Northeast Florida Christian Chamber | March 2025 Newsletter | Serving Our Community with Purpose


As we step into March, we are reminded of our divine calling to serve and give back to our community with
hearts full of love, purpose, and unwavering faith. Service, at its core, is not just about meeting needs but
reflecting the heart of Christ in all we do. Scripture tells us, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but
to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45, ESV). In a world that often measures
greatness by power and influence, Jesus redefined it through humility and sacrificial love. His life is the
ultimate model for us, showing that true greatness lies in serving others selflessly.
Service as an Act of Worship
When we serve others, we are not merely engaging in good deeds; we are worshiping God through our actions.
As Hebrews 6:10 reminds us, “For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have
shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do.” Every act of kindness, no matter how small, becomes
an offering when done in His name. As believers, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing light
into darkness, hope to the hopeless, and comfort to the brokenhearted. Our service should flow from a place of
gratitude for all Christ has done for us, reflecting His love to a watching world.
Creating a Culture of Service
To create a lasting impact, we must cultivate a culture of service both individually and collectively. This month,
let us seek opportunities to uplift our community—whether by supporting local ministries, volunteering time, or
sharing resources with those in need. Consider mentoring a young believer, feeding the hungry, or extending
hospitality to a neighbor. Let us be intentional in our service, recognizing that every encounter is an opportunity
to demonstrate Christ's love.
The Endurance of Service
Serving others is not always easy. It requires sacrifice, humility, and perseverance. As we engage in this work,
may we find encouragement in the words of Galatians 6:9: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due
season we will reap, if we do not give up.” The impact of our service may not always be immediately visible,
but God promises a harvest in due time. Let us press on, trusting that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Service that Transforms
Service has the power not only to transform those we serve but also to change our own hearts. It shifts our focus
from ourselves to others, aligning our priorities with God’s kingdom. As we serve with compassion and
sincerity, we become living testimonies of God's grace and truth. Our community will see Christ through our
actions, drawing them closer to the One who loves them unconditionally.
A Call to Action
I encourage each of you to pray for opportunities to serve in a way that glorifies God and blesses others. As a
chamber, let us stand united in our mission to advance the Gospel through service, demonstrating the love of
Christ to Northeast Florida. Together, we can build a legacy of faith, hope, and love that will impact generations
to come.
May the Lord strengthen and equip us for every good work He has prepared in advance for us to do. Let us
serve with joy, knowing that our reward is in heaven.
In His Service,
Brad Sykes
President, Northeast Florida Christian Chamber of Commerce

January 2025 Message From The President:

Dear Members of the Northeast Florida Christian Chamber,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I pray this season finds you filled with hope and anticipation for all that God has planned. Each new year brings fresh opportunities to grow in faith, deepen relationships, and walk more closely with our Savior. It is my joy and privilege to journey alongside you as we seek to glorify Christ in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

As we consider our goals and priorities for the year, let us be reminded of the supreme importance of cultivating a discipline of Bible reading. But this discipline is not merely about completing a checklist or reading through the Bible in a year. While such plans can be helpful, the true aim is to let the Bible read us—to allow God’s Word to search our hearts, renew our minds, and transform our lives.

The Transforming Power of Scripture

Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that, “The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” When we approach Scripture with humility, it shapes us in profound ways, exposing our sin, correcting our course, and anchoring us in God’s eternal truth.

John Owen, one of the great Puritan theologians, put it this way: “If the Word does not dwell with power in us, it will not pass with power from us.” As individuals and as a Chamber, our effectiveness in ministry and business hinges on the depth of our engagement with God’s Word.

A Heart Posture for Bible Reading

Instead of rushing to “get through” a passage, let us take time to meditate on it, asking the Lord to reveal Himself and to conform us to His image. Psalm 1:2-3 illustrates the blessing of this approach: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”

As we read, let us also pray: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!  And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" Psalm 139:23-24

Looking Ahead Together

As we embrace this discipline together in 2025, let us encourage one another to go deeper into God's Word.  May it be said of us as it was of the early believers in Acts 2:42 "And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."  I am excited for the opportunities we will have this year to gather, grow, and glorify God as a Chamber. Let us commit this year to the Lord, seeking His guidance and grace in every endeavor.

In His Service

Brad Sykes

President, Northeast Florida Christian Chamber of Commerceristian Chamber of Commerce

December/Christmas Newsletter

Dear Members,

As the Christmas season draws near, I am reminded of the awe-inspiring truth that changed the course of history: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). God Himself came to us—not in grandeur but in humility, as a baby born in a manger.

This is a season to pause, reflect, and worship. Amid the hustle of shopping, decorating, and celebrating, let us not lose sight of the profound gift we’ve been given. As Isaiah prophesied, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

The simplicity of the nativity reminds us that God does not demand pomp and circumstance to reveal His glory. Instead, He chose a humble setting, surrounded by ordinary people—the shepherds who first heard the angel’s proclamation:


“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

This “good news of great joy” is not merely a story from the past. It is the foundation of our hope and the reason for our celebration. The Apostle Paul reminds us of the purpose of Christ’s coming:
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5).

This Christmas, let us focus on worshipping Immanuel—God with us. Like the wise men who followed the star, may we come with hearts full of wonder and offer Him our most valuable gifts: our time, our talents, and our devotion.
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him” (Matthew 2:10-11).

May our celebration extend beyond the season. Let the joy, peace, and gratitude we feel in this season inspire our work, our relationships, and our impact in the community throughout the year. Let us be the light of Christ in Northeast Florida, pointing others to the inexpressible gift of salvation.

“Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15).

On behalf of the Northeast Florida Christian Chamber of Commerce, I wish you and your families a Christmas filled with the joy of knowing Christ and the peace of His presence.

Merry Christmas,
Brad Sykes
President, Northeast Florida Christian Chamber of Commerce

Press Release: Northeast FL Christian Chamber of Commerce Hosts Inaugural Job Fair

Press Release: Northeast FL Christian Chamber of Commerce Hosts Inaugural Job Fair

Jacksonville, FL –– On Tuesday, March 26 th , the NE FL Christian Chamber of
Commerce will host their first job fair. This event was developed to bring together job
seekers, employers, and others in the Northeast Florida community searching for
excellent talent or their next career.
Job seekers can explore opportunities that match their skills and resonate with their
faith. They will be able to meet employers and network with other Christians working in
the marketplace.
The Job Fair will feature a presentation from Jordan Raynor, author of The Creator in
You, Redeeming Your Time, Master of One, and Called to Create. He also serves as
the Executive Chairman of Threshold 360, a venture-backed tech startup. Jordan will
present on his book Redeeming Your Time, which includes 7 Biblical principles for
being purposeful, present, and productive. Jordan said, “The Church has always been
most effective at the Great Commission as believers have embraced the First
Commission to create in the marketplace. I can't wait to talk about how we can redeem
our time toward that end in Jacksonville!"
This event will also feature breakout sessions from local business leaders. This will
include sessions like “Addressing and Applying Your Calling” with Dr. Chuck Coker,
“Working from Identity” with Zach Melton, “Resume Writing” with Ray Strickland,
“Establishing and Maintaining a Personal Platform for Marketplace Evangelism” with
Mike Heavener, “The Heart of Leadership” with Eric Gillis, “Master Your Interview:
Proven Strategies” with Daniel Clarke, and “The Importance of Mentors” with Jeremiah
Stanley.
Brad Sykes, co-founder and president of the Guardian Group, and president of the
Christian Chamber of Commerce said, “With unemployment rates fluctuating, we hope
this event serves as a beacon of hope, offering opportunities for individuals to explore
career options that are in line with their gifts and talents. Peter writes ‘As each has
received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace’ (1
Peter 4:10 ESV). We are thrilled to facilitate this platform where employers can meet
potential candidates who align with their values and missions. Our aim is to foster
meaningful connections that lead to fulfilling career opportunities.”
Pre-registration is free for attenders, though there will be a $10 charge for at-the-door
tickets available for purchase the day of the event. Lunch will be provided for all
attendees.
Sponsorships are still available for this event as well. Sponsors help facilitate this
community event by helping to host and making this event possible. Register Here

Contact: Jeff Dalrymple:
‭+1 (502) 919-3270‬
jeff@neflchristianchamber.com

Celebrating Faith and Freedom on the Fourth of July

As the 4th of July approaches, may we reflect on the profound significance of this day. It’s more than a celebration of our nation's independence; it is a moment to appreciate the intertwined values of faith and freedom that have shaped the American spirit.

The United States was founded on principles that echo deeply within the Christian faith. Our nation's founders, influenced by a belief in divine providence, emphasized liberty as a God-given right. This connection between faith and freedom is evident in historical documents such as the Declaration of Independence, which acknowledges that all people "are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights."

Christianity’s emphasis on the inherent worth and dignity of each person has been a guiding light throughout our nation's history. It reminds us that our freedoms are not merely civic privileges but are grounded in the divine acknowledgment of our shared humanity.

Patriotism, when viewed through the lens of Christian faith, transcends mere allegiance to a country. It becomes a commitment to uphold values such as justice, compassion, and stewardship. The Bible calls us to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8). These are the same values that undergird the notion of true patriotism.

As members of the Northeast Florida Christian Chamber, we see these principles in action through various community initiatives. Local churches and organizations often spearhead efforts to support veterans, assist the needy, and promote civic engagement. This harmonious blend of faith and patriotism enriches our community, making it a beacon of hope and charity.

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the 4th of July, let's do so in ways that honor both our God and our country. Consider starting your day with a prayer of thanksgiving for the freedoms we enjoy. Reflect on the sacrifices of those who have served and continue to serve our nation and take time to participate in community events that foster unity and goodwill.

As we commemorate this day, may we remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold the values of freedom and justice. May we seek divine guidance in our endeavors to create a society that reflects the love and compassion of Christ. And may we always be grateful for the blessings of liberty.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of freedom and the opportunity to celebrate it. Bless our nation and our community and guide us to be faithful stewards of the liberty You have entrusted to us. Amen.

Happy 4th of July!

Brad Sykes

President – Northeast Florida Christian Chamber