Personal Blog of Pastor Doug Duffett

Greetings on Day 10 after surgery

2010-11-19T17:05:00.001-09:00

I appreciate your concern and prayer for this pile of dust now resting in Fort Worth, Texas. I know how rumors can spread, so thought I needed to set the record straight concerning my condition.

The surgery was performed early Wednesday morning, November 10, using a local anesthetic rather than being "put to sleep." That evening, the hospital brought me delicious noodles and sausage, green beans, bread, etc. In the night hours, nausea set in. Due to the surgery pain, I could not move -- could not find a bed pan - - could not find the buzzer for the nurse -- and all of that delicious food came up and up and up and up. What a mess. Nurses were not happy, nor was I.

From that point on I was plagued with daily nausea. Getting up to walk brought increased nausea and limited use of my new hip. Things were not off to a good start. :)

As Friday and Saturday came, medications helped lessen the nausea and brought pain under control. I was able to be discharged to the Pool's home, for which we are extremely grateful.

Sunday was a blur.

This was so unlike my FIRST surgery that replaced my right hip. The first one was a "piece of cake." I was speaking to my Father about the difference in the surgeries, the pain level, the progress, etc.

The dear God of glory began to show me some things I needed to re-learn and pass on to my friends interested in my progress because of the spiritual applications.

I entered my FIRST surgery with great caution, asking many questions of God and physicians. The Bible word would be "circumspectly" (Ephesians 5:15)

I entered this last surgery with "self confidence." I KNEW the procedures, the RULES, the expectations, the people involved, etc., but it took a curve I was not prepared for. Shame on me.

Isn't SELF CONFIDENCE at the foundation of most if not all of our failures? We KNOW how to handle this situation, this Scripture, this song, this saint, this sermon, this skirmish, my spouse, this student, this sibling, . . . and on and on and on . . . ad infinitum . . . ad nauseum . . . forgetting that WITHOUT HIM we can do nothing at all. (John 15:5b)

SELF CONFIDENCE needs to be treated as an enemy, with self-crucifixion (Galatians 2:20) and self-emptiness (Philippians 2:7-8) as the only solutions. God gives gracious GRACE to the humble, but resists the proud.

My next blog entry will begin to explain the trail the Master has brought me down.

Thank you for your love and prayerful support.

Update from Pastor

2010-11-16T09:45:00.003-09:00

Sorry this update is so late in coming. Pastor called me today and gave me an update to pass on.

He was released from the hospital on Saturday evening. Sunday was NOT a good day. We don't know if it's the medication or what but he was very nauseous and no appetite at all.

Each day he has gotten a little better. Good news is that he is in NO pain when he sits or lays down....it is only when he stands or tries to get around that there is much pain and nausea. So there are many naps throughout the day : )

Pastor still has no appetite but he said that won't hurt him a bit : ) Thank you for all the prayers and he is very grateful to his dear bride for putting up with him and taking care of him. The Pools are a tremendous blessing, as always.

As you know, Pastor is very ready to be home with the people he loves! He was ready the day after he left : )

He is not currently on "top side" but he said that he prays this teaches him patience and gives him more compassion on those who are hurting.

God is good....all the time!

Day One - after surgery

2010-11-11T09:02:00.005-09:00

I spoke with Pastor Duffett this morning. He said that while the pain is better than it was yesterday, he is still hurting pretty bad. The pain level for this hip is significantly greater than the first one. I asked my dad why the pain was so great this time and not last time and he said "That is the very FIRST thing I am going to ask my doctor when he arrives!"

He did get up and walk with the therapist this morning. His doctor is supposed to stop by to see him today and this will be the first time they have talked together since before the surgery, so after that, we should know more about how the surgery went.

Thank you all for your prayers and concern. Though Pastor is in pain, this too shall pass :) I will do my best to keep you updated on his progress.

We sure love Pastor & Mrs. Duffett and want them home SOON! Please keep praying that the pain is not any worse than it has to be and that his recovery will astound the medical team in such a way that everyone who sees it will KNOW that only GOD could have done that!

God is good....all the time!

Surgeon Is Pleased and Releases Me!

2010-02-10T11:24:00.004-09:00

What a great meeting I had with my doctor on Tuesday. Not only is he saved, but Dr. McGowen was saved in a Bible Baptist Church in Indiana. He is an excellent surgeon and his staff has been wonderful.

He said I could drive again. Cynthia and I went to Cabellas in Denton, Texas, for our anniversary and I drove home at closing time.

We have lots of packing and shipping to do. Lord willing, we plan to leave tomorrow and see Luke & Sarah Greenfield (our son-in-law and daughter) in Omaha for a few days. Then we will visit Golden State Baptist College in Santa Clara, California, and Pastor Arthur Maricle in Petaluma before we make our last leg back to home-sweet-home.

I seem to feel better every day, though I am not without pain. Prayer, time and exercise should care for that.

Thank you for the flood of “Happy Anniversary” wishes we received with much gladness. You are so thoughtful.

It is going to be hard to say, “Goodbye,” to Max & Carol Pool. They are such dear and caring friends. They turned half their home over to us to make us comfortable. We have laughed and cried together. Carol has been through the “knee surgery ordeal” and has given wonderful advice and help. I just cannot say enough about all their help and love. We will sorely miss them.

God bless you. Take no thought for tomorrow. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Casting all your care upon Him for He careth for you.

The entire Fairchild family dropped in on Benbrook, Texas yesterday

2010-02-07T08:17:00.001-09:00

What a wonderful surprise to see one of our deacons and his entire family show up Saturday evening around 6:00 PM. They will be able to stay a week. Max and Carol are so thrilled to have their daughter and grandchildren around them . . . and glad to have Michael here too. : )

How everyone kept this a secret is beyond my ability to comprehend. It has been like “family reunion day” here at the Pools headquarters. This is a day I will long remember.

The Fairchilds also brought down a Gospel tract that Delynn wrote (and Jan Duffett prepared) sharing Max’s testimony. It is entitled: Sudden Changes - - Without Warning. The thrust is NOW IS THE TIME, TODAY IS THE DAY of salvation. It has Max’s smiling face on the cover with an ambulance and him in his hospital bed days after he was hit by the stroke that paralyzed him.

I know God is going to use this tract and use Max as he passes it around to folks he sees every day.

We are going to work on a LARGE PRINT edition for him to take to the hospital with him. He is such an encouragement to others in therapy who have also had a stroke.

What a day. It will be so thrilling to be in God’s house with these dear friends and fellow-labourers Sunday. My thanks to all who kept the secret and helped in making this trip for the Fairchilds possible. This Family of God . . . this Household of Faith . . . is surely a blessed gift from God.

Another week is coming to a close

2010-02-06T10:39:00.002-09:00

Yes, another week and some more progress . . . though the progress seems to come in smaller increments now. I am working on getting up and down without extreme pain. OUCH! When I think of the pain of getting up, I don’t want to sit down. I can go from lying down to sitting to standing pretty well with minimal discomfort, but when going from sitting in a chair to standing

. . . now that’s another story. : )

Today was a beautiful, sunny day in the high 50’s. We went to the YMCA, as we do every day, but only made it there once today. We were hoping to take Max and Carol to a concert of the Fort Worth Symphony tonight, but Max was feeling quite tired after therapy. We may play chicken-foot after a while.

Cynthia appears to be over her stomach bug and we both had a good day handling pain and discomfort today.

The thought came to me that the folks in Fairbanks who may read these words may get the impression that I am returning home “walking and leaping and praising God.” Well, I am indeed praising God - - - but walking is slow and leaping is nowhere in sight at this point. I meet with my surgeon on Tuesday and will discuss climbing stairs. Without a handrail, I am pretty helpless when it comes to stairs right now.

When I had my hip replaced last summer, he commented that steps were hard on the new joints and did not want me climbing stairs until 2 months after surgery. I will wait and take his counsel about the knees. Seems to me that if I take one step at a time, I would make it just fine. We shall see, what we shall see.

So rejoice with me but don’t get our expectations too high upon my return home. I am looking forward to getting a good exercise bike . . . perhaps one for my office and one for my home to keep the knees moving. Sitting is among the most difficult things I have to deal with. After just a few minutes, the knees begin to pain . . . and then getting up multiplies the agony. I am sure that this too, shall pass.

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die – I scarce can take it in.

That on the cross – my burden gladly bearing –
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee –
HOW GREAT THOU ART !!!!
HOW GREAT THOU ART !!!!

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee –
HOW GREAT THOU ART !!!!
HOW GREAT THOU ART !!!!

I went to my first Rodeo today.

2010-02-02T16:49:00.005-09:00

After Cynthia and I went to the local YMCA gym this morning, Cynthia and Carol Pool headed out to do “girl things” while us men headed to the Rodeo. Scott Pool bought us all tickets and I rode my first “chair lift” to get to an upper level.

Lots of new smells, words, sounds and experiences. Very good crowd for a Tuesday afternoon; obviously rodeos are “big happenings” for the folks in Fort Worth, Texas. I was encouraged by how well I did after a long afternoon that followed a good workout at the gymnasium.

We all had a great time at the rodeo and then ate at Furr’s restaurant (like a Royal Folk) for dinner.

The management at the YMCA after hearing our plight of double knee surgery and only being here another 2 weeks (Lord willing) allowed us to visit the gym as many times as we desire FREE – Texas hospitality. In fact, Cynthia and I are headed back again tonight for another session.

Yesterday, I was hurting so much after the gym that I could hardly move at all. As I recall, I came home and went to bed for the night; so I am greatly encouraged that I am ready for “round #2” today. I surely don’t deserve the least of His mercies, but rejoice that they are new every morning.

Max Pool was having a bad couple of days so the men’s excursion today was good for him also. We all laughed, relaxed and had a refreshing time.

My next Doctor’s appointment is on our 42nd anniversary, February 9th. Doctor will decide then whether to release me early or not. We shall see what we shall see. The outcome will be good whatever happens, because that’s how God works all things.

Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here.
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best –
Lovingly – its part of pain and pleasure –
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Adios amigo.

Max Pool, Kenneth Pool, Pastor Duffett, Scott Pool

Chris Greene made today a very special day.

2010-01-31T20:02:00.002-09:00

Cynthia has not been feeling well, so we didn’t make it to church this morning
. . . but Chris Greene did.
He drove all the way from Wichita Falls, Texas (over 2 hours) to see us and we were able to share a meal with Chris and Max and Carol Pool. What a wonderful blessing it was.

We laughed as he told of the terrible ice storm in Oklahoma that shut down the city/state including Altus AFB where he is training. He and some other guys drove two hours to Texas and got a hotel so they could shower and eat and not live in the dark.

Then, he left his co-workers in Wichita Falls and came to Fort Worth/Benbrook for a brief visit. It was SO GOOD to see him again.

The ice that built up on his van WAS STILL THERE at 2:00 PM this afternoon
. . . that is after 3 days in Texas. (See photo)

As you may know,our President has declared Oklahoma a disaster area. Their hardships provided an opportunity for Cynthia and me to have a refreshing visit with Chris. He has been a great blessing to the church he is attending in Oklahoma, using his heart and his gifts to help them. I am sure that pastor will hate to see Chris return home. His loss will be our gain. I think Chris returns to his family in Alaska in March. He is protecting us all; it was an honor to spend time with him. Just think of the reunion with loved ones and The Beloved One when the trumpet sounds.

What a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see,
When I look upon His face,
The One Who saved me by His grace;
And He takes me by the hand
And leads me through the promised land.

What day! Glorious day that will be.

We went to the YMCA

2010-01-31T11:23:00.001-09:00

Just a couple of miles down the road is a relatively modern YMCA with lots of stationary bicycles (where you can write letters while you bike?) and a walking track.

Having a level “walk way” was a real help as opposed to a street. This was my FIRST official walk on purpose on a “legal” walking track.
Cynthia passed me up 15 times (show off) but I had a successful walk and found it very helpful to overall pain level, agility and stability. I hope to do it twice a day at least.

Today will be our first Sunday in the Lord’s house since the knee cutting. I am SOOOOO looking forward to it. Bro. Sam Reed is their song leader/music director. He does a tremendous job and I am learning from him. I hope I can arrange a meeting one of these days between BBC and Bro. Reed. He has learned what is termed “Evangelistic Song Leading.”

Bro. Lassiter is the co-pastor and he will preaching in all services down here today. He is a zealous, practical Bible preacher . . . and a challenge to our lives.

Temperature was 27 this morning with an added powerful breeze. Downright cold. I can’t believe I am saying that, but there it is. IT IS COLD.

Cynthia visited an Ideal Feet “store” for her painful foot situation. In one day, the pain is completely gone. Amazing. You should have seen her doing her power walk around the track. Amazing.

Evangelist Justyn and Rachel Smyth are in Fairbanks and will be ministering in song and in the Word in all services today.

Karen Lidster and Joyce Tekin hosted our pre-teen young ladies at a Garden Party yesterday afternoon in Fairbanks. I am sure to was a wonderful experience. Everything these two ladies touch turns to a gold opportunity to encourage others. We are so sorry to miss these special events.

Stay in the miracle book, resting in the precious blood while fellowshipping with the beloved body.

God bless you.

I was able to go to church last night...

2010-01-28T09:15:00.002-09:00

I was able to go to church last night for the first time since surgery. Praise be to God, things went fine. Bro. Rogers sang and we ate at Ihop after church. It was SO good to see a BBCer again and to renew fellowship with Mark. The folks at church here enjoyed his music greatly. Who among God's kids don't?

I am presently at my bi-weekly blood draw then off later to the YMCA for exercise. The rain is pouring down and thunder is clapping.

Cynthia and I agreed today that we LiKE all kinds of weather -- as long as we're together. Cynthia has been so patient and gentle with me day by day. She has had to help me dress and bathe every day. What a jewel of a wife God gave me 42 years ago. We enjoy being together. One flesh; one spirit; one heart. God blessed me with a prize lady and I am glad.

Blessed be the Lord God who only doeth wondrous things. (Psalm 72)

2010-01-26T14:41:00.008-09:00

Today was my post-op visit with my surgeon. Everybody’s head turned when I walked into the office without walker or cane. Only God and prayers of God’s people could produce such a result. Here is a picture of me with my surgeon.

After his examination and watching me walk he said I am WEEKS ahead of any other patient. No more therapists. I will pay for a month at the local YMCA just a mile down the road and will exercise and walk there.

I’m already walking on cloud NINE with the Doctor’s good report.

Strange. . . I was “afraid” he was going to chew me out because of things I was NOT doing, or because I was taking matters “into my own hands” in stopping the appointments with the Therapist and not doing some things I was told to do. One night while praying, I told Cynthia that I was not thinking biblically. I didn’t KNOW what his response was going to be and I should only think on things that are TRUE. As soon as I ceased my fretting, my heart became lighter. There is no way I could have imagined how EXCITED the Surgeon was at my progress. He is even pondering releasing me 4 weeks after surgery instead of his normal 6 (concern for blood clots).

So I report back in two weeks for his “final” evaluation.

This reminds me of how many Christians anticipate their meeting in the air with our Saviour . . .or their meeting in prayer in the throne room. The “accuser of the brethren” convinces us that God is upset with us or disappointed with us or even angry with us because of our failures, sins and disobedience.

We “forget” that we are forgiven, pardoned . . . and instead live under a cloud of guilt.

How wonderful to see the enthusiasm of my surgeon over my progress . . . and the joy of my Father that I am His son. (Zephaniah 3)

Thank you for praying . . . and for your encouraging comments to the blog and your emails. I am humbled to be loved by you and to know you stand by me in prayer.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Here are a few pictures. . . these are not for the weak of stomach : )

Today is my first post-op appointment with my surgeon

2010-01-26T09:18:00.002-09:00

I previously thought that appointment would be yesterday (Monday), but now realize it is actually for Tuesday.

I am looking forward to this meeting. He is supposed to remove the staples and bandages, inspect the wound and evaluate my progress and chart my direction from this point forward.

My plans were to be in church last Sunday, but after getting counsel from a patient who had undergone knee replacement I came to agree that sitting that long would be harmful to me. (a 45 minute drive each way and then the church services).

This has been an interesting experience. Sad, that so much of my thinking is focused on MY needs, MY progress MY pains. Surely, this is not how God planned for us to live our lives.

Lord, help me live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way
That even when I kneel to pray
My prayer shall be for others.

At times, my cry is to be free from pain . . . but has He not called us to suffer?

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a FAR MORE exceeding and eternal weight of glory. II Cor 4:17

Can we still rejoice and be kind even when in pain? Jesus was! “Father, forgive them . . . “
Can we put our eyes on OTHERS when so very aware of our own needs? Jesus did! “Today, thou shalt be with me . . .”

I walked a mile with Pleasure;
She chattered all the way;
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.

I walked a mile with Sorrow,
And ne’re a word said she;
But, oh! The things I learned from her,
When sorrow walked with me.

Robert Browning Hamilton

I will give you an update this after my appointment. It is pre-determined to be “good news” for surely God is working all these things together for good.

I love you . . . because HE first loved us.

12 days since surgery

2010-01-24T17:09:00.001-09:00

Twelve interesting days indeed. Today, I can walk around the house without my cane . . . slowly. A lady who teaches Physical Therapy said she has never seen that happen before. I understand that this is due solely to the power of God and the help of your sincere prayers. Thank you.

My follow up appointment with my surgeon is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon; he will take the bandages off and inspect the wounds and hopefully take the staples out. Future therapy plans will be decided then. It seems I am in a distinct category for therapy because they have never dealt with someone as advanced as I am after surgery that totally replaced both knees. I, too, stand amazed.

Cynthia and Carol Pool had another “girls day out” on Saturday afternoon while Max and I watch some preaching DVD's.

Lord willing, I will be able to attend church services in Texas tomorrow. How we wish we were back in Fairbanks. Brother Ryan Gray is preaching tomorrow morning and Bro. Fred Crisco is preaching Sunday evening.

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help; my help cometh from the LORD which made heaven and earth. Psalm 121

Thank you for your unconditional love, your faithful fellowship and your sincere prayers on our behalf.

We will try to upload some pictures for you. God’s richest blessings be thine.

First visit with the Physical Therapist

2010-01-18T18:12:00.001-09:00

OUCH! What a day this was. There was GOOD NEWS and BAD NEWS.

The GOOD NEWS is that I am 3 - 4 weeks AHEAD of the average person who has lateral knee replacement. This is surely due only to the GRACE of GOD, answered prayers and the healing power of His Word, with a Merry Heart. God is so good.

I am able to walk upright only using the walker to ensure balance.

The BAD NEWS is that he assigned new exercises that are more taxing . . . and I am scheduled to see him EVERY DAY this week. Pray for his soul as I witness to him of God’s wondrous grace.

The Ice Pump Machine that the hospital used on me every day, all day, belong to us
. . . so my dear Cynthia hooked it up after therapy today. WOW! What a difference ice makes. Thank God for ALASKA! Mucho frigid.

I am so glad we were able to rent a vehicle down here. (Thank you for your thoughtful and selfless generosity.) With therapy and doctor’s appointments for the Pools and all my appointments, we would have never made it work with one vehicle.

It has been wonderful to have faithful, strong and compassionate David here to help. The first two days getting in and out of the car were tough trips. Dave also established the best routes for travel to the labs, doctors, therapists, etc. This will make it easier on Cynthia and me when David leaves on Thursday.

Our Missionaries John and Connie Hinton (Brazil) were with Cynthia at the hospital during the 6+ hours at the hospital for surgery. They have been very kind, as has the wonderful Pastor and Staff of Trinity Baptist Church of Arlington, Texas.

I have learned and grown from this new relationship with TBC.

“The Glory of the Lord shall endure forever; the Lord shall rejoice in His Works . . .”

If God rejoices in His works, I think He enjoys hearing me rejoicing as well. His works may involve pain, soreness and hurts unmentionable - - but we can ALWAYS rejoice in the LORD – ALWAYS. God must enjoy sharing this with his child; I know His child does.

Thanks for praying and for all the encouraging comments. I read them often and rejoice.

Well, It’s Over . . . Or It’s Just Begun?

2010-01-16T19:37:00.002-09:00

I am so glad I had the HIP done first; it was a piece of cake. : ) Not so with two knees. But I must say that every day gets better and a little easier. Max and Carol Pool provide such a relaxing and encouraging atmosphere; a great place to heal.

God provided many opportunities to talk about the Lord Jesus with the host of care givers who came to my bedside. One man was from Pakistan and was disgusted at the sinfulness of man . . . but not yet of his own sinfulness. He promised me he would read our GREAT tract on God’s Simple Plan of Salvation. Some came from Haiti, Nigeria, Ireland and America. All were open to talk, though talking with tubes going in and out is not the most refreshing witnessing I have ever done. How God uses our weaknesses.

Monday, I begin out-patient therapy which will run M - W - F. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I will need to have blood drawn so my surgeon can keep track of my status, particularly regarding blood clotting.

It is amazing to me how quickly our knees want to shut down with scar tissue. Within an hour after stretching, I feel like I am starting all over again. And then there is the pain! Nothing compared to HIS for me. What love . . . what wondrous love. “I knew all my bones . . ., “ he said.

Thank you for praying for me. I miss home, my dear family and our wonderful church that Jesus has built and its pulpit.

How grateful I am for a faithful staff of leaders that love to serve the Lord and His people. I am a privileged pastor, undeserving but greatly favored. I will try to update regularly.

Pastor's Double Knee Replacement Surgery is Over

2010-01-12T09:12:00.002-09:00

I want to thank you all for your prayers for Pastor Duffett during this surgery. He was "under the knife" for 4 hours and then in the recovery room for an hour and a half.

The doctors are pleased with the outcome. I got a call from my mom this morning and she said that he is doing very well. The therapist had him standing this morning and he took about 4 steps before getting sick. They put him back to bed and have him hooked up to a machine that bends his knees for him.

He is very tired since they don't let you rest much in the hospital. He is looking forward to getting out of there to 1. Save money and 2. Stay with Max & Carol Pool. My parents would love to be home but if they have to stay down there, there is no one they would rather stay with than the Pools.

Again, thank you for your prayers and your notes. The doctor wants Pastor to stay in Texas for at least 6 weeks and we will see what happens from there.

Please keep praying and I will keep you up to date on his progress.

Jan Duffett
Pastor's Secretary & Daughter : )

Greetings on this brisk January evening in Fort Worth, Texas.

2010-01-09T20:05:00.002-09:00

The surgery to replace both of my knees is scheduled for 11:30 AM, Monday, January 11. Dr. Jeffrey McGowan (“mc GOWan”) is my surgeon again; my Great Physician is also the same . . . yesterday and today and forever.

They predict 3-5 hours in surgery and 3-5 days in the hospital. I am trusting the dear Lord to release me earlier than expected from the hospital because the JOY OF THE LORD is my strength . . . and even in my physical weakness, God’s strength is made PERFECT. Every day God trims off the predicted 5 saves money. : )

The God of all comfort trimmed my hip replacement hospital stay by one third. AMEN!

Cynthia and Carol Pool had a “girl’s day out” today with hair dressers, Mongolian BBQ lunch and shopping. Max and I had a Sam’s Club hotdog and drinks; we ate for $3.25 and then walked around Sam’s for an hour “sampling.”

We are all looking forward to church tomorrow, hearing Dr. Bob Smith preach and seeing old friends. How I wish every believer could experience the joy and freedom of Bible Baptist in Fairbanks that accompanies the proclaimed Word of God. We are a blessed people.

In Fairbanks, Bro. David Duffett preached Wednesday night from the life of Joshua; Bro. Ryan Gray will be preaching Sunday. Then Evangelist Mark Rogers will be preaching Wednesday night.

Thank you for remembering me and for praying. Ask God to give my surgeon “abilities beyond his abilities” and eyes to see as he needs to see to wield his God-given gifted hands. I want to be a good testimony to all I come in contact with, instant with the Gospel and ready to lead to Jesus those with a sincere heart who want to know our God through the blood of His only Son.

As our beloved Dan Sjoblom told his cancer doctors: “My confidence is not in your medicine, but in my Saviour and Lord.” Psalm 62:5 “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.”

“So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever. . . “ Psalm 61:8a

God bless you. Be ever mindful of His presence, eternal souls and the engrafted Word. I bid you good night.

SURGEONS RELEASED ME TO TRAVEL

2009-08-20T10:16:00.001-08:00

I had my last two appointments Tuesday and Wednesday and both surgeons are pleased and I am pleased that they have released me to travel HOME where I belong. We will be in church in Fairbanks this Sunday (Lord willing). We can hardly wait.

Max Pool is improving some each day after his stroke, though his sight is a problem. He is moving his left hand and foot rapidly and on demand. That is wonderful. His speech is very limited to the first two or three words and then he cannot get anything out. Frustrating to him, for sure. Thank you for praying for Max and Carol. Carol is remarkably strong. She has only slept at home 2 nights, spending the other nights on an uncomfortable cot in Max’s room. God is giving grace all around.

Pastor Bob Smith asked me to preach last night at Trinity Baptist Church. Thank you for praying for me. Brother David Duffett is finishing up a Back-To-School Revival at Valley Baptist Tabernacle in Palmer, Alaska, under Pastor Hull. Please remember him in prayer as well.

MAX POOL IS IMPROVING

2009-08-15T20:41:00.003-08:00

We just returned from seeing Max Pool in the hospital. He is out of ICU. He is making progress in moving his left foot and hand and is speaking words more clearly than ever. We are praising the LORD and rejoicing. He still has a long way to go, but he is making progress every day.

We had a nice visit with Rick & Debbie Kay today. They drove up from Austin. What an encouragement. Our hearts were refreshed. God is good. . . All the time.

We enter our last week in Texas. We can hardly wait to see our family and the church body. Bible Baptist Church has been so gracious, patient, kind, loving and loyal. I am honored to serve as their pastor by the grace of God. The reunion next Sunday will be a day I shall long remember. Home where I belong. Finally home. Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift.

Max Pool - possible stroke this morning

2009-08-11T22:52:00.005-08:00

At 6:00 am today, Tuesday, the ambulance was called to take Max Pool to Harris Hospital in Fort Worth. We suspect that Max had a stroke. His speech was quite slurred and he was very dizzy. He was quite alert and waved to us as he left for the ambulance. Please pray for him and Carol. Carol’s cell: 817-688-9992.

My surgery has been moved UP an hour to 1:30 PM. It is out-patient and I should be feeling like a brand new man this afternoon. AMEN! Cynthia is praying.

How comforting, in or out of crisis, to KNOW in whom you have believed when you are persuaded that He is able to keep that which is committed unto Him. Praise His holy name.

30,000 kidney stones treated by our urologist

2009-08-08T12:02:00.005-08:00

This man has some experience. Dr. Gould is a fine surgeon with compassion, and a busy schedule. Of the 30,000 kidney stones he has treated, he can count on ONE HAND the number that passed by themselves that were as large as mine. (Nothing is too hard for our Lord.)

If God does not choose to push it on its way, I will have surgery early Tuesday afternoon, August 11, to remove it. Though Dr. Gould’s office is an hour away from us, he agreed to do the surgery at the same hospital I had my hip surgery which is much closer and accessible without going on the interstate. My dear Cynthia is doing all the driving and she (and I) prefer the regular roads.

I have been having pain for almost a year, but attributed it to a bad back. The attack last week was painfully similar to the ones in Fairbanks. My doctor says that stone has continued to grow in size over the many months and now is blocking urine flow. The culprit must go, I am ready for its departure. :)

Though there is pain and nauseas and a general feeling of BLAH, this is nothing compared to what I deserve and I take it as from my Father’s hand:

He, whose heart is kind beyond all measure,
Gives unto each day what He deems best,
Lovingly its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Lord willing, Cynthia and I will be home for Sunday, August 23rd, when Bro. Kurt LaBouve will be with us. Can hardly wait. Brings tears to my eyes.

Kidney stone - 1cm in size - Ouch!!

2009-08-05T08:42:00.004-08:00

My Tuesday did NOT begin with a mile walk. Rather it began with me crawling from bed to couch to floor . . . and up the wall with a kidney stone. At 4:00 PM, we ended up in ER at the recommendation of my hip surgeon’s nurse.

At that time, we did not know the cause of the pain but suspected an infection of some kind. How relieved to know it was definitely a kidney stone discovered in the CT scan. The “chances” of naturally passing a stone that large (one centimeter) are ZERO. So, this afternoon I will see a Urologist who will go in with a “catcher” and grab the stone and pull it out. What a night of pain . . . and vomiting . . . and loss of sleep. Several of the men at our church know exactly what I am talking about.

So I am back on pain meds to ward off that terrible kidney pain. (All pain medications (even over-the-counter pills) were ended on Saturday night and I had a wonderful Lord’s Day with a new milestone.)

We were scheduled to meet today with the John Hinton family, our missionaries to Brazil, but the infamous kidney stone has postponed that meeting. On Thursday, we will be having dinner with Dr. Don Hodge.

Never a dull moment.

Moment by moment I’m kept in His love;
Moment by moment I’ve life from above;
Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine;
Moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine.

Never a trial that He is not there,
Never a burden that He doth not bear,
Never a sorrow that He doth not share,
Moment by moment, I’m under His care.

Two Months Ago

2009-07-31T09:40:00.002-08:00

Two months ago this week, Cynthia and I boarded the plane for Fort Worth thinking we would be gone for a month – maybe six weeks. The day after we landed we met with the surgeon and God’s delays began. More tests were undergone to make sure I NEEDED a new hip. Then my surgeon’s grandmother died suddenly and he went out of town for the services and for family. Now, my surgeon is on vacation.

I remind myself often of Psalm 56:4: “In God I will praise his word,
in God I have put my trust;
I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.”

We miss our home church so much; we miss our family greatly; but we are rejoicing daily in the “good things” of Romans 8:28. Bro. Don Hodge is coming to see us next Saturday; Rick and Debbie Kay are coming by to see us; Cynthia and I are attending a training session next week for Backyard Bible Clubs, a ministry that God may open up for us in Alaska. We have met some wonderful folks in the church here and have become friends, and have been able to encourage fellow servants in the work.

We have received daily reports of VACATION BIBLE TIME in Fairbanks. What a thrill!!! Because the church facility is so spread out and workers are intensely involved with their own responsibilities, many are not aware of the “whole picture.”

Let me help you. Wednesday night included 504 folks in Bible Time (workers and students). As of Wednesday evening, we have taught 527 different children and saw 145 different servants praying, sacrificing, working and reaping . . . giving a total of 672 different folks involved in Bible Time (AS OF WEDNESDAY EVENING.) I do not have stats that include Thursday yet. I will give you those totals later. So far, 54 precious souls have prayed to receive the Lord Jesus as Saviour. WOW! There is rejoicing in Heaven and in Texas!!!!!

Thank you, Bible Baptist Church, for keeping on for the Lord; thank you for your patience with your pastor; thank you for encouraging our guest preachers; thank you for honoring our wounded heroes, Dan and Marilyn Case, returning from the front lines in Fiji; thank you for keeping rank and keeping your eyes on your Saviour; and thank you for all the prayers and encouragement you have sent our way. God enabled Max and me to walk FOUR laps at the track this morning just after 6:00 AM. Each lap is 1/3 of a mile. We came home dripping wet from perspiration but glad for the Lord’s strength and ability and person. Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised.

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills

2009-07-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

How grateful I have been for Psalm 121. The hills of Fairbanks remind me of the work of the Lord going on in the center of the great land of Alaska, overshadowed by His wisdom, power and wonderful presence.

I heard yesterday of the GREAT SUCCESS of the parade . . . 15,000 pieces of literature passed out in one morning . . . and many of God’s people used to complete the task. Amazing. Absolutely amazing. How humbled and grateful I am to know the work is going on with such success and fruit in the greatland . . . from which cometh my strength; my strength cometh from the LORD which made heaven and earth.

Max Pool and I walked a solid MILE early Saturday morning just before the sun came out. The heat is tolerable then, though the walk is not a power walk. Me and my cane meander our way along the track, slowly, precisely but consistently. We walk the track every day except the Lord’s Day, when we walk into the house of God in company, rejoicing, getting sweet counsel. (Psalm 55:14)

Have a GREAT LORD’S DAY wherever you are, finding a church of the living God to fellowship and worship in. Please do it with great joy, enthusiasm and gratefulness, for this is honoring to our King and Saviour.

In His Easy Yoke,

Doug Duffett

Walking With My Walker And My Christ

2009-07-21T08:02:00.003-08:00

Praise the dear Lord of Glory, I have shed the walker and am getting along with a cane.

Last night we walked about a half mile with the cane . . . slowly but surely . . . painful but profitable . . . pleasant and yet purposeful -- I want to get home and walk up the stairs to the pulpit unhindered. The good hand of God will enable.

This morning early, before the sun proved its strength, Max and I walked another 2/3 of a mile in cool, drizzling rain. Max Pool’s encouragement means a lot to me. The walking is helping his back and my hip . . . and I trust both our hearts.

Douglas Chavez is due in Fort Worth today. He will be going to church with us on Wednesday. I am so grateful that God has given us a refreshing place to fellowship. Pastor Bob Smith and his people have been so very kind to Cynthia and me. I am learning things from him that we will incorporate into the ministry in Fairbanks. He is 70 years old . . . proven true and faithful. Perhaps some day in the future, we can bring him and his dear wife to Fairbanks for you to meet him. He is a gracious Christian gentleman with fire in his bosom and a sharp mind. There are so many things about Trinity Baptist Church that are similar to Bible Baptist Church. If you ever get down this way, a visit to this church is a MUST. They love Max and Carol Pool . . . but then, who doesn’t? They have been so very gracious and patient and kind and generous to Cynthia and me. I am humbled and so very grateful.

Bro. Jeff Day gave me an Ipod a couple of years ago to allow me to listen to preaching, music, etc., when traveling on planes. What a blessing it has been during this ordeal. Bro. Dave Duffett bought a speaker for it. All day and all night I listened to Alexander Scourby read me the Book of Psalms. One night (in the middle of the night) when nurses came in with meds, I heard him tell the one leaving who heard the Scriptures, “He already has his medicine.” :)

Here at the house I am able to listen to Bible preaching as well. Bro. John O’Malley is preaching to me this morning. Powerful messages. He is a good brother. Thank you, Neal, for introducing us to him.

Mrs. Barbara Frone graciously sent Cynthia and me two cd's of music that encourage her heart. One of the songs was unknown to me until the day I played it and wept and rejoiced. Here are the words:

Lately I’ve been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight.
People say that I’m amazing . . . strong beyond my years,
But they don’t see inside of me . . .
I’m hiding all the tears.

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down;
They don’t know Who picks me up when no one is around.
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
‘Cause deep inside this armor, the warrior is a child.

Unafraid because the armor is the BEST,
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest.
People say that I’m amazing . . . I never face retreat . . .
But they don’t see the enemies that lay me at His feet.

I drop my sword and look up for His smile
Because deep inside this armor, the warrior is a child.

A wounded soldier is still a soldier.

Surgery Day Plus 15 Days

2009-07-17T14:59:00.004-08:00

The doctor is pleased with my progress; I should be able to move from the walker to a cane next week.

He is concerned about my Coumadin levels as he tries to thin my blood. Must be too thick from all the years in Alaska. He does not want to release me to return home until my next appointment which is mid-August. He said that flying itself poses dangers of blot clots; adding that to the danger of recent hip surgery, he wants me to stay here. Max Pool graciously drives me to Quest Diagnostics where they take blood every Monday and Thursday and send results to my doctor to ensure the thinness of my blood. You should see the black and blue marks on my arms from the needles. Of course, as a preacher, I am used to it :)

We were greatly disappointed at the first news of not coming home this next week, but I was committed to following “doctor’s orders” when we came here . . . so “no direction is direction.” If no new orders from the Lord have arrived, OLD ORDERS are still in effect, soldier. Over the years, I have watched individuals and families who liked some of the Lord’s counsel, but rejected that which was hard on the flesh . . . and the outcome was not pretty. I do not want to be guilty of not following orders.

I miss home so very much. VBT was always a highlight of my year. I LOVED working with the children each night. But, oh well.

Thank you for praying for me and loving my family. I will write more tomorrow, but wanted you to know the results from this follow up visit.

“God is good . . . all the time.”

(This is a picture of Pastor's new hip :)
You can see the bold white, steel hip is driven into his bone.)

7/9/09

2009-07-09T21:09:00.003-08:00

One week ago today, I was under the knife. It is hard to believe so much has happened. A brand new hip and a new lifestyle. From a busy life of not taking a day off from work in Fairbanks because there was so much to do and I loved every minute of it to being almost helpless. Cynthia has to dress me since I cannot bend over. I cannot drive. (Some don’t think that is connected to the surgery.) I look for the handicapped entrance to every building and I go nowhere without my faithful walker, on loan to me from the Pools. Before last night, I had to be helped into and out of the car. That hurdle has been conquered with God’s help.

Someone asked why I would choose the HOT summertime to come to Texas. This was NOT my choice; I was forced into this timing by the crisis of pain and immobility. How much more pleasant to be with the Pools in January, sipping ice tea on their porch early in the morning. Maybe next time. :)

My post-op follow-up appointment with my surgeon is July 17 and I will follow his advice as to the next step. As soon as we know the future, we will pass it on. We are taking one day at a time.

Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here.
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.

I have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and prayers from our tremendous BBC family. Every day cards arrive in the mail and sometimes by the STACK. Some contain beautifully colored pictures by the children who make up BBC but all include words to sweeten my trial and lift my heart. How I long to sing with you again and to preaching the unsearchable riches of our Great Saviour and His Perfect Word.

Faithful pastors of long standing have asked, “How can you be away from your pulpit for so long?” My answer is always the same: “I thank God for faithful men and our Faithful God.” What a joy to rest in faithfulness.

Great is Thy Faithfulness, Oh God my Saviour;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not;
As Thou has been thou forever shall be.

Psalm 119:24 “Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellers.”

Greetings!

2009-07-04T17:12:00.007-08:00

Greetings on Saturday afternoon.

To the Glory of God’s power, I was released from the hospital on Saturday morning (that saves another day of Hospital expenses; 11:00 AM is their cut-off time).

The operation was a success with NO complications. Apparently a piece of cartilage broke off in my hip and was continually doing damage in the close allowances in my hip socket. It did not show up in the x-rays because it was behind the ball.

When I asked if I could be released Saturday morning, everyone I spoke to said, “NO WAY. Minimum is 3 days.”

I did not argue and told my physician I would gladly do whatever he suggested. He is the boss in this project.

His assistant firmly said NO and listed all the hoops I had to jump through. I had exercised through the night, so when the walking hoop came up this morning with the therapist, she and the Doc were amazed ("thanks to God for my Redeemer, my very present help in time of need.”) By God’s grace, all the hoops were cleared and at 9:30 am, my surgeon said, “I’ll get the paperwork started so you can go ‘home’ this morning.” Max and Carol Pool’s home is set up for the handicapped and Carol is a nurse who herself has undergone a hip replacement, so I am in very good hands on terra firma and in the Heavenlies.

Obviously I have pain, but then I’ve been in pretty bad pain since February. Some of you reading this have been with me when my hip would bind up. The pain was unbelievable; the panic was even worse, feeling like I could not further stand up yet having no convenient place to lie down except on the ground – and THAT looks great for the pastor. All of that is behind me now (in my HIP :) and I am very glad.

The kind folks of Hamilton Acres Baptist Church sent me a surprise FedEx express package of gifts. What a pleasant and encouraging package, all given with encouraging words. Then, I got a large stack of cards from the people I love at Bible Baptist Church who, without your pastor, are still running over 500, and one Sunday over 600, with many saved and baptized. You are amazing folks. I am a blessed pastor to be able to serve with such gems.

I know that words don’t always express our transparent emotions or meanings. Max Pool was driving through a “work zone” and approaching the zone the sign said, “30 MPH ahead.” Max looked around and saw THREE of us in the car and we made GREAT time zipping through that work zone.

Please accept my sincere thanks for your open love and faithful praying. Have a GREAT Lord’s Day. How I wish I could be in Fairbanks leading in Scripture Songs, but that will have to wait in the will of God. I am comforted to know that our Great Saviour and spirit-filled men are standing by the TRUTH and BY THE PEOPLE we are called to shepherd. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I am humbled and very grateful.

The Day After Surgery

2009-07-03T14:59:00.004-08:00

Pastor Duffett had a good "walk" this evening. He had missed out on his walk time this morning because the medication made him sick, but the doctors are encouraged and Pastor is "ahead of the game."

Pastor's goal is to be out of the hospital tomorrow. He does not want to wait till Sunday and someone have to miss church to bring him home : ) Isn't that just like him?

He is very grateful for all the prayers, love and encouragement for so many people! As Pastor's family, we also thank you for expressing OPEN LOVE.

I spoke with my father at 3:05 PM Alaska time and he is doing very well. The rest of the family in Texas just left the hospital to go watch my brother, David, go bungee jumping. Please pray for my mom : )

Everyone except Pastor will be going to dinner this evening with our Missionaries John & Connie Hinton to Brazil, who are in Texas on furlough.

I will keep you updated and again, thank you for your love!

Surgery is Over

2009-07-02T14:27:00.004-08:00

My mom let us know that Pastor's surgery took about 2 1/2 hours but it looks like all went very well. Once the surgery began, the doctors discovered that his hip was worse than the x-ray showed originally but should be fixed now.

Thank you for remembering Pastor in your prayers. We now ask God that Pastor's recovery is not any more painful than it has to be and that he is back home soon. We sure do love and miss him.

More to come later.

Surgery Day is Here!

2009-07-02T08:42:00.008-08:00

At 8:30 this morning (Alaska time), Pastor Duffett arrived at the Plaza Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas. Surgery is scheduled for 10:00 this morning (Alaska time....1:00 PM Texas time)

Please stop right now and pray for wisdom for the doctors and nursing staff. Pray that Pastor & my mom and Max & Carol Pool will be a witness to those around them, of the grace and power of our Almighty God.

Thank you for LOVING, PRAYING FOR and SUPPORTING our Pastor. I will keep you updated on his progress.

Properly Attired

2009-06-26T12:58:00.003-08:00

Max and Carol Pool teach Pastor and Mrs. Duffett the proper way to wear a hat in Texas...

The Holy Spirit is waiting

2009-06-23T14:33:00.002-08:00

Greetings from Fort Worth. Evangelist Freddie Reed once said, “The Holy Spirit is waiting outside every lost person, wanting to get in; and He is waiting inside every believer, wanting to get out” (i.e., To fill and pour out of the believer so that the FRUIT and the GOSPEL can effect others). What a powerful motivation to be about our Father’s business of warning and witnessing to souls. I hope your pocket or purse contains Gospel Tracts ready to be delivered with the spoken Gospel to all who will receive it.

Sarah Greenfield is flying into Fort Worth from Omaha on Wednesday evening to be with us a few days. Of course, I was supposed to be in the hospital. I think I will enjoy the visit much more this way. :)

I spoke with Dr. S. M. Davis yesterday and he has agreed to come to Alaska the end of July. (Many have seen his Bible sermons on video.) We have wanted BBC to meet him in person for a number of years and it looks like God has opened the door widely as he and his wife celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Pastor Davis has pastored the same church for 34 years. He will be a great blessing to our BBC family and we will have the opportunity to honor a beloved man of God.

It’s a different world in Texas. The people here are super friendly and very open to the Gospel. Not ONE person has refused to listen and all have accepted tracts, often thanking us for them. Everyone has a water bottle with them... and they are into re-cycling. One church had a can in the lobby labled, “Empty Water Bottles Here.” When the janitor went to collect the bottles after the first weekend, there were NO plastic bottles. But the can was half full of water.

Oh, well.

Who is running my life, anyway?

2009-06-18T14:58:00.002-08:00

To quote a dear friend of mine, “Who is running my life anyway?”

My surgeon had a sudden death in his family and has postponed my hip surgery until THURSDAY, July 2. Oh, well.

I just talked with Bro. Ryan Gray. Anita has gotten some relief from her pain and discomfort, and for that we are all glad. Doctors are still interpreting tests and doing daily treatments which the Grays are hopeful will bring a solution to her physical problems. The Grays are a special family indeed. They are scheduled to return to Fairbanks on July 8th and Bro. Ryan will be helping with the Fairbanks pulpit to the delight of all.

I was thinking of the disciples that God used to distribute food to the 5000 folks on the hillside. How exciting for each disciple to watch the food multiply as it was distributed until all were fed. What a thrill to be such an integral part of a miracle. Then the instructions to gather up the fragments... the pieces left over... enough to fill twelve baskets. Where were these fragments? Some lying on the ground amongst the people? Some still in the hands of now filled people? Wherever the fragments were located, it would surely be far less exciting to go gather them than to distribute the food. None the less, it was all part of the Saviour’s work assignment. Sometimes our work is that way; much of it exciting, watching God work; other times, it’s just picking up the fragments. May God find us rejoicing in ALL that He wants us to do. “In everything GIVE THANKS, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Replacement

2009-06-17T07:16:00.001-08:00

Greetings!

Doctors gave me the injections into my hip joint early Monday morning and I had a wonderful pain-free day.This, said the doctor, reveals that the problem is definitely the hip. His solution is replacement.

I am scheduled for surgery on Monday, June 22, my dear bride’s birthday. I am sure there are a thousand ways she would rather celebrate that day than hanging around a hospital. She and Carol Pool no doubt have a plan. I’ve never heard so much laughter as when Cynthia and Carol get together. It is refreshing. Doeth good like a medicine.

David and Emily joined us Sunday afternoon and Sarah is flying in from Omaha on June 24 for a few days. It is always good to have family near. I am a blessed man and no one knows that better than I. God is good all the time, undeserving as we are.

6/10/09

2009-06-10T12:38:00.002-08:00

Here’s an update on my medical situation.

I saw the doctor Tuesday. He believes I need a hip replacement which we scheduled tentatively for Monday, June 22 (my bride’s birthday).

First though, he wants me to have a diagnostic procedure done on Monday, June 15, at 9:00 AM, where they inject a substance directly into my hip socket. Doc said that we would know in the following eight hours by my pain level if my problem is, in fact, a corrupted hip. This is an outpatient procedure done at the hospital.

Except for the pain, we are enjoying our time with the Pools. They have been so gracious to us... amazingly gracious. We play aggravation every night; I think I was the champ last night, as I recall. :)

Josh and Kerry Leise, our missionaries to Indonesia, will be in the church services in Fairbanks tonight. I wish I could be on hand to welcome them and encourage them, but I know that our BBC family will do an exceptional job of that. They always do.

God bless you. Thank you for keeping up to date on this blog. We had 52 visitors on Monday; even had someone from Israel.

Miracles

2009-06-09T07:36:00.002-08:00

Our Saviour’s miracles where acted parables. He never spoke to the people without parables. (Matt 13:34)

His miracles were not just to get their attention, but to teach truth. If that were true in the Gospels, then would it not be true today since our Great Saviour is the same yesterday, AND TO DAY, and for ever? When you discover a miracle of God in your life... a supernatural event that can only be explained by God’s power and precise timing... then also take prayerful and Bible time to explore the lessons. We mortals often just rejoice in the miracle, much as the seventy disciples who reported back to Jesus after their preaching assignment, rejoicing that the “even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” (Luke 10:17)

Now that would be a miracle, when mere men have power over the devils of this wicked world. But they, like us, tend to REJOICE IN THE MIRACLE, forgetting to REVIEW THE MESSAGE. The REASON they had power was because they had POSITION. (Luke 10:20 “but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”) Do you not see the great value in that, my friend? Do you see how much deeper the fellowship grows when we LOOK FOR THE LESSONS about HIM and about US that He wants us to learn when He works a miracle for us and in us?

As you and I CRY OUT to God in behalf of our dear missionary DAN CASE... let us also review the recurring lessons. God heeds our cries because we have ACCESS to His throne and His heart... access through His precious and powerful blood. Not only that, but He hears our cries because HE CARES... for YOU and for DAN CASE. (Dan is being quickly flown Tuesday to the capital city of Suva, Fiji, due to a high fever and extreme undiagnosed pain.)

We have position; we have access; He cares for us; and He has made a promise. “Call unto me, and I will answer thee (is this not the MIRACE?) and shew thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not (could this be the LESSONS? (Jeremiah 33:3) Are not His promises exceeding GREAT and PRECIOUS?

Promises that He delights to fulfill because His name and reputation are at stake?

Let’s look for and REJOICE BY FAITH in the miracle God wants to do for Dan Case and us... and then also REJOICE in the lessons that He wants to show us about His ways, His words and His will.

Later this morning, I will meet with the doctor about a course of action to solve my hip and knee problems. We are trusting our dear Saviour for wisdom. I will let you know the outcome. God bless you

6/8/09

2009-06-08T13:31:00.002-08:00

Many believers have difficulty growing and moving on for God because they cannot get “past their past.” Our Gracious God and Saviour gives hope in every situation. Remember Jacob’s son Joseph and his hurts done by his family and misunderstandings & failures of those in authority over him? What a difficult life he had. But his own testimony in Genesis 41:51: “And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseth: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father’s house.” Perhaps it was because some things in his past were too painful; perhaps because of the injustices done to a man who strove to do RIGHT regardless; we know not the WHY, but Joseph said this is WHAT happened: God made me forget it. Since God is no respector of persons, surely you could trust Him to do that for you whenever it is necessary. What a Saviour! He who FORGOT our sins is willing to cause us to FORGET the sins of others against us. Amazing Grace. Will you let Him do that for you? Please?

We had a wonderful Lord’s Day in Texas AND in Fairbanks. “Anywhere with Jesus is a house of praise.” I am so grateful for faithful, zealous servants in Fairbanks who love the Lord supremely. May your tribe increase.

Max and Carol Pool introduced us to a young man who had taken a struggling work at Longvue Baptist Church in Fort Worth. Pastor Brian Fisher preached a wonderful message Sunday morning; several were baptized; met a man who had come to Fairbanks and worked construction with North Star Baptist Church in Fairbanks and did “street preaching.”

Sunday night, we returned to Trinity Baptist Church and met the believer who started and operates Old Fashioned Christian Radio Station. He runs it from his home at his own expense, earning some money by selling CDs. He served at Eielson AFB in the 80’s. I think Bro. Chuck Leake shared the link with me years ago; how nice to the meet in person Bro. Michael McFadden, the man responsible for the source of so much good music.

Bro. Ryan and Anita Gray leave today (Monday) for Georgia seeking medical/nutritional help for Anita’s condition. Please pray for them daily.

Tomorrow morning, I meet with my Orthopedic Surgeon to discuss a course of action. Thank you for praying for wisdom. Max and Carol Pool have been fun and encouraging hosts. Pray God will bless them for their many kindnesses to this frail preacher. I am grateful that a wounded soldier is still a soldier.

6/6/09

2009-06-06T17:41:00.003-08:00

It is Saturday in Fort Worth. My normal Saturday involves many hours compiling my weekly email to staff and leaders of the ministry. That, however, is too complicated to do from Texas... but I miss the exercise and the details of it all. Max Pool and I attended the Christian School Graduation of the church that the Pools attend when they are not in Fairbanks. Our missionaries JOHN and CONNIE HINTON are out of this church and are presently in the area getting some medical help for Mrs. Hinton and raising additional support. We plan to all get together one evening for fellowship and a report of the ministry progress.

Pastor Bob Smith at Trinity Baptist Church is a gracious man of God. He just went through knee replacement surgery and his music director is just recovering from the same. I feel like I’m in good company. :) Max is recovering extremely well from his back surgery just a month ago. Max and Carol are amazing folks and have been dear friends to this preacher and his wonderful bride.

One of the men of God who has challenged my thinking over the years is A. W. Tozer.

He said regarding our SO GREAT SALVATION,
“When we come into this sweet relationship, we are beginning to learn astonished reverence, breathless adoration, awesome fascination, lofty admiration of the attributes of God and something of the breathless silence that we know when God is near”.

You may never have realized it before, but all of those elements in our perception and consciousness of the divine Presence add up to what the Bible calls "the fear of God."...

Surely the Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. What a great and glorious God we love and serve.

Make this weekend a time of preparation for the Lord’s Day. Invite someone to church with you. Bro. Jason Perry is a tremendous preacher and the new Operation Saturation Team is in town. If you bring a lost or searching soul with you, the preaching hours will take on brand new significance for you. God bless you.

Update...

2009-06-04T18:08:00.004-08:00

It has been one week since we boarded a plane to Fort Worth, Texas, to see an Orthopedic Surgeon on Friday. We are so very grateful for the gracious love and hospitality of Max and Carol Pool. We have had a WONDERFUL week of laughing, witnessing , soul warning, sightseeing and resting.

I met with the doctor on Friday, had x-rays taken and an in-depth consultation that ended with cortisone/lanacane shots in both knees and my right hip. What fun!!! The painful shot in the hip was a “diagnostic” treatment to discover the cause of my hip problems by observing my reaction to the shots. The doctor here thinks I might be suffering with bursitis, caused by the years of limping on my bad knees since 2004. Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning, I drastically improved with regard to pain levels and mobility, but Sunday afternoon brought some returning problems, though not as severe as they were in Fairbanks... and each day since then has been up and down in pain levels.

My next appointment is Tuesday morning, June 9. The problem with my right hip outweighs the bone-on-bone situation in both of my knees at this time. The knee pain is tolerable; the hip problem is crippling and very painful.

Thank you for praying for wisdom and healing. I KNOW to Whom I belong and there are no anxious thoughts about any of this.

When our dear Saviour asked, “What shall I say?” (John 12:27), He responded with the answer we should all give: “Father, glorify thy name.” John 12:28.

May I humbly likewise say the same . . . since I, too, do not know what to say to all of this . . . except, “Father, glorify thy name.”

We miss our family, our home church and our daily responsibilities that continually humbled and challenged us; but we rejoice in this day that the Lord hath made and we will be glad in it.

Preaching at Trinity Baptist Church

2009-06-01T10:39:00.006-08:00

Pastor Duffett preached at Trinity Baptist Church at the evening service on 5/31. This is the home church of Max and Carol Pool when they are in Texas.

You can listen to or watch the service here.