Category Archives: General Ministry Posts

These posts are designed to let you know what’s going on within Christlike Ministries Arkansas, and the next study subjects.

Dear WordPress followers

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Greetings to you.

I often take the time to update my Facebook followers on the progress of this ministry, but now that God’s growing the number of people who follow by WordPress (we’re up to 45) I thought maybe a newsletter type post might be of interest to those of you who follow us here.

Of course, I would like to encourage you to like us on Facebook that link is www.Facebook.com/ChristlikeMinistriesNWA, and to let you know that you can follow us on Twitter as well.  Our handle is @ChristMinistNWA.

We’re nearing 300 messages that I’ve posted since I embraced what God has been calling me to do, and how to use the gift that He’s placed within me that was prophetically spoken to my by my mentor and father in the faith…Pastor Stephen Robbins.  I started out with barely 10 followers last January, and now we’re up over 300 followers and still growing.

As many of you in ministry know, once God begins to promote you that means that the devil has begun to know your name also, and that means he’s begun to work to bring down what God has begun.  I would like to let you know that if there’s anything I covet most of all, other than to hear God tell me “well done” it would be that those of you who follow this ministry would keep my ministry, my family, and of course me in your prayers.  As many of you know, once the devil is aware of who you are…he begins to work to discredit you, and the first place he starts is within the home.

It’s been an amazing journey that God’s taken me on in just over a year’s time.  I’ve reached over 100 nations with the messages I write, and that let me know that my vision for this ministry was too limited in the sense that I originally thought I would just reach my family and friends…and now I’m reaching people as far a way as New Zealand and as close as right here in Bentonville, Arkansas, and even my home town in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

God is so faithful, friends.  Even when we’re not, and we’re still learning how to walk and become the man of God you’re called to be.  I’m learning how to be a husband, how to be a father, a son, a pet owner, a good employee, and a pastor all at the same time.  I fail often, but the beauty of God is that just because I make mistakes…He doesn’t change His mind about what He’s called me to do.  The gifts and calling of God are without repentance…that means that just because we screw up…God doesn’t take away our gifts and calling…rather He expects us to use what we go through to enhance them, and become a part of the testimony of the workmanship that He’s doing in, with, and through our lives.

I admit there are times I’m intimidated because I’m not a world renown writer, I haven’t ever been to a Bible college or seminary or even gotten a degree online.  I’ve never been officially or legally licensed or ordained as a pastor.  The only schooling and instruction I’ve received were from gifted men of God who imparted into my life, and the Lord Himself.  I guess I describe my ministry training as having gone through Holy Ghost University…how many of you know the best training to receive is by the Lord Himself.

I know, however, that my calling is to be a pastor, and that’s because of what God spoke to me through His Word.  I know that my ministry is to be involved in social media like I am now, and to use the ability to write He’s given me as my pulpit.  I know that God has told me about the fact that the people He draws to this ministry aren’t my sheep…that you belong to Him, but that He’s entrusting some part of the feeding of your lives to me…and that’s what I’m trying to do…equip you.

My ministry is really an Ephesians 4 ministry…working to encourage and equip you to do the work of the ministry you’re called to.  We’re all called to represent God in some form or fashion.  We’re not all called to be pastors, evangelists, teachers, apostles, or prophets…but we are all called to be ambassador’s for Christ.  What’s our ministry?  I’m glad you asked.

We’re called to be ministers of reconciliation. We’re called to go into all the world preaching and teaching the gospel.  We’re to make disciples of all nations.  We’re to be salt and light to a world that’s lost it’s flavor and is in the dark of their own desires.

We’re here to use the gifts that God has given us to advance and add to the Kingdom.  If someone like me can do what I’m doing then there’s no reason anyone else can’t do it too.  I think we make ministry too difficult.  We worry about standing in a pulpit or going off to some foreign land for a missions trip.  I have been asked to visit several places, but you know what…thanks to the internet…I visited over 100 nations over the last year without leaving my home.  I’m still reaching people, I am still preaching the good news, and I’m still giving people an opportunity to make Jesus the Lord of their lives by what I do right here from my computer.

Anyways, thank you for taking the time to follow my ministry.  All of you are an encouragement to me, and every person God adds helps me to know that I’m doing just what He designed me to do for such a time as this.  I hope you’ll visit us on Facebook, and Twitter.  I hope that you’ll continue to like and enjoy the messages I put out…that are all written by inspiration of the Holy Ghost, by the way.  I thank all of you for your support, and most of all your prayers.

Eventually, I am working on a way to set something up through PayPal so that if you desire or are led by God to support this ministry financially there will be a way for you to do that.  I want it to be known that there is never any obligation to give anything to this ministry.  We depend 100% on the Holy Ghost to lead people that way.  We will never ask for money, we will never charge for any of our messages, and we will always let you know exactly what it is we would use any money you donate to us for.  All ministries have operating costs, and there are things we’d like to so that we can upgrade our WordPress page and all…and of course that takes money…but we depend upon the Lord for those funds.  If they’re not there…they’re not there…and we’ll never solicit money from any of you at any time.  Should that be something we’re able to set up…I will be sure to let you all know…and leave it to you and the Holy Ghost to decide what to do with that information.

Well, friends.  I believe that’s all for this ministry newsletter of sorts.  I love all of you, and thank you again for your support, encouragement, and prayers.

Blessings and Grace to you.

Pastor Bryan Kizer

Christlike Ministries NWA

“My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 16:24

ATTN Christlike Ministries NWA WordPress followers!!!

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I am conduction a poll for my next series.  The choices are.

  1. 5 Message Series Titled:  ”Remembering All That God Has Done”
  2. 6 Message Series Titled:  ”Quest for Joy”
  3. 8 Message Series Titled:  ”Seeking God in Worship.

The poll question is on the Christlike Ministries NWA Facebook page at:  www.Facebook.com/ChristlikeMinistriesNWA.  I also have posted them as separate Tweets on Twitter.  Our account is @ChristMinistNWA.  The topic will be tabulated by the most votes and retweets.

Voting is open until Saturday.  The winning topic will be announced on Sunday, and will begin next week.

So, please visit us on either Facebook or Twitter to cast your vote.

Thanks for your time, your vote, and have a blessed day.

Blessings & Grace to you
Pastor Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA
“My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 16:24 (KJV)

Merry Christmas From Christlike Ministries NWA–Ministry News December 2012

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Greetings once again Christlike Ministries NWA Family,

I would like to take some time to wish all of you a Merry Christmas from our family to yours, and being that it’s Christmas Eve what a better time to take a moment to let you know what’s going to be happening as 2012 draws to a close, and 2013 begins.

Tomorrow is Christmas Day.  Many of us starting tonight or maybe already have begun gathering to celebrate with family many of us like we did for Thanksgiving.  Only the difference is we gather to open gifts, and mimic what the wise men did when they brought baby Jesus gifts.   It’s funny how many try to take credit for starting what God started, and even try to trademark what God already has the all the legal rights to.  Like I’ve said before, if God decided to sue everyone for infringing upon His copy writes, trademarks, and patents…there would be quite a few people who would be flat broke…Amen!?!

Most of you know that I had to cancel the rest of the Christmas devotional series, but many of you may not know why.  So, now that I have time to give you the explanation I owe you…here it is:  For my “day job” I am a route driver for Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and shortly after we begun the Christmas series I was given a new route.  This route is a very important route for our franchise because it involves maintaining a strong and very good relationship with Walmart.  So, with this new route came a pay raise, and increased responsibility because this new route could be the beginning of some really good things for our local Krispy Kreme franchise.  As a result of being a reliable and dependable employee, and God making sure that I had the favor with my employer to be recognized for my hard work and dependability…my work day went from being 6 hours at the most to lasting anywhere between 10 to 14 hours, and it’s been difficult to find time to rest, write, spend time with family, or my own personal devotional time with the Lord.

So, as you might be able to understand…my time began to quickly get out of balance.  I needed to cancel the rest of the series because I just couldn’t really find time to make sure I was getting enough rest, and as punishment for that my body has rewarded me with my first almost full blown cold (for Christmas) in about two years.  However, I should also note that even though it’s taken me and God a few weeks…I believe I am starting to find a way (with God’s help) to get it all to balance again.  I admit that I still have a bit of work to do in that area, but I believe that come 2013…when I believe that I’ll be more able to resume posting the sound Bible base messages you’ve come to expect from this ministry.

So…here’s some of the things I already know that 2013 are going to bring…

  • A New Addition to the Kizer Family:  My wife and I are expecting a child to arrive some time within the first couple weeks of August.  We found out a couple weeks ago, and now that our close family and friends know…I’m free to announce it to all of you.  God’s blessed us with the greatest gift of all…a new life.
  • Embracing Faith:  During a shopping trip to Dollar General, I found this daily devotional book, and feel like it’s a good daily devotional for us to walk through.  I believe that this may wind up being our sole teaching tool this coming year.  I will continue to monitor the devotional series that YouVersion puts out, and of course continue to rely upon the Holy Ghost to put whatever He desires on my heart to write about.
  • The 2013 Theme:  I was in the midst of writing the Christmas Eve message when I heard a simple word dropped into my spirit.  That word:  Abide.  The theme for next year not just for myself, but all of us who are of the Christlike Ministries NWA Family is going to be “Abide in Christ”.  We’re going to have to rely upon God more than ever before.  As I wrote in a message not too long ago…we’re going to have to learn to approach the throne of grace with boldness to obtain mercy and grace to help us in our times of need.  We’re not going to be able to rely upon our own strength and abilities…we are going to have to remain attached to the Vine…and that means we’re going to have to be even more committed to abiding in the Word, taking time to worship & pray in our prayer closets…and make sure that we’re gathering together with likeminded believers in good, solid, strong Bible believing and preaching churches.
  • The Beginning of the Year Fast:  Starting January 2nd, I am going to be fasting for 21 Days, and the things included in this fast are going to be things like coffee, soda, junk food, energy drinks, doughnuts, secular music, television, sports talk radio, and I’m not sure what else.  I know the hard ones already are going to be the things I rely upon to give me energy during work…like coffee, soda, energy drinks.  21 Days without coffee is definitely going to require me to lean upon the Lord for strength…Amen!?!  That’s the point of fasting anyways…disciplining your flesh to rely upon God for what you need…and therefore as much as I am dreading the fast from coffee, soda, and even tea…I know that relying upon the Lord during this time will allow me to really tap into what I need from Him…and hopefully bring a real, personal encounter with Him.  That’s the goal of fasting…amen!?!  Encountering God.

I believe that’s all that I can think of at the moment.  Right now, as we stand…this post will be our 275th message.  There are 97 Facebook fans (www.Facebook.com/ChristlikeMinistriesNWA), 114 Twitter followers (@ChristMinistNWA), and 39 that follow this ministry via WordPress (www.christlikeministriesnwa.wordpress.com).  Since February 25, 2012 we have reached over 100 nations (including the United States, Canada, and Mexico).  Christlike Ministries NWA truly has a global reach, and I’m trusting God to continue to help us reach every shore with the truth of the Word of God.

I want to thank all 240 of you who follow Christlike Ministries NWA however you may be following us, and let you know that all of you are an encouragement to me.  I trust God to help us to continue to grow, and add followers to this ministry.  I trust Him to help me to continue to write messages that will impact our lives, and help us to maintain a more personal and intimate relationship with Him.  I trust Him to help me grow personally, and continue to grow and become a better writer.

With that, I believe I will close this message, and wish all of you a Merry Christmas…and a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year.  I hope all of you will return to follow this ministry in 2013, and will accept the mission to Abide in Christ even more.  Please continue to keep me in your prayers, and know that all of you are in mine.

“My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 16:24 (KJV)
Blessings & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA

The Kizers Too

 

Ministry News November 2012

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Greetings Christlike Ministries NWA Family.

I am so excited to be writing this update to you today.  We’re inching closer to that 100 fan mark, and that’s awesome.  It’s humbling to have God draw people to this ministry, and I know that as long as He does…that means I’m doing something right…Amen.

Thanksgiving is on Thursday.  I’m excited to be able to fellowship with family, and all month-long on my personal Facebook page I’ve been keeping track of things I’m thankful for…and will be sharing that on November 30th on both my personal page and on here as well.

I thought now would be a good idea to let you know about how I feel we’ll be winding down this year series wise…unless the Holy Ghost changes things…I believe I’ve a pretty good handle on the schedule of our upcoming series…and like I just said tomorrow…we’ll wrap up the Authentic Prayer series.

  • Mon. Nov. 19 thru Wed. Nov 21:   “Finding Real Happiness”.  We’ll do a short 3 Day Series by John Piper…I thought with Thanksgiving coming up, that may give us some time to reflect and find some things to be thankful about…so that when it’s our turn at the dinner table to give something we’re thankful for…so that we can avoid that awkward silence while we think of something.  Hopefully this series will help us with that…Amen!?!  I mean we have plenty that God’s given us to be thankful for anyways, but just to be sure…this series might provide us with some good stuff to get our hearts full of gratitude…Amen!?!
  • Thurs. Nov. 22 through Sun. Nov. 25:  Thanksgiving Break…Since many of us may be traveling and possibly off work…I thought it be more important to spend time with family…then online reading or writing messages…Amen!?!  So, enjoy Thanksgiving weekend…eating lots of turkey and leftovers, and all the football you can watch…Hallelujah!
  • Mon. Nov. thru Wed. Nov. 28th:  “God’s Pleasure in Creation”:  This is another one of those short, 3 Day devotionals by John Piper that we can do between Thanksgiving and the start of our Christmas Series…Amen!?!
  • Friday, November 30th thru Monday, December 24th (Christmas Eve):  “Carol:  A Christmas Devotional”:  I don’t know about you, but this is the series I’m the most excited about.  It’s a chance for us to look at some of the most beloved Christian Christmas Carol, and I am just believing that not only remind us that Jesus really is the reason for the season, but I believe that what we’re going to learn through these Christmas Carols may have a powerful impact upon our lives.

Between Christmas and New Years, there isn’t much of a sense of what we might do.  I believe that will be left up to the Holy Ghost.  I know, you’re probably thinking how is having a schedule leaving things up to the Holy Ghost, but I truly believe that this is the way we’ll finish out 2012.  I don’t think we’ll get into any series between Christmas and New Years because I know that’s when a lot of us have family things to do, and so I would rather not be a nuisance…posting all kinds of message during Christmas Break…so we may have various messages here and there…or the Christmas Series might just be the last series of 2012…it’s all up to the Lord.

Starting on January 2nd…out loud I want you to say January 2nd…there’s a definite sense in my spirit that I’ll be doing a 21 Day Fast.  Exactly from what…has yet to be determined, but I’m already about 85% certain that things like television, sports talk radio, computer games, soda, junk food, and energy drinks are all going to be part of that fast.  However, I want this to be about what the Lord wants me to discipline my flesh from, and completely rely upon Him and His strength to help me get through it.  That means that this fast might actually…gulp…include coffee.  YIKES!!!  The challenge will not only be to make it 21 Days without caffeine of any kind…but to do it without wanting to beat someone senseless because I haven’t have my morning coffee…that could be dangerous…LOL.

Also, starting January 1st we will be starting a full 365 day devotional “Embracing Faith”.  I’ve not really read it, but it looks to have some pretty good stuff in it.  There’s no introduction for it or anything.  Just a verse:  “I will praise You, Lord, with all my heart…and will praise Your name for Your love and Your faithfulness.”  Psalm 138:1-2 (NIV).  In addition to that devotional, I’ll also be keeping a journal along with the 21 Day Fast, and we’ll see what else the Lord might have us get into to start 2013 strong…Amen.

It’s an honor and a privilege to write these messages, and it’s humbling to know that God can take a life like mine, and use it for the advancement of His Kingdom.  My hope is always to help us all to develop and maintain our walk with God in a deeper and more intimate and personal way…and I look forward to finishing 2012 on a strong note, and starting off 2013 in a powerful way…and I hope that all of you will continue this journey with me…as we get to know God more and more…and allow more of His love to penetrate the depths of our hearts.  Thank you all so much for the encouragement you give me to continue doing this.  I remember when I barely had 10 people following my ministry…and now at least 10 people a day are reading these messages that the Lord places upon my heart.

Well, I believe that’s all that is on my heart to share with you. I am so thankful for all of our 93 fans on our Facebook Fan Page: www.Facebook.com/ChristlikeMinistriesNWA, Our 106 followers on Twitter @ChristMinistNWA, and our 29 followers right here on our WordPress page: www.christlikeministriesnwa.wordpress.com. Besides the United States…we’re reaching 12 other nations right now, and I’m believing that God will expand our reaches into more.

“Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:2)
Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA

Bryan & Tara Kizer

The King IS Coming…Are You Ready?

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A while ago, I posted a video of Don Potter’s “Come Come Come”, and I thought I was done, but I really have this heavy feeling upon my heart that I need to make sure that we all really get these words that were sung before Don Potter breaks into “Come, Come, Come”…and the significance of making sure we know that this was taped in 2006…it doesn’t take much if you really read and listen to what’s said…to understand we’re 6 years in to what was spoken…and that we’re most definitely living in the days the Lord spoke of.

I figured I’d add the actual video so that you can listen along…and then rock out to the song…but don’t just rock out…listen to the words also…there’s a lot of really good stuff in this song.

By the way…don’t just skim through and read this like you’d read anything else…take a moment to meditate and reflect…and really allow these words to penetrate your mind and heart…

“The times we’re living in seems like there’s no going back…the things we’re hearing about…the Lord has spoken of…THERE ARE NO SURPRISES IN THE KINGDOM…you were made for this hour…you were made to stand strong…you were made for this time…you were made to sing…made to fight…made to worship with all your might…you are made for the glory to be poured out upon you…you were made for this time…YOU were made for THIS time…you were made for this TIME…the Spirit of Elijah is upon the earth…the Spirit of Elijah means that JOHN THE BAPTIST is here again…crying out in “Prepare the Way for the KING IS COMING”.”

Now…I’m not going to attempt to be one of those weirdo’s that claim to know the day & hour that Jesus is coming back, but this was spoken out in 2006…and I’m pretty sure if we’re able to really look around…the things we’re hearing of and seeing…the Lord spoke of…the prophets spoke of…and if you can’t look around and see that we’re living in the last days before the trumpet sounds…then you need to get your head out of the sand…and seriously take a look.

Friends, there’s never been a more urgent time to get serious about being serious with God…the KING IS COMING…and He’s coming much…much sooner than we think or expect.  Remember…that trumpet is going to sound…the Bible says it’s going to…and that means it will…and we need to be more like Elisha…and start listening for that sound of rain…because I believe the ONLY people who are going to hear that trumpet…are the ones who are watching and listening for it…while the rest of the world goes on living like they did in Noah’s day…laughing and sneering and mocking the very God that’s giving them one chance…and one chance only to get into the Ark…and be saved from what’s coming.

Are you in the Ark?  That’s a simple way of asking are you in Christ?  Have you trusted Him as Lord and Savior?  If not…it’s really easy to do.  How easy?  You know…easy as the A-B-C’s:

A- Admit
Admit to God that you are a sinner. Repent, turning away from your sin.
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life. Romans 6:23
B- Believe
Believe that Jesus is God’s Son and accept God’s gift of forgiveness from sin.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3: 16
C- Confess
Confess your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:9-10, 13

If you’re ready to confess Christ as Lord and Savior…then you’re ready for this:

Dear Lord Jesus…come into my heart.  Forgive me of my sin.  Wash me, cleanse me, and set me free.  Jesus, thank You that You died for me.  I believe that You are risen from the dead and that You’re coming back for me.  Place me IN Your Ark right now, today.  Fill me with the Holy Ghost.  Give me a passion for the lost, a hunger for the things of God, and a holy boldness to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  I boldly confess that I am a whosoever that has called upon the name of the Lord…that I am IN the Ark…and that I am saved…I am born again…I am forgiven…I am the righteousness of God IN Christ Jesus…and I am In the Ark and on my way to Heaven because I have Jesus in my heart.  In Jesus name I pray…Amen!

 

Attention Christlike Ministries NWA Followers…Please Cast Your Vote!!!

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Good Afternoon.

In an effort to make our ministry a little more interactive…the Lord has directed me to have you…the Christlike Ministries NWA fans, followers, and readers vote on the next series we will do…starting Monday.

This poll is going to stay available all the way through tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon, it’s also available on our Facebook Fan Page:  http://www.facebook.com/questions/500218873336300/

I’ve come up with a few topics, and would like all of you who view this post to not just read it…but actually vote because this series is all about what YOU the readers want to talk about. So…the next series we do is up to you…and obviously the topic with the most votes will be the next series. So vote early & vote often…Amen!?!

Thank you for taking the time to read & vote…and I’ll announce tomorrow on the our Facebook page the winning series…which means if you’re not already a fan of ours on Facebook…please take the time to visit us at http://www.Facebook.com/ChristlikeMinistriesNWA…and hit the “like” button.

I’m excited to see what you guys choose for our next series, and appreciate all of you who take the time to vote on it…so far…there’s 5 votes (all on our Facebook page), but it’s all up to you guys…I’m not going to vote on the series…it’s up to and about you…the Christlike Ministries NWA fans.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)
Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA

New Series Starting Monday: “The Fascinating Love of God: Devotions With John Piper”

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Well…I’m pleased to announce that starting Monday…we’ll do a short 3 Day Series Titled: “The Fascinating Love of God: Devotions With John Piper“

I feel like this is something we need to get established…and in our hearts…God loves us, God loves me, and God loves you.

It’s important that we KNOW that God loves us…and I believe that any time we can talk about the Love of God…we should.

So…enjoy your weekend…and hopefully you’ll join me on Monday.

“My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 16:24 (KJV)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA

Discontinuing Seeking God Series

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Dear Friends of Christlike Ministries NWA,

I’m writing this post to let you know that I believe I’m being lead to discontinue the Seeking God series.  There are two reasons.  Most importantly, I believe this is what the Holy Ghost wants us to do.  I have tried to be consistent from the beginning of Christlike Ministries NWA in that I would always…always follow the leading and prompting of the Holy Ghost.  It’s with that leading that I believe we’re going to leave this series where it is…and perhaps get back to it at another time.  It all depends upon what the Holy Spirit wants us to do…and right now I woke up from my nap thinking about discontinuing this series…and it seems like the right thing to do…and therefore we are going to do just that.

There is, however, a personal reason for this is due to a very underwhelming response to this series by those of you who are following this ministry.  It seems to me that no one is being reached by this series, and that perhaps this series is best done on your own time.  In previous series we’ve gotten at least some response, but we’re over two weeks into this series…and it seems to me that it’s just not impacting people like I thought it would.

I am going to continue to personally finish the series myself because Seeking God is the single most important thing I do when it comes to ministry, work, family, and my life’s direction.  I am learning that I really cannot do anything apart from Christ, and perhaps that’s one of the greatest things to learn…it really is ALL about Jesus.

So, if there’s anyone who would like to continue this series on their own…I’ll give you the link, and you can do this devotional series on your own.  Here’s the link:

https://www.youversion.com/reading-plans/365-seeking-god

I’m not exactly sure what direction we’re going to go from here, but like the series suggests…I’m going to seek God…and when I have a clear direction for our next series…I’ll make an announcement on Facebook and Twitter.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer
Christlike Ministries NWA

The Latest Tragedy To Hit America.

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I’m supposed to be trying to write a message today about “Living The Surrendered Life”, but as I sit here trying to figure out what to write or to say…the truth is that it’s hard to want to write a message on a day like today where tragedy has once again struck us here in America.  There has been yet another mass shooting…this time outside of a movie theater on the opening night of the latest Batman movie…the reports are at least a dozen have tragically lost their lives.

So…how do you write a message after something like this happens?  I know there are many…many people who are pointing a finger at God saying that if there really is this “all powerful and loving God” how could He let something like this happen?

Many of us who are preachers and teachers of the Word of God fumble for something to say that would comfort the masses, and attempt to answer the “Where was God?” question that usually arises during something like this shooting in Aurora, Colorado.

So…where exactly was God when this happened?  Any time something like this happens it reminds me of September 11, 2001…and maybe one of the greatest things I came across that comforted me was this beautiful video someone made right here…

Where is God when tragedy strikes anyways?

What God says is this:  “I want you to know I saw every face, I knew every name…though not all of them knew Me.”

Friends…when will we wake up to realize that the last thing God wants is for any of us to perish, but even more so that He doesn’t want anyone to leave this world rejecting His Son Jesus for the very last time…and when will we wake up to understand that tomorrow may be too late?  When will we realize that tomorrow may never come…that’s why the Word of God says…today is the day of salvation.

It’s always easy to turn and point the finger at God.  Can I say to you, however, that it’s not His fault?  Can I remind you that there is another god at work in this world that’s always trying to take as many people who don’t know Jesus with him as possible?  Can I tell you that yelling and finger-pointing at God might make you feel better, but the truth is…He’s not at fault?

Listen…when the people of this nation would rather stand in line for hours for the opening of the new Batman movie, and can’t spend more than an hour in church on Sunday because it might get in the way of the NFL games or the NASCAR race…then how dare we point a finger at God?

I am not saying that we as a nation are responsible for what happened in Colorado, but what I am saying is that when we as a nation (believers and non-believers alike) point our prideful fingers at God to ask where He was…how many of us could He in return ask us questions like: “Where we you on Sunday?”  or “What happened to your commitment to that Bible Study you were going to start?”

You see…God was there.  He was there with every single person at that moment.  Some He took home…some decided for the final time to reject Him…and they will spend the rest of eternity separated from the God they mocked.

Maybe there were some of them who thought that after that movie they would get their lives together, and seek God on Sunday. Maybe there were backsliding believers who would rather see Batman than be in church.  Maybe there were those there who were openly defiant to God, but now they realize all of us Jesus freaks were right…but it’s too late then.

Maybe this isn’t the time to write a message, but to speak out about how this nation needs to get serious about turning to God instead of blaming Him for some crazy evil person who isn’t acting on God’s will at all.

On one hand, I realize that I need to be sensitive and know that this is a very tragic moment, and that there are a lot of heavy hearts today.  On the other hand, I realize that if I don’t seize this moment to bring another dose of reality in how every one of the people who died probably thought they would have more time to live their life however they wanted…and now they’re spending eternity separated from God…or hopefully spending eternity with God.

Any time a lift is taken is tragic, but the even deeper tragedy is every life that leaves this world rejecting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  So…that begs the very serious and obvious question:

If you were one of those victims who lost their lives…where would you be spending eternity?

If you or someone you know doesn’t know the answer to that question then I would like to invite you to check out this link:  http://www.christlikeministriesnwa.org/Do-You-Know-Jesus-.html

Maybe the most important message today is this one…if you don’t know Jesus as Lord and Savior…you need to…and don’t say to yourself that you’ll do it tomorrow…I’m positive that at least one person who lost their life in that shooting thought the same thing…I’ll give my heart to Jesus tomorrow…unfortunately they don’t have any tomorrow’s left.

If you do know Jesus, and you know people who don’t know Jesus then please…take the time to get them to the link above…or talk to them about Jesus…and make sure they understand the urgency of the situation…tomorrow is not guaranteed to no man.

So…perhaps that’s the best possible message I could write today…make sure that you and your loved ones don’t put off until tomorrow…what really needs to be done today…

The Bible says:  “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

It’s time to make sure everyone understands they are a “whosoever” and if they haven’t called upon the name of the Lord…they are not saved.

Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus.  There really are no words some times to describe the tragedy and hurt in a heart after something like this shooting happens.  Lord so many shake their fists in anger at You wondering how You could allow something like this to happen…not really caring that You’re not the only God that’s at work in this world in which we live.

I pray, Lord, for those who have lost loved ones, and the families, the community, and all who have been affected by the senseless shooting that took place…and I ask…Lord God that You…the God of all comfort would be with those who grieve and mourn the loss of their loved ones.  I pray, Lord, that You would impress it upon their hearts that You too mourn the loss of each life who rejected Your Son for the final time.

Lord, I pray a hedge of Your protection around that community tonight…and around all of us this night.  May You take this tragedy that the devil sought to use to promote terror and fear…and turn it in to opportunities for Your glory to be shown and made known in all the earth.

Father, I ask that this would be a moment where people who don’t know You would realize that tomorrow may well be too late, and that there would be many who would come to understand how fragile life is…and that no one…not even them is guaranteed to take one more breath…I ask that Your will and Your glory be done through this event.

I ask all these things in the name of Your precious Son…Jesus…Amen & Amen

New Series “Living The Surrendered Life” Starts Monday July 2, 2012

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Greetings to you from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.  I’m writing this as a general message to let those of you who like and look forward to the messages put out by this ministry that our next series:  ”Living The Surrendered Life” is going to be starting on Monday July 2, 2012.

It will be a 21 day series, and I’m very much looking forward to getting into this series to find out what the Lord would have to say to us.  I trust it will be challenging, encouraging, and I also believe that it’s really going to take us to a deeper place with the Lord.

So, I apologize for the long delay in between series, but I want to be sure that we do everything in line with the Holy Ghost.  I was planning to start this series this past week, but I never really felt there was unction or a flow because the Holy Ghost had some things to work out in me before we could begin this series.

I just think that’s awesome.  Before I began writing messages about a surrendered life I had some things that I needed to surrender to Him so that I the Lord could speak through me…and so I wouldn’t be hypocritical neither.

See, I’m a regular person doing something that God’s called me to do.  I’m nothing special apart from Him, and you know…some times the best thing to do is get out of the way…and let God have His.

So…I hope you will join me on Monday for “Living A Sacrificed Life” Day 1.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer

All Ministry Posts To Resume On Monday

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Hey there everyone.  I just wanted to take a moment to let you know that I will resume posting messages starting Monday.  We’re going to be working on our third Toxin in the series 6 Toxins That Affect Our Walk With God, then there’s the Our Daily Bread Messages, and whatever else the Lord lays on my heart to get into.

Sometimes, it’s necessary to take a few steps back, and refocus.  Having the opportunity to do that I’ve come to really understand more that I already have that this is exactly what I’m called of God to be doing.  I hope that you find our posts to be encouraging when you need to be encouraged, challenging when you need to be challenged, comforting when you need to be comforted, and above all I hope that you’re encountering God in a way you haven’t ever before.

The whole goal of this is not for you to rely upon us, but for you to develop your own study habits and patterns.  Of course, I hope that you’ll continue to follow along with us, but the real goal of my ministry is to help you to develop and maintain an intimate relationship with God.

So, I appreciate your patience, and I hope that you’ll continue to follow along with our posts.  I also hope that you’ll help get the word out about my ministry, our Facebook page, and help us to reach more people.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer

What’s Happening Now?

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Hey there.  I just wanted to take a moment to let you know what’s going on with Christlike Ministries Arkansas.  We’re on Facebook, Twitter, and I’m still trying to figure out a few other Social Networking sites before I add our ministry to them.  I just want to be sure that I’m not spreading ourselves to think or too thin, and as always I’m relying totally on the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me when it comes to knowing what Social Networking sites we need to be on.  So far, the leading one really has been Facebook, and since we have everything linked between Facebook, Twitter, and WordPress I feel confident that we’ve made a good start.

Personally, I’m still waiting to start the Discipleship Track at New Life Christian Center, but I’m getting closer to being able to get started.  I really wish that I could come up with the money I need to get started on my ordination and licensing through World Christianship Ministries, but that’ll come.  It’s one of the things that’s on my priority list.  I just look forward to having Christlike Ministries NWA legally registered as a ministry, and officially becoming Pastor Bryan J. Kizer of Christlike Ministries NWA.  I believe when everything is said and done.  The name will wind up being Christlike Ministries NWA because that’s really where we’re located, and this is also where we’re going to operate from.  I know the name Christlike Ministries is already being used, but I know that Christlike Ministries is to be the name of the ministry God’s called me to…and if I have to add something like Arkansas or NWA to it to make sure it’s a legally registered entity…that’s the goal…that’s the dream…and that’s the vision.

Well, I know this isn’t very long, but I just wanted to give you a short, quick, and sweet update as to the going’s on inside of Christlike Ministries Arkansas.  What we’re up to both as a ministry, and myself as the minister.  I hope you’ve enjoyed all of the messages we’ve done, and as you know we’re currently in the midst of 6 Toxins That Affect Our Walk With God.  I am also currently trying to maintain a Daily Devotional message as often as I can from the Our Daily Bread Devotional magazine from RBC Ministries.  I love all of you, and appreciate everyone who is following our ministry.  Please know that I covet your prayers whether its for my family, the ministry, or me…I need all the prayer your willing to pray.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)
Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer

 

Goodness of God 7 Day Series

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Have you ever wanted to do a short study on the Goodness of God? Well starting tomorrow…we’re going to go through a 7 Day series on just that. I hope that you’ll follow along…and just as we recommended before…when doing these studies…we suggest the following:

Pray: God, connect with me here, as I seek you in your Word. Begin with focus and openness to see what God has for you.

Read: the selected section of Scripture slowly. Take note of intriguing words and phrases and read them a second time.

Reflect: on what strikes you as you read. Think through what God is communicating to you at this point in your life.

Respond: to the passage. Speak to God directly about what’s on your mind and heart. Look for ways to live out what you’ve uncovered.

Share: It’s important for those of you to comment & share what God’s speaking to you. Not only because it encourages us to let us know that we’re reaching people, but remember IRON SHARPENS IRON…that’s what the heart of this ministry is…don’t just keep the information & hoard it for yourself…share what God speaks to you so that you may encourage one another.

So…please come back tomorrow…as we start to see what we can discover about the Goodness of God.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer

 

7 Day Series on The Grace of God

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Greetings Christlike Ministries Arkansas fans.  We are just about to wrap up our 7 day study on The Grace of God.  My hope is that like I’ve come to learn more about Grace you have as well.  There is always more to learn, and this study wasn’t really an in depth study.  So, please don’t stop here.  It’s of the utmost importance that you take time to study your Bible, and God’s grace is always a good subject to study.

I really liked today’s message in 2 Peter 1; 2 – 4.  It was a good reminder than not only do we enter into the Christian life by grace through faith…we also grow in the Christian life by grace through faith.  I can’t help but to think of how often I neglect to remember that grace is essential when it comes to walking with God…because it’s always there.  God’s grace is sufficient for ALL of our needs.  Grace is an absolute necessity for all of the Christian life, and even I learned how important Grace is to our walk with God.

Our next series is on “The Goodness of God”.  It is also a 7 day series, and I hope that you’ll join us as we take a closer look at God’s goodness.

We would like to thank those of you who follow along with our studies.  We appreciate all of you, and hope that you’ll continue to follow along.

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:23-24)

Blessing & Grace to you
Bryan J. Kizer

Welcome to 2012 from Christlike Ministries Arkansas – Bryan Kizer

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Greetings to all…and Happy 2012.  I hope y’all had a fantastic Christmas, and New Years.  I hope even more that y’all were able to come to know that family & love ones is really what the Holiday’s are about.  I have come to make some resolutions both for my personal life, and the ministry I’m called to…and I figure that this is a way to test to see if this will actually work along side Facebook.  If it does this will enable me to really work on  some good messages…and that’s the hope with using this blogging site…to be able to more effectively minister.

I have never really made a practice of making resolutions, but I guess I have a few that I can share.  Everything begins with my relationship with God for me.  Whether in my personal life or for my ministry I am always resolving to improve my walk with God.  Everything in life is about relationships, and in addition to improving my relationship with God…I resolve to work to improve my relationships with the people in my life…and simply become the man of God I’m called to become…both to my family, friends & loved ones…and my ministry.  Ya know…the resolution business is pretty simple…I just want to align myself more with God’s will, and become the man He’s called me to be…for my friends, family, and loved ones.

Christlike Ministries Arkansas

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Christlike Ministries Arkansas has finally got a blog. This may quite possibly be the best option for getting our messages out. I hope you’ll visit us…and I’m even more hopeful that I can link this with out Facebook & Twitter accounts so it’s available…and we’re always looking for more opportunities to use all avenues the to promote Christ…and keep good biblical teaching going forth.

God bless & Happy 2012.

predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. (Romans 8:29)