Category Archives: Devotional Thoughts

If . . . (Aug 20)

Posted on August 20, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Love is the glue that holds the body of Christ together despite the differences of our background, beliefs or experiences. Often people get “bent out of shape” regarding spiritual gifts. Love enables us to work together and learn from each other. Some in the body bring discernment to extremes; others help bring openness to the true working of God. As we love each other, we learn from each other. Gifts are given to build up the body, not to tear it apart. As we serve in love, that is exactly what happens. Continue reading →

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Behind the Scenes (Aug 18)

Posted on August 18, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

While the book of Esther never mentions the name of God, his working is seen throughout the book. While he may not be “front and center,” he is clearly working behind the scenes. Continue reading →

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Time to Celebrate (Aug 17)

Posted on August 17, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

A major work has been completed. The walls have been rebuilt.  Despite opposition and numerous setbacks, the job has been completed.  It was time to celebrate. Continue reading →

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I Could Sing of Your Love Forever (Aug 16)

Posted on August 16, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

ut profound truth. That the creator of all things loves me with a steadfast, undying love, is positively amazing. It was that truth, God’s love, that set the Psalmist’s heart to singing, and singing, and singing. Continue reading →

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All Things to All People (Aug 15)

Posted on August 15, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

ve a message for all ages, for all peoples, for all languages and cultures. Let us seek to understand those we are communicating with, so we can better relate the gospel to them in ways that best communicate the truth. Continue reading →

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Strengthened by Joy (Aug 14)

Posted on August 14, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Each day is an opportunity for celebration as we hear and understand God’s word. Understanding it brings joy, and that “joy of the Lord is our strength” (8:12).  God teaches us principles that enable us to live “life to the full.” His promises give us hope that strengthens us through the most difficult of times. Continue reading →

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Building Up or Tearing Down (Aug 13)

Posted on August 13, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Tearing down is simple. Building up is an art. Anyone can criticize; it takes no great skill to see the problems. It takes a real leader not to be distracted by the words that tear down; to keep to the task despite criticism. Continue reading →

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Bending God’s Ear (Aug 12)

Posted on August 12, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

David is looking for God’s ear. He is looking for God to hear and answer his prayer. He finds himself in a desperate situation, and he is looking for someone to talk to, someone who can protect and save him. Continue reading →

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Constructive Praying (Aug 11)

Posted on August 11, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Cupbearers tend to be people of prayer. Contractors tend to be people of action. Nehemiah was both. A Burdened heart led to powerful intercession. The struggle of prayer led to an open door by the blessing of God. A praying cupbearer was given opportunity to put feet to his prayers. Continue reading →

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Hope for the Hopeless (Aug 10)

Posted on August 10, 2021 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Despite our failures, our attempts to distance ourselves from God, our deliberate disobedience, our drifting from the principles of his word, God is still faithful and forgiving.  He is a God of grace and mercy. He is a God of hope (Rom. 15:13). He doesn’t give up on his people—even the ones who seem hopeless. People like you and me. Continue reading →

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