Dwight Thompson Ministries

Encouragement For The Journey: Journey of Life

“I say this because I know what I am planning for you,” says the LORD. “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NCV

Along this “Journey of Life” as you have stood with me in reaching the lost, I want to stand with YOU that everything God has planned for YOU will be fulfilled: your health, your home, your family, your finances, your dreams, and your God-ordained purpose.

“I say this because I know what I am planning for you,” says the LORD. “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NCV

In this letter of encouragement to you, I feel compelled by the Holy Spirit to focus on you, my precious and loyal partners and friends of this ministry.
First of all, REST IN THIS PROMISE: “I have carried you since you were born. I have taken care of you from your birth. Even when you are old, I will be the same. Even when your hair has tuned gray, I will take care of you. I made you and will take care of you.” Isaiah 46:3-4 NCV

There is one thing you can count on as an absolute truth: GOD’S PLAN AND PURSPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE WAS SET IN MOTION EVEN BEFORE YOU WERE BORN…..long before your parents were born….long before your grandparents were born…God’s plan for you was already set in motion. WOW!!! Let that thought sink in! HALLELUJAH!

When I was a teenager, I had an opportunity to work for a missionary group in Mexico. This was a group of pilots who had small planes. They would fly into remote areas of Mexico and drop Christian literature over these small villages. Many of these villages were in mountainous areas and places where no automobiles could go. They were called: Airmail from God.

My job was to sit in the back seat and throw out the literature over the villages. The people in the villages would run out into the streets and wave at us. They were always so excited to see us. After landing, we would stay in villages for a few days and have a soul-winning crusade.

As a teenager, this missionary opportunity was very thrilling to me….and it was also dangerous! But when you are a boy, you don’t give much time thinking about the risk. It was just fun. Since this place did not have a starter, I would stand in front of the plane and spin the prop. Sometimes, I would have to do this several times before the engine would cough and the sputter would finally start. It was all part of the Job.

On three or four occasions, when we were flying, the carburetor would freeze over and the engine would stop. While that was exciting to me, it wasn’t to the pilot. I recall him praying loudly and yelling at me to look for a place that was flat so we could set this plane down. On one such emergency landing we took some branches out of the top of a tree.

On my preparation for my second missionary journey to Mexico, I recall vividly my mother’s concern. While I was putting my duffle back into the car, my mother put her arms around me and was praying for my safety. She abruptly stopped in the middle of her prayer and said to me, “Dwight, I don’t have peace in my spirit about this trip.” She continued her prayer with these words, “Lord, protect Dwight and block anything that might prevent your will for his life from being fulfilled.” I kissed my mother goodbye and she stood there waving at me and blowing me a kiss. Oh how I thank God for my precious praying mother and father. Without their love, patience and prayers this story would have a much different ending.

I stowed my duffle bad into the plane. Just as we were making the final flight checks, a pastor walked over to me along with the pilot and explained to me something that would alter the course of my life. He said to me that the Lord instructed him to go on this trip and would I mind if he took my place. I respected his request and went back home. A few days later, their plan crashed and both were killed.

I’ve thought about that tragedy many times. Both of these men loved God and were committed to His will for their lives. Why did God spare MY life?
How many of you even now can look back and recall many “close calls” in your lives? You walk away from that near disaster and wonder why you survived. Many people have told me of the escapes from serious accidents that could have certainly been fatal, yet look back on it now and realize it was truly a miracle.

There is no doubt that these close calls are more than “luck” as the unbeliever might conclude. Nor can we be so flippant to say, “It wasn’t our day to die.” It is very important that we step back and take these “close calls” as “wake-up calls.” God’s purpose for our lives must never be taken lightly.
“Behold I stand at the door and knock. If any man will open the door, I will come in….” Each time we neglect His appeal…each time we ignore His knock at the door of our hearts….we continue on the path of our own choosing…not His.

There will always be events that happen that we can’t completely understand, and there have been other events in my life that were “close calls”, but God’s purpose for my life is yet to be fulfilled. “With your own powerful arm you keep me safe.” Psalm 138:7 CEV
As of this writing I am in my 50th year of preaching the glorious Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am deeply humbled and most unworthy of our God’s mercy. Let me repeat it again: GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE….His design, His purpose and His will must become the top priority of each of us. Anything that is hindering His purpose must be dealt with and removed with all speed.

Seek the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to go into the secret places of our hearts and cleanse us. Even things in our lives that we are blinded to…ask Him to show you and then remove it.

“Though I am surrounded by troubled, you will bring me safely through them….” Psalm 138:7

ONLY GODS DESTINY FOR YOUR LIFE WILL ALLOW YOU TO REALLY ENJOY THE JOURNEY.

Let me pray for you right now: Father, in Jesus’ Holy name, I pray for your divine and perfect will to be done in my precious partners of this ministry. Anything that prevents the fulfillment of your plan for their lives, remove it in Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday Evangelist-Father-Friend-Grandfather and more, Dwight Thompson!

“Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15.

Happy Birthday to my husband of 52 years. You are an encouragement to me as I watch you choose to daily walk in peace and wisdom. You are “Enjoying The Journey,” with your funny sense of humor… your insatiable desire to study and absorb more of God’s Word… making your choices with integrity, love, and concern for others… and your time in prayer for our family. Your special God-given uniqueness has been an inspiration to me through the years; but most of all the gift of Evangelism God placed within you, and your driving desire to win “one more soul” to our Lord Jesus. I love you more than ever! Happy Birthday…. Zonelle Thompson

Papa, Happy Birthday! Thank you for standing by me in this difficult time. You are the best Papa any girl could hope for. I’m grateful for our special bond. Love you so much! -Carissa Smith

Thank you so much for always being there for me. I love you!- Maddie Smith

Dad, you are not only the worlds best preacher but you are an amazing dad! I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I love you with all my heart. -Dwinelle Smith

Happy Birthday to the greatest man on the face of the earth. Your son in-law Jeff Smith

Papa, you are my superhero. You have literally saved my life two times. How many grandsons can say that about their grandfather? Your character and committment to Jesusu our Lord and Savior has been an inspiration to many, especially me! I love you!!- Chad Smith

Papa D, When I was growing up I can remember going in my room turning on the karaoke machine, opening up my bible and I would preach to all my teddy bears. They would repent and receive Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. I can specifically recall telling my parents how Papa D is my hero. When I was growing up, I wanted to be just like my papa. Well, nothing has changed since then. You are still my hero!! Happy Birthday Papa, I love you so very much. I admire how in everything you do, you always follow the Holy Spirit. Thank you Papa for being a great example to your grandson. – Cody Boy

Happy Birthday Papa! I am so blessed to have you in my life. I am grateful for your example and encouragment in my relationship with the Lord. Thank you for scaring the hell out of me.- Corey Shane

Papa, no matter where you are, you always have a way of letting all of your grand children know how much you love us. Thank you for being a man who never settles for the things of this world and always displaying your love and commitment for the Lord for all to see. Through you and my family, I found what it truly means to love the Lord with all my heart sould and mind. I found a love and hunger to serve the Lord and to never settle for anything less. I know my calling to be in ministry stems from our family and I praise God everyday for his favor in blessing me in this specific family. You truly lead our family by example and I praise God for blessing me with such a Godly grandpa who has raised such a loving son to do the same. Your choice to serve the Lord has affected your offspring and God will forever reign in our family. I have so many wonderful memories with you and Mimi. I love and admire you both, more than you will ever know! “Do you have any idea how much I love you?” ………”Well, tell me!” ……..I love you Papa, more than you can ever understand! – Alexa Gerbrands

Papa Dwight, I truly pray that you will have a blessed birthday! You are a blessing in my life and I am thankful to have you in my life. I always enjoy the time that I get to spend with you and praise God for blessing me with such a wonderful, Christ-loving family. Have a wonderful day with Mimi. I love you!!! – Jaco Gerbrands

Dad, It is my hope and prayers that the days ahead will be filled with energy, inspiration, new ideas, fervor and fire, as you continue to reach the World with the Uncompromising Power of the Gospel, as you have been faithful to do for most of your life. We celebrate your life and love you so very much. Happy Birthday – Dwight Thompson, Jr

Have a wonderful and blessed day! I pray this is your best year ever!- Gina Thompson

Papa, you truly are unlike any other man I’ve ever been around. You speak the Word boldly not lacking anything. You love your family with great compassion and teach humility by your actions, s the kind of humility that is only found in The Lord. You are the best example and leader of our family, the men you’ve helped raise look to you with high regard and do our best to learn from you. I love you papa, I can’t thank you enough for the impact you’ve had on my life, more than you realize. teach humility by your actions, the kind of humility that is only found in The Lord. You are the best example and leader of our family, the men you’ve helped.I love you papa, I can’t thank you enough for the impact you’ve had on my life, more than you realize. – Dalton Thompson

Happy Birthday Papa Dwight! You have been such a blessing to Austin and I. Love you so much! Cheers to another great year! – Savannah Thompson

The gospel of Jesus Christ has been passionately proclaimed from generation to generation within this Thompson family and that has not been merely labeled as a job, but an honor. Keeping Christ centered in our home has been exemplified through my father which was instilled to him from his father, my Papa D.
Ever since I was a young child I always enjoyed being around my Papa. He always made me feel special and always made it a point to let me know how much Jesus loves me and has a great plan for my life. It was Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, all the time with an occasional Texas, Cowboys, Lonesome Dove, and coffee reference here and there. Because of him, I have always found a deep love in my “Texas” roots. Even though I was born and raised in Southern California, I have adapted to more of a country boy lifestyle, I learned that one needs to be proud of his heritage (there is spiritual significance in that).
I love opportunities to converse with him because he always has something wise to say. He usually is in deep thought about something most of the time, or maybe he’s frustrated in the fact that the Dallas Cowboys can’t get it together, so when he opens his mouth to share what’s on his heart, you hang on every word.
He is the same man on Sunday morning than he is every other day of the week, minus the sweat he has from preaching his heart out. Papa has always been a man of character, a firm believer in respecting our Thompson name, and especially honoring our Lord with everything we say and do. I have learned so many things from my grandpa (I could write all day long) but the another gem I can think of is how things are just things, he says, “you never see a hertz hauling a u-haul van.” So, give freely, don’t hold on the things to the point they overcome you. Be wise with your earthly possessions but pursue righteousness above all else and the Holy Spirit will lead and guide your every decision.
This year is an exciting year for Papa as he celebrates 50 years of ministry. I can’t believe it because he looks so good. He must of been two when he started in the ministry. I know it is all because of Jesus. I love that my grandpa says, “if you ever seen any good in me, it wasn’t me, it was because of Jesus.”
Well Papa, you should know that we all love you so very much and admire your devotion in serving the Lord all these years. Keep those boots on cowboy because I believe you are about to embark on the greatest journey of your life. I love you!
-Austin Rex

Thank you Papa for being such an amazing father and grandfather. “Grandchildren are the crown of old men, And the glory of sons is their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6

You will never know the impact you have had on millions of lives and also, your family. We love you!

Happy Birthday Zonelle! A Wonderful Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother

Happy Birthday Zonelle Thompson!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Zonelle truly is a wondeful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and most important, woman of God. Zonelle has a true heart for the lost and has dedicated her life to serving the Lord through her ministry of being a loving wife for 50 years, supporting Dwight in his evangilism for 52 years, starting Operation Stitches, and being a Godly example for her family. Although the Thompson family is spread through out the United States, her children, and grandchildren want to wish her a very happy birthday! Below of some loving words for Zonelle on her Birthday!

“Mimi, I will always cherish the time I’ve spent with you. Your wisdom, your honesty, your virtues are not to be forgotten. You have taught me so many lessons without using words. Watching you as I have grown up, I have seen Gods undeniable calling and anointing upon your life. I admire your obedience an passion to grow in our Lord to give up your human dreams for heavens dreams.. I thank you for being a mighty example to me an I love you more than I can describe.” –Cody Boy

“Mimi I love you so much words cannot describe how meaningful you are too me, you have made such a big impact on my life” -Corey

“Mimi I love your style you are a great grandmother happy birthday” -Maddie

“Mimi you are a amazing woman and someone I want to be like when I’m older thank you for always being there for me and giving me Godly advice. Love you!! “-Carissa

“Mom, you have been such a incredible mother, I couldn’t have handpicked a better one! I appreciate everything you have done for our family. Thank you for always being there for any of us. I love you with all my heart. Happy Birthday!” -Dwinelle

“Today in this world we have Political leaders that give empty promises, Hollywood celebrities that run crooked charities on issues that hold no baring on human life. Mimi you have traveled to the ends of the earth to hold children dying of disease and malnutrition. You have build schools in India and Africa to educate the youth. Feed and clothed the homeless, and more importantly you have stood up strong and proclaimed to the world that Jesus Christ is the one true God. The example you have been not only with the wisdom you have spoke but how you live your life from the moment you wake to the second you fall asleep. I love you with all my heart and could not imagine a greater Grandmother in my wildest dreams!!!” -Chad

“You are a beautiful mother-n –law, grandmother and now great grandmother. We are all so blessed and thank you for all your love. Happy Birthday!” -Gina

“MOM, 3 powerful letters, If you turn them upside down it spells WOW!!!
An adjective, to strongly express about her kindness,thoughtfulness,beauty and love. That is my MOM.” – Love Your Son, Dwight jr

“Happy Birthday Mimi, we are so very blessed to have you as our grandmother. You have always strengthened us with your prayers and making sure that we trust God in all things. Thank you for being a true example of a Godly woman, blessed wife, loving mother and grandmother. It is amazing that she has so many grandchildren and has made us all feel loved in our own unique way without favoring one over the other. Mimi, you rock! I love you so bad.” – Austin

“Mimi, I am so blessed to know you. You truly are a warrior for God and I am honored to be your new granddaughter!” – Savannah

“Mimi, you are a wonderful example for your family and we all look up to you greatly. You show us how to live for the glory of The Lord and I thank you for that.” – Dalton

“Happy Birthday Mimi! You are such an inspiration in my life and I praise God for your strong love for Him. You are one strong women who loves the Lord and works hard to live out the calling on your life. Thank you for your obedience to Him. Through that, you have not only touch millions of lives through ministry, but have made a eternal impact on your family tree. Thank you for being a trust prayer warrior and never ceasing to pray for your family. You are such a beautiful person on the inside and out and your joy for the Lord radiates to ALL you come in contact with. Thank you for being such a blessing to so many lives. I pray you are blessed on this wonderful day!” -Alexa

“I was never able to meet my grandparents growing up and always wished I had that opportunity. Spending time with you and Dwight, I finally know what it feels like to have the love and joy of grandparents (you both are really hip grandparents). I love you so much and wish you an extraordinary for an extraordinary lady. I look forward to your visit to North Carolina. You have shown me more love than you will ever know. Happy Birthday Mimi.” -Jaco

“Zonelle, you are more beautiful than ever. I have never known any one who loves church and God more than you do. You are even going to church on your birthday. You have a true heart for the lost. Your life is true evidence of a Godly wife and women who has great compassion for souls. You love love going to church and I am thankful for you. Happy birthday my beautiful wife!” – Your Husband, Dwight

Happy Birthday Mimi! WE LOVE YOU.

Your Dream Will Live On

If your dream is from God, it will live forever. Men may die, but dreams live on. Here is a story to illustrate this point:

Fourteen years ago in the month of May, I preached a revival in Louisville, Kentucky. One day, Waymon Rogers, the pastor said, “Dwight, get in the car with me. I want to take you somewhere.”

I got in the car and we went to a beautiful place near the Interstate, consisting of about one hundred acres of land. Pastor Rogers said, “Dwight, can you see it? We’re going to put a great church right here…a lake right here to baptize people….” And he went on and on.

Sunday morning, a week later, the headlines of the local newspaper read that the bonding company which was issuing the bonds for this church went bankrupt, and everything they had crumbled. I received the news that morning from the headlines of the Sunday morning paper of Louisville.

On Sunday night we did something. We came to the little church where they were worshipping (about 1,100 people) and we all got in our cars and drove out to where the foundation had just been laid.

The construction had stopped. We all had candles in our hands. And instead of cursing the darkness, we lit a candle. Candles are like dreams. If you will keep them lit, they will keep on burning.

All of us stood around the foundation. And fourteen years ago we put our candles in a little paper bag with sand in it, which made a pretty glow, and set them down.

Fourteen years have gone by since then. I was back there recently, and at 11:00 on Saturday night, I heard a knock at the door of my hotel. I opened the door and it was pastor Waymon Rogers. He said, “Dwight, how are you?”

I said, “I’m alright Brother Rogers, how are you?”

He said, “I want to show you something. Come go with me.”

He drove me around those one hundred acres. Now, where the candles once burned, a dream had come to pass. A church that seats nearly four thousand people now stood on that land.

It was nearly one o’clock in the morning, and we were walking across the church grounds. The glory of God started to come down, and he began to talk about his dream. He talked about Prayer Mountain that he built. He talked about this and he talked about that. It was now 1:30, on Saturday night (now Sunday morning), I had to preach in four hours, and the man was still talking about his dream!

Five months ago, Rev. Waymon Rogers went home to be with the Lord. He had a premonition about his death…better than that, I think the Lord told him about it.

He called all of his men together (100 men) at a barbecue, and said, “Men, now I’m sixty-one years old, and as far as I know I’m in pretty good health. But I feel like the Lord spoke to me and told me to tell you that He may call me home anytime, and if He does, I don’t want any power struggle in this church. You talk about it, and decide now, and when it happens, this transition will be smooth.” They all, 100%, voted in the pastor’s son, Bob Rogers, to carry on the dream.

Shortly thereafter, on a Wednesday night, he lay down in his bed and awoke in glory. Two days later, they had his funeral. The following Sunday, Bob Rogers, forty years old, assumed the role to carry on the vision.

I was back in Louisville, after Rev. Waymon Rogers went to be with the Lord, for another service. At the end of the service, Bob Rogers took me aside and said, “I’ve got to tell you something, I was mad at my dad. And I told God, ‘God, I’m mad at my dad.'”

“God said to me, ‘Why are you mad at him?'”

“I said, ‘Because he fired me some time ago.'”

“Then God said, ‘Don’t be mad at him. I’m the one who told him to fire you. He was just following instructions…I sent you out there on your own, because you’ve got a job to do, and a dream to fulfill.'”

God sent Bob Rogers out on his own, out to the back side of the desert. But the day came when he was prepared to assume the role, and pick up the mantle.

With reflection in his voice, Bob continued, “Dwight, on Saturday before the funeral, I went to the funeral home by myself and I told the funeral director I wanted in.”

“The funeral director said, ‘That’s fine, come on in.'”

Bob went in beside his dad in that coffin and said to the funeral director, “I don’t want to upset you, but I’m going to raise him from the dead.”

“The funeral director said, ‘What?'”

“I’m going to pray for him, and God will raise him up from the dead.”

So Bob Rogers began to pray for his father, for a couple of hours, and the Lord didn’t raise him up. When he walked outside, his mother was waiting for him. She said, “Son, there’s something I forgot to tell you. Just before your daddy died, he said, ‘I’m not worried about the dream being fulfilled, because when I go home, my dream will live on. But Fern, when I die, there is going to be somebody that will come along and will want to raise me from the dead. Tell them not to waste their time. I’ve already made a better deal with God!'”

She concluded, “Son, don’t feel so bad, he already told God he’s not coming back, so you will carry on the dream.”

Bob Rogers took over where his father left off. Waymon Rogers brought the church to a certain place, and now his son has caught his vision and the church is growing even greater.

When you have a dream and you put it into the hands of God, men may die…YOU may die…but if it is of God, the dream is going to live on forever. No one can take away your dream without your permission. No demon in hell, nor any force out of the regions of the damned can destroy it unless you relinquish it.

A Loud Life

People know what you are by what they see, not what they hear.

When Wycliffe translator Doug Meland and his wife moved into a village of Brazil’s Fulnio Indians, he was referred to simply as “the white man.” The term was by no means complimentary, since other white men had exploited them of their lands.

But after the Melands learned the Fulnio language and began to help the people with medicine and in other ways, they began calling Doug “the respectable white man.”

When the Melands began adapting the customs of the people, the Fulnio gave them greater acceptance and spoke of Doug “the white Indian.”

Then one day, as Doug was washing the dirty blood-caked foot of an injured Fulnio boy, he overheard a by-stander say to another: “Whoever heard of a white man washing an Indian’s foot before? Certainly this man is from God!” From that day on, whenever Doug would go into an Indian home, it would be announced: “Here comes the man God sent us.”

St. Francis of Assisi one day said to several of his followers, “Let us go to the village over the way and preach.” As they went, they met a humble pedestrian who was greatly burdened. Francis was in no hurry and listened carefully to his tale of woe.

When the village was reached, Francis talked with the shopkeepers, spent time with the farmers at their fruit and vegetable stalls, and played with the children in the streets. On the way back they met a farmer with a load of hay, and Francis spent time with him.

The morning gone, the group reached the monastery from where they had set out in the early morning.

One of the followers, who was greatly disappointed, said to Francis, “Brother Francis, you said you were going to preach. The morning is spent and no sermon has been given.”

And the saintly Francis replied, “But we have been preaching all the way.”
– Prairie Overcomer

Encouragement For the Journey: What Will Your Legacy Be?

WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE?

EVERYBODY NEEDS JESUS! The Bible says, “Jesus is the only one who can save people.” Acts 4:12 NCV

THINK ABOUT THIS… If I possessed the information that held the cure for cancer and kept that life-saving information to myself, would it not be a criminal act?

NOW CONSIDER THIS… Is it not far worse to withhold life-saving information that determines where people will spend eternity?

(1) YOU AND I ARE ON THIS EARTH FOR AN ASSIGNMENT

The apostle Paul said, “My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus… the work of telling others the Good News about God’s wonderful kindness and love.” Acts 20:24 NLT

A recent survey reported that over 70 percent of those surveyed wanted to know:

(a) What is the meaning of life?

(b) Why are we here?

There is no doubt that our society is imprisoned in a mindset that never sees the bigger picture. The purpose and the assignment of life is a “cause beyond ourselves.” When young David heard the giant Goliath roar his threats, David immediately looked past his personal safety and said, “… Is there not a cause?” I Samuel 17:29 KJV

Personal fulfillment can never exist until we understand that God’s assignment for each of us must be carried out. The “cause” for our existence is about “others” and not about self.

(2) YOUR ASSINGMENT CARRIES WITH IT A SENSE OF URGENCY

Jesus said, “All of us must quickly carry out the task assigned to us by the one who sent me, because there is little time left before night falls and all work comes to an end.”

John 9:4 NLT

This verse heightens the urgency of our assignment because the clock is ticking down and we must not delay in snatching lost souls before it is too late.

II Corinthians 6:2 says: “… NOW is the day of salvation.” In my four decades of giving invitations to receive Christ, I always deal with explaining the danger of delay. I believe the most successful way Satan convinces people to put off receiving Christ is the word “tomorrow.” Hell will be filled with those who waited until “tomorrow!”

Partners, I really want you to feel the urgency of the next point:

(3) DOES GOD HOLD YOU AND ME RESPONSI BLE TO COMPLETE OUR ASSIGNMENT TO REACH THE LOST AT ALL COST?

One of the most stirring and compelling verses I have ever read is in the book of Ezekiel. It says: “You must warn them so they may live. If you don’t speak out the warning, to warn the wicked to stop their evil ways, they will die in their sin. But I will hold you responsible for their death.” Ezek 3:18 NCV

WHY DOES GOD HOLD US RESPONSIBLE FOR THE UNBELIEVERS AROUND US? Think about this for a moment…The only hope the unbeliever has is for someone who knows Christ to share the good news of Christ’s saving power. If we don’t… WHO WILL?

While I realize these are strong words and I further realize that you and most Christians are unaware that God holds us responsible to witness to those who need to know the Good News of Jesus Christ

As you can tell, my heart aches for the lost. I am not hesitant to tell you that over the last several weeks, my heart has been broken over the cold indifference the average Christian has toward the lost.

Jesus said, “A Man’s heart determines his speech.” Matthew 12:34 LB

Too many want us to ignore the lost… But I cannot, and I will not. In this my 48 years of soul-winning evangelism, I cannot be silent. “Your message burns in my heart and bones, and I cannot be silent.” Jeremiah 20:9 CEV

If not now… THEN WHEN!

If not here… THEN WHERE!

If not you… THEN WHO!

Remember Jesus said, “The good news about God’s kingdom will be preached in all the world, to every nation. Then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 NCV

The only thing that matters, when we stand before God as Christians, is His question to us: What did YOU DO about the lost?” WHAT WILL OUR ANSWER BE?? “He who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30 NIV

Happy Birthday to Our Wonderful Son, Dwight Thompson Jr.

Happy Birthday to our Son, Dwight Thompson Jr. He truly has been a joy to us for the 51 years of his life. He was such an fun, obedient, smart and loving child and now a wonderful father of three beautiful children. We are proud of the way he has raised his children. All of them are serving the Lord and passionate to do God’s will. Their youngest will be attending a Christian University to play baseball as a freshman this fall and the older two currenlty work in full-time ministry. His love Christ and leadership for his family is evident in all they do.

Dwight Jr, worked as my director and head of Dwight Thompson Ministries Organization for many years and we were so blessed to have him by our side daily. The Lord blessed Dwight Jr’s obedience and intrusted him with many other things in his career. He now owns his own production company and also works with Pastor Greg Laurie at Harvest Christian Fellowship, where he directs the Harvest Crusades and videos all around the world.

It is wonderful for Zonelle and I to see how he has undertaken this major responsibility, and we give all the glory to God. God has been good to our family and we praise him every day for our wonderful children, grandchildren and great granddaughter.

Happy Birthday Dwight. We love you…Dad and Mom

A New Name Welcomed Into The Thompson Family

July 14, 2012, The Beautiful Union of Austin and Savannah Thompson

We were so excited, as we sat at the wedding of our grandson, Austin Thompson, on Saturday, June 14, 2012. We couldn’t help but remember the miracle of the beginning of his life 28 years ago. He was born at 3 months premature and he weighed only 3 lbs, then lost down to 2lbs 10 oz. The doctors told us, IF he lived, he would be physically and mentally impaired. Despite the negative medical report on him each day, we kept believing for a miracle and quoting scripture over him daily. Today, Austin is in perfect health both physically and mentally… and is an avid triathlon and marathon athlete. “With men it is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) We have always prayed for our grandchildren and their future mates in life, and we are so happy that God chose Savannah and brought her into Austin’s life.

Our granddaughter, Alexa, (Austin’s sister), who is the media relations associate at Samaritans Purse, is going to share with you the moments of that beautiful day.

As Austin’s little sister it is my duty to share a little bit about my brother and new sister-in-love. First, I need to tell you how Austin and Savannah met. For many of you who know Austin and Savannah, there is no doubt that God designed them specifically for each other. In a very humble voice, I am proud to say that by God’s will, I was used to introduced Austin and Savannah. Savannah and I became very good friends through The Well, our college and career ministry at Harvest Christian Fellowship.

Looking back now I don’t know how Austin and Savannah did not meet earlier, realizing that Savannah and I were very close friends for over a year before they started dating. Through varias church activities Savannah and I spent a lot of time together. One night there was a missions convention not to far from were we lived. My cousin Ashley Greer, who works for Global Passion Ministry, was visiting So Cal to host a booth at the conviention. My brothers wanted to go with me to see my cousin Ashley and like many nights, Savannah and I planned to hang out, so off we all went to the convention.

A few times that night I noticed Austin talking to Savannah and it was as if the Lord had opened my eyes to his beautiful plan. As a sister I always dreamed of my brother marrying one of my friends but I never thought that would become reality.

I reflected back on many conversations my brother and I had about his “Dream Girl”. Through out the night I was reminded about those late night conversation’s with my brother and realized that Savannah met many of Austin’s prayers in a wife.

That night we took a group picture where Savannah just so happened to be standing next to Austin. That was exactly the moment that started it all. I zoomed my camera in to just the two of them and joked with Savannah about how cute there kids would be one day. The good friend she is, she laughed and told me she has never thought about Austin in that way, that she has always seen him as her friends big brother (That was an answer to prayer for me because many girls tried to become my friend to try to date my brother). Later that night I started dropping the same hints to Austin. It was not long after that night that Austin started pursing Savannah. And 2 ½ years later, on July 14, 2012, they became Mr. & Mrs. Austin Thompson.

Austin and Savannah have endured many trials during their time dating. What the enemy meant for evil God used for good. I love my older brother and respect his hard work and determination more than words can describe. Our entire family has prayed and dreamed of who Austin’s wife would be one day. We are so blessed to have Savannah be apart of our family. Austin and Savannah’s wedding was a reflection of their obedience to God and love for each other. It was truly a day that honored and glorified the Lord.

There are no words to describe how beautiful and perfect their wedding day was. So, I will let Austin and Savannah tell you a little bit about their big day themselves.

A word from the Bride, Savannah. “My heart was racing from the moment I woke up. I knew July 14, 2012, was going to be the best day of my life. Friends and family surrounded me all day before the ceremony as I prepared to take my vows. The entire day was full of joy and blessings knowing that I was going to marry the love of my life. When it came time to walk down the isle, I was more than ready. I can’t begin to describe how I felt when I saw his face; there was no way I was going to take my eyes off him. He looked wonderful. I was overwhelmed with God’s grace as I was reminded how He has brought us together.

We are so blessed and humbled by the love and support from our family and friends. We are very fortunate to have so much love all around us and know that the Lord will be with us always. I pray that as we live this new journey together we can do everything as unto the Lord. Austin and I have many things in common but the most important is our love for Jesus Christ and striving to live our lives for His glory!”

The Groom Austin, “I wanted my wedding to glorify the Lord in every way.” Said Austin. “Savannah and I had been through a lot together leading up to that day, much more than your average couple prepped to get married. Through the adversity and trials we held onto God’s promises and experienced a deeper love and growth in our relationship with Jesus and each other.

So, our wedding day was a celebration. A party to honor the Lord and praise Him for who He is and what He has done in our lives. It was an emotional day to say the least but more on a joyous level. I was so nervous all day, but the moment I saw Savannah at the end of that isle everything else faded away. In that moment, the Lord opened up the heavens and His glory came raining down on us. From that moment on, through the excitement and tears, we had the best day of our lives with our families and friends.

I am an athlete and have been competing in endurance races. My training is demanding and very hard. Many days I don’t feel like putting in the time and I am too tired to put for the effort, but I choose to lace up my shoes and get on the trail because I know if I don’t I will pay for it…Savannah and I are running this race of life together now. The training has been difficult and taxing, but I know it will pay off when we get into those later miles of life’s race. Our wedding day was the starting line and the gun went off. Now we are holding on to God and His truth. We will endure in His strength. Psalm 27:13-14. To God Be The Glory Forever! Amen!”

Mark 10: 6-9 “But at the beginning of creation God made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Enjoy the Jouney: Encouraging News From Our Granddaughter Alexa

Our prayer is for God to lead and guide our children and grandchildren.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;

I will counsel you with my eyes upon you.” Psalm 32:8

Our granddaughter, Alexa, and her husband, Jaco, are on a journey called… Life. They have asked God to guide them each step they take. I asked Alexa to post this report here on our website. I know it will encourage you, as it has us.

We have always prayed these Scriptures over our children and grandchildren:

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

We proudly share a short newsletter written by our granddaughter Alexa on their new journey:

(You can click here to view the official pdf Newsletter with images or read the text below)

The Gerbrands Upcoming Adventure!

by Alexa Gerbrands

Hello family and friends, Alexa here. July 27, 2007 I came across a quote when deciding if I should take a risk in moving to Florida to attend Fort Myers Masters Commission. That day my mom took me to Berean Book store to buy a new Bible and devotion. I was torn on whether or not I should pursue FMMC or a University. I knew one day I would earn my BA degree; however, I had a feeling that God was calling me to Biblical Studies at this season of my life. While browsing the bookstore with my mom, I was stressing to her my worries about making the wrong decision. My mom told me to trust God to speak to me on my decision to stay or go. At this point in my life I had never really stopped to listened to God and I was not sure how that would happen, but I was hopeful.

That afternoon I was browsing around the bookstore and picked up a random devotion called Streams in the Desert by L.B Cowen. I flipped to the day, July 27th. It started with Malachi 3:10, “Test me in this…..and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have enough room for it.” That verse captured my attention, so I continued reading…..The devotion talked about God’s ability to perform far beyond our prayers, even our greatest prayers. Then the quote came that was so simple, yet is still brought to my attention daily. “I have asked for a cupful, while He owns the entire ocean! I have asked for one simple ray of light, while He holds the sun! My best asking falls measurably short of my Father’s ability to give, which is far beyond what we could ever ask for,” John Henry Jowett.

You see, this is the moment that I knew no matter how much I tried to plan my life and come up with these radical plans to live for Christ and walk serving Him, my prayers do not even measure up to the plan God already has for me. As many of you know Jaco and I just celebrated our first year of marriage…that’s right marriage! I married the man of my dreams. God came through, once again, and gave me someone that is far more than I could have even imagined and I am so blessed.

Jaco and I currently live in Grand Junction Colorado and love everything about this small relaxed town. Last month I graduated from Colorado Mesa University with my BA in Mass Communication, Public Relations and Advertising. I chose this degree years ago with the goal to work for a non-profit missions organization.

This past year Jaco has been working hard as the Assistant Tennis Coach of CMU, along with many other jobs such as painting, tiling and anything else he can get his hands on. I am so blessed that he took a year off to wait for me to finish my degree before he pursues his goal of earning a Master’s in Exercise Science. While I studied away, Jaco worked hard researching schools that offer his area of study. He narrowed a few schools down and applied. For those of you who have a Master’s you know that process is not easy. Although Jaco was accepted to the schools he applied to, only one came out a winner.

During the application process we always joked about moving to this certain town and looking back now God had given us the answer from the beginning. When Jaco told me he decided to attend Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. I was so excited because that is the place the Lord had already laid on my heart. Knowing nothing about this town I was excited to follow my husband and support his decision. When I told my dad that about our decision, I will admit I was very sad seeing as we are moving to the opposite side of the country. But, my dad reacted with great excitement. He said, “Alexa, do you have any idea what organization is in Boone? I responded with a laugh, “No… I know nothing about Boone.” He began to tell me that Samaritan’s Purse is located in Boone, NC.

From that moment I teared up and knew that our faithful God was up to something. What are the chances that a dream organization of mine would be in this small town we were moving to? So, a few months ago I started researching and applying for jobs at Samaritan’s Purse and sure enough on June 8th I received a phone call and accepted the job as a Media Relations Associate. I start July 17th! I would like to say that I am shocked but that would be a lie. I know God gave me a desire to work for an organization just like SP back in 2007, during my time at Fort Myers Master Commission. The moment my dad told me SP was located in Boone I knew that I would be their future employee.

It is easy to have confidence in the Lord when we realize that his plans are so much bigger than our own. Life with Christ is the most fulfilling, unbelievable adventure and I am so humbled to be moving into this next chapter of Jaco’s life and mine. So the news is out…..We are moving to Boone, North Carolina this July! Jaco will be attending grad school at Appalachian State University where he will be studying Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise Science and I will be working full time under Franklin Graham at Samaritan’s Purse on the Media Relations team!

We are so humbled by the Lord’s hand on our lives and especially our marriage. This first year of marriage has been such a wonderful learning experience in our relationship with eachother and especially the Lord. It is a beautiful thing knowing the more we focus on the Lord the closer He brings us together. Jaco and I are so thankful that we were raised by parents who showed us the importance of a Christ centered marriage. We trust the Lord with this umcoming move for He does immeasurably more than we could ever dream of.

We are looking forward to the great outdoors of North Carolina and this new chapter in our lives. Thank you for your love, support and most important, your prayers!

In Christ,

Jaco and Alexa Gerbrands

Episodes of Praise the Lord

Watch the latest epsisodes of Dwight Thompson hosting Praise the Lord on TBN.

Dallas, TX. Dwight Thompson hosts Pastors Richard Ford and Tena Ford from Family Worship Center, Pastor Darlene Bishop from Solid Rock Church, Musician/Preacher/ Pro Rodeo Cowboy Lawrence Bishop II from Solid Rock Church and music by Aaron Crabb and Amanda Crabb.

Click here to watch Praise the Lord Hosted by Dwight Thompson.

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