Tag Archives: materialism

Scarecrows in a Melon Patch

Posted on October 8, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

But what tears me up even more is the realization that we, who would not think to bow down to an idol, create “idols of the heart.” We worship and serve many things. Paul shows us that even misplaced values like greed and materialism can become idols. So can entertainment, sports, music or a political cause. The list could include most anything that becomes our preoccupation. Only God can bring security and meaning. He is the only rightful object of worship. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged idolatry, idols, idols of the heart, materialism, no ears, no eyes, no-one is like you Lord, scarecrows in a melon patch | Leave a comment

I’m Bored

Posted on September 2, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

The Teacher is bored. “Everything is meaningless” “All things are wearisome.” He has tried stimulating every one of his senses with the best life could offer. Where did it take him? Nowhere. He was bored. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Uncategorized | Tagged boredom, greed, happiness, hedonism, knowledge, materialism, meaning and purpose in life, money pleasure and things, pleasing God, wisdom | Leave a comment

Becoming Like the One You Worship

Posted on June 19, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Few in the western world worship such idols. We are more sophisticated (or so we think).Calvin that called our hearts an “idol making factory” 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 greed, hedonism, idol making factory, idolatry, materialism, the heart, true worship, where have you placed your trust | Leave a comment

Rooted Firmly and Bearing Fruit

Posted on February 19, 2025 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

As we go through the tough times of life, some who had started well lose ground. Anger, bitterness, discouragement and a whole host of other emotions cause our faith to wither. The word without faith only withers and dies. Yet the very same trials are intended to bring maturity and growth. Keep your eyes on Jesus in these trying times so that you do not lose hope. Persevere to the end. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged bear much fruit, blessings, good soil, materialism, on the path, Parable of the farmer, rocky soil, Satan, scattering seed, temptation, thorns, thorny soil, trial | Leave a comment

I’m Bored

Posted on September 2, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged greed, he had it all and he was bored, hedonism, materialism, meaning and purpose in life, pleasing God, position, power, pursuit of pleasure | Leave a comment

Where is Your Treasure?

Posted on January 29, 2024 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

Many find security in money and possessions. Christ calls us to abandon our misplaced security and trust him to provide all we need for this life and the next. Continue reading →

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Tagged handling worldly wealth, materialism, money, seek first the kingdom, treasures, treasures in heaven | Leave a comment

Money Matters

Posted on October 21, 2023 by pastorjeffsneighborhood

October 21 Money Matters Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 118:22-29 | Jeremiah 37:1-38:28 | 1 Timothy 6:1-21 | Proverbs 25:28 Today’s Scripture Focus: 1 Timothy 6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world and … Continue reading →