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What does it mean to trust God when you don’t understand what He is doing? Trusting God is more than believing He will give us the outcome we want. It means confidently relying on who God is and what He has said, even when we cannot see or understand what He is doing. In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori shares how God has taught her to trust Him through uncertainty, loss, and seasons of waiting. She also addresses the subtle danger of misplaced trust, especially when we are weary and tempted to look to ourselves, another person, or an easier way out for what only God can provide. You may not know why, how, or when God will answer, but you can know the One you are trusting. Key Takeaways Trusting God when you do not understand Letting what you know about God’s character guide your response to unexpected circumstances Recognizing where your trust may be misplaced Surrendering the process and outcome to God Scriptures Mentioned: Psalms 9:10, 37:5, 46:1, 56:3–4, 62:8, 68:5, 91; Proverbs 3:5–6; Isaiah 26:3–4; Philippians 4:19 Resource Mentioned: Absent Dad Present Father When an earthly dad is absent, God is present. Absent Dad Present Father shares real stories of an absent father along with devotional encouragement and Anchor Trust verses to help mothers and children put their trust in God, His character, His Word, and His promises. Learn more at PerspectiveMinistries.org.

Boundaries can feel confusing, painful, or even threatening, especially after loss. For widows and single moms, it may seem as though all protection has been stripped away. But Scripture tells a different story. In this episode, we look at God’s promise to set and guard the boundary stones of the widow. Long before boundaries became a modern conversation, God established Himself as the protector and defender of the vulnerable. You will be reminded that even in seasons where life feels exposed, God has drawn clear lines of protection around you and your children. This episode is both reassuring and points listeners back to the safety, authority, and care of our Heavenly Father. Key Takeaways: God sets and protects boundaries for widows You are covered, even when life feels exposed God defends what is entrusted to you Scripture References: Proverbs 15:25, 23:10–11, Psalm 16:6, 68:5, 139:5 Other Resources: Anger in Grief: Helping your Heart and Your Child Heal Podcast Episode 204 with Lori Apon Connect You can learn more about Perspective Ministries, find resources for widows and mothers raising fatherless children, and connect with upcoming gatherings at www.perspectiveministries.org You are not alone. God sees you, He is present, and He is faithfully defending you and your children.

Grief can leave us feeling overwhelmed, alone, and unsure of how to move forward. While God does not always remove the pain of loss, He promises to meet us in it. In this episode, Lori talks with bestselling author Lisa Appelo about experiencing God as the God of comfort and learning to trust His character through grief. Lisa shares how daily time in God’s Word helped her walk through the sudden loss of her husband and discover that life can be good again. Key Takeaways:How God meets us in the pain and loneliness of grief.What it means to do the hard work of grief through lament and trust.Why knowing the character of God can bring comfort when circumstances do not change.How giving joy and comfort to others can help us experience joy again. Scripture:2 Corinthians 1:3–4, Matthew 28:20 Connect with Perspective MinistriesVisit Perspective Ministries to find biblical encouragement and resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children. Follow Perspective Ministries on social media and subscribe to the Raising Fatherless Kids podcast so you don't miss an episode.

Grief is a natural response to loss, and there is no timetable for how long it should last. But over time, the reminders of loss can either help us remember with gratitude or keep us anchored to the pain. This episode explores how to recognize “trophies of grief” and prayerfully replace them with “trophies of grace”—reminders that put God's faithfulness on display. Key Takeaways: How to recognize when grief may be holding you hostage. Knowing when it may be time to let go of reminders of loss. Why grief should not become your identity. Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1–4, 1 Thessalonians 4:13 Connect with Perspective Ministries Visit Perspective Ministries to find biblical encouragement and resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children. Follow Perspective Ministries on social media and subscribe to the Raising Fatherless Kids podcast so you don't miss an episode.

During Suicide Awareness Week, we are having an honest conversation about one of the most difficult kinds of loss. Drawing from personal experience after the death of her husband by suicide, Lori shares biblical hope for those grieving the loss of a spouse, parent, child, sibling, or friend. In this episode, you'll hear practical guidance for helping children process suicide loss, learn how to respond to the questions and lies that often follow tragedy, and be reminded that even when answers are not found, God remains faithful. Whether your loss is recent or many years ago, there is hope because the absence of an earthly father never changes the presence of our heavenly Father. Key Takeaways Common questions families face after a suicide loss Helping children process grief in healthy, biblical ways Truths that protect against guilt, shame, and fear How churches and friends can faithfully support grieving families Scriptures Mentioned: Genesis 50:20, Psalm 68:5, Isaiah 41:10 and 46:1, Ezekiel 18, John 10:10, Hebrews 13:5 Resources Mentioned Absent Dad, Present Father Solace for Suicide booklet Children are not bound by the Past from Ezekiel 18 Podcast Episode # 221 Hope, Hurt, and Healing Podcast Episode #181 with Catherine Renfro Helping Children Grieve Loss by Suicide Podcast Episode #129 The Sovereignty of God in Suicide Connect with Perspective Ministries If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need hope today. To learn more about Perspective Ministries and discover resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children, visit PerspectiveMinistries.org. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 in the United States to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or contact your local emergency services if you are elsewhere.

As moms, we want to protect, guide, and help our children, but at times, the greatest thing we can do is bring them before the Lord in prayer. In this episode, we look at Abraham's powerful example of intercession in Genesis 18 and discover how God prepares us to pray for others through our own journey of faith. Learn what it means to stand before God on behalf of your children, trust His character when you do not know the outcome, and find hope in knowing that He hears every prayer. Whether you are praying for a young child, a struggling teen, or an adult son or daughter, be encouraged that your prayers matter because the God who remembered Abraham still hears and responds today. Key Takeaways What intercession really is and why it is so important Pray God's character when you do not know how He will answer your prayers Practical ways to pray intentionally for your children every day Scriptures Mentioned: Genesis 17-19, Matthew 6:9-13, Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 121:2 Connect with Perspective Ministries If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent or caregiver who needs hope. To learn more about Perspective Ministries and resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children, visit PerspectiveMinistries.org.

When Colleen Nunn was two years old, her father went missing in action during the Vietnam War. For 13 years, her family lived with the hope that he might return home. Although she grew up without memories of her dad, God faithfully placed people in her life who showed her His love and pointed her to Him. In this episode, Colleen shares how her mother’s faith, her grandmother’s godly example, and the work of the Holy Spirit helped her come to know God as her present Heavenly Father. Her story is a powerful reminder that even when an earthly dad is absent, God is near, faithful, and at work. Key Takeaways A godly grandmother’s love and example can leave a lasting spiritual legacy. God faithfully provides for His children, even in ways we may not recognize until years later. Children need the freedom to process grief in their own way and in their own time. When an earthly dad is absent, our Heavenly Father is present, providing the comfort, guidance, and help we need. Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 27, Proverbs 9:10, Luke 11:9–13, Romans 8:16 How to Connect Absent Dad Present FatherColleen’s story is one of 30 true stories featured in Absent Dad Present Father, offering biblical hope and pointing readers to God, the Father of the fatherless. Order your copy at PerspectiveMinistries.org Perspective MinistriesLearn more about resources and support for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children at PerspectiveMinistries.org Follow Perspective Ministries on Instagram: @PerspectiveMinistries

Amy Vliet grew up in Japan as one of 15 children adopted by missionary Betty Vliet, founder of Ebenezer Children’s Home. Although Amy never knew her biological father, her mother taught her from an early age that she had been handpicked by God and could know Him as her Heavenly Father. Amy shares how that foundation carried her through the questions of growing up without a dad and, years later, through the loss of her husband, Russ, to cancer. Her story is a testimony of God’s faithfulness through generations and the truth that He is Father to the fatherless. Key Takeaways -One step of obedience can impact generations. -The importance of helping adopted and fatherless children understand their stories through a biblical perspective. -A mother’s example of faith makes a lasting impact through Scripture, prayer, and family routines. -God is faithful to be Father to the fatherless. Scripture Referenced: Psalm 61:2, Psalm 68:5 How to Connect Absent Dad Present Father Discover Amy’s story along with 29 other testimonies of God’s faithfulness in Absent Dad Present Father Perspective Ministries Learn more about resources and encouragement for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children through Perspective Ministries. Raising Fatherless Kids Podcast Subscribe to Raising Fatherless Kids and share this episode with a mom or family who needs the encouragement that God is faithful to be Father to the fatherless.

What happens when a twelve-year-old girl loses her father just days before her thirteenth birthday? In this heartfelt conversation, Lori welcomes Absent Dad, Present Father contributor Susan Richcreek to share how the loss of her father shaped her life and how God faithfully stepped into the role He promises in Psalm 68:5 as Father to the fatherless. Susan shares what it was like to lose her father to cancer at age twelve and how that loss impacted her growing up. Together, Lori and Susan discuss God's promise to be a Father to the fatherless, the unique challenges children often face after losing a parent, and the practical ways God faithfully provides comfort, wisdom, and guidance through every season. They also encourage mothers and fatherless children to trust God's character and His faithful presence, even when life does not unfold as they hoped. Key Takeaways God faithfully steps into the lives of the fatherless as the perfect FatherA personal relationship with God brings strength through grief and every season of lifeEven when we do not understand God's plan, we can trust His characterGod's gentle presence often meets us in ordinary moments when we need Him most Resources Absent Dad, Present Father Connect with Perspective Ministries Learn more about Perspective Ministries and resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless families. Website: https://perspectiveministries.org

What happens when a father leaves? How does that absence shape a young man's heart, and how does God redeem the pain? In this powerful conversation, Lori Apon welcomes author, speaker, and founder of You Can Mentor, Zach Garza, to share his story of growing up after his father left when he was in middle school. Zach speaks honestly about the anger, fear, and deep longing for attention, affirmation, and acceptance that marked his childhood. More importantly, he shares how God patiently led him from an orphan mindset to the security of knowing Him as Father. Through godly mentors, forgiveness, and the work of the Holy Spirit, Zach discovered that his past did not have to define his future. This conversation offers practical encouragement for single and widowed moms raising sons, fatherless young people, and anyone who wonders whether God can redeem generational pain. In This Episode Why father wounds often create a longing for attention, affirmation, and acceptance. What Zach means by an "orphan spirit" and how God invites us into true sonship. The power of mentors in the life of a fatherless child. Why forgiveness brought freedom instead of bitterness. How God can transform generational patterns into a legacy of hope. Key Takeaways Practical encouragement for moms raising sons without an earthly dad. Moving from an Orphan Mindset to Sonship Understanding how God can transform generational patterns into a legacy of hope. Finding Freedom Through Forgiveness Resources Mentioned Absent Dad Present Father  The Impact of a Mentor Part One Episode 50 with Zach Garza The Stages of Growing up without a Dad Part Two Episode 51 with Zach Garza  Tell Me About Your Father by Zach Garza You Can Mentor National Network for Christian Mentoring Connect with Perspective Ministries ⁠perspectiveministries.org Whether your child's story includes death, divorce, abandonment, addiction, or another form of father absence, God has not forgotten them. He is still writing their story. He is patient, faithful, and able to become the Father they need. As Zach reminds us, what the enemy intended for evil, God can use for good.

What happens when your father is alive but absent? In this heartfelt conversation, Lori Apon welcomes Kayla Norman, one of the contributors to Absent Dad, Present Father, to share her powerful story of growing up with an inconsistent father because of addiction. Together, they discuss the disappointment of broken promises, the lifelong gift of a mother who refused to speak negatively about her children's father, how children often carry burdens no one sees, and the journey of learning to trust God as the perfect Father. Kayla's testimony is a beautiful reminder that although an earthly father may be absent, God is always present, faithfully redeeming every part of our story. Key Takeaways Whether you are raising fatherless children, healing from your own father wounds, or longing to better understand God's heart as Father, this conversation offers biblical encouragement and lasting hope. God can redeem the pain of an absent dad and reveal Himself as the perfect FatherA mother's integrity and grace can have a lifelong impact on her children's healingYour past does not determine your future when your identity is found in ChristResources Absent Dad, Present Father  Connect with Perspective Ministries If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that when an earthly father is absent, God is always present. Hope grows when it is shared.

In this conversation, Lori is joined by her son, Evan Apon, to discuss anger among boys growing up without a father. What can feel like sudden outbursts or emotional shutdown is often something deeper—unexpressed grief, frustration, or questions of identity. Together, they offer perspective from both a mother and son, helping you better understand what may be happening beneath the surface. You will also hear practical encouragement on how to respond with wisdom, create a safe place for conversation, and guide your son toward handling strong emotions in a healthy and God-honoring way. Key Takeaways: -Anger often reveals what is beneath the surface -Boys process emotions differently than girls -Create a safe place for honest conversation -Lead with calm and invite healthy outlets Other Resources: Understanding Emotional Changes in Fatherless Young Men with Guest Evan Apon Podcast Episode 134 Anger in Grief Podcast Episode 204 Connect with Perspective Ministries: perspectiveministries.org

Every child will eventually encounter influences competing for their heart and mind. Friends, teachers, coaches, social media, music, podcasts, and culture all have influence, but only one voice will always lead them in truth. In this episode, discover practical ways to help your children develop discernment, recognize the voice of God, and build a foundation that will guide them long after they leave your home. Key Takeaways Teach your children to recognize God's voice through His Word Choose your children's influences with intentionality Surround your children with godly friendships and mentors Raise children who follow God's voice, not just yours Connect With Us Perspective Ministries exists to encourage widows, single mothers, and fatherless children through biblical guidance, practical resources, and tangible touches of care. Learn more at: perspectiveministries.org Follow Perspective Ministries on social media for encouragement and resources. Subscribe to the Raising Fatherless Kids podcast so you never miss an episode. If today's episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent who is raising children in today's culture. Your support helps more widows, single mothers, and fatherless families find biblical hope and encouragement. Scriptures Mentioned: Genesis 3, Ecclesiastes 1:9, 1 Kings 12, John 14:6, John 10:27, 1 Corinthians 15:33, Proverbs 13:20

Many boys and young men carry an unspoken question in their hearts: Do I have what it takes? As mothers, we often express love well, but we may not realize how deeply our sons need to know that we believe in them. In this episode, we explore the powerful role a mother's words play in shaping her son's identity, confidence, resilience, and understanding of his God-given purpose. Whether your son is thriving or struggling, your belief in him can become an anchor that helps him navigate failure, overcome insecurity, and grow into the man God created him to be. Today’s episode offers practical ways to separate identity from behavior, speak truth over your son, and point him toward his ultimate identity in Christ. If you have ever wondered how to encourage your son without ignoring his weaknesses, this conversation will equip you with biblical wisdom and practical encouragement. Key Takeaways A mother's belief helps shape her son's confidence and sense of purpose. Speak truth about who your son is becoming, not just who he is today. Your son's worth is ultimately found in Christ, not in performance. Small words of encouragement can have a lifelong impact. Even when a father is absent, a mother's belief can help stabilize a son's sense of worth. Scriptures Mentioned: Proverbs 6:20–22, Ezekiel 18, Gideon (Judges 6:12), Peter (Matthew 16:18) Resources Mentioned Previous episode on freedom from the sins of the fathers and understanding Ezekiel 18. Connect with Perspective Ministries If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another single mother who is raising a son. Your encouragement may be exactly what she needs today. For more resources and encouragement for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children, visit Perspective Ministries.

What happens when the future you planned disappears in a single moment? In this powerful episode, Ginger Ravella shares the heartbreaking story of losing her husband, Air Force fighter pilot Troy Gilbert, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Left to raise five children under the age of eight—including six-month-old twin daughters—Ginger found herself facing overwhelming grief, unanswered questions, and a crisis of faith. Yet through years of uncertainty, loss, and waiting, she discovered that God had not abandoned her. He was faithfully carrying her and her children through every season. Ginger shares honestly about helping her children navigate the loss of their father, learning that grief looks different for every child, and watching God provide father figures, healing, and hope in unexpected ways. She also shares the beautiful story of remarriage, blended family life, and the ways God continues to redeem what seems impossible. Whether you are grieving the death of a spouse, navigating fatherlessness in your home, or struggling to trust God through suffering, this conversation will encourage you to anchor your hope in Christ and remember that He remains faithful even in life's darkest valleys. Key Takeaways Grief Is Not Linear Children Do Not All Heal the Same Way God Continues to Father the Fatherless Hope Is Found in Christ Alone Circumstances change. People leave. Life does not always unfold as planned. But Christ remains the steadfast anchor for every grieving heart. Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 34:18, Hebrews 6:19, Micah 6:8, Revelation 12:11 Resources Mentioned Hope Found: When life isn’t all you hoped it would be by Jim and Ginger Ravella WidowLife Magazine: Hope for the Holidays Edition Widow Support (Boxes of Comfort and Care) Connect With Perspective Ministries: If you are a widow or single mother raising children with an absent father, you do not have to walk this journey alone. Perspective Ministries exists to provide practical, emotional, and spiritual support while pointing families to the faithfulness of God, our perfect Father.