?  It says  (the Bible), that the Lord confirmed the Word, with signs following (Mark 16:20).  We need to seek the Lord while He may be found.  Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Faith comes from the message heard.  Which station you are tuned to, will determine what kind of a message you will hear.

As for me and my house, we will stay tuned to the Lord!

​
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

Next issue: Heed the call!

Word Corner

Fortune:  1)  the supposed cause of that which befalls in a sudden or unexpected manner:  chance or luck 2) That which fall to one:  good or ill success or luck

I thought that God blesses His people, not leaving them open to good or evil.

"And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God."  Deut. 28:2 KJV

"God is not a man that He should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent.  Hath He said, and shall He not do it?  Or hath He spoken, and shall He not make good?  Behold, I have received commandment to bless; and He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it."  Numbers 23:19-20 KJV

"But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."  Phil 4:19. KJV 

​Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter When Is an Answer, Not an Answer? written in 1999 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1999.

​When Is an Answer, Not an Answer? 
v21n6

So many times in life we ask a question with preconceived thoughts and ideas of what we think the answer should be. When the answer does not fall within the parameters of what our predisposition was, we then disregard the response. We not only do this in every day life, but we many times do this also with God.
 
In all reality, we could phrase the title of this week's newsletter in several different ways. We could also title it; "When is a question, not a question?"  Many times, we will ask a question with the only real purpose of being able to promote and address our own agenda. By doing this, we are trying to bait people into a confrontation, by asking questions that will bring about answers in which we will be able to support our views.
 
Luke 10:29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? (KJV)
 
In this case of the lawyer, he was not really seeking answers, but was rather promoting self-justification. He (the lawyer) was going about to establish his own righteousness. This lawyer did not really want to change, as he was quite satisfied with the life that he had. The answer that Jesus Christ gave the lawyer, was not the answer that this lawyer wanted to hear. For the lawyer was in the same category as the priest and the Levite that had passed by the person wounded and dying in the ditch.
 
Many times in this life we will make attempts to justify ourselves before Father. Instead of heeding Father's counsel through, we will become like the lawyer, and try to justify our decision as well as our walk. Often times, when Father asks a question of us, we do not respond fully or truthfully. Rather, we become as the lawyer did in his conversation with the Lord.
 
We will always be able to find excuses when we do not want to hear that which Father is asking of us. We will always think within ourselves that we have found a legitimate reason for our decision. Why do we call Him Lord, Lord, and do not the things that He is asking of us?
 
Luke 9:57-58 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. (KJV)
 
The people that watched the life of Jesus Christ of Nazareth observed a man that was able to perform miracle after miracle and feat after feat. Whether it was bringing about the healing of someone with the issue of blood, raising someone from the dead, to feeding thousands with a few loaves and fishes, they marveled at what He was able to do. So what we have to understand here, is that this certain man, when saying that he would follow Jesus Christ was not as difficult as it first appeared, since one would think to himself that anyone that followed Him would be given this power.
 
Yet the response of Jesus Christ in verse fifty-eight is not the answer this man expected to hear, nor wanted to hear. The answer that Jesus Christ gives here, is not the same as the answer that we hear from many preachers in the world today.
 
Jesus Christ plainly tells this man that the birds and foxes have places to make their homes and rest, yet the son of man has no place to lay His head. Is this the answer this man expected to have? Is this the answer we expect to hear? Do you think this man followed Jesus Christ after hearing this response? Will you follow Jesus Christ after this response?
 
Matthew 6:33-34 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. (KJV)
 
We are to seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, Christ. Yet many of the messages that are being taught within the Church today, have us seeking the wealth of the world, rather than the riches of God. If you had to live as Jesus Christ did, would you still follow Him? If you had to depend on your every need to come from Father, would you still follow Him? Not always the easiest thing, to walk by faith, and not by sight.
 
Luke 9:59-60 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. (KJV)
 
And yet another was spoken to and asked if he would follow Jesus Christ. However, his reply was that he had personal matters, family matters to attend to first. Things more important to tend to, than what God was asking of him. How often are we too still responding in this manner. Many times we put life on this earth ahead of living forever with God. We tend to things that are dead, or will lead to death, before the very bread of life.
 
Many a time we will boastfully tell the Lord that we do want to serve Him, and that we will do all that He asks of us. Then, when we hear the Lord's response, it is not the answer that we wanted to hear. That is when an answer is not the answer, that answer we wanted to hear. Why is this? Could it be that we had already formulated in our mind the answer that we not only expected to hear, but wanted to hear? And when it is not the answer that we wanted to hear, will we still do that which we were asked? Do you think that this man followed the Lord, or went back and tended to the dead things that hindered his path?
 
Luke 9:61-62 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. (KJV)
 
And yet still another said, I will follow you Lord, but! How often is it that we do the same thing with Father? We set conditions that we have to have met first, before we will do that which He asks of us. We tell God what we think is necessary before we will do that which is being asked of us.
 
The majority of the time, we want to run back to the world and get their approval before we will do that which has been asked of us by God. This man wanted to run back to his family and friends and get their approval before following the Lord. How often does the world approve of anyone following Jesus Christ? What would be their response if this man was the one that provided for the household? What we also have to see and hear here, is that this man was allowing the tempter another opportunity to talk him out of that which had been asked of him by God.
 
Many are called, but few are chosen. And this is not because God loves certain people more than others, for we know that He is no respecter of persons. We have to keep fresh in our mind, that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. The reason few are chosen is that few will respond to Father's call. Most respond with "yes Lord, I will follow you, BUT!"  If we do not know who Jesus Christ is, why would we ever want to follow?
 
What has been your reply to God?
 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 9 which is the last newsletter in this series written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian! Are You Dressed?               V18n25
An Ambassador!  Part 9

Ephesians 6:18-20 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak (KJV).

In most instances, when we get to the end of verse seventeen, we think that the Armor of God is finished. But, as we continue with the above verses, you will see that it all leads to our role as ambassador for Christ.

Now that we have a base understanding of who we are in Christ, notice the direction now given to us by Paul through the Spirit. We are to always pray with prayer and supplication in the Spirit.

What we have to remember is that as an ambassador for Father, we can only speak the things that we have heard the Father speak to us. We have to carry out the instructions that Father gives to us, as a representative of His kingdom. This is why we have to have an understanding of all the pieces of armor, in order to be an informed ambassador.

We have to understand that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but are in a spiritual battle. The truth of the Word of God is our foundation piece. This sets the foundation for all of the pieces or armor; in order to be an informed ambassador.

As we begin to see and understand the truth of Father's Word, we understand the righteousness that He has made available to us through Christ. If you look closely with the truth and righteousness, that these are pieces that we have to put on, once! Then, we have to read the Word to see how we can strengthen ourselves through the Word. Becoming aware of what has been made readily available to each of us, as joint-heirs of Christ Jesus.

Next, we have to take the time to prepare ourselves with the Word of God, before we step out for Him. It is only as we are properly prepared, that His Word will illuminate and guide our every step. All of our steps should be appointed by the Lord.

Next, we have to raise up the shield of faith. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. When Jesus Christ was tempted, He put the Word of God on the scene again and again, until the devil fled for a season. If we apply ourselves to the Word, we will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Now, you have to take the time each and every day to renew your mind with the Word of God. No one else can do it for you!  You have to study for Father's approval. It has to be His Word, that encircles your head, and keeps your mind renewed.

Now you will be able to take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and put the proper Word on the scene, and the devil will have to flee. But, you have to know the Word!

Remember, find a dictionary from the 1950s or older, preferably older.

The biggest problem that we have as individuals is, that we mimic what we have heard others speak, and not what the Holy Spirit has revealed to us. This is why it is so important to hear what Acts 1:8 says.

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (KJV)

We fail to hear what the Word of God tells us in this verse. We hear what others have told us, but we do not hear what the Spirit of Christ is trying to tell us. We are to surrender our lives to the will and Word of God.

What we have to keep fresh in our minds is that an ambassador is a direct representative of the country and or kingdom that he represents. He has to know the name of who is in power; and he has to understand all of the directives set forth. His authority is only as good as those who are in power. In our case, it is all of the authority given to us through Jesus Christ, by God and our Father.

The ambassador is not clothed in garb for battle, but rather that of a dignitary. He is aware of all the forces that are at his disposal, as the occasion arises. But, his primary mission, is that of peacemaker. His purpose is to cause the different factions to work together for a common goal.

In Ephesians chapter four, Paul talks about some of the roles, which an ambassador fulfills in his service to the Father, Christ, and the Church. As he operates in these roles, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience, he preaches a message that brings unity to the body of Christ.

Put on the whole armor of God, once, and leave it on, that you might help edify the body of Christ.

That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka

Next issue; we start the Series, "The Forgotten Son!"  In this issue we will take a close look at why we are called Christians. And, start to apply what we have learned of our role as an ambassador for the kingdom of God!

Word
3056  logos-
1) of speech
    a) a word, uttered by a living voice, embodies a conception or idea
    b) what someone has said
         1) a word
         2) the sayings of God
         3) decree, mandate or order
         4) used of the moral precepts given by God
         5) Old Testament prophecy given by the prophets
         6) what is declared, a thought, declaration, aphorism, a weighty saying, a dictum, a maxim
     c) discourse
         1) the act of speaking, speech
         2) the faculty of speech, skill and practice in speaking
         3) a kind or style of speaking
         4) a continuous speaking discourse -instruction
     d) doctrine, teaching
     e) anything reported in speech; a narration, a narrative
     f) matter under discussion, a thing spoken of, an affair, a matter in dispute, a case, a suit at law
     g) the thing spoken of or talked about; an event, a deed
2) its use as respect to the mind alone
     a) reason, the mental faculty of thinking, meditating, reasoning, calculating
     b) account, that is, regard, consideration
     c) account, that is, a reckoning, a score
     d) account, that is, an answer or explanation with reference to judgment
     e) relation, that is, with whom as judge we stand in relation to
     f) reason, cause, ground
3) In John, denotes the essential Word of God, Jesus Christ, the personal wisdom and power in union with God, His Minister in creation and government of the universe, the cause of all the world's life both physical and ethical, which for the procurement of man's salvation put on human nature in the person of Jesus the Messiah, the second person in the Godhead, and shone forth conspicuously from His words and deeds;

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 8 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian! Are You Dressed?                   v18n24
The Cutting Edge! Part 8
 
 
Ephesians 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (KJV)

Take note of our Word Study (on the last page) for this week! It will help give you more insight into what we are covering this week.

If we keep in mind the progression of the Armor of God; how we started with the truth and learned to establish ourselves in the truth. His Word is truth!

Next, we had to recognize the righteousness that was afforded to us. That it was not anything that we could say or do, but it was the fact that Jesus Christ took my place and placed that sacrifice before the throne of Father.

Then, we had to prepare ourselves in the good news of Jesus Christ. We had to learn to let the Word of God guide and direct our every step.

Then, learning to take the shield of faith, with which we are able to extinguish every fiery dart the wicked can send in our direction.

Last week we discussed the importance of renewing our mind with the Word of God, and how it is an everyday task. That we have to make the time to cast down every thought and imagination that tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of Father.

You have to know the truth, by the righteousness that has been granted to you. Then you will be able to begin to step out for the Lord, as He directs your way down the straight and narrow path to His house. Having his shield out in front of you, to eliminate any distractions that would otherwise cause you to swerve. My mind being sustained by his Word, that enables me to hold fast to my profession of faith. Now, we have to receive his Word, so that I may apply the Word properly to each situation that confronts me.

Let us keep in mind as we continue, that we have to learn of His Word. We need to allow ourselves to be taught by the Word of God, by taking quality time with Him each and every day!

John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing. The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (KJV)

The Word of God; it is Spirit, and it is life! The moment that we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, all the power in heaven is made available to us. That is why Jesus Christ made the statement to us that he did in John 14:12, the works that he did, we should do also; and greater works then these should we do, because He returned to the right hand of Father. Unless we know his Word, how can we do what he did, let alone greater works?

You, have to take the time with Father to hear his voice and understand his Word. Let us not forget, that it is the Sword of the Spirit that we are talking about. It is all, the armor of God! Do you fully comprehend what it takes to keep yourself always prepared with what Father has made available to you?

The Roman soldier, we must remember, was very well trained in the use of all of his weapons. The sword being his primary weapon. It took much practice and diligence to become efficient with the sword, (for you want to hit the enemy, not your fellow soldiers).

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (KJV)

Luke 4:4 And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. (KJV)

What is your primary meal of the day? They say that for the physical man, that breakfast is the most important meal. What about your spirit man? How many meals of the Word of God does it get each day? We have to train ourselves to take the time to feed our spirit man each and every day! It does take much discipline to do this, but the benefits are out of this world.

Luke 8:11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. (KJV)

1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (KJV)

The seed, is the Word of God! If you may have noticed, there are many teachings out there that are contrary to what the scripture tells us. The seed is not money, possessions, or any other material thing; but it is the Word of God! (So don't be fooled by imitations). It is the Word of God that will not return void!

We are to be sowing the incorruptible seed, the Word of God! If you sow of the fleshly things, guess what you will harvest? We have to use the Word as our final authority!

Galatians 6:7-8 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. (KJV)

Luke 8:20-21 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it. (KJV)

There is only one family that I have, and that is the family of God. I have physical brothers and sisters; but since they do not follow the Word of God, they are no longer a part of my family. My entire life and being, is dedicated to doing the will of Father. (Galatians 1:3-4).

Luke 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. (KJV)

Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (KJV)

Are you hearing the Word of God? And, if you are hearing it, are you keeping the Word of God? Many people hear the Word of God but will not allow it to work in their lives. You can have the whole Bible memorized, but if you are not a doer of the Word, it is all for naught.

Notice, that at the end of Luke 11:28, that it says, "and keep it." We have to hold fast to what the Spirit of truth teaches us. It has to become a way of life, each and every day! Not just once or twice a week, or when we "feel' like it.

2 Corinthians 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (KJV) (note definition below)

Corrupt - 2585 kapeleuo (kap-ale-yoo'-o);from kapelos (a huckster)- to retail, i.e. (by implication) to adulterate (figuratively): KJV-- corrupt; 1) to be a retailer, to peddle 2) to make money by selling anything a) to get sordid gain by dealing in anything, to do a thing for base gain b) to "trade" (traffic) in the word of God; to try to get base gain by teaching divine truth c) to corrupt, to adulterate; peddlers were in the habit of adulterating their commodities for the sake of gain.

The Word of God, nor the gifts of the Holy Spirit are not for sale; nor to be made merchandise of. Yet, this is the impression left by many that appear to be in the ministry. You cannot buy your way into the kingdom of God. The gift is developed by taking time each and every day to hear and obey the Word of God, there is no other way. There are no short-cuts or quick fixes.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not who has the most toys wins, or is deemed successful by Father. If that is the case, Jesus Christ and Paul the Apostle were total failures, but we know that that is not true. Freely we have received the Word of God, and freely we are to give it. How can you put a price tag on the gift of salvation?

Only a few short years after the Lord Jesus Christ had returned home to the Father, and Paul states quite clearly that he is not to be compared to many running around the countryside's. He states that there were many that were attempting to "retail" the Word of God, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It does not appear to me that times have changed much in the last two thousand years.

It seems like we are always looking for an easier way of assimilating the Word of God. It would be different if we were a plant, then we could take everything in by osmosis; but, we are not! So, you have to take the time to study, and hear the Word of God!

Romans 10:14-15 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent?... (KJV)

How can they hear, without someone who is willing to teach and preach? They also have to be willing to do this without the influence of dollar signs or positions dangled in front of them. Even when Jesus Christ was here on this earth, they asked him by what authority that he spoke. He would answer them, but they would not listen. He, Jesus Christ, even went into the temple and overturned the retailers’ tables; those who were trying to profit from the Word of God. And all this they were doing, while passing themselves off as Father's representatives.

We attempt to market the Word of God even today! We use all kinds of reasons and excuses to justify our merchandising of the things that were gifts to the “church”. (All the while, we forget that the Word of God is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.)

Have you ever noticed how the retail world approaches and lures the customer? They try to make the customer think that they are in control of the situation. (sales tactics). They will advertise one thing, and then try to sell you up to a more expensive product. They play on your emotions by setting up all of these retail holidays, all to promote their sales. They say that they are community minded, but it is only the worldly organizations that they support. Do you ever see any support to the local church congregations?

Every week, they have a new sale! Some new gimmick to draw you in and entice you to buy. How are the churches' any different than the retail businesses? Just as Paul tells us, that there were many who were making merchandise of the Word! And what makes it even worse, is that no one is willing to speak out against what is taking place. And this especially true of the preachers, since they do not want to dry up their meal ticket.

There are even churches that hire professional market researchers, to show them better ways to market their church to the local community. Why isn't preaching the pure Word of God good enough anymore? Isn't it to be Father who adds to the Church daily?

Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV)

Let us all be faithful ministers of the Word of God! Let us proclaim the mystery of the gospel, Jesus Christ. It is the Sword of the Spirit!

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka

Next week: The Ambassador!

Word Study
​1209 dechomai- take; to take with the hand; to take hold of, to take up; 2) to take up, to receive a) used of a place receiving one; b) to receive or grant access to, a visitor, not to refuse intercourse or friendship; 1) to receive hospitality; 2) to receive into one's family to bring up or educate; c) used of the thing offered in speaking, teaching, instructing; to receive favorably, give ear to, embrace, make one's own, approve, not to rejected) to receive, that is, to take upon oneself, to sustain, to bear, to endure;3) to receive, get to learn

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 7 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian! Are You Dressed?               V18n23
 Gotcha Covered! Part 7
  
Colossians 1:21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled. (KJV)

We, as Christians forget where the battle ground is at. It is all in our mind. We have to take the time to renew our minds with the Word of God. When our mind is renewed by the Word, then God's Word will bring about change in our life; it will bring into existence the things that we have need of. The mind is what wants to pull you back into your old way of thinking. It is going to react to what it hears the most. If you are constantly watching and hearing things that are contrary to God's word, you are going to have troubles. Not because Larry says so, but that is what the Word of God says.

Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. (KJV)

Matthew 12:34 …For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (KJV)

Luke 6:45 …for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. (KJV)

The scriptures here, are referring to the mind of man. Wherever your thoughts are dwelling at, that is what will come out of your mouth. Not because I say so, but as we can see from the Word of God, this is what it says.

All you have to do is to listen to anyone for a few minutes, and it will give you a good indication of where, or should I say, what their mind has been meditating on. As Christians, we are to be meditating in the Word day and night. It should be the last thing on our mind when we go to bed at night, and the first thing that we think on in the morning.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, (KJV)

Psalms 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (KJV)

Psalms 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. (KJV)

Psalms 119:15-16 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes; I will not forget thy word. (KJV)

1 Timothy 4:15-16 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them, that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine; continue in them; for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee. (KJV)

Who is the defender who encircles your head? We have a choice as to who and what we listen to. If we are constantly listening to, and giving ear to the conversations that are contrary to the Word, guess what will happen to you? You have to study to show yourself approved unto Father, not anyone else. All my thoughts, actions, and speech should be according to the Word. No one said that it would be easy. It is a full-time job, just to keep oneself in line with the Word.

1 Corinthians 15:33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupts good manners. (KJV)

We hear people all of the time tell us, that it does not make any difference where they go or what they do, because they know the truth. Yet, Paul is very clear to tell us, that if we allow the wrong things to constantly be around us, that it will cause corruption. It is of the utmost importance, of where we place ourselves, and what we allow ourselves to continually hear.

Ephesians 6:10-17 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore, take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, (KJV)

Gotcha covered! But what is your mind covered with? What are the thoughts and ideas that are the controlling factors in your mind? How much time do you take with the Lord, and His Word each day?

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (KJV)

How much time does Father get of your day? Is it the prime cut of your time? Or does Father get the leftovers? Have you yet figured out where the battle ground is?

So many questions, but do you have the answers? Or, better yet, maybe it should be answer, singular!

Why is it such a big deal what we renew our minds with, God knows my heart! How often do you hear that statement being made? We use that as our primary excuse for not taking time with Father. But, the fact remains, that unless a man be born-again, he cannot see or enter the kingdom of God!

So, what does it take to be born-again? You have to have a personal relationship with the Son of God! You have to make the Son of God the Lord of your life. But who is the Son of God? Do you really know? Or are you going by what someone else told you?

If you have noticed, that as we are going through the armor of God; that each piece better establishes our relationship with Father through Jesus Christ. It gives us the proper foundation on which we are to build. And we should all know that there is only one foundation; and that is Jesus Christ, the cornerstone!

Ephesians 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief comer stone, (KJV)

2 Corinthians 4:16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (KJV)

How is the inward man renewed day by day?

Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him; (KJV)

What is knowledge?

Knowledge= a clear perception of a truth or a fact!

We need to take the time with Father, to get a clear perception of what God’s Word has to say to us. Notice, that it says a clear perception, not clouded and foggy. You have to renew your mind; you cannot have someone else do it for you.

Galatians 6:8-9 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (KJV)

5351 phtheiro-to corrupt, to destroy
a) in the opinion of the Jews, the temple was corrupted or "destroyed" when anyone defiled or in the slightest degree damaged anything in it, or if its guardians neglected their duties b) to lead away a Christian congregation from that state of knowledge and holiness in which it ought to abide; c) to be destroyed, to perish d) in an ethical sense, to corrupt, to deprave

With all of the garbage around us, we need to try to stay away from anything or anyone that would attempt to lead us down the wrong path.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore, come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. (KJV)

Father never tells us that it is an easy task to serve him. But he has given us the means, the gift of Christ, which enables us to remain faithful, if we continue in the Word!

1 Corinthians 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV)

Ephesians 6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, (KJV)

You have to take (accept, receive, grab onto) the helmet (the defender who encircles) of salvation! No one can force it on you! If our mind is always renewed by the Word of God, we will have the mind of Christ! It is when we allow our mind to wander, that we find ourselves meditating on the wrong things. Then, the end result is that we say or do the wrong things.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (KJV)

Ephesians 5:4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient; but rather, giving of thanks. (KJV)

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing. (KJV)

Where do you have your mind hanging out at? What thoughts encircle your head? Take the time to hear Father and allow his Words to lead and guide you today, and every day! Open your Bible and establish a better relationship with the Father and Son, today!

2 Corinthians 4:3-4, But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not,… (KJV)

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

​renewing = a renewal, renovation, complete change for the better

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 6 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian! Are You Dressed?           v18n22
No Need To Duck! Part 6
  
Ephesians 6:10-16 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore, take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (KJV)

Faith comes by the message heard, as long as the message heard is from Jesus Christ! We need to put aside our distractions, (whatever they may be), and heed the word from Father. The word that he speaks to you and I. To study to please Father, takes discipline, and quality time. Not the leftovers, but the time when we are fresh, and attentive to hear and obey. Much study is a weariness to the flesh.

You have to train yourself, in taking the time, to allow the Spirit of truth, to lead you and guide you in all truth. This is where the problem arises. Father does not get the quality time. We need to be quiet, cut out all the distractions, and listen to what the Word of God has to say. Have you ever tried to study with a lot of noise and distractions going on around you? If you have, you will know that it is quite hard to concentrate.

If you only give Father fifteen minutes a day, guess how big your shield of faith will be? How many fiery darts, do you think that will stop? If the shield fails, it is not Father's fault.

Now faith is! It is my ability to hear, trust, and believe Father at this very moment, and to act upon it. Irregardless of what people or the circumstances say. (But you have to realize, that this does not happen overnight). Especially, since most of us have been taught contrary to the Word of God the majority of our lives.

Most of us are like Thomas the Apostle. Except we can see and touch, we do not want to believe. (John 20:24-25). We want to tell Father we will believe when we see the answer!

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)

Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am to be content: (NKJ).

Paul is not talking about Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Montana in Philippians 4:11. He is referring to the fact, that if we trust and believe Father, we are not moved by the circumstances that may surround us. We are to be independent of all the distractions and turmoil that is all around us. That is why Paul, was able to continue on in the Word, because he did not let the world distract him from the mission Father had set before him. He knew that he could do all things through Christ, who was his strength. How content are you?

Luke 17:6 And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you. (KJV)

Note the preceding verse. The Apostles asked the Lord to increase their faith! The Lord's reply was, if ye had faith! He did not say, let us increase your faith. They could not get the measure of faith until the day of Pentecost, the moment that they were born-again. Then, the Spirit of truth, could bring to their remembrance, all the words that Jesus Christ had spoken to them. Once you were given the measure of faith, what have you done with it?

Ephesians 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, (KJV)

Now, we have to continue in the Word of truth! We have to continue in His word, to keep God's shield of faith operating in front of us. My words, the devil will laugh at. God's Word, the devil will flee from. I am not to be concerned with the rear; Father will handle that if I am following his Word.

Isaiah 52:12 For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight; for the LORD will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rereward. (KJV)

rereward = to bring up the rear, rear guard

Colossians 1:23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven, of which I, Paul, am made a minister. (KJV)

Galatians 3:2-3 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (KJV)

John 14:10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. (KJV)

Faith is our ability to hear Father, and to be able to recognize his voice. Then we have to act upon it. And yet at the same time, to not be governed by what we see or feel in the physical realm; for our battle is not against flesh and blood. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen by the physical eye. The worlds around us were formed by the Word of God. He did not need Visa or Master card to accomplish it. Father spoke it into existence.

This same faith, Father has given the measure of it, faith! He has given to us, the same measure of faith that he gave to his Son, Jesus Christ!

It is the same measure of faith that allowed Jesus Christ to feed the multitudes on the hillside. He was not governed by Judas’ fear of what appeared to be lacking in the purse. He was not swayed by how far the furthest bakery was. He asked what was available, blessed it, gave thanks and praise to Father, and then proceeded to feed all that were there. Just from a few loaves and fish.

Have you ever noticed how many baskets were left to be collected? Twelve! Possibly one, for each doubting Apostle?

Jesus Christ was able to believe Father, irregardless of what the circumstances tried to dictate. Now faith is!

How is your shield holding up? Is your now faith, in operation?

Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing, then, that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (KJV)

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka

Next week: The helmet of salvation!

​Content
1)   sufficient for oneself, strong enough or processing enough to need no aid or support
2)   independent of external circumstances
3)   contented with one's lot, with one's means, though the slenderest

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 5 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian! Are You Dressed?               v18n21
No Need To Duck! Part 5
  
Ephesians 6:10-16 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. (NKJ)

For the last several weeks, we have been discussing "the armor of God". What we have to be aware of, is that it is God's armor, not ours. Since it is God's, it does not rot, rust, dent, decay, or ever fail. If there ever is a problem, it is from our failure to follow the instructions.

You and you alone, have to take the time to read and learn from the Christian Instruction Manual, the Bible. God's Word has no flaws or deficiencies. It is always able to give us the victory, when used according to the proper instructions.

2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every place. (KJV)

We have to utilize the Word properly so that it does not return void. We have to be sure to always put Father's word on the scene, and not our own.

One other thing I want to cover real quickly, is the one thing I hear many Christians’ saying, and that is: "they have to remember to put on the armor of God each morning." Who told them to take it off in the first place? Does the spirit man ever sleep? Remember, that the Word says to give no place to the devil; and if you are taking God's armor off, that is exactly what you are doing. Why put Christ on the shelf for the night?

"Above all, taking the shield of faith." Ephesians 6:16 (KJV)

Ephesians 4:7 But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift. (NKJ)

Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. (KJV)

Above all, take the gift of faith, the measure of the gift of Christ. You have to accept the gift from Father, he will not force it upon you.

If U.P.S. delivers a package to your doorstep, and you never pick it up and bring it in and open it, it will never be of any benefit to you. You have to retrieve the package, open it, and follow the operating instructions. Then it will fulfill the purpose for which it was intended.

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God! My ability to believe in and act upon God's Word, comes from the relationship that I establish with him. Father does have the master plan that does work! If I am always the one talking or interrupting, how can I ever hear any of Father's counsel?

Before I was born-again, I spent my entire life till that point, listening to everyone else's opinions and ideas of what they thought was best for me, (sound familiar?). And then trying to live up to their expectations of me. I was always trying to please other people, either family, friends, or co-workers.

Now that I am born-again, Father made a gift available to me, the measure of faith! Not a measure, but the measure of faith! My spirit man has become a new creation in Christ. Now, I have to learn to maintain this relationship with Father. For without faith, it is impossible to please Father.

Remember in John chapter 14, that Jesus Christ said that we would do the works that he did, and greater works! How can that be? The only way that that is possible, is if Father has made available to us, everything that he made available to Jesus Christ! Without the measure of faith, how could you or I accomplish this?

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God: (KJV)

Every believer in Jesus Christ has to learn to develop this gift of God. But how is it developed you may ask? Faith comes by stopping all that you are doing, and listening to the instructions that Father has, just for you. The more time that I take to fellowship and listen to Father, the greater my ability to trust Father and his Word, and then to act upon it.

Whatever a person listens to most, is what they will trust and believe in. And all of their actions will follow what they are hearing.

For those of you that work a job each week, who is it that signs your paycheck each payday? If it is anyone other than Father, we need to take a close look at who or what we are listening to. I am not saying that working a job is wrong! What I am saying is that we do not always thank Father for being our total source. We seem to have forgotten that Father is the one who is supposed to supply my daily bread!

Phil 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (KJV)

Father should be my total source! He is the one who should be supplying my daily bread. It does not matter where or who the funds are channeled through, as long as I remember where they originated from. The throne of God Almighty! Is Father truly your Jehovah-jireh?

Faith comes by hearing! But.......... what are you giving ear to? What ever words we are listening to most; this is what we will believe and act upon.

There are times, that we will give more credence to words that contradict Father's word. And this happens because we have not taken the time to hear and fellowship with Father. We have not taken the time to be still and know that he is God. Thus, we find ourselves straying from the straight and narrow path that leads to Father's house. If, we have been given the measure of faith, why doesn't our life always go smooth? Why aren't we as successful as Jesus Christ was? What are we lacking'? (Remember to keep in mind John 14:12).

Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (KJV)

shall= might be possible, willingness

If you are obedient to Father's commands, his ability will operate in you. We know that Jesus Christ already has the keys of hell and death.

Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen, and have the keys of hell and of death. (KJV)

He, Jesus Christ rose victoriously! He paid the total debt that I owed. Now, it is up to me to believe it and act accordingly.

John 4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink, thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. (KJV)

The living water will extinguish every fiery dart that the wicked can throw against us. But I have to know the proper Word of God to put on the scene. It has to be what is real and alive to me. Not what I have heard someone else say.

Taking time to study the Word of God, trains my spirit man, to recognize the voice of Father. The better that I know his voice, the clearer the instructions are on how to quench the fiery darts that are headed in my direction.

No weapon formed against me shall prosper!

Remember, that is Father's word. You do not have to defend Him!

Next week, we will continue “No need to duck!”

​That you may know Him
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 4 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

Christian!  Are You Dressed?           v18n20
To the Armory! Part 4
 
Ephesians 6:10-15 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (KJV)

So many of us, whenever we start something, want everything right now. We want all of the answers; all the results; anything that applies to the situation, we want it complete, right now. We don't want to take the time to be sure everything is set in order. That it is complete and ready to be utilized properly.

In the Marine Corps, when going through basic training, one was not able at the time, to understand the reason for all the repetitiveness that was pushed on us. It was hard to understand why everything had to be done right now as soon as they barked the command. In boot camp, not much of anything made sense.

By the time you arrived in Viet Nam, and spent a week or two in combat, you had a full realization of what they had tried to teach you; now you just hoped that you remembered enough of the basics to keep yourself alive. This is when you tell yourself, if only I would have listened more; paid closer attention in the classes. The wrong time for self examination! By being properly prepared, many lives could be spared.

The Roman soldier, that was preparing for battle, was sure to take ample time to prepare himself and his equipment for the battle ahead. He realized the importance of being sure that everything was totally operational, before entering the skirmish.

In putting on his sandals, he knew without them properly installed, that he would not have good footing, nor be able to hold the ground that he was responsible for. (Have you ever had blisters from an improper fitted pair of shoes?)

For any of you that have hiked in the mountains, after your first trip there is one thing that you will not forget. You do not wear tennis shoes for hiking the mountains! They just do not hold up! They were not designed for that type of use. With the wrong application of equipment, a pleasurable trip in the beginning, can be a real nightmare by the end of it.

To get a proper fit, you have to know the size and the width of your foot. Then, you also have to be sure that it is properly broke in, so that it will not injure your feet.

Another thing the word shod reminds me of, (living in Montana), is what is necessary for getting a horse properly shod for use.

First of all, the foot, or hoof, has to be sound. No deep cracks, or other damaged parts, that would render it ineffective. Then, the hoof has to be trimmed, before the shoe can be fit properly. All excess hoof has to be cut off and trimmed away. Then it has to be filed and smoothed out to ensure that the shoe will lay flat. Next, the shoe itself, is sized and beat into shape to fit the hoof properly, and then it is nailed into place. But we are not yet done! The nails have to be bent over, cut-off, and then pounded in and filed. Thus, it will not hurt itself, or anyone else.

As we start to apply some of these ideas to our Christian walk, we can begin to see what Paul was trying to relate to us in his letter to the Ephesians. It takes total concentration, and diligence to become prepared for the tasks that Father has for us.

If we are not properly prepared, how will we be of any use to anyone, even ourselves? Just taking a scripture here, and another one there, does not get us prepared for all that is ahead! We have to constantly study for Father's approval. Remember, that much study, is a weariness to the flesh.

Prepared, is also very close to seeking. We have to seek out Father's will for our life.

Proverbs 28:5 Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things. (KJV)

Matthew 6:33-34 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is its own evil. (KJV)

Being prepared, is waiting for Father’s instructions. All to often, we want to react on our own. We try to tell Father when the time is right. It just does not work that way. We have to wait upon the Lord. It is His Spirit that leads us and guides us into all truth.

Psalms 51:10-13 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence, and take not thy holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and uphold me with a free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways, and sinners shall be converted unto thee. (KJV)

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV)

Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance, seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV)

Are you prepared for what Father has for you to do? Have you taken the time to hear Father's instruction for you?

To be properly prepared, we have to wait upon the Lord. We have to be renewed with His strength. I can not do it on my own. My righteousness will not stand up before the throne of God.

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (KJV)

My ability to serve Father through Jesus Christ, is because Jesus Christ has become my righteousness. He took my place at the cross and in the grave.

Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For in it is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, The just shall live by faith. (KJV)

Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. (KJV)

1 Corinthians 1:30-31 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption; That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (KJV)

Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (KJV)

Next week, we will continue on being prepared!

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ
Larry Gazelka


​Word Corner
preparation-- being ready for use or service!

Good day. Today we are posting the newsletter Christian! Are you Dressed? Part 3 written in 1996 by our dear brother, fellow steward and ambassador of the mystery of Christ, Larry Gazelka, Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this newsletter. Have a very blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. ***You can download a copy of the writing for personal use only by clicking on the Built Anew Ministries Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 1996.

   Christian! Are you Dressed?     v18n19
   To the Armory! Part 3
  
"And having on the breastplate of righteousness." Ephesians 6:14 (KJV)

From the last issue, if you will recall, we talked about your loins being girt about with the truth. These are abilities that we are given, the moment that we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior. We have to open the Christian instruction manual (the Bible) and find out what we have received!

All to often, we want someone else to do the work for us. We want to be spoon fed. We have to develop spiritually, just as a child does. That is why the Lord told us that we have to become as little children. We have to start fresh. Get rid of all of the old ideas and garbage that was religion; and learn from His Word. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.

The truth is what it took to become born-again, the new creation in Christ. Now we have to start to learn of what was afforded to us as an adopted child of God.

Thus, having on the breastplate of righteousness! We now have to recognize how we have been translated into the kingdom of God. What is our ticket to fellowship with the Father? Is it anything that you could do? Is it anything within your own power?

What was the purpose of the breastplate?

It was used to cover the vital organs, the heart, lungs, and areas that provided for the strength and well-being of the body. The areas necessary to sustain life.

The breastplate, also bore the insignia, of who the soldier served. Important, so you would recognize your own troops in combat.

"But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption;" 2 Corinthians 1:30 (KJV)

"But unto everyone of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." Ephesians 4:7 (KJV)

When you accepted Jesus Christ, did you accept all of Him or just a part of Him? It is impossible for anyone, to accept only part of Christ! You receive all of Him! You may not understand all that you have received, but it does not mean that it is not yours. Jesus Christ accomplished a complete work; nothing lacking! It is this righteousness that covers my heart. This is the abundant life that He provided for each and every one that will believe.

Do you remember back in the gospel of John, where the Lord tells us that we will do the works that he did; and greater works than these, because he was going to the Father? How could he tell us this unless he would give us everything necessary to accomplish this? He told us in Mark sixteen, that these signs would follow those who believe in the message of salvation by Jesus Christ. Is he a liar? Not hardly! Refresh yourself in Romans 3:4. God is not a man that He should lie! He does exactly as he says. And all that we have to do, is to believe His Word! Then, to act upon it. If, he gave more to one, than he did to another, it would make him a respecter of persons, and we know that is not so!! Thus, you have to recognize, the righteousness that has been given to you. It is this righteousness that covers your heart. It bears the insignia of God's kingdom.

"I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; my justice was like a robe and a diadem." Job 29:14 (KJV)

"Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape; incline thine ear unto me, and save me." Psalms 71:2 (KJV); (read all of Psalms 71)

"Who has delivered us from the power of darkness." Colossians 1:13 (KJV)

"But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets, even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all by them that believe; for there is no difference." Romans 3:21-22 (KJV)

Remember, that our comparison is of that to the Roman foot soldier. First, the girdle of truth was established, and then the breastplate of righteousness is fastened into place and secured by the truth. Notice that they go together! If you do not know the truth, you can not understand the righteousness that has been afforded unto you.

Has Father forgiven you all of your sins? You have to understand the truth of Father's forgiveness, if you are to understand the righteousness that He has made available to you.

“These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you; but as of the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath been taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him, that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If you know that he is righteous, ye know that everyone that doeth righteousness is born of him.” 1 John 2:26-29 (KJV)

If you continue in his Word, then are you, his disciple. His ensignia will be that which is on your breastplate. It identifies you as one of his! When you abide in His Word, He abides in you!

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For in it is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, The just shall live by faith." Romans 1:16-17 (KJV)

“For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they, being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.” Romans 10:2-4 (KJV)

Do you really understand the righteousness that has been made available to you?

“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17 (KJV)

That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka

​Word Corner
Righteousness--- free from wrong or sin! doing what is right! justified!