Author Archives: pastorjeffsneighborhood

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About pastorjeffsneighborhood

Born and raised in Minnesota, I have served in churches in Minnesota, Ohio, Oregon and California. I am a graduate of Crown College (MN) and George Fox Evangelical Seminary (OR). I have also done additional graduate studies in New Testament Studies at the Center for Advanced Theological Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary (CA). I am also a graduate of the College of Prayer. Having served as the Academic Dean and Program Director at Horizon Institute of Los Angeles for several years, I have returned to the pastorate and serve as Pastor of Big Trees Community Bible Church in Arnold, CA.

A Strong Tower

Posted on July 2, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Search the Scriptures and run to the name of the LORD! Remembering who he is brings comfort–His name is a strong tower; a place of refuge.  Run to His Name and find safety! Continue reading →

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Open Your Eyes, Lord

Posted on July 1, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

How do you handle a trial of your faith? How do you handle the taunts of the enemy? Hezekiah sets a great example. Lay out the problem before the LORD and cry out to him in prayer. He hears and he will answer. Continue reading →

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Reckless Abandon

Posted on June 30, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Still haunted by his confrontation by the risen Christ on the road to Damascus, Paul wants to finish the task he has given: to preach the gospel to those who haven’t heard. His life-changing encounter forever altered the course of his life and ministry. He refused to give up on the task now. Continue reading →

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Hear Me When I Call

Posted on June 29, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When we are confronted by opposition, we do well to follow the Psalmist in pouring out our hearts to God. We do well to pray for our response to that opposition—that God will strengthen our mouths, hearts, eyes and feet to follow his ways and not fall into the snares laid for us. Continue reading →

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A Second Chance Squandered

Posted on June 28, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Learn the lesson of Jehoahaz: make the best of the opportunities God gives. When you fail, cry out to the God of second chances. Then don’t squander the opportunity that he gives—don’t miss out on the fullness of his blessing! Continue reading →

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Under Attack

Posted on June 27, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Often times the deadliest weapons aimed against us are the words of others—words aimed to wound and destroy. Continue reading →

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Search Me, O God

Posted on June 26, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Armin Gesswein often reminded us at the College of Prayer that, “what God wants is not morbid introspection, but Holy Spirit inspection.” As he searches our hearts, we can repent and be set free. God’s searchlight brings repentance and transformation and leads to freedom. Continue reading →

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Singing at Midnight

Posted on June 25, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When confronted with impossible circumstances, remember that prayer and praise can powerfully deliver and set us free. As you approach midnight, do not fear. Do not give up. Keep singing. Keep praying. Keep looking for the intervention of God. Continue reading →

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Messy Growth

Posted on June 24, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

It is wonderful to see the growth in faith and growth in numbers. Yet with all the excitement of growth there inevitably comes struggle, conflict and problems. All these require creativity and flexibility. Continue reading →

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I’ve Got a Better Idea

Posted on June 23, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

When he stopped negotiating and started obeying, God answered and brought the miracle he desired. Often the answer to our prayers requires an act of obedience. The miracle we seek depends on following through on the revealed will of God. We suggest alternate scenarios. We try to set the conditions for obedience. We want the miracle—the answer—but we want to dictate the steps it takes to get there. Continue reading →

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