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 1 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?                         v18n17
Making Ready! Part 1
 
 
          "In conclusion, strengthen yourselves in the Lord and in the power which His supreme might imparts. Put on the complete armor of God, so as to be able to stand firm against all the stratagems of the Devil. For ours is not a conflict with mere flesh and blood, but with despotisms, and empires, the forces that control and govern this dark world-- the spiritual hosts of evil arrayed against us in the heavenly warfare. 
Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you may be able to stand your ground on the day of battle, and, having fought to the end, to remain victors on the field. Stand therefore, first fastening round you the girdle of truth and putting on the breastplate of uprightness as well as the shoes of the Good News of peace-- a firm foundation for your feet. And besides all of these take the great shield of faith, on which you will be able to quench all the flaming darts of the Wicked one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. Pray with unceasing prayer and entreaty on every fitting occasion in the spirit, and be always on the alert to seize opportunities for doing so, with unwearied persistence and entreaty on behalf of all God's people, and ask on behalf that words may be given unto me so that, outspoken and fearless, I may make known the truths (hitherto kept secret) Of the Good News-- to spread, which I am an ambassador in chains-- so that when telling them I may speak out boldly as I ought." Ephesians 6:10-20, Weymouth translation. 
 
As you can tell by the title of this message, "Christian! Are YOU dressed? ". God is asking us, if we are using everything that He has made available to us?
 
Have we really taken the time to study, what Father's call to godliness is?
 
Paul, in describing the armor of God, relates to the Roman foot-soldier, who was the best equipped, and best trained soldier in his time. As we try to understand what Paul is trying to relate to us, it will give us a clearer understanding and picture of all that has been made available to us in Christ.
 
We also have to keep in mind, that a well trained and informed soldier, knows the strengths and weaknesses of his enemy. This enables him through the agony of battle, to come through it with the victory.
 
"Now thanks be unto God, who always causeth us to triumph in Christ." 2 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV)
 
"I can do all things through Christ, who strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
 
Being settled!
 
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." Ephesians 6:10 (KJV)
 
One of the first things that we have to realize, is, whose side we are on. We have to recognize and realize, who our Commanding General is!
 
How many of you, would want to go into battle knowing that you were going to be defeated?
 
"And my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God." 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 (KJV)
 
You have to realize and know, where your strength is from. Only when we are settled on this, can we truly be strong in the Lord.
 
"Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." 1 John 4:4 (KJV)
 
It is very similar to the new computer that the ministry has. It has this wealth of knowledge and ability stored within it. If I do not know the proper commands to utilize all that is available to me, it does me no good!
 
As a Christian, you can have the whole Bible memorized, but, if you do not know how to hear God, how can you be of a benefit to anyone? If you cannot hear God, how can you utilize all that he has given you?
 
"Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." Ephesians 6:11 (KJV)
 
Too often, most of us are waiting for God to dress us. Paul is quite explicit in what he is saying to us here. Put on, that ye may be able to stand! Not part of the armor, but the whole thing. How can you accept part of Jesus Christ into your heart?
 
You, have to put on the full armor of God. Leave it on! Nobody told you to take it off. We need the protection of the Word, twenty-four hours a day. Do you really think that Satan takes a vacation while you sleep?
 
Notice, that it says, that you may be able to stand! It does not say that the pastor is going to come and fight the battle for you. God gave us the five-fold ministries, to instruct us on how to use all that has been made available to us. To show us the proper usage of the Word of God, and how it is able to defeat every trick and trap that Satan may put in your path.
 
What else can God do for you? Don't you realize that there is nothing more that he can do for us? Jesus Christ accomplished everything! All we have to do, is to learn to walk in the victory that has been made available to us.
 
"Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)
 
"Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son; in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins;" Colossians 1:13-14 (KJV)
 
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand! God has done everything necessary for us to be partakers with him! You have to recognize who you are! You have to be able to see all that you have inherited when you were adopted! God and his Son have accomplished a total victory, for those who will use and apply the Word properly in their life.
 
'For we have to struggle, not with blood and flesh but with angelic Rulers, and angelic Authorities, and potentates of the dark present, the spirit forces of evil in the heavenly sphere." Ephesians 6:12, Moffatt translation.
 
We sometimes forget who our battle is with! We are so busy fighting one another, that the devil and his forces just have to sit back and watch. We forget who the enemy is, because we do not give heed to the Word of God. We do not read what is written there for our benefit.
 
We need to be aware of the enemy, and the devices that he employs. We need to be aware of his methods of operation. We need to be aware of his strengths and weaknesses. As we study the Word of God, we are able to see through the lies of the devil and expose him for what he really is.
 
We have to know the enemy, but do not build him up to be more than he is. Remember, that he has been defeated! It is your top priority to remind him of that!
 
“Therefore, put on the complete armor of God, so that you may be able to stand your ground on the day of battle, and, having fought to the end, to remain victors on the field.” Ephesians 6:13, Weymouth translation.
 
Have you begun to notice yet, how Paul continues to stress to us the fact, that we have to put on all that Father has made available to us through Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit?
 
You have to put on the armor of God and leave it on! We have to know our rights and authority as children of God!
 
Stand -- covenant; rights; authority; continue.
 
You, have to know your rights and authority! You have to understand the covenant that Father has made with you. These are things that have been given to us. Now it is time for the believers to start to put them to use and show the devil that we are overcomers.
 
"If ye will continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32 (KJV)
 
If you take a stand for the Word, you will continue in it!
 
How shall we fight this battle? Is there anything of your own that you can do to defeat Satan? What can you do to be victorious?
 
Nothing on your own strength, that is for sure. But, I can continue in the Word! I can do just as my brother Jesus Christ did when Satan came against him. He told the Devil what is written in Father's Word! He not only told him once, but twice, and even a third time. Finally, Satan left. I have the ability to put God's Word on the scene. It is the same Word that rose victoriously from the grave with the keys of hell and death. It is the same Word that is seated at the right hand of the Father, forever making intercession for me.
 
Do you know the Word of God, well enough to put it on the battle field?
 
Study, study, study, to show thyself approved unto Father! Get to know what Father has made available to you! Are you or will you be one of the remnant?
 
That you may know Him,
In the service of Jesus Christ,
Larry Gazelka
 
Next week Part 2, To the Armory!
 
If you have any questions, please feel free to write or call, and we will help you in any way that we can.
 
If you would like to have us speak at your Bible study or Church, just get a hold of us and we will see what can be arranged.
 
Word Corner:   finally- those remaining; remnant, those settled and remaining.

Whose armour; God’s or man’s? Many are walking around with man’s armour on, wrestling with flesh and blood instead of remaining seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. They are unable to get the victory in Christ because they are walking around with man’s heavy laden armour on, those traditions and doctrines of man that weigh one down, unable to be agile and ready to put the Word of God on the scene and defeat the enemy. The only thing they are able to do is hide behind man’s armour just hoping that the fiery darts of the devil won’t get through. They follow these traditions and doctrines that place them in direct contradiction to the Word and unable to stand against the wiles of the devil. And so they are overtaken and everything they trusted in is spoiled.   

Luke 11:21-22 When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: (22) But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. (KJV)  

The armour of God is tried and true. It is proven. Without Christ you are unable to stand against the wiles of the devil. It is only in Christ that we can stand firm and have access to the living waters that will extinguish the fiery darts of the enemy and give us the victory. David, when confronting the enemy took with him the armour of God which he knew and had proved, and left behind the heavy armour that man trusted in, and was victorious over the enemy. In a way that the yoke was easy and the burden was light; in the most simple way possible; by faith, trust in the Lord which he knew to be tried and true.  

1 Samuel 17:34-39 And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: (35) And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. (36) Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. (37) David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee. (38) And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. (39) And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him. (KJV)  

David trusted the Lord and took Him as his armour up against the enemy instead of that which he had not proven. We too are encouraged to trust in the Lord and to put on and take the whole armour of God, that which is proven, in which we are complete and able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  

Ephesians 6:10-18 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (11) Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (12) 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. (13) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (14) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (15) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (KJV)  

Are you standing in the tried and true armour of God which is proven? If not, then whose armour? If it is not the Lord’s then the only other one is the heavy laden of man which is weighed down with traditions and doctrines.  

God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord.