Zaphenath-Paneah

Then Pharaoh named Joseph Zaphenath-paneah; and he gave him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, as his wife. And Joseph went forth over the land of Egypt. - Genesis 41:45

Zaphenath-Paneah - What God says, He does.

I have been challenged with trying to understand a situation where God spoke to me with authority and confirmed my decision. But, so far, the results have been opposite to what I heard Him say. So, how do I deal with this? I have four thought processes to choose from.

A) God did not really speak to me. I was just hearing things.
B) My actions altered the outcome of what He said would happen.
C) The story is not over. I need to stand firm on what He said.
D) God has other plans all together, and I just misread Him completely.

God can be very mysterious about the path we take to carryout His plan. I know He has a perfect plan regardless of whether it is a, b, c, or d. But, I almost feel like I would be cheating myself and Him if I did not choose C. A, would compromise my faith. B, is possible if I truly have free will and God does not direct every step I take. And, D just does not feel right in my spirit.

So, even though everything is pointing south, I plan on still pointing north unless I am told otherwise by Him. Is it faith and obedience or foolishness? Only time will tell. Regardless, what God says, He does!

Hope & Courage: General George S. Patton

Currently, God is specifically working on me in the areas of hope and courage. The following are some words of wisdom I have been reading from General George Patton, one of the most courageous men to ever live in recent times.

"Better to fight for something than live for nothing."
Biblical Reference: Matthew 7:21-23

"The test of success is not what you do when you're on top. Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom."
Bible Reference: Philippians 4:11-13

"When we are not moving, we are losing."
Biblical Reference: Psalm 90:12

"When there is fear of failure, there will be failure."
Biblical Reference: Psalm 27:1

"Do not be afraid to fail. Never take counsel from your fears."
Biblical Reference: Psalms 23:4

"Always do more than is required of you."
Biblical Reference: Matthew 5:41

"Pressure makes diamonds."
Bible Reference: Philippians 1:6

"Generals never show doubt, discouragement, or fatigue."
Biblical Reference: 2 Timothy 2:3, Joshua 1:7

"Defeat is due not to losses but the destruction of the souls of the leaders."
Bible Reference: Daniel 4:36

"People who are not themselves are nobody."
Biblical Reference: Proverbs 6:19

"A pint of sweat will save a gallon of blood."
Bible Reference: Proverbs 12:24, 2 Peter 1:5-8

"When a decision has to be made, make it. There is no totally right time for anything."
Bible Reference: Ezekiel 33:4-5

"Be willing to make decisions. That’s the most important quality in a good leader."
Bible Reference: Ezekiel 33:3

The interesting part of General Patton’s pearls of wisdom, they are all biblical.

Accept Christ As Your Savior - wikiHow

How to Accept Christ As Your Savior

People talk about God and "accepting Christ as your Savior". What does the Bible say and why should you "accept Christ as my Savior"?

Steps

1. Believe that God loves you; He has shown this by giving His Son as a sacrifice for all you've done wrong and for all your sins. Admitting that you have sinned is a prerequisite to accepting Christ, and the hardest step to take. Once you have done this, every other step will fall into place. If you still have a hard time with this concept, trust Jesus as Lord over you as well as Savior.
   
2. Know that the Bible is God's Word to mankind, written by people God chose to write it. The people who wrote the Bible were inspired by God to write it.
   
3. Know the Bible teaches that all people have sin in their lives. Sin is anything that displeases God.Romans 3:23 (NIV)"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,"That means 'everyone'. Sin separates us from God, who is perfect. The payment we pay for sin is death-permanent separation from God.Romans 6:23 (NIV)"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
   
4. Know the free gift of God is His son Jesus.John 3:16 (NIV)"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."Belief is trust and faith that God is who He says He is. He provided the payment for our sin by His own son’s death.
   
5. Understand the difference between heaven and hell, and how Jesus can help you avoid the latter. All sins, past, present and future were forgiven by Christ at the cross.Hebrews 10:10 (NIV)"And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."
   
6. Know when Jesus was nailed to the cross He bled.Hebrews 9:22 (NIV)"In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness."Jesus died to pay for the sins of man.
   
7. Talk to God in your own words. Tell God you believe on Him and that you accept His Son as your Savior. Ask God to lead and guide you day by day.
   
8. Congregate regularly with other Christians who can help you grow in your new life.
   
9. Follow Christ's teachings.

Tips

• If you have accepted Christ as your savior,Romans 10:13 (NIV)"for, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'"You are now a child of God. Just believe what the bible says, and accept what it says practically, as if what it says is exactly what it means.
  
• Now that you have chosen to accept Christ and receive his forgiveness for your sin, don't take advantage of his forgiveness and commit wrong like watching bad movies, reading porn magazines, etc. Don't beat yourself up if you do sin, remember that we will only be perfect once we get to heaven!
  
• Christianity may be metaphorically compared to a race. A race to reach the finish line (Heaven) is our ultimate goal, but how we run the race is more important than when we finish the race. We pause to help others along the way (benevolence, and bringing others to Christ), and sometimes stumble on obstacles in the way (our sin, others' sin). Christianity isn't an easy path. It may be easy to 'run the first lap', but the race becomes more difficult as we mature in our faith. Never forgot to ask Jesus' help, because we are not alone in the 'race'.
  
• You can approach God ANYTIME. talk to him as you would with a regular friend. You don't have to like tell the priest all your messages to God... God's a friend... and we have direct access to him!
  
• Plug into a church or a youth group. They will help you know more about God and be closer to him. Don't be too proud by thinking that you can walk with God alone. Christian friends build you up and encourage you, so plug into a church as soon as possible.
  
• Church does not mean a building. It means, and has from the beginning, a group of people who have accepted Jesus as the One True God meeting in the same place to celebrate what they have and learn from each other how God is working in their lives. This can happen anywhere, at set times, or even spontaneously.
  
• If your parents don't approve of the church thing, seek the help of the pastor or youth leader of the church you want to go to, or any other church. Technically, you aren't a member of the church yet; you're just seeking the help of a pastor or youth leader.

Warnings

• Do not expect that this is an easy life. Some example may be found in books like Jesus Freaks, The Hiding Place, Boom, Heavenly Man, or Christian magazines such as OpenDoors International or Voice of the Martyrs to find out what true faith looks like worldwide.
  
• Don't ever suppose that God doesn't care about what you do from now on. Always be aware that he doesn't want you to go back and do the sin that you were used to. He has made you a different person so you can live 'above' sin, not fall back into it. Always remember that you will undoubtedly be tempted to sin, but you can pray daily that God will keep you from failing. If you do sin, ask forgiveness from God right away, and ask him to help you not to do it again. If you have wronged someone else, go and apologize, no matter how hard it may be it will always be worth it to make restitution. Again, do not dwell on it, but get back to following Jesus and His example.
  
• For some people becoming a Christian is an emotional step; for others it is a simple act of trust without emotions. God will save you with or without emotions.
  
• Do not expect all your family and friends to like the new you, but it is OK, Jesus never said that it would be easy, He just said that it would be the truth.
  
• The grace of Jesus covers all sins. None of your words or actions can ever keep you from salvation and God's loving embrace. The only exception to this is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, but this only applies to those who are already believers and speak vile words or commit vile acts against the Holy Spirit.Luke 12:10 (NIV)"And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven."Aside from this only exception, the grace of Jesus is yours when you believe in Him -- when you commit yourself to Christ.Ephesians 1:12-14 (NIV)"And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory."
  
• Be aware, once you've accepted Christ into your life, that persecution knows no bounds. Now that you understand and feel the love of Jesus, you may become one of Satan's prime targets. Fret not, though, because nothing on earth or in Hell can harm your faith with God daily at your side. Do not worry about it, but rather remember this when you face temptations to sin.

Things You'll Need

• Faith
  
• The Bible. In some countries, it is very difficult to obtain a copy of the Bible due to the persecution of Christians or lack of adequate funding or supply. The word of God, as written in the Bible, is the truth necessary for understanding what it means to be a Christian. Owning a copy of the Bible isn't necessary, but having access to the Bible (ie: from the Internet or through verbal communication between others) is essential.
  
• Other Christians to encourage and guide you. If you don't know any other Christians, praise God for the mission field He has placed you in! You may feel inexperienced, but ask God what He wants to do and then do it. He may ask this of you, and possibly in a specific way, but verify it is truly Him by comparing it with His word (the Bible).

Related wikiHows

• How to Become A Christian
  
• How to Read the Bible
  
• How to Have a Personal Relationship With God
  
• How to Address Your Doubts About Catholicism
  
• How to Be the Antichrist
  
• How to Celebrate Lent

Sources and Citations

• Bible Gateway - Versions. 50 Bibles in 35 Languages. Free to download. http://www.biblegateway.com/versions/
  
• Bible Gateway - Main. http://www.biblegateway.com/
  
• World English Bible. Simple website, powerful message. http://ebible.org/bible/web/
  
• World English Bible. New Testament in .PDF format. http://ebible.org/bible/web/webnt.pdf
  
• Persecution: Voice of the Martyrs - http://www.persecution.com/
  
• Global Outreach: OpenDoors USA - http://www.opendoorsusa.org/

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Daily Devotional - Today's Word

My dear friend, Skip Moen, produces one of the best daily devotionals I have ever read. I highly recommend subscribing to his daily devotional if you are interested in growing in your knowledge of the Word. Your faith will be tested for sure! You will be learning from one of the best theologians in the world. Go to www.atgodstable.com to learn more. You will not be disappointed!

The Resume of Jesus Christ

Address: Ephesians 1:20
Phone: Romans 10:13
Website: The Bible. Keywords: Christ, Lord, Savior and Jesus

Hello. My name is Jesus -The Christ. Many call me Lord! I've sent you my resume because I'm seeking the top management position in your heart. Please consider my accomplishments as set forth in my resume.

Qualifications

• I founded the earth and established the heavens, (See Proverbs 3:19)
• I formed man from the dust of the ground, (See Genesis 2:7)
• I breathed into man the breath of life, (See Genesis 2:7)
• I redeemed man from the curse of the law, (See Galatians 3:13)
• The blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant comes upon your life through me, (See Galatians 3:14)

Occupational Background

• I've only had one employer, (See Luke 2:49
• I've never been tardy, absent, disobedient, slothful or disrespectful.
• My employer has nothing but rave reviews for me, (See Matthew 3:15-17)

Skills Work Experiences

• Some of my skills and work experiences include: empowering the poor to be poor no more, healing the brokenhearted, setting the captives free, healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind and setting at liberty them that are bruised, (See Luke 4:18).
  
• I am a Wonderful Counselor, (See Isaiah 9:6). People who listen to me shall dwell safely and shall not fear evil, (See Proverbs 1:33).
  
• Most importantly, I have the authority, ability and power to cleanse you of your sins, (See I John 1:7-9)

Educational Background

• I encompass the entire breadth and length of knowledge, wisdom and understanding, (See Proverbs 2:6).
• In me are hid all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, (See Colossians 2:3).
• My Word is so powerful; it has been described as being a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path, (See Psalms 119:105).
• I can even tell you all of the secrets of your heart, (See Psalms 44:21).

Major Accomplishments

• I was an active participant in the greatest Summit Meeting of all times, (See Genesis 1:26).
• I laid down my life so that you may live, (See II Corinthians 5:15).
• I defeated the archenemy of God and mankind and made a show of them openly, (See Colossians 2:15).
• I've miraculously fed the poor, healed the sick and raised the dead!
• There are many more major accomplishments, too many to mention here. You can read them on my website, which is located at: www dot - the BIBLE. You don't need an Internet connection or computer to access my website.

References

• Believers and followers worldwide will testify to my divine healings, salvation, deliverance, miracles, restoration and supernatural guidance

In Summation
Now that you've read my resume, I'm confident that I'm the only candidate uniquely qualified to fill this vital position in your heart. In summation, I will properly direct your paths, (See Proverbs 3:5-6), and lead you into everlasting life, (See John 6:47). When can I start? Time is of the essence, (See Hebrews 3:15).

Reference & PDF Format: The Resume of Jesus Christ

How To: Approach the Bible

I was listening to a sermon this morning given by Voddie Baucham at North Point Community Church, www.northpoint.org/messages. The message was called "Getting Your House in Order". He did a great job framing-up how to approach the bible. He said, "In real estate the name of the game is location, location, location. With the bible it is context, context, context." We so often see the Word misinterpreted and manipulated. Understanding exactly what the context means is so important to understanding how we should act and react to everything we encounter.

Temporal vs. Eternal Living

Until today, I did not fully grasp the significance of temporal verses eternal living. After listening to one of my favorite pastors, Dr. Charles Stanley, on the topic "Living for the Eternal Life, I fully realized how nothing we focus our energy on is eternal, except our relationship with God. Matthew 6:20-21 says, 20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Conceptually and experientially, I knew this to be true. I even understood how this works. I have had several reminders during the course of my journey to get this one right. However, I obviously still need reminders from time to time. By striping everything away I want to hold on too, He is the only thing I can rely on. My career, relationships, resources, will ultimately all turn to dust and ashes one day. This goes for everyone. On one hand, this is a very sad thought. We invest so much of our time and energy trying to make these things prosper. This is a good thing, as long as it is for the right reason, to honor God. In many cases, we find ourselves doing it to feel better about ourselves and to live a "happier life". It is sometimes so difficult to comprehend how our own desires are insignificant compared to God's desire to provide us an eternal life both here and in heaven. Maybe we believe we can take ownership for all the good things that happen to us because of the investments we make. Or, we can feel responsible for another person's happiness. Once we do take ownership of our life, pride takes over. And, Pride = Ego = Edge God Out. I truly believe God uses these temporal activities to mature us and condition us to see His eternal perspective. It is sometimes very difficult to have this type of perspective when you are concentrated on making these temporal things go well according to your own personal desires.

So, how do you have an eternal life here on earth? I thought you can only have a life of eternity in heaven. Well, I believe your eternal life starts right here and right now. The following is one of my favorite verses in the bible. Psalms 90:12 says,

"So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom."

Powerful Stuff! I believe God is telling us eternal life starts now, during this trial period. If you want to win the big race, you have to run in practice just like you would during the big meet. Are you practicing in order to win the big race?

Developing a Plan for Your Life

I have heard this so many times, but I really needed to hear it today. If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans. If you are anything like me, you find yourself creating plans only to have them completely altered. A wise man in one of my bible studies in Celebration, Florida once said, "I wish God would through me some curve balls. I feel like I have been given this perfect life with no hurricanes or tornados to challenge my world. I wish He would be so kind and shake things up a little bit." On one hand, I really envy him. I am constantly praying to see a glimpse of what his life is like. But, in reality there was a great lesson learned by what he was saying. You really are not growing unless you are challenged. Change = Challenge. A life with little or no challenges can be the ultimate curse verses blessing. In baseball, you can't become a better 3rd baseman unless a million balls are hit at you and your chest becomes black and blue. As much as I plead with God to stop throwing me curve balls, I know He has my best interest at heart. I also know His plan is always better than mine. It always has been; therefore, I have reason to believe it always will be. So, if someone ever asks you, "do you have a plan?" The best answer to give, "Yes, I am on God's plan". You might sound lost and unsettling because this is not the answer people are looking for when they asking you the "What's your plan question". But, everything else is truly meaningless unless your plan entails His directions. Unfortunately, His timing does not always match your expectations or desires. This means you have to be focused and steadfast in your faith knowing He will revieal His plan when the time is right. Which plan are you on, God's or your own?

Developing a plan with God
Here are some steps to take in order to make this happen.

1) Find a place where you can truly feel His presence and pray with God. Ask Him to reveal what His plans are on a micro or macro level.

2) If you are at peace with not having a plan, you are probably on the right track, especially if you are the type of person who needs everything perfectly in order. This usually means you are able to feel God's grace and hand in your life. However, this does not give you the right to be lazy. You need to constantly be seeking His plan. But only on His time, He will give you some clues or reveal what His plans are during the course of your journey. When you get your marching orders, be passionate and bold.

3) Don't be afraid to interact with others and see if God is speaking to you through them. Godly men and women will never make you feel ashamed for being venerable and not having all the answers. In all reality, anyone who thinks they have the answer is the person who has no clue. I sometimes think I have all the answers. This is when I need to check myself or have someone else check me so I can realize again how clueless I am.

Resource: Interview with God

Bible Reference (NASB): Isaiah 8
Isaiah 8:9-10

9"Be broken, O peoples, and be shattered;
And give ear, all remote places of the earth.
Gird yourselves, yet be shattered;
Gird yourselves, yet be shattered.
10"Devise a plan, but it will be thwarted;
State a proposal, but it will not stand,
For God is with us.

Everyone Needs a Playbook

Life is one big endless game played in a series of smaller events. It is a journey, not a destination. Without a playbook you are playing a game with one hand tied behind your back. My playbook is The Bible (version: NASB). It is my guide in life which never fails me. It gives me clues and/or answers to all my questions. This sometimes requires I am listening, praying, and/or actively seeking for the answers found in the Word.



I say the game of life is endless because we are either going to heaven or hell. At 90-years old, Pastor JD Phillips from Alabama would say, "Hell is Hot! So come with me to heaven". If you ever have the pleasure to hear Pastor Phillips say this, you too will begin believing in heaven and hell. Just one look into his eyes, you would see God is real and alive.



I am promised a life of eternity if: 1) I truly believe Jesus died on the cross as payment for my sins. 2) I allow God's presence to fill my heart and soul so I am engaged in His purpose for my life. I am not promised a life without trials and tribulation. I am not promised a life without sin or mistakes. But, I am required to do my best with what has been gifted to me, my life.

Think about this for a moment, doesn't the game get much easier when you do not have to create the rules as well? Just playing the game is hard enough. Imagine trying to play football without any rules to start with. Most likely you would never play the game, because, so much time and energy would be spent creating the rules. This applies to the game of life as well. A great rule to follow on this one, KISS - Keep it simple stupid. Get a playbook!

If you don't have a bible and would like one, please feel free to email me at: james@jameszimbardi.com.