Recent Blog Entries

  • 17 hours ago
    Posted by Dion Todd
    Yahweh said to Joshua, "Get up! Why have you fallen on your face like that?" Joshua 7:10 WEB.Joshua lay prostrate before the ark of the Lord all that evening. Yesterday, he had been a mighty warrior. Now Israel had lost the battle at Ai, all because one of the men with him had become greedy and brok...
  • Wed at 3:01 AM
    Posted by Dion Todd
    Now the king of Syria had commanded the captains of his chariots, saying, "Don't fight with small nor great, except only with the king of Israel." When the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, they said, "It is the king of Israel!" Therefore they turned around to fight against him. But Jehoshap...
  • Tue at 3:01 AM
    Posted by Dion Todd
    But Naaman was angry, and went away and said, "Behold, I thought, 'He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of Yahweh his God, and wave his hand over the place, and heal the leper' " 2 Kings 5:11 WEB.Naaman stared at his new skin with amazement when he came up from the muddy wa...
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  • March 25, 2022 - led by Lynn Brown
    This is a group for RHM sponsored events like corporate fasts. Everyone is welcome to join and participate in things currently going on in the ministry. We love you and thank you for being a part of Refreshing Hope!
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You, Are You Serious?

  • For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. (Habakkuk 2:3 NKJV)

    Twenty years ago the Lord gave me a word that I would be a pioneer of new things in ministry and to prepare myself. I was excited and told some friends, but they just gave me a dumb look and asked if I was serious. Looking back on it, I guess it was hard to believe. I was no one, with no education, and from a long family line that did not even attend church. We did own a dust-covered Bible that no one read, and everything that I thought was in it, was not. After close inspection, most of what I knew turned out to be legalistic lies and personal preferences.

    I went back to school and earned a degree in theology, but instead of Him putting me into ministry, I worked on computers for the next twenty years. I became skilled at it and owned my own business. Then suddenly that door shut, the business tanked, and the week that we were preparing to move out of our home, I ended up in ministry as a pastor. Now we find ourselves building an online church using the same skills that I learned on the street, and there are new things coming in ministry.

    God rarely calls the qualified. He qualifies the one that He calls. God’s voice brings faith with it, and your friends who did not receive it will not understand, but that will not matter or change the course. The word is for you. When God calls you to do something, He also gives you the faith to complete it. If you feel that He has not yet called you, then volunteer like Isaiah (Is. 6:8). Here I am! Send me! Don’t give up during the training. It does not happen overnight. No one can stop God’s plan for you, except you.


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56 comments
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Karen Pietrantonio
Karen Pietrantonio What an encouraging message! Especially now, when I feel completely unqualified to do what God has called me to do. I can't (won't) run from it, but it helps to receive this kind of encouragement. Thank you, Pastor Dion!! 
March 10, 2015
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Penelope Rhome
Penelope Rhome I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength amen
March 10, 2015
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Anthony Kulbicki
Anthony Kulbicki as my Pastor, Bert Wimberly, reminds us what the Spirit keeps telling us from 1 Thess. 5:16-18  16  Rejoice always,   17  pray continually,   18  give thanks in all circumstances;  for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. If we don't know anything else that God wants us to do today, tomorrow, etc, we can know this much...thanks Pastor Todd!
March 10, 2015
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Maria Williams
Maria Williams Amen. I can truly relate to what you are saying. I am so thankful that I listened to God when he spoke.
March 10, 2015
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Valerie Fields
Valerie Fields PRAISE GOD!! Thank you for such a powerful message! Many of us needed to hear this to remind us that GOD is still in control. Just sit back and watch HIM work
March 10, 2015
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Denise Holmes
Denise Holmes Amen!!! Stay Focus
March 10, 2015
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Susan Helms
Susan Helms Proverbs 3:5-6 - trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not into your own understanding but in all ways acknowledge him.  This is my favorite verse and is so very true if we will truly trust Him.
March 10, 2015
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Kathy Banfield
Kathy Banfield I started out yearning to be a dressage rider or horse trainer! Then, my right dominant hand was partially amputated and crushed. I plugged through Nursing school to earn my RN after that--not because I WANTED to become a nurse; rather, I was angry and stubborn and mad at the world for my injury! Now, after renouncing anorexia/bulimia (including exercise bulimia) I plan to write a book on how God saved me from myself!
March 10, 2015
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Ruth Martin
Ruth Martin You are sooooooo wonderful! I have been really praying and asking others to pray about the jobs my Husband and I would like to apply for. And almost every time I turn around you are giving messages about not backing down from the future. To go for it, even if you have doubts. And reading this today, really excites me. Our applications for the jobs will be faxed either today or tomorrow! I'm praying it is the right decision, and I truly believe if this is not the way the Lord is sending us, then the jobs will not be offered. Thank you so much, Pastor Todd! And than you to all my fellow readers. Your thoughts and words have also been great Blessings to me.
March 10, 2015
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Sunnie McPhetres
Sunnie McPhetres I've also learned not to second guess God.  There have been times when I have looked at what God has put before me and said, "Really?  This is what you have in mind?"  But after trusting God and following the path that He puts before me, I can see the purpose.  And just when I think I have it all figured out...He puts something else before me - it helps me to remember that I am not in control!
March 10, 2015
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Charlene Cox
Charlene Cox Good morning and thank you for your encouraging words and wisdom.Some mornings you are the light that shines in the valley for me.
March 10, 2015
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Carmen McCall
Carmen McCall I just finished praying this morning asking God to lead me in the direction he has planned for me.  I've been called into ministry and after two+ years of waiting a door opened. I am helping to grow a new church and it is amazing!!  My journey is so similar to your journey, that I know this was meant for me today to encourage me to keep pressing forward.  What 
March 10, 2015
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Carmen McCall
Carmen McCall What God has for me is for me!  I thank you for providing the confirmation and encouragement to keep going regardless the cost. The reward is greater!!!
March 10, 2015
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Laurel Walden
Laurel Walden Amen to this morning's devotional! We are so blessed to serve an equal opportunity God! Blessings on you all today!
March 10, 2015
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Jimmy Hines
Jimmy Hines many times in life we start on the path that God has for us but are derailed by our own sinful lust. We have to remember that if you fall God is still in love with you and what he has for you is still for you. Don't get down on yourself because you sinned and fell short. Remember that we are in the flesh and God will forgive and forget. So pick yourself up and press on the mark of your higher calling.
March 10, 2015
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Karen Fletcher
Karen Fletcher Amazing, I have been really down lately. It has seemed as if God had decided He was finished with me. But here it is again - "no one can stop God's plan for you".  As I was praying God was telling me that even if circumstances happen that He is greater.  After going through one of the deepest valleys in the last year I am still a bit shaky but I do have to say one thing stands, we have a faithful God who does not lie.
March 10, 2015
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Liz Birnschein
Liz Birnschein Good morning!  As I head to my retirement years, I truly wonder what is next in God's plan and whatever the plan, I need to take God seriously.  Looking forward to this part of my life!
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd God has a plan for every stage of our life and He will often guide us with what we truly enjoy doing. 
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd God is never finished us. I thought for years that He was done with me, but then I find that I was in just in training. He was preparing me to use.  
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd Always pick yourself back up  :)
March 10, 2015
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Amanda Malloy
Amanda Malloy How do you know what God's plan is for you? Is it a gut feeling or a thought? I Welcome any advice.
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd Remember, the call goes out to you and your friends may not understand it because they did not hear it. Keep going and ignore the dumb looks.  :)
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd We are so not in control  :)
March 10, 2015
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Marcia Diehl
Marcia Diehl I will welcome whatever God's plan.
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd God has always ( except for once ) guided me with closed doors, and then one open one. Pray about it, and if the door opens, go for it. 
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd When you are done and looking back on it, it is gonna be a great story  :)
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd God is in control, and even when we have given up on ourselves, He has not. 
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd He will qualify you on the way... it is exciting to believe God.  :)
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd This word was given to me by a prophet that visited our church from Wisconsin. Many times though, after fasting and prayer some doors close and another one opens. Jobs end, and another begins. Try getting somewhere quiet and praying "Lord, what do you have me? I want it."  
March 10, 2015
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Jeffrey Hample
Jeffrey Hample It is so dificult to wait for your appointed time when one sees others placed in positions of trust that soon flounder because they lack the necessary skills to do the job! Yet, I wait!
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd They flounder because they were not prepared. Waiting is part of it. God hid Moses away for 40 years before He used him. He does not use a microwave.  :)
March 10, 2015
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chris Raby
chris Raby Karen,    I understand about being really down down most of the time, i married an unsaved lady 14 months ago along with some other complications in our marriage,  ever since i have been depressed cause of my decision, even thoughts of suicide, this vally seems so long, this decision has distanced my relationship with Jesus,  i miss him so much, i know this valley will end, but when, so don't give up, Jesus is walking on the other side of you holding your hand, God Bless you sister, i will keep you in prayer
March 10, 2015
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chris Raby
chris Raby God bless you Carmen
March 10, 2015
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Marietta Geers
Marietta Geers God Bless You and Thank You for All You're Always Doing for All of Us!!
March 10, 2015
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Debbie Bible
Debbie Bible Your messages are sincere and unpretentious. I so relate that your life hasn't always been that of a minister and enjoy how you are willing to be open and share that. Please keep up the good work. I suspect you and Sylvia are doing more good than you can ever know!
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd Thank you Deborah. I believe that the world has had enough of fake, plastic people with hollow words. I am nobody special, but my God is AWESOME! 
March 10, 2015
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Debbie Bible
Debbie Bible I couldn't agree more about fake and plastic and I will add legalism in the mix. I allowed it keep me away from my loving God for years. It was my excuse. I'm so happy those days are over!
March 10, 2015
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Theresa Smith
Theresa Smith What God has for me is for me and I will wait until such time as He reveals it to me.
March 10, 2015
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Blanca Luyando
Blanca Luyando Amen
March 10, 2015
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Sylvia Schmidt
Sylvia Schmidt I went through a dark time from 2010 to 2014. Last year God called me and I kept asking him if he was sure or not. It was scary when he answered me with a resounding yes. I thought I was going crazy when he answered like that. I grew up knowing about God but not having a close relationship with him. It was amazing that it really was God who answered me since I was just getting used to having a relationship with him. So i started going into training about 1.5 years ago for what he wanted me to be. It turned out it was the perfect thing for me to do. It was scary to go out in faith to start the training. I didn't think it was the right thing to do or the right timing. But with enough prodding from God, it is going good. It was the right place for me to grow. I am still in the midst of the training but certain things seem to be falling into place for the career change to happen. I am a single mom with 3 kids and so this is a real scary thing to change careers for me. But I am trusting in God that he is leading me on a better plan than I made for myself when I was trying to make a career for the last 20 years that still hasn't worked out the way I thought it would. I wished I had listened to God sooner and saved all that disappointment. But I guess I had to go through some dark times before I could hear his voice. Now I'm never going back to being without him in my life.
March 10, 2015
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Cheryl Wilson
Cheryl Wilson Praying for you Helena.
March 10, 2015
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Frances Prindle
Frances Prindle I want to give encouragement to those that made a wrong turn.  I made a wrong decision, knowingly, about 3 years ago.  I had my reasons of course, but also knew it was wrong.  I really struggled with it and it did in fact effect my walk with God.  However, GOD is greater!  The LORD has now given me another chance.  And it is a wonderful chance.  It will not be easy, but it is another chance to do things how I knew I should have in the first place... and I did not even have to wait 40 years!  Thank you Jesus and thank you Mr. and Mrs. Todd for staying the course all these years, even when it did not appear that way.
March 10, 2015
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Sunnie McPhetres
Sunnie McPhetres My prayers are with you.
March 10, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd I pray that the Lord will restore your body completely in the name of Jesus and may this inflammation leave now. 
March 10, 2015
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Lissy Verghese
Lissy Verghese I am still confused when my preferences clash with those of my family on what is right and rong. Hope God will help me understand one day. Thank you!
March 10, 2015
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Debbie Smith
Debbie Smith We're wondering if the Lord is directing us to continue in our business or do something different..we both have visions of doing some type of ministry..so please pray for us to stay closely aligned with His guidance and direction. Thanks!
March 10, 2015
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Barbara  Schulz
Barbara Schulz I know God answers prayers and I need lots of prayers.  I fell & tore cartilage behind my left kneecap.  I have to go to an orthopedic doctor on April 3rd.  I am praying that I will not need surgery.
March 10, 2015
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Betrina Whitfield
Betrina Whitfield Pastor Todd. This devotion is a blessing to read. I too have experienced something similar. I worked in childcare for more than 20 years and this particular company that I worked for decided to close its doors in December of last year. I must admit to being shocked by the news but when they called me into the office; the Holy Spirit said not to worry and to trust Him. Naturally the parents were upset having to find care for their children but once the shock wore off, they began to ask the staff which preschool would they transfer to. Quite a few of the parents came into the office to ask my plans and I was hesitant to answer because I really didn't have a plan; we were given a three week notice and all I knew was that I needed to work, but where; I had no answer. One evening another parent came in and asked "Ms.Trina, what do you want to do?" And I stumbled for a while and she said, "Go ahead and say it. Spit it out!" I looked at her with boldness and said "I want to write. That is what I want to do." She did look at me sideways as if that's such a far fetched idea but once she fixed her face she said that she looks forward to the day that I publish a book. Pastor, something began to stir on the inside of me and I began to cry. I was overwhelmed with so many emotions. I didn't have a chance to really reflect on what was going on before me because we had so much to do. All I knew was, I didn't have a job and I didn't know which way to turn. A week later a friend told me that God shut this door for me and that I needed to trust Him and simply write. I have been and I'm nearly finished with the first one. Well, my sisters in Christ seem to have all the answers for me and where I should go and look for work and when I mention what I desire to do and what I have been doing; I get the tilted neck looks as if I'm the crazy one. It does rub me wrong and Pastor I honestly don't know what God has for me right now but while I have no distractions; I am going to write. People will hear my testimony and lives will be changed. I purpose to win the souls of the lost---broken---and shipwrecked. I have also had dreams of me walking down the isles of different churches wearing a robe and ministering and to that I say; I am afraid. I know God did not give me the spirit of fear, but it scares me and I don't feel worthy of such a calling and I've asked God for His help because I want to do His Will and I want to do it with Spiritual Boldness. Please keep the people of God in prayer because He is training up so many of His people and the devil is working hard to destroy it (us). Thank you Pastor for inspiring us daily and I thank God for training you up and placing this vision in your heart to carry through; for it will help so many people. God Bless you Pastor.
March 11, 2015
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Kenneth Koen
Kenneth Koen Amen! Yes and I am on pension and no learning cannot find a job and nothing is going well, eccept my learning the bible on World Bible School and have already 9 Certificates busy know with no 10 God bless you and family and also for Refreshing Hope Ministries always a pleasure receiving your mail!
March 11, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd Amen!
March 11, 2015
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Dion Todd
Dion Todd Hi Debbie. It is tough when you are in "limbo" like that. When caught up in this we try to do a fast and often it will shake things up. Sometimes doors that are partially open, slam shut. That is good though as we know then to move on instead of hanging on... and on... and on... and on... 
March 11, 2015
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Sylvia Schmidt
Sylvia Schmidt man...that is SO true!
March 11, 2015
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Susan Shane
Susan Shane "He qualifies the one that He calls." This statement has turned out to be accurate in my life.
March 11, 2015
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Mayra Prado
Mayra Prado Thank you for your daily words of wisdom.  I look forward to them every day and love how you bring the words of scripture to today's life.  God opens doors for us and gives us the strength to walk through them so we can fulfill His plan for us.  We need to do our part, as you did, and you were never "no one".  He had plans for you and you fulfilled them.  Thank you, we all benefit.
March 11, 2015
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Kim Hagen
Kim Hagen I've been reading your newsletters and daily words for over a year and want to thank you for the time you put into these teachings.  This one is a terrific example of what I like best ... how you take your personal experience and bring various concepts to life! I wanted to let you know that your writings, faith and prayer helped me through some very bad times this past year -- and your stories/memories/newsletters were and are particularly helpful for me!  Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart! Warm Regards, Kim
March 11, 2015
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Rosemary  Sambrano
Rosemary Sambrano Amen!
March 25, 2015