We often hear the saying, “When God closes a door, He opens another.” Our family has seen the truth of that firsthand. At the end of 2024, we stepped away from theology studies and pastoral ministry to follow God’s call into foreign missions.

Recently, however, while studying the story of Paul and Silas in prison, we were reminded that not every open door means what we might think it does. Sometimes God opens a door merely to accomplish His purpose for that season before leading us elsewhere.

After ten months of praying, waiting and pursuing visas for Czechia, we received the disappointing news that they would not be approved and that no other pathway into the country was available. For eighteen months, Czechia had seemed to be the destination God was preparing for us. Yet looking back, we now see that His purpose was greater than we realized. Instead of launching at the end of 2025, we spent months back home in South Africa, sharing what we learned during our training in the United States, giving Bible studies and watching friends, family and even strangers surrender their lives to Christ.

Earlier this year, AFM encouraged us to begin praying about a possible Plan B. As we sought God’s direction, He impressed upon us the need to consider the Isan people of northeast Thailand. Just days later, an experienced missionary—unaware of our situation—contacted us with the very same invitation: “Would you like to start a project with me in northeast Thailand?” Through prayer and counsel with AFM leadership, the Lord confirmed this new calling. As one door closed, God faithfully opened another.

This change of field also brings additional fundraising needs. Would you prayerfully consider partnering with us so we can reach our monthly support goal and launch to Thailand soon after our son is born in September? Your prayers, encouragement and financial partnership will help bring the hope of Christ to those who have never heard His name.

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