Author Archives: pastorjeffsneighborhood

Unknown's avatar

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.

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 →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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 →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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 →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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 →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

God’s Abundant Supply

Posted on June 22, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

God sees your need.  He is more than able to meet it. His ability to provide is unlimited. Walk in obedience to God’s leading step by step, expecting his provision. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Bumps in the Road

Posted on June 21, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

But the mixed reaction, the opposition, and even the persecution could not steal their joy. The gladness found in a relationship with Christ and bubbling up from within by the Holy Spirit can not be taken away by mere circumstances. They went on their way “brimming with joy and the Holy Spirit.” Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Inquire of the LORD

Posted on June 20, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Seek the LORD and his counsel. When he speaks, listen, even if it is not what you want to hear. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Becoming Like the One You Worship

Posted on June 19, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Few in the western world worship such idols. We are more sophisticated (or so we think). I believe it was Calvin that called our hearts an “idol making factory”—on that point I would firmly agree. The gods we dream up—greed, materialism, hedonism and the like—have neither eyes nor ears. They are just as lifeless—and bring us no more life than the more traditional idols. As we trust in them, we become more like them. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Surprise!

Posted on June 18, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

God answers prayer. Pray fervently and expectantly. And don’t be too surprised when the answer you are seeking comes knocking at the door. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The God Who Answers

Posted on June 17, 2026 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

How good it is to know that there is a God we can always turn to, one who always listens. He is able to save us no matter where we find ourselves. It is time to stop wavering between false gods and the living God. It is time to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to the one who loves us and hears and answers our prayers Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment