Help! I'm Raising Fatherless Kids: Recent Episodes
Lori Apon
Over 20 years ago Lori Apon found herself raising eight children without a dad and in desperate need of help. Psalm 68:5, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling," became the family's anchor.
Help! I'm Raising Fatherless Kids podcast hosts weekly conversations that offer practical guidance on how to do life with children who don't have a dad. You will hear from Lori Apon, founder of Perspective Ministries, and guests who bring hope and understanding because they have been there.
The good news is that with God as Father you are never alone!
Perhaps you’ve felt the heavy weight of regret—those “would’ve, could’ve, should’ve” moments that whisper lies and leave you feeling responsible for things you could never control. In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori unpacks the crucial difference between conviction from the Holy Spirit and condemnation from the enemy. Understanding this distinction changes everything.
Conviction leads us to restoration, hope, and freedom in Christ. Condemnation leaves us in shame, despair, and fear. The good news? God is our Redeemer. He restores, rescues, and makes all things new.
- Understanding the difference between conviction and condemnation, and why it matters for healing.
- Recognizing conviction as the kindness of God that leads to repentance, freedom, and life.
- Identifying condemnation as the enemy’s voice that accuses without hope and keeps us stuck in guilt.
- Remembering God’s sovereignty over life and death which brings peace in the midst of regret.
Key Takeaways:Scripture References: John 16:8 • Romans 2:4 • Psalm 103:10, 4 • 2 Corinthians 7:10 • Romans 8:1 • Revelation 12:10 • Job 19:25If you missed Part One in this series, Regret Meets Redemption, be sure to go back and listen. And join us next week for Part Three, when Lori shares how to help your children walk through their own regrets with the truth that Christ is Redeemer.
Lori opens a special three-part series, Regret Meets Redemption, addressing lies that widows, single moms, and even children often believe and how God's attributes dismantle those lies. Today’s lie is the belief that we could have done something to keep our children from growing up without their dad. Knowing God as our Redeemer shatters that lie and brings hope.
Through Scripture, personal reflection, and encouragement, Lori points listeners to God's character as Redeemer. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells the story of redemption, and this truth brings clarity, comfort, and assurance when the weight of regret presses in.
- Understanding regret and grief, and learning to discern when natural regret turns into a lie.
- The sovereignty of God over life and death, with Scripture that confirms our days are set by Him (Job 14:5; Psalm 139:16; 1 Samuel 2:6).
- Why combating lies with the truth of God’s character as our Redeemer is essential, and how redemption brings freedom and peace (Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18–19).
In this episode, Lori will discuss:
Takeaway: Regret may whisper lies, but God’s truth speaks louder. Your Redeemer lives—and His truth has the final word.
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org, and follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
What does it mean to grow up fatherless when you technically have dads in and out of your life? How can God reveal Himself as Father through confusing, absent, or painful circumstances?
Lori Apon sits down with Chris Britt to hear his powerful testimony of growing up with multiple “dads”— a biological father he barely knew, an adoptive father who struggled with alcohol, and eventually a stepfather who modeled love and service. At only twelve years old, Chris learned life-changing truths about his family’s past, but at the same time, he encountered the God who promises to be a Father to the fatherless.
- God uses painful family circumstances to reveal His faithful presence.
- Generational sin does not have to define the future.
- A praying mother and grandmother can plant seeds of faith that bear fruit in a child’s life.
- Children who grow up fatherless can discover that God Himself is their steady, unchanging Father.
Chris reminds us that even when earthly fathers fail or disappear, God never leaves or forsakes His children. His story is one of grace, healing, and redemption, showing us that we can trust God with our children’s stories, even when circumstances feel overwhelming.
✨ Be encouraged, moms: God sees you. He knows your children. He is faithful, and He has a plan for their lives.
- Absent Dad, Present Father – Lori’s upcoming book includes Chris’s story and 30 other testimonies of how God meets the fatherless with His faithful presence.
Key Takeaways:Resources Mentioned:Listen & Share:If this episode encouraged you, could you share it with another mom or friend who needs hope today? Be sure to subscribe so you do not miss Part 2, where Chris shares how Scripture memory and prayer became an anchor for his soul (and yes, he has memorized the gospel of Matthew).
When Joshua declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15), he was leaving a blessing for generations to come. But what happens when Dad is no longer there to make that declaration over your home? Can a mom take this stand for her family? The answer is yes—absolutely yes.
In today’s episode, Lori Apon encourages moms to boldly proclaim this truth over their homes and children, even in the absence of a father. Drawing from Joshua’s life and God’s faithfulness, Lori reminds us that you do not walk this journey alone. God Himself steps in as a Father to the fatherless, covering your family with His strength, presence, and peace.
You will be encouraged to:
- Understand the depth of Joshua’s declaration and how it applies to your family today.
- Discover the importance of the blessing of speaking faith over future generations.
- Find practical ways to lead your children to serve the Lord.
This episode offers biblical examples and real-life encouragement. It calls you to anchor your family in God’s promises and declare boldly, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Seek and Savor - A Podcast by Tara Dickson, Let Joy and Sorrow Co-Exist
Connect with Lori:
- Website: www.perspectiveministries.org
- Social Media: @perspectiveministries
Other Resource:Takeaway Blessing to Speak over your children: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. I bless my children in the name of Jesus so they will grow to know Him, love Him, and follow Him all the days of their lives. May our home be filled with God’s presence, peace, and truth, and may future generations rise up to serve Him faithfully.
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. You are not alone.
In this tender and needed conversation, Lori welcomes Catherine to share her deeply personal journey of loss by suicide. Catherine opens up about the night she lost her brother, the emotional and spiritual aftermath, and how God’s presence met her in the darkest places of grief.
This episode offers gentle encouragement for those walking through the pain of suicide loss and brings biblical clarity to common misunderstandings surrounding suicide and salvation. It is also a message of hope for anyone who may be struggling today, reminding each listener that healing is possible and that God is near.
Catherine also introduces her new book, Hope, Hurt, and Healing. This powerful resource helps readers experience Jesus in the wake of suicide and points them to the God who comforts, restores, and redeems.
Whether you are grieving, supporting someone through loss, or feeling overwhelmed by despair, this conversation is an invitation to anchor your hope in the unchanging love of Christ.
Main Takeaways:
- Understanding the Complexity of Loss by SuicideCatherine shares her personal story of losing her brother and the emotional, spiritual, and relational weight that comes with this kind of grief.
- Disputing Misconceptions with Biblical TruthFrom false assumptions about salvation to the isolating lies of the enemy, Catherine highlights the importance of clinging to the truth of God’s Word in the midst of sorrow.
- Introducing Hope, Hurt, and Healing Catherine’s new book is a heartfelt resource for those grieving suicide loss, offering comfort, truth, and the reminder that God is present and faithful through every part of the journey.
Resources Mentioned:Hope, Hurt, and Healing: Experiencing Jesus in the Wake of Suicide by Catherine
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. You are not alone.
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org, and follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Many single moms already feel the exhaustion setting in just a few weeks into the school year. The demands pile up, unexpected challenges arrive, and the weight feels impossible to carry. In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori Apon offers hope and encouragement for the days when you feel like you cannot make it another step.
Through personal stories, Lori explains the two kinds of weight God allows in our lives:
- Growth weight that stretches us in healthy ways
- Endurance weight that builds spiritual stamina
Both can feel overwhelming, but both can produce fruit when we lean into God’s strength. You’ll also hear how to identify the lies that creep in during hard seasons and replace them with truth so you can endure with hope.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognize the type of weight you’re carrying.
- Combat lies with truth..
- Take it one moment at a time.
Links and Resources:
- Hope Gathering
Contact Lori: lori@perspectiveministries.org
As summer fades into the school year's structure, single and widowed moms often face increased demands. Lori offers gentle encouragement and practical strategies for creating manageable routines and simple systems to bring peace and order to your home and heart. Whether you're overwhelmed by grief or daily tasks or simply need encouragement in solo parenting, this episode provides relatable wisdom and grace-filled guidance.
Practical Takeaways:
- Practical tips for everyday organization and home management
- Strategies for meal planning, laundry routines, and managing paperwork
- Encouragement for navigating grief alongside daily parenting responsibilities
Special Resources Mentioned:
- Newborns and Grief with Brittany Brooker and Julie Thomason Podcast Episode 08
- The Importance of a Support System
Call to Action: Share your own organizational tips or solo-parenting wisdom on our social media pages!
Connect with Lori:
- Website: www.perspectiveministries.org
- Social Media: @perspectiveministries
Remember, you're doing important work, and you're not alone. The Lord bless you as you continue raising your fatherless children with strength, love, and grace.
In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori shares a powerful promise from the Word of God specifically for children growing up without an earthly father. Drawing from Proverbs 23:10–11, Lori reminds moms that God has not forgotten their children—He personally defends the field of the fatherless.
With warmth and wisdom, Lori explains the significance of ancient boundary stones and fields and what they represent today: identity, protection, provision, and purpose. This timeless truth offers encouragement as families begin a new school year—God will fight for your children, and no plan of the enemy can prevail against His promises.
Key Takeaways:
- Practical teaching and application of God's promises to defend the fatherless
- Guidance for single moms teaching this promise to fatherless children
- Family Devotion Tip
Scripture Focus: “Do not move the ancient boundary or go into the fields of the fatherless, for their Redeemer is strong; He will plead their case against you.” – Proverbs 23:10–11
Connect with Perspective Ministries: https://perspectiveministries.org
As the school year begins, it is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the words we speak over our children—and ourselves. In this episode, Lori shares a powerful parenting tip that helped shape the way she encouraged and corrected her children as a young mom raising eight kids.
You will be challenged to reframe phrases like “good girl” or “bad boy” and instead use language that separates identity from behavior. Lori also explores how deeply rooted identity is—in Christ, not in performance—and how this truth brings freedom, hope, and healing.
Whether you are parenting toddlers or teenagers, this episode will inspire you to choose words that build up, affirm truth, and point your children to their value in God's eyes.
Key Takeaways:
- A simple but transformative shift in the way we praise and correct
- The difference between labeling behavior and labeling identity
- Why our identity in Christ is secure, no matter our mistakes or circumstances
- Encouragement for moms to speak truth over themselves
Resources Mentioned:
- Lullaby Albums by Christy Nockels: Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved The King Who Never Sleeps: Anthems for Rest
Encouragement for Moms:
"You are not defined by what you do or do not do. Your identity is rooted in Christ, and that is unchanging—even on the hard days."
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
What happens when your faith begins to unravel? When the solid ground beneath you suddenly shifts? In this powerful conversation, Lori welcomes author and chaplain Catherine McNeil to discuss her latest book, Mid-Faith Crisis, co-written with Jason Hague. Drawing from personal experience and spiritual insight, Catherine gently guides listeners through the stages of faith and reminds us that even in the darkest valleys, God is near.
Key Takeaways:
- The four stages of faith: Inherited, Confident, Mid-Faith Crisis, and Conscious Faith
- How to help children navigate their own crisis of faith, especially when walking through grief
- Encouragement for moms whose teens or adult children are wrestling with doubt or walking away from church
- Insights on church hurt, forgiveness, and rediscovering community
- What matters most at the end of life—and how to live with a legacy of love today
Recommended Resources:
- Mid-Faith Crisis: Finding a Path Through Doubt, Disillusionment, and Dead Ends by Catherine McNeil and Jason Hague
- Nothing is Wasted podcast episode featuring Katherine and Jason
Catherine McNeil is a chaplain, author, and speaker passionate about discovering God’s redemptive work in ordinary life. She lives near Chicago with her husband, three children, and a thriving garden. Catherine is the author of several books, including Mid-Faith Crisis, and was the project editor for The Message Women’s Devotional Bible. She holds an MA in human service counseling and is completing her Master of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary.
Follow her for more encouraging reflections on faith, gardening, and chaplaincy life:
https://www.facebook.com/catherine.mcniel
https://www.instagram.com/catherinemcniel/
https://www.threads.com/@catherinemcniel
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this heartfelt episode, Lori encourages single and widowed moms navigating the heat of summer—and the heat of life—to do hard things. Through personal stories, from childbirth to cutting the grass after her husband's death, Lori shares how God used difficult moments to shape her, strengthen her, and reveal His presence in the midst of pain. Whether you are embracing a new reality after loss or facing daily challenges of single parenting, this episode reminds you that you are not alone—and there is purpose in the hard things.
Key Takeaways:
- Your perspective shapes your experience.
- God speaks in pain.
- Practical Encouragement to do hard things
Next Week’s Guest: Catherine McNeil, discussing her newest book and the concept of a mid-faith crisis.
Connect: If this episode encouraged you, please consider leaving a review. Questions or topic suggestions? Email: lori@perspectiveministries.org Learn more at www.perspectiveministries.org
In this heartfelt episode, Lori welcomes long-time friend Stacie Kersey to share her powerful story of contentment in singleness and how God led her to adopt two daughters later in life. Stacey offers encouragement for women navigating unexpected seasons, including singleness, loneliness, and motherhood without a husband.
Raised in a conservative Christian home, Stacey was deeply influenced by the legacy of her godly grandmother. She shares how her relationship with Jesus became real after college and how God has faithfully guided every chapter of her life, even when it looked very different from what she imagined.
Now in her sixties, Stacey reflects on the joys and challenges of singleness, the beauty of spiritual motherhood, and how God used a small act of obedience years earlier to prepare her heart and home for adoption. Her journey reminds us that God sees, God knows, and He always goes before us.
- Contentment is possible: Singleness is not second best. Stacie shares how God gave her peace and purpose in remaining single.
- God sees and prepares: Stacie talks about God’s faithfulness in connecting her, a woman without children, with daughters who needed a mother’s love.
- Loneliness is real — but so is God's presence.
Scripture Highlight:
“The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord gives grace and glory. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” — Psalm 84:11
Key Takeaways:
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.organd follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this heartfelt episode, Lori gently guides mothers through one of the hardest truths to navigate as parents: how to teach their children that God is good, even when life feels anything but. Drawing from personal experience and Scripture, Lori shares practical wisdom for walking with your children through seasons of suffering, loss, and deep questions about God's character.
Key Takeaways:
- Helping children with their crisis of faith at a young age.
- Gentle advice for when children express anger at God or doubt His love
- Creative ways to reinforce trust in God through music, testimony, and everyday gratitude
- Practical steps to lay a foundation of God's Character vs life’s circumstances
Resources and Related Episodes:
- How a Mom Can Help Her Angry, Grieving Daughter Podcast Episode 69 with Erica and Jennifer Bolding
- Talking with Your Child About Anger Podcast Episode 71
Music:
- You’re Gonna Be Okay - Bethel Music
- Into the Sea - Tasha Layton
Subscribe to Raising Fatherless Kids and share this episode with a friend walking through hard questions about God's goodness.
Connect with Perspective Ministries: https://perspectiveministries.org
In this timely episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori sits down with Dr. Leonard Sax—author, psychologist, and family physician—for a conversation every mom needs to hear. Drawing from his book Why Gender Matters, Dr. Sax presents groundbreaking research on the biological differences between boys and girls and how those truths can guide moms as they respond to children experiencing gender confusion.
This episode equips single and widowed mothers with wisdom, scientific insight, and biblical truth to lovingly and confidently affirm the identity God has given their children.
Key Topics:
- Stanford's research on male and female brain structure
- How to respond when your child questions their gender
- Biblical perspective on male and female identity (Genesis 1:27)
Resources:
Related Podcast:
- Intentional Mothering: Parenting Insights with Dr. Leonard Sax (Part One) Podcast Episode 170
Books and Articles by Dr. Leonard Sax:
- Why Gender Matters
- The Collapse of Parenting
- How Common is Intersex?
- How Common Is Intersex? And Why Does It Matter?
Subscribe to Raising Fatherless Kids and share this episode with a friend walking through hard questions about God's goodness.
Connect with Perspective Ministries: https://perspectiveministries.org
In this thought-provoking second part of the conversation with Dr. Leonard Sax, Lori Apon dives deeper into important challenges facing single and widowed moms raising children without fathers: overdiagnosis, unnecessary medication, and the critical role of sleep and structure.
Dr. Sax, a renowned family physician, psychologist, and author of The Collapse of Parenting, Boys Adrift, and Girls on the Edge, sheds light on cultural trends in the United States that lead to children—especially boys—being quickly labeled and medicated for behavior that may actually stem from poor sleep or lack of structure.
Lori and Dr. Sax explore:
- Why ADHD is often misdiagnosed in American children, and the alarming trend of prescribing medication as a first resort
- Why developing self-control in children is more predictive of success than school grades
- The vital distinction between normal behavior and behavior influenced by grief
Dr. Sax offers practical advice and encouragement to moms, emphasizing that children thrive when parents provide clear rules, consistent boundaries, and compassionate leadership.
- The Collapse of Parenting – Dr. Leonard Sax
- Boys Adrift – Dr. Leonard Sax
- Girls on the Edge: Why So Many Girls Are Anxious, Wired, and Obsessed and What Parents Can Do – Dr. Leonard Sax
- Episode Part One: The Collapse of Parenting – Why Authority Matters
Helpful Resources:For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this powerful first part of a multi-episode series, Lori Apon sits down with renowned author and family physician Dr. Leonard Sax to discuss the essential role of parental authority, intentionality, and connection in the lives of children, especially for single and widowed mothers. Drawing from his book The Collapse of Parenting, Dr. Sax challenges cultural trends and encourages moms to reclaim their God-given leadership in the home.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Why children need parental attachment over peer attachment
- The medicalization of misbehavior and the overuse of psychiatric labels
- A biblicalBiblical Perspective on Proverbs 22:6 and Deuteronomy 6
Notable Quotes:
“Parenting only works if parents exercise authority.” – Dr. Leonard Sax “You’ve greatly improved the odds if you train up your child in the way they should go.” “Chisel these words into the hearts of your children.” (Deuteronomy 6:7)
Other Resources:
The Collapse of Parenting by Dr. Leonard Sax
Why Gender Matters by Dr. Leonard Sax (to be featured in a future episode)
Time Around the Table Podcast Episode 100 with Christina Brummel and Kayla Whittinghill
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a child loses their father, the question “Where’s Daddy?” can come at any time—and for a grieving mom, answering it can feel emotional and more challenging than the simple question asked. In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, we talk about how to navigate this tender moment with grace, wisdom, and biblical truth.
If you are a mom navigating deep grief while helping your child understand the loss of their father, this conversation offers biblical guidance and emotional support to remind you that you are not alone. God is near. He is a Father to the fatherless and will equip you in every hard moment.
You will learn:
- Why this question is often repeated, and how to prepare your heart to respond compassionately.
- How to communicate with young children about death.
- How to talk about heaven in a way a young heart can understand.
- What to do if your child’s father died by suicide or violence.
- How to share the hope of the gospel without oversimplifying eternal truths.
Other Resources:
Someday Heaven by Larry Libby
Hope Comes to Stay by Clarissa Moll
Helping Children Grieving Loss by Suicide Podcast Episode 129 with Lori Apon
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Father’s Day can be a tender time for single mothers and children navigating life without an earthly dad. What once may have been a day of joy and tradition is now often filled with quiet moments, bittersweet memories, and unspoken grief. This episode offers a fresh perspective on how to approach the day with intentionality and hope.
Listeners will be encouraged to create new traditions that reflect the unique journey of their family. One suggestion is to shift the focus of Father’s Day to a personal Remembrance Day—honoring the day when God stepped in as Father in a new and profound way.
This episode is a reminder that Father’s Day, even in the absence of a dad, can still be a sacred space—one that brings healing, honors memories, and celebrates the steadfast love of our Heavenly Father.
Key take-aways:
- The history behind Father’s Day and its roots in single parenthood
- Practical ways to remember and spend this day
- Encouragement to lead the family with courage, honoring God’s promise to be a Father to the fatherless
Related Episode:Our New Father’s Day
Our New Father’s Day Podcast Episode 10 with Lori Apon
Scripture Highlight:Psalm 68:5 – “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.”
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
What happens when a young boy hears, “You’re the man of the house now”? This well-intentioned phrase can become a heavy mantle, especially in homes where Dad is no longer present, whether by death, divorce, or abandonment.
In today’s heartfelt and insightful episode, Lori Apon sits down with her son, Brandon, and son-in-law Ben for a powerful and honest conversation that every single mom raising sons needs to hear. Drawing from their personal stories, they unpack the meaning behind the phrase “man of the house” and offer wisdom for moms navigating this delicate dynamic.
You will hear about:
- The internal weight that boys often carry when they feel responsible for the family too early
- The difference between responsibility and authority—and why it matters
- Why mentorship and male role models outside the home are essential
- The role of a mother in guiding her son’s heart, not just his behavior
- Encouragement that God is at work in shaping these young men for His glory
Whether your son is 8 or 18, this episode will give you tools and perspective to help him grow in responsibility without robbing him of childhood—and remind you that God truly is father to the fatherless.
- Affirm your son's heart: It is natural for boys to want to help. Acknowledge their role without burdening them with adult authority.
- Distinguish authority from responsibility: Let your son grow into manhood without confusing him with leadership he is not ready to bear.
- Invite godly male mentors: Surround your son with trusted men who can reinforce the lessons you are teaching at home.
- Guide the stallion’s strength: You cannot change your son's God-given strength but you can shape his character and integrity.
- Trust God's timing: The process of growing into a man is not instant. Let your son take age-appropriate steps and trust that God is writing a good story.
Key Takeaways for MomsFor more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
This episode explores the hidden danger of self-pity and how it can hinder healing after loss. Listeners are reminded that while sorrow is natural, staying stuck in self-focus can lead to spiritual defeat.
Drawing insight from Psalm 43 and 2 Samuel 12, the message highlights the importance of choosing surrender over bitterness and worship over despair. With encouragement rooted in Scripture, the episode points to God as the Good Shepherd who restores the cast-down soul and calls His children to trust Him.
Key Takeaways:
- Self-pity is a hidden enemy that keeps us from healing and leads to spiritual defeat.
- True worship is surrendering to God's sovereignty, even when prayers seem unanswered.
- David’s response to loss
- A mother’s role in encouraging our children when grieving loss
Key Scriptures:Psalm 43:5, 2 Samuel 12:16–23, John 10:11, Luke 15:4–5, Psalm 23
Other Resources:
Pursue Perseverance Podcast Episode 165 with Lori Apon
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Perseverance is not just a virtue—it is a lifeline for anyone walking through prolonged seasons of hardship, especially single or widowed mothers raising children without the presence of an earthly father. Life often presents unexpected trials, and the weight of daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming.
In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, we explore what it means to persevere when the journey is long and hope feels distant. Through biblical truths, personal insight, and five practical strategies, this episode will equip you to press on with purpose, anchored in the faithfulness of God who sees, sustains, and strengthens you every step of the way.
Whether facing end-of-school exhaustion, navigating the summer months, or battling fear and discouragement, this episode reminds moms they are not alone—God is their strength, defender, and source of peace.
Key takeaways:
- Perseverance defined
- Practical tips for persevering
- Encouragement for the anxious
Other resources:
My Fairytale Romance
My Greatest Fear Becomes Reality Podcast Episode 3 with Lori Apon
Psalm 68:5 My Anchor Podcast Episode 4 with Lori Apon
From Fairytale to Reality: Lori Apon’s Journey of Faith and Forgiveness Podcast episode 162 Lori Apon on the Compelled Podcast, Part One
Holding Onto Hope: The Pain of Suicide vs. The Hope of Christ Podcast Episode 162 Lori Apon on the Compelled Podcast, Part Two
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this deeply moving episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori Apon opens her heart to single moms navigating the emotional terrain of graduation season. As school years wrap up and caps and gowns are prepared, Lori reminds moms that milestones like high school graduation often stir unexpected grief for fatherless children—grief that may have been buried or long thought resolved.
Lori reflects on her own family’s journey, sharing her youngest son Micah’s touching letter to the father he never knew—honest words that give voice to what so many fatherless graduates may be silently carrying. With Micah’s permission, Lori reads from his letter and highlights key moments that illustrate the irreplaceable role of a dad—and the faithful, loving presence of God who steps in as Father to the fatherless.
In this episode, you will hear:
- Why graduation can unlock hidden grief and how to create space to feel the loss
- Ways to affirm your graduate even in the absence of their father
- Practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement to help guide your child through this meaningful milestone.
Whether you are celebrating kindergarten, eighth grade, high school, or college graduation, feel the loss and the turn to a perspective of hope: God is the perfect Father who promises to be a Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5).
For more information and helpful resources, check our website,PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this special Mother’s Day episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, host Lori Apon offers heartfelt encouragement and biblical hope to single moms carrying the weight of motherhood alone. Through real-life stories, biblical reflections, and powerful prayers, Lori honors the quiet strength and sacrificial love of mothers raising children without an earthly father's daily presence.
Whether you are a new mom, a grandmother, an adoptive or foster mother, or navigating motherhood after loss, this message reminds you that God sees you, supports you, and is with you every step of the journey. With reflections on biblical mothers—from Hannah’s prayers to Jochebed’s courage, Mary’s surrender, and the Canaanite woman’s persistent faith—this episode is a tribute to the holy and hard work of mothering through every season.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- Encouragement for every type of mother: traditional, working, expectant, grieving, and spiritual
- Biblical examples of motherhood
- Treasures found in the dark seasons of single motherhood
- Reflection on the hymn “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” as a reminder to keep your focus on God.
- 🙏 A prayer and blessing for moms in every season—from those longing to conceive to grandmothers leaving a legacy
Scriptures Shared:
- Genesis 16:13 – “You are the God who sees me.”
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you…”
- Psalm 68:5 – “A Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows…”
- Galatians 6:9 – “Do not grow weary in doing good…”
- Psalm 28:7 – “The Lord is my strength and my shield…”
- Isaiah 45:3 – “I will give you hidden treasures stored in secret places…”
You may feel unseen or overwhelmed, but God has not forgotten you. He has treasures for you in the dark. He is your strength, your provider, your defender—and the faithful Father to your children.
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In Part 2 of Compelled, Lori Apon shares how God faithfully upheld His promise to be “a Father to the fatherless and a Ddefender of widows” (Psalm 68:5) after her husband, Bobby, tragically took his life. Left to raise eight young children alone, Lori clung to God’s word, trusting that He would provide—and He did.
Through years of uncertainty and hardship, God’s provision came in miraculous ways: anonymous gifts, unexpected opportunities, and even full college scholarships for all eight of her children. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Lori watched her children grow into faithful followers of Christ, defying statistics and reflecting God’s grace. Now, as the founder of Perspective Ministries, Lori dedicates her life to serving widows and fatherless children, empowering them to trust God’s promises just as she did.
Key Moments:
- (01:20) Recap of Part 1: Lori’s journey through marriage challenges and tragedy.
- (06:30) God’s Promise in Psalm 68:5: A timely reminder of God’s presence.
- (15:45) Provision Beyond Imagination: How God met every need after Bobby’s death.
- (26:10) Raising 8 Children with God’s Help: The Apon family’s testimony of trust and faith.
- (38:30) Defying the Statistics: How God guided each of Lori’s children into adulthood.
- (46:00) A New Mission: Founding Perspective Ministries to care for widows and the fatherless.
- (55:45) Encouragement for Widows and Single Moms: Lori’s heartfelt words of hope.
Takeaway: Lori’s story is a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness. Even in the face of unimaginable loss, God provided, protected, and fulfilled His promise to be present in her family’s journey. Her story inspires us to trust that God is always working, even when we cannot see the full picture.
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this gripping episode of Compelled that originally aired on the Compelled podcast, Lori Apon shares her powerful testimony of love, faith, and perseverance. Lori met her future husband, Bobby Apon, at a NewSong concert after a providential introduction through a friend. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage, but their journey was far from a fairytale. Lori quickly learned that both she and Bobby were entering marriage with hidden struggles—Bobby battled an addiction to lust and pornography, while Lori was caught in the grip of an eating disorder rooted in a need for control.
Despite their love for each other and commitment to Christ, the Apons faced intense spiritual warfare, emotional challenges, and heartbreaking realities. Lori’s unwavering trust in God and her belief in His power to redeem even the darkest pasts carried them through moments of doubt and despair. Through raw honesty, Lori recounts her journey of forgiving Bobby’s past, navigating long-distance challenges, and facing the unexpected battles that arose within their marriage.
Key Moments:
- (00:00) Listener Disclaimer: Frank discussion of sexual sin.
- (01:30) Lori’s Introduction: Meeting Bobby and recognizing God’s plan for her life.
- (12:45) A Quick Engagement: a 45-minute conversation that led to a lifelong commitment.
- (21:20) Facing Bobby’s Past: A letter that revealed Bobby’s struggles and required Lori’s forgiveness.
- (34:10) A Wedding to Remember: A royal wedding filled with music, but unspoken struggles lingered.
- (44:00) A Shocking Question: The wedding night question that left Lori speechless.
- (54:30) Hidden Battles: Bobby’s continued struggle with addiction and Lori’s silent fight with an eating disorder.
- (1:08:45) A Turning Point: Facing addiction, control, and their deep need for God’s healing.
Takeaway:Lori’s story reminds us that true love and faith require facing difficult truths, extending grace, and trusting in God’s redemptive power. Though their marriage began with hidden struggles, Lori’s unwavering commitment to prayer and Bobby’s desire for freedom laid the foundation for God’s miraculous work.
Next Episode Preview:In Part 2, Lori shares how her greatest fear became a reality and how she navigated the most difficult season of her life, trusting God through unimaginable circumstances.
Listen to the Episode on the Compelled Podcast
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
As Easter approaches, we pause to reflect on one of the most powerful and tender moments in Scripture—Mary at the foot of the cross. In this heartfelt episode, Lori Apon invites you to see Good Friday through the eyes of a woman who held the Son of God as a baby and watched Him suffer as Savior.
Through Mary’s journey—from the angel’s announcement to Jesus’ final moments—Lori draws out hope and encouragement for every single mom. Mary, a widow and mother, models what it looks like to ponder and treasure God's plan, even when we do not understand.
You will be reminded:
- That God is at work in the lives of your children, even through suffering.
- Jesus sees and provides for the widow and fatherless.
- Your role as a mother matters deeply in the unfolding of God’s redemptive story.
Key Scripture references:
Luke 2:19, 2:51; John 19:26–27; Hebrews 9:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Psalm 68:5, James 1:27
Song mentioned in this episode:
- Song: Mary, Did You Know?
Connect with Lori: If you have questions about knowing Jesus personally or just want to share your story, reach out at lori@perspectiveministries.org. For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this powerful episode, Tara Dickson shares her journey of mothering through grief and loss after the passing of her husband to glioblastoma brain cancer. With four children to raise, Tara reflects on how God has used the hardships of her family's story to shape their faith, purpose, and mission in life.
Tara discusses the importance of speaking life into our children, particularly our daughters, and provides practical advice on building strong, faith-filled relationships.
Tara emphasizes the power of listening to God’s voice, teaching our children to hear Him, and trusting that He will guide us through every season. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that no matter the challenges, God equips us to be the mothers our children need and that He is faithful to provide.
Key Takeaways:
- Trusting God's provision in every season of motherhood.
- The power of words and speaking truth into our children.
- Teaching our children to listen to God’s voice and find their identity in Christ.
- How God uses our struggles to build faith and purpose in our families.
Links & Resources:
- Let All the Weary World Rejoice: A Devotional by Tara Dickson
- Seek and Savor: A podcast by Tara Dickson
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this special episode, we share one of the breakout sessions from our recent Daughters of the King event. As mothers, we experience both the joy and challenge of shaping our daughters' lives. Our personal faith deeply impacts the way we raise them, and whether we realize it or not, we are their primary role models.
Through personal stories and biblical examples, Lori explores what it means to model godliness for our girls—even in the struggles, grief, and uncertainties of life. This conversation reminds us that even on the hard days, God sees us, equips us, and provides support for the journey of motherhood.
- Mothers as the primary role models
- Biblical examples of mothers and role models
- The growing relationship of a mother and daughter
In this breakout session, Lori discusses:For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode, we dive into what it means to be a daughter of the King—fully seen, known, and loved by God. Our guest, Tara Dickson, shares her powerful testimony of navigating life as a fatherless daughter and later walking her own children through loss. Through her story, we are reminded that our identity is not defined by earthly circumstances but by the unwavering love of our heavenly Father.
If you have ever struggled to understand your worth or wrestled with feelings of abandonment, this episode is for you. Discover the hope found in God’s promises, the peace that comes from trusting Him, and the truth that you are rare, radiant, and deeply loved.
Key Takeaways:
- Practical tips on laying down the earthly version of a father in exchange for God as Father.
- The importance of letting God define your worth—He alone knows your true value.
- Promises of God that give hope
Other resources:
Let all the Weary World Rejoice: A Devotional by Tara Dickson
Seek and Savor A podcast by Tara Dickson
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Inspired by Psalm 84, Clarissa Moll explores the beautiful and sometimes messy reality of finding a home in God’s presence after the loss of a husband. Birds, particularly sparrows and swallows, teach us valuable lessons about resilience, vulnerability, and hope. If you have ever felt lost, untethered, or unsure of where you belong, this episode is an invitation to nest in God's presence and trust that He is creating something new in your life.
In this episode, Clarissa Moll discusses:
- The deep grief of losing home as a widow—and what "home" means now.
- The tension between resting in God’s presence and stepping into new life.
- How God meets us in the messiness of grief
Other Resources by Clarissa Moll:
Beyond the Darknessby Clarissa Moll
The Bulletin with Clarissa Moll
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Managing finances as a single mom can feel overwhelming, but God is our provider. Money is a tool, a treasure, and a test. We must handle it with wisdom.
God sees your needs and will provide for you and your children (Psalm 37:25). Stay faithful, seek His wisdom, and steward what He has given you well.
In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori Apon shares personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical advice for financial stewardship. From budgeting and saving to teaching children about money, learn how to trust God with your finances and make wise decisions for your family.
Key Takeaways:
- Budgeting strategies for single moms
- Tips for teaching children how to handle money
Other resources:
Who will Walk Me Down the Aisle Part One Episode 16 with Abi Fasciano
Who will Walk Me Down the Aisle Part Two Episode 17 with Kayla Whittinghill and Amy Carroll
Who will Walk me Down the Aisle Part Three Episode 18 with Christieanna MartinThe Working Widow
The Working from Home Widowed Mom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Grief is like a workout—it is painful, exhausting, and requires endurance. But just like time in the gym builds strength, grief can lead to growth when we embrace the process.
As we navigate grief, let us trust that growth is happening, even when we cannot see it. Spring is coming, and with it, hope and renewal.
In this episode, Lori Apon shares key lessons from her gym experience that parallel the journey of grief. Through personal stories and biblical encouragement, she reminds us that while suffering is hard, it is not wasted. God is present, shaping us and our children through every season of pain.
Key Takeaways:
- Do not waste your time in the valley. God has treasures to reveal even in the darkest seasons.
- Pace yourself. Grief is exhausting—be gentle with yourself and your children.
- Perspective and focus matter. Avoid comparison and keep your eyes on God.
- Coaching and support are crucial. Surround yourself with those who understand and can offer encouragement.
Join the Conversation: Have you seen growth through your grief journey? Connect with us at Perspective Ministries.
Father loss—through death, divorce, or desertion—can lead children to struggle with fears of abandonment. The absence of a father can open the door to fears of rejection and insecurity, impacting children emotionally, spiritually, and even physically.
In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori shares biblical encouragement that God promises to be a father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5).
- Understanding abandonment
- Signs of abandonment fear
- Practical ways moms can help their children navigate these emotions and fears
- The importance of speaking and praying biblical blessings over your child for wisdom, strength, protection, and peace
Encouragement for Moms:The enemy wants children to believe they are abandoned, but God’s truth says otherwise. He is near, faithful, and working all things for good. Look for Him, trust Him, and guide your children toward His unfailing love.
Other Resources:
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
Finding Male Role Models for My Fatherless Girl Podcast Episode 22
When You Feel Left Behind Podcast Episode 112
💛 Subscribe & Share – If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share with others. May God bless you and your children with His peace and presence!
Key Takeaways:
For more information and helpful resources, check our website,PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode, Lori encourages single moms raising sons without an earthly father. Reflecting on biblical examples like Solomon, who recognized the importance of a mother’s teaching, and the story of James and John—the sons of Thunder—Lori emphasizes the importance of guiding our sons toward God’s will. She highlights the significance of a mother’s instruction in a child’s life, much like a treasured piece of jewelry.
Through scriptural insights from Proverbs, Deuteronomy, and the Gospels, Lori offers practical encouragement for single moms to teach their sons to seek, know, and obey God’s will. She reminds mothers that their role is both sacrificial and sanctifying, trusting God to provide wisdom, strength, and purpose for their children’s lives. Drawing from personal stories and biblical teachings, this episode inspires mothers to model humility, service, and faith, trusting that God’s plans for their sons are greater than they can imagine.
- A Mother’s Teaching Matters
- Biblical Examples
- God’s Faithfulness to the Fatherless
- Trusting God’s Plan is important
Connect:Do you have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email Lori at lori@perspectiveministries.org. If this episode blessed you, consider leaving a review—it would be a great encouragement!
Key Takeaways:For more information and helpful resources, check our website,PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Valentine’s Day can be a tender time, especially for widows and single moms. In this episode, Lori encourages listeners to keep a heavenly perspective to combat the enemy’s lies of being unloved. She shares the history of Valentine’s Day, creative ways to celebrate with children, and practical ways to find joy by giving love to others.
Lori also readsThe Father’s Love Letter, a beautiful reminder of God’s love and faithfulness. She closes with a heartfelt prayer for widows and single moms, asking God to lift their spirits and fill their hearts with His love.
Key Takeaways:
- Keep a heavenly perspective and reject lies that you are unloved.
- Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your children in creative ways.
- Find joy by giving love to others—through notes, small gifts, or acts of kindness.
- Reflect on God’s deep and personal love for you.
Resources:
- The Father’s Love Letter
- Triumph Over Triggers Podcast Episode 150
- Celebrating Valentine’s Day as a Single ParentPodcast Episode 45
Connect:Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Email Lori atlori@perspectiveministries.org. If this episode blessed you, consider leaving a review—it would be a great encouragement!
You are loved, seen, and held by a Father who cares for you deeply. 💕
VisitPerspective Ministriesfor more resources, blog posts, and information on upcoming events.
Valentine’s Day can be a painful reminder of loss, rejection, and unmet expectations, often bringing unexpected emotional triggers. In this episode, Lori shares biblical encouragement and practical strategies for navigating triggers with hope. She explores how our senses can stir deep emotions and memories.
Through personal experiences and biblical stories, including Hagar and Leah, Lori reminds listeners that God sees them, values them, and brings beauty from brokenness. Learn how to anticipate, validate, and redirect your focus when triggers arise, replacing painful memories with moments of joy and gratitude.
✨ Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Triggers
- Biblical Encouragement: Hagar and Leah’s stories of rejection and God’s love.
- Practical Steps to Triumph: Anticipate triggers, validate emotions, plan an escape, and redirect your focus to God.
Other Resources:
- My Personal Story:
My Fairytale Romance Podcast Episode 2
My Greatest Fear Becomes a Reality Podcast Episode 3
Psalm 68:5 My Anchor Podcast Episode 4
Why So Many Kids - Trusting God with Family Size Podcast Episode 6
- Pre-Memory Syndrome
- Celebrating Valentine’s Day as a Single Parent Podcast Episode 45
📖 Scriptures Mentioned:
- Genesis 16 – Hagar: "You are the God who sees me."
- Genesis 29-31 – Leah: Finding joy in God despite rejection.
- Colossians 1:13-14 – God rescues and redeems us.
- Jeremiah 31:3 – "I have loved you with an everlasting love."
- Isaiah 43:1 – "I have called you by name; you are mine."
You are loved, treasured, and seen by God. He holds you through every trigger and offers healing beyond your deepest pain. May you find comfort in His presence and strength to triumph over triggers this season.
Connect with Us:Visit Perspective Ministriesfor more resources, blog posts, and information on upcoming events.
In this heartfelt episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori Apon addresses the universal struggle of stress and its profound impact on single mothers. Drawing on personal experiences, biblical wisdom, and practical tips, she shares how to navigate stress with grace and intentionality.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Stress: Learn how stress affects your body and emotions and why it can be a red flag signaling the need for change.
Biblical Encouragement: The widow with debt from 2 Kings 4:1-7 is a powerful reminder of God’s provision and the faith required to trust Him in hard seasons.
Practical Tips for Stress Relief
You are not alone in this journey. God sees your hard work and promises to carry your burdens.
Resources Mentioned:
Hope Gatherings: Find encouragement and connection with other widows.
Scriptures for Meditation: Keep verses like Psalm 55:22 and 1 Peter 5:7 close to your heart.
Action Steps:
Take a moment to reflect on what is causing stress in your life.
Consider ways to invite the community into your journey.
Write down your needs and pray for God’s provision.
Upcoming Events:
Luncheon of Hope: Saturday, February 8, for those widows in the Atlanta area who have experienced loss by death.
Connect with Us:Visit Perspective Ministriesfor more resources, blog posts, and information on upcoming events.
In this heartfelt episode, Lori Apon welcomes back Tara Dickson to share her powerful story as a fatherless child and a widow raising fatherless children. Tara shares how God’s grace sustained her through the most challenging times, offering encouragement to single moms navigating similar journeys. From her father leaving at a young age to losing her husband of 25 years, Tara reveals how God became her father and champion.
Key Takeaways:
- Tara’s Story of Hope
- Practical Tips for Single Moms
- Encouragement for Moms and Kids
Featured Resource:
Tara’s podcast, Seek and Savour, for short, rich encouragement from God’s word.
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode of the Raising Fatherless Kids Podcast, host Lori Apon shares heartfelt encouragement, biblical insights, and practical tools to navigate this season of loss and growth, recognizing the unique emotional, spiritual, and developmental needs of elementary-aged children.
- Scriptural Encouragement: Exploring verses like Psalm 68:5 and Hosea 14:3 that reveal God’s heart for the fatherless.
- Faith-Filled Guidance: Helping children see God as a perfect Father who meets their deepest needs.
- Practical Support
- Finding Male Role Models for my Fatherless Girl Podcast Episode 22
- Conversations Your Must Have with Your Fatherless Child
Episode Highlights:Additional Resources:
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori Apon welcomes Pastor Josh Weidmann to discuss the challenging and prevalent topic of depression. Drawing from his personal experiences and biblical insights, Pastor Josh offers practical tools and hope for navigating depression, reminding listeners of God's unfailing love and strength.
Key Takeaways:
- The Link Between Anxiety and Depression: Pastor Josh explains how these struggles often go hand in hand, describing depression as "the evil cousin of anxiety."
- Hidden Depression: Depression can manifest in ways that are unseen, even to those closest to us. Pastor Josh sheds light on how it takes root and offers tools to address it.
- Biblical Guidance: Scripture is a powerful tool in battling depression. Pastor Josh and Lori encourage listeners to rely on God’s Word for strength and comfort.
- The Importance of Faith: Faith, whether our own or that of others around us, plays a pivotal role in healing. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive, faith-filled community is essential.
- Practical Tools for Depression: Josh introduces the concept of a "Think and Do List," a pre-planned action guide for moments of emotional overwhelm.
Additional Resources:
- Suicide Hotline: 988 – A vital resource for immediate help
- Gospel Daily Podcast
- The End of Anxiety by Pastor Josh Weidmann
- Honest to God by Pastor Josh Weidmann
- How to Help Kids with Anxiety
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Host: Lori Apon
Episode Summary:In this special New Year’s episode, Lori Apon reflects on the transition into 2025 with encouragement and hope for single moms navigating fatherless parenting. She discusses the importance of releasing past regrets, treasuring God’s faithfulness, and living expectantly for the blessings and surprises God has in store. Drawing inspiration from Mary, the mother of Jesus, Lori encourages listeners to practice gratitude, reflection, and surrender as they move forward into the new year.
This episode also introduces subtle changes to the podcast and includes practical ideas for family reflection, gratitude practices, and fostering expectant faith.
Episode Highlights:
- Reflection and Gratitude: Lori shares insights on how to look back on the past year, recognize God’s faithfulness, and encourage children to practice gratitude.
- Living Expectantly: Inspired by Mary’s example, Lori explores the meaning of living with hope and trust in God’s promises.
- Practical Steps: Suggestions include journaling, creating a gratitude jar, and reflecting as a family on God’s provision and blessings.
- Scripture References: Isaiah 40:28-31, Psalm 68:5, Philippians 4:4, Proverbs 3:5-6
Other Resources:
- Hope for the Holidays magazine: Email lori@perspectiveministries.org to request a copy.
- The End of Anxiety Podcast Episode 136 with Pastor Josh Weidmann’s
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Support the Podcast:If this episode encouraged you, please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review. Share this podcast with other single moms who need encouragement and hope as they navigate their unique journey.
We are all desperately longing for peace. You may be in a season of suffering but able to proclaim that you are experiencing a peace that surpasses understanding, or you may be crying out for peace amidst the turmoil. No matter where you find yourself today, you have access to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
The prophet Isaiah gives four titles for Jesus, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV).
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- What it means for Jesus to be the Prince of Peace
- Scripture about peace
- Prayer for those seeking the peace of God
Have you experienced Christ as your Prince of Peace? Listen in and be drawn closer to your savior.
Other Resources
His Name shall be called Wonderful Counselor Podcast Episode 88 with Lori Apon
He will be called Mighty God Podcast Episode 89 with Lori Apon
Knowing God as Everlasting Father Podcast Episode 90 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Each advent season calls us to ponder the promise of Isaiah 9:6, “For a child will be born to us. A son will be given, and the government will rest on his shoulders, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace.”
Scripture uses many names to describe the members of the Trinity, but these names were given in anticipation of Jesus Christ, our Messiah, the King of all kings, and Savior. You may be able to recite these familiar titles from memory, but have you taken time this season to treasure their meaning?
In this episode, Lori talks about Jesus, “Mighty God”
- How Jesus shows His might in our lives
- How to create a “Mighty God” list
- Promises of God’s might: “Whose power no foe can withstand” (Psalm 91:2, AMPC).
Advent is the time of looking forward to the coming of Jesus, who came as the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. Mom, you are in a safe and secure place with Jesus as your Mighty God.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega says the Lord God, the One who is who was and who is to come the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8, NASB).
Other Resources:
Wonderful Counselor Podcast episode 88 with Lori Apon
Help for the Holidays Podcast episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There are over 100 names for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit throughout the Bible. Each name describes His character and gives believers encouragement. When we think of the names of God at Christmas, four titles for the Messiah from Isaian 9:6 give us hope: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
At some point in all our lives we will need counsel, leading us to Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor!
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- Considerations when looking for a counselor
- Who to go to for counsel
- Scripture on seeking God for counsel
- Knowing God as our Wonderful Counselor
When children need counsel, moms should not discount the value of her own counsel in the lives of her children. God has entrusted them to you and He will shepherd you as you shepherd them.
Other Resources
Help for the Holidays podcast Episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson
Christ, Our Wonderful Counselor Sermon by Pastor Ben Whittinghill, Rivertown Church
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. He became Immanuel, God with us. Jesus came to die for our sins—He was born to die. This episode will discuss two questions: Why did Jesus come to die, and why did He need to die?
This episode answers those questions by discussing the following:
- The Eternal Nature of Jesus: Jesus existed before Christmas.
- The Purpose of Christmas: The mission of Jesus went beyond birth; He came to save us from our sins by dying for us.
- Why did Jesus need to die? Romans 3:23 tells us all have sinned, and Romans 6:23 says the consequence is death. We needed a Savior. Jesus, sinless and perfect, offered Himself to cleanse us of our sins.
Verses to Reflect On:
- Isaiah 53:5-6 NKJV
- Hebrews 2:14 NLT
- John 10:17-18 NASB
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 NASB
- 1 John 1:5-9 NASB
- Romans 10:9 NASB
- Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV
- John 3:16 NASB
Other resources:
Hope Gathering: Helping widows find help and healing in Christ-centered communities
Thanksgiving can be challenging, especially when you are hurting. In the early stages of loss, it can be difficult to embrace the positive growth that grief will eventually bring. Even though it is hard, finding one small thing to be thankful for is important.
In this episode, Lori talks about navigating the pain and expectations of others on her first Thanksgiving, along with:
- The impact of grief on gratitude
- The gifts that come from seasons of suffering
- Gratitude prompts
Upcoming Event: Christmas Hope
Other Resources:
Thankful for Grief?
Giving Thanks is a Choice Worth Making
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Children’s Grief Awareness Day is a time to turn our hearts to children impacted by the pain of grief and loss in their childhood. Lori Apon speaks with Halli Gravely, a student at Liberty University, who shares her journey of grief, God's faithfulness, and finding healing after losing her father.
This episode offers hope to moms raising fatherless daughters and anyone dealing with loss.
Episode Highlights:
- Halli's Loss and Discovery: Halli lost her father at age 7. At 12, she learned the cause of his death, which brought a new layer of grief.
- Anger and Forgiveness: Halli talks about struggling with anger toward her father and finding healing through God's grace.
- God as Father: Halli explains how her mother, church, and mentors helped her see God as her true Father.
- Role of Community: Halli emphasizes the importance of a biblically sound church in her healing journey.
- Healing and Encouragement: Halli shares how God brought physical and emotional healing and encourages girls to run to God.
Key Bible Verses:
- Psalm 51:5
- Psalm 68:5
- Matthew 5:4
Upcoming Event: Christmas Hope
Other Resources:
Remembering God’s Faithfulness with Your Children Podcast Episode 35 with Lori Apon
Help for the Holidays Podcast Episode 85 with guests Lisa Appelo, Tara Dickson, and Clarissa
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Christmas can be a wonderful time, providing opportunities for single and widowed moms to evaluate their family traditions. In this episode, how to balance the secular and sacred aspects of Christmas is discussed.
Lori shares her personal convictions and experiences, encouraging listeners to thoughtfully consider how they might shape their own holiday traditions in light of faith and family values.
Key Points Covered:
- Who is Santa Claus?
- Choosing a Christ-Centered Focus
- Alternative Ways to Celebrate
- Navigating Your Personal Traditions
Upcoming Event: Christmas Hope
Other Resources:
Help for the Holidays Podcast Episode 85 with guests Lisa Appelo, Tara Dickson, and Clarissa Moll
Advent Countdown to the Coming of Christ Part One Podcast Episode 37 with Lori Apon
Advent Countdown to the Coming of Christ Part Two Podcast Episode 38 with Lori Apon
Jotham’s Journey: A Storybook for Advent
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
On November 10, many will celebrate “Pure Religion Sunday.” This day is dedicated to living out the biblical call found in James 1:27 to visit the fatherless and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world. Lori reminds us that “pure religion” invites everyone to participate in the practical expression of God’s love.
In this episode, Lori dives into 1 Timothy Chapter 5, a passage she encountered shortly after becoming a widow at 38. Initially, Lori misunderstood parts of the scripture, seeing them as a checklist she needed to meet to receive care. However, she discovered that these were actually qualifications for widows in leadership roles in the early church, not a requirement for receiving care.
Lori breaks down each qualification, shedding light on how these apply today, discussing:
- God’s heart toward the widow and fatherless
- The specific list of qualifications for a widow enlisted in leadership vs. those who need care
If you are a widow listening today, remember that you are deeply loved by God. Whether you need care or feel called to serve others, know that you have a special place in God's plan. The church is called to stand with you in every season.
Connect With Us:
- For more insights on today’s topic, check out our blogs and podcasts at Perspective Ministries.
- Join our Hope Gatherings for fellowship, support, and encouragement.
Upcoming Special Events:
Christmas Hope Saturday, December 7, 2024
Other Resources:
Understanding the List of Qualifications for a Widow Leader
The End of Anxiety Podcast Episode 136 with Josh Weidmann
Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann
Practice Hospitality
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Anxiety among adolescents is prevalent today. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 38% of girls and 26% of boys aged 13 to 17 experience some form of anxiety disorder.
Our guest today, Pastor Josh Weidmann, author of the book The End of Anxiety, focuses on how anxiety can lead us to greater trust in God and ultimately glorify Him, which is the end purpose of our struggle with anxiety. While we may not eliminate anxiety, we can learn to manage it effectively.
While anxiety may be a lifelong struggle for some, it can also be a tool for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. By addressing anxiety with biblical principles, individuals can find peace and purpose in their struggles.
In this episode, guest Pastor Josh Weidmann discussed:
- His personal journey with anxiety
- The purpose of anxiety
- Practical steps towards healing and hope
Other resources:
The End of Anxiety: The Biblical Prescription for Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Panic by Josh Weidmann
Honest to God: Becoming Brutally Honest with a Gracious God by Josh Weidmann
Special Event:
Christmas Hope
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this enlightening session from our recent Mom and Man event, Daniel Clubb from Advance Camp delivers a powerful message about the spiritual influence of mothers. He reflects on the character of Timothy, a young man shaped by the faith and love of his mother and grandmother, as highlighted in Paul’s letters to Timothy in the Bible.
Key Takeaways:
- Five ways moms can influence their sons
- Instill a tender heart and lead by example
- Pass on faith and pray regularly
- Build self-confidence
- Teach selfless love
- Offer strength of discipline and stay consistent
Upcoming Events:
- Christmas Hope Event: Don't miss out! This event for single and widow moms and their children includes brunch, music, and ice skating. Check the show notes for ticket details.
- Next Week's Episode: Join us for a discussion with Pastor Josh Weidmann on anxiety—an important topic that promises rich insights.
Other resources:
The Physical Changes of a boy to a man Podcast Episode 133 with Chris and Diane Tuttle
Understanding emotional changes in fatherless young men Podcast Episode 134 with Evan Apon.
As a single or widow mom, your understanding of the emotional changes your son will experience is crucial. Recognizing these shifts is the first step in guiding him through his development. Encouraging open communication, recognizing his individuality, and teaching biblical leadership principles can significantly impact his growth and resilience.
In this episode, the emotional landscape of fatherless young men is discussed, along with practical tips on how moms can help:
- Understanding emotional differences
- The role of emotions
- Building respect
- The importance of trust
- Leadership development
- Handling failure
Other resources:
Building Strong Men: Respect, Trust, and Leadership in Fatherless Boys by Evan Apon
Upcoming Special Events:
Christmas Hope Saturday, December 7, 2024
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a boy transitions into a man, a variety of changes occur. It is important to celebrate these while fostering an environment of open communication. For single and widow moms, understanding these physical changes and how to help is important.
In this episode, Chris and Diane Tuttle share heartfelt insights at the Mom and Man event from their experiences as parents, encouraging moms to embrace the journey of raising boys into confident young men during this transformative period.
- Physical changes and the importance of mom’s acknowledgment of these, along with practical advice.
- The impact of testosterone on attitude and behavior
- Navigating relationships and the importance of the parental role.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
Key Topics Discussed
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Losing a father at a young age is a life-altering event beyond our control, but how we respond to that loss is within our power—and it's this response that ultimately shapes the course of our lives. Our guest today, Millie White, became fatherless at the age of ten. She determined to take “the high road” rather than wallow in self-pity. She came to faith in Christ at the age of 15 when she realized that God would never leave or forsake those who put their trust in Him. Through her experience with suffering, she has learned to count her blessings.
In this episode, Millie talks about
- The ebb and flow of grief
- Handling the expectations of others in response to our grief
- The power of perspective and guarding our thoughts
- Practical tips for fatherless girls
If you have a story to share of God’s presence in life in the absence of an earthly dad click here to submit: Absent Dad - Present Father
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When we think of fall, many things come to mind: the colorful leaves, the cooler temperatures, fire pits, comfort foods, hay rides, the pumpkin patch and apple farms, and Halloween. For single and widow moms, the change of seasons brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. We can find beauty and restoration in letting go while watching God make all things new.
In the episode, Lori discusses:
- Practical ideas for making memories with your children this fall
- Considerations about Halloween, including what the Bible says about witchcraft and talking to our deceased loved ones
- The role of the Holy Spirit in our lives
Other Resources
Hope for the Holidays
5 Considerations for the Single Mom this Fall by Lori Apon
6 Tips for Single Moms Leading the Home by Lori Apon
The Pumpkin Patch Parable by Liz Curtis Higgs
Articles by Got Questions:
Did the Witch of Endor Really Summon Samuel from the Dead
What is a Seance
What are Magic Arts in Revelation 21:8
What does the Bible say about ghosts/hauntings?
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Coping with the loss of a loved one to suicide is incredibly difficult. Many feel pressured to keep this cause of death a secret, finding it hard and even shameful to discuss.
When a parent dies by suicide, children face not only the pain of losing a loved one but also the deep feelings of abandonment and the sorrow that comes from knowing their parent chose to leave. Processing grief from suicide can be especially challenging for children, so it's crucial to help them—and yourself—navigate these complex emotions with care and understanding.
In the episode, Lori carefully talks about the following:
- How to tell others that suicide is the cause of death
- The importance of telling your children the truth of suicide while building a solid foundation based on biblical truth.
- How to overcome the shame associated with suicide
- The choice you and your children are faced with on the other side of your loved one’s choice of suicide
- Scripture of encouragement when struggling with shame
Other Resources
Suicide is not the Unpardonable Sin by Lori Apon
God Speaks to Our Regret by Lori Apon
Choose Life
Mom and Man event for single and widowed moms and their fatherless sons
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Grieving the death of a parent will take time. When this loss comes by suicide, there are extra layers of grief to be worked through.
God has a beautiful plan for your life and for your family, even when you have experienced loss by suicide. When you put your trust in God, He is able to restore your soul.
In this episode, Lori discusses
- Complicated grief
- The sovereignty of God in suicide
- The importance of truthful conversations with your child
- Feedback from her adult children on what they would say to a child just starting this journey
Other Resources
Six Truths for Raising Children Experiencing Loss from Suicide
Telling Children about the Suicide Death of a Parent
The Spiritual Battle of Suicide Podcast Episode 75 with Lori Apon
Mom and Man event for single and widowed moms and their fatherless sons
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
One in twelve teenagers in the United States loses a parent or a sibling, and most don't want to talk about what they're going through.
Today’s guests, Fiona and Clarissa Moll discuss their book Hurt Help Hope, a valuable resource that offers teens a space to ask honest questions and find gospel-centered answers to navigate their grief.
In this episode, they talk about:
- Grief as a companion
- Perspectives on loss from a mother and teen
- What to expect from a grieving teenager and how to help
Clarissa Moll is an award-winning writer and podcaster who helps bereaved people flourish after loss. She is the author of the Beyond the Darkness and the Beyond the Darkness Devotional.
Fiona Moll is a college student whose dad died when she was 13 years old. Fiona’s research interests include biology and the natural world, a place that brought her comfort and hope as she processed her loss as a young teenager. She loves hiking, reading, and spending time with her family. Hurt Help Hope is her first book.
Other Resources
Hurt Help Hope: A Real Conversation about Teen Grief and Life after Loss by Clarissa and Fiona Moll
Mom and Man event for single and widowed moms and their fatherless sons
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries
When a teenager loses their earthly father, they mourn not only his absence but also the life they once knew and the dreams they had for the future. Unlike children, teens navigate grief in their own unique and complex way.
Today’s guests, Fiona and Clarissa Moll talk candidly about losing their dad and husband suddenly in a hiking accident and what it was like to navigate this with a family of five.
In this episode, they discuss:
- The changes experienced in grief
- Communication is a key to healing
- Wrestling with anxiety, doubt, and the impact that suffering has on our faith
- Practical encouragement for fatherless teens and their mothers
Clarissa Moll is an award-winning writer and podcaster who helps bereaved people flourish after loss. She is the author of the Beyond the Darkness and the Beyond the Darkness Devotional.
Fiona Moll is a college student whose dad died when she was 13 years old. Fiona’s research interests include biology and the natural world, a place that brought her comfort and hope as she processed her loss as a young teenager. She loves hiking, reading, and spending time with her family. Hurt Help Hope is her first book.
Other Resources
Hurt Help Hope: A Real Conversation about Teen Grief and Life after Loss by Clarissa and Fiona Moll
Mom and Man event for single and widowed moms and their fatherless sons
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When we think about the Proverbs 31 woman, for most of us, a list of standards we will never achieve in our own strength comes to mind. This “excellent” woman who sews, takes a ship to gather food, rises early, and stays up late describes someone we cannot relate to. We wonder, what is her secret to the smile on her face in anticipation of the future?
Although Proverbs 31 outlines admirable qualities, when considering the Proverbs 31 woman as the Bride of Christ, the church, we understand the beauty of the body of Christ in spiritually dark days.
In this episode, Lori teaches the following:
- The spiritual meaning of Proverbs 31:10-31
- Understanding the spiritual clothing described
- The challenge to sow the Word of God into the souls of our children
- The church as a light in a dark world
Other Resources
Combatting Fear Podcast Episode 125 with Lori Apon
Mom and Man event for single and widowed moms and their fatherless sons
John Gill’s Commentary on Proverbs 31
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Fear is something that everyone can relate to. When God called someone to a task requiring faith, He would often offer the admonition, "Do not fear." We all struggle with fear at some point, whether based on real or imagined concerns. For example, when a child loses a parent, the enemy instills a deep fear within their hearts. They often worry that something else terrible might happen - something that could leave them orphaned or lead to further feelings of rejection, abandonment, and pain.
The best way to fight this battle of anxiety and fear is to place our trust in God and the promises of His word.
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- Examples in Scripture
- Faith as the antidote to fear
- The promises of God to combat fear
- Practical suggestions on how to help children when they are afraid
Other Resources:
How to Help our Children when they are Afraid
Mom and Man special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless sons | September 29, 2024 | Dahlonega, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Our children don’t come with an instruction manual. Navigating the different seasons of their development requires wisdom. We can gain that wisdom by gleaning from the Word of God and trusting the Holy Spirit to guide us.
When a child loses a parent, guiding them in their grief and suffering adds a new layer of care in such uncharted territory. In this episode, Lori discusses 5 things a single mom might want to avoid, along with 5 helpful things to implement as she shepherds her child through the valley of loss.
Other resources:
Guiding Children through Grief
How to Help Children Who Have Experienced Trauma Podcast Episode 28 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Raising foster and/or adopted children is a special calling with unique circumstances to navigate. Today’s guest, Matt Lawson, was given up for adoption soon after Roe vs. Wade was legalized. His adoptive parents brought Matt home from the hospital - a long-awaited answer to prayers for a child. Never knowing his birth parents, Matt considered his adopted mom and dad his parents. His story is a picture of the grace of God in the redemptive story of adoption.
In this episode, Matt talks about
- The fears of abandonment
- What it looked like to grieve the death of his adopted dad at the age of 21
- Practical tips for fatherless young men who grieve the loss of their dad
- The importance of godly mentors, including men who step in years later
- Wisdom for adopted children
Matt is the Executive Pastor of First Baptist Woodstock and the Founding Pastor of Story City Church in Burbank, CA. He is the author of a book on leadership as well as a contributing author to four other books. Before starting Story City, Matt served in student ministry for 14 years at First Baptist Woodstock. Matt graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Accounting as well as a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Seminary. He has been married to his wife for 18 years and they have three children.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When your dad, the one who should be your protector, becomes your perpetrator, many layers are added to grief. Forgiveness is messy but necessary for freedom from ongoing destruction. And forgiveness is a choice. Understanding the Gospel and the forgiveness offered to each one of us is the model we must follow.
In part two of Whitney’s story, she poignantly discusses:
- Acknowledging the depth an offense that requires forgiveness
- Practical steps of forgiving
- What it looks like to wrestle to a place of rest
- Accepting God’s sovereignty, knowing that He could have stopped or kept us from circumstances of suffering
Other resources:
From Ashes to Beauty Episode 121 with Whitney Van Matre Part 1
Forgiving What You Can’t Forget by Lysa TerKeurst
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop
Whitney Van Matre is a wife, and mother, and is actively involved in her church. She enjoys encouraging women who are walking through loss, infertility, and adoption. Whitney’s life is a story of how God turns ashes into beauty through full surrender.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
Some of the most amazing stories are those where beauty rises out of ashes. Isaiah 61:3 gives this hope to those in the midst of suffering. Our guest today shares her story of God’s faithfulness in using what the enemy meant for evil for good in her life when death at the hand of her father was planned.
In this episode, Whitney Van Matre talks about
- God’s protection in public devastation with Dad in prison
- The billowing role of grief. It is messy, uncomfortable, and often delayed but yields great fruit.
- Provision and the power of the body of Christ
- The coexistence of joy and sorrow and the promise of Psalm 126:5-6, “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy (Psalm 126:5-6 ESV)!
- Practical tips for mothers raising adopted children
Whitney Van Matre is a wife, and mother, and is actively involved in her church. She enjoys encouraging women who are walking through loss, infertility, and adoption. Whitney’s life is a story of how God turns ashes into beauty through full surrender.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Raising children happens in seasons, each one bringing joy and challenges. A common question of single moms is, “Will my fatherless children be okay?” This concern is valid, with statistics showing that the absence of an earthly father has a negative impact. However, when children look to God, who promises to be a Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5), there is hope!
In this final episode of Lori’s reflections on 25 years of experiencing God as Father to her children, she shares:
- The importance of enlisting help
- How to show gratitude
- The beginning of Perspective Ministries
- Lessons learned from her journey
Other resources:
Reflections on Raising Little Kids without a Father Episode 118 Season One with Lori Apon
Practical Guidance with Raising Fatherless Teens Episode 119 Season Two with Lori Apon
Fatherless events and resources
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Raising fatherless children is often an unexpected task for moms. Single parenting comes with challenges as well as celebrations. In this journey, we find solace in the fact that God is faithful to His promise to Father the fatherless.
In this episode, Lori continues reflecting on this season with a focus on the teenage years. She talks about how to build an important family foundation, blessing trips, the shaping of the story of suffering in our lives, and providential provision.
Other Resources:
The Value of a Mentor for Fatherless Sons Episode 49 with Evan Apon and Dave Inabnit
The Impact of a Mentor Episode 50 with Zach Garza
The Investment of a Mentor Episode 52 with Brandon Apon and Eric Helms
How to Plan a Blessing Party for Your Child Episode 54 with Lori Apon
Parenting Grieving Teens Episode 104 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
25 years have passed since I started the journey of raising fatherless kids. Remembering is important to God, and He instructs us in His word to take time to reflect on His goodness.
Lori has divided these reflections into five episodes, highlighting God’s faithfulness in each one.
In this episode reflecting on the first five years of raising small children without a dad, Lori covers the following aspects:
- The necessity of a Support system
- The importance of perspective and God’s word
- Practical ways God brought blessings in a dark time
- Scriptures to bring encouragement
7 Scriptures on Remembering:
- “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2 ESV).
- “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done; I ponder the work of your hands” (Psalm 143:5 ESV).
- “Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered” (Psalm 105:5 ESV).
- “He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful” (Psalm 114:4 ESV).
- “And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not” (Deuteronomy 8:2 ESV).
- “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts” (Psalm 145:4 ESV).
- “Tell [recount, declare, talk, take account of] your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children to another generation” (Joel 1:3 ESV).
More on Lori Apon’s story:
My Fairytale Romance Podcast Episode 2
My Greatest Fear Becomes Reality Episode 3
Psalm 68:5, My Anchor Episode 4
The Calling of God Episode 106 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
It is crucial to recognize fathers' impact on their children's lives. Positive affirmations from fathers can influence the trajectory of their children's lives. Conversely, negative responses, disengagement, abandonment, or hurtful comments, whether intentional or unintentional, can cause deep emotional wounds that may persist for years.
Many individuals grapple with the lingering pain of such "father wounds," but it is possible to find healing and prevent these issues from perpetuating across future generations.
In this episode, Bob talks about:
- Helpful tips for single moms raising children without a father
- The definition of a father wound and how to overcome the pain of these emotional wounds
- Principles on forgiveness with practical steps on how to forgive
Other resources:
Ending the Cycle of Father Wounds: Hope for healing, and preventing infections caused by relational wounds
Refuge Widowers
Trail Life
Fatherless events and resources
Bob Reccord has been a business executive and pastor, led numerous Christian organizations, and served as Executive Director of the Council for National Policy in Washington, DC. He is a popular speaker and has spoken to thousands of men nationwide. Most importantly, he has been married to his wife, Cheryl, for 52 years, is the father of three grown children, and the grandfather of five.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Imagine losing your mother to death, your father to abandonment, and feeling the absence of a disengaged adopted father—all before the age of three. “When you don't have a family, you'll find the family somewhere” is one of the lures of a gang offering “family.” The temptation for children without an earthly father is to believe the lie that they do not have a family when the opposite is true. Divine intervention with God as Father will give hope to the hopeless and bring light to the dark.
In today's episode, we welcome Bob Reccord, who delves into:
- The crucial role of a mother's affirmation
- The impact of speaking positively about an earthly father, despite his absence
- The pivotal choice between seeing oneself as a victim or a victor
Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores how faith and resilience can overcome the most challenging beginnings.
Bob Reccord has been a business executive and pastor, led numerous Christian organizations, and served as Executive Director of the Council for National Policy in Washington, DC. He is a popular speaker and has spoken to thousands of men nationwide. Most importantly, he has been married to his wife, Cheryl, for 52 years, is the father of three grown children, and the grandfather of five.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website, PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Adoption creates much for someone to process. From understanding the reasons behind the initial decision to place a child for adoption to knowing the family that will raise the child and processing the merging of the stories as they get older.
Realistically, an adopted child will sort through the reality of three fathers: the biological dad, the adopted dad, and God as Father.
In this episode, Patrick talks about:
- Meeting his biological father
- Working through the emotions necessary for redemption of his story
- God’s glory in adoption
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Adoption stories include similarities as well as various differences unique to the adopted child, including the timing of telling your child, searching for the biological parents, and processing the realities of having two families.
In this episode, Patrick talks about
- The impact of learning he was adopted later in life
- The influence of the biological dad on a man (or searching for his biological dad)
- The emotional turmoil and steps to healing
- Encouragement for adopted mothers on telling the truth to their child
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Adoption is a part of God’s beautiful plan of redemption. Adopted children often wrestle with questions about their biological parents' decisions, along with feelings of worthlessness, rejection, and abandonment. Despite adoption's gift of life, the enemy may twist this narrative to sow seeds of death.
Steventhen Holland, a national pro-life speaker and founder of Broken, Not Dead Ministries, shares his story of hope and restoration built on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In this episode, Steventhen talks about:
- The trauma in learning he was adopted
- Releasing the “whys” to the wisdom of God
- His desire to find his biological mom without hurting his adoptive parents
- Practical help for adopted moms
To contact Steventhen, email: me@steventhen.com
Other Resources:
Conceived in Rape & Given Up as a Baby Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey
Steventhen Holland meets his birth mom at the age of 27
The Journey: Brokeness to Wholeness by Vickie Hodge Holt and Steventhen William Holland.
me@steventhen.com
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
We all face seasons in life, especially single moms when we feel “passed by” or even “kicked to the curb!” It seems that your best life is behind you while others live out your greatest dreams.
Even Jesus’ disciples experienced this when in a great storm, “He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. He intended to go past them” (Mark 6:48 NLT).
It is important to understand that God has not and will not pass you by.
Lori talks about the following in this episode:
- The gift of God’s grace
- Understanding Jesus’ intent in passing by the disciples (Mark 6)
- Obstacles to overcome during life’s storms
Scriptures to hold onto when in the storms of life:
- The LORD will accomplish that which concerns me; Your [unwavering] lovingkindness, O LORD, endures forever” (Psalm 138:8 AMPC).
- “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13 ESV).
- “Your eyes have seen my formless substance; And in Your book were written All the days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. How precious are your thoughts to me Oh God, how vast is the sum of them?” (Psalm 139:16 NASB).
- “Can a woman forget her nursing child And have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. “Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me” (Isaiah 49:15-16 NASB).
- “I meditate on You in the night watches for You have been my help and in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You. Your right hand upholds me” (Psalm 63:6-7 NASB).
- “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will never leave or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NASB).
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Single parents are a vital part of the body of Christ, and understanding their relationship with the church is important. Single parents navigate a myriad of challenges, from seeking support within the local church to feeling understood and embraced. While churches aspire to support solo parents, they often grapple with the best approaches to do so effectively.
In the continuing conversation with Anna Meade Harris, the author of God's Grace for Every Family, she gives insight into practical ways churches can care for single parents, giving insight into the following:
- The struggles single parents experience
- Challenges and needs of fatherless children
- Meaningful ways family, friends, and churches can support the single-parent family
Anna Meade Harris is a single mom of three young adult sons. She is the Senior Director of Content at Rooted Ministry, co-host of the Rooted Parent podcast, and a member of Church of the Cross in Birmingham.
Other Resources:
The Challenges of Single Parenthood Part One Podcast Episode 110 with Anna Meade Harris
God’s Grace for Every Family Biblical Encouragement for Single-Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well by Anna Meade Harris
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Discover the diverse journeys of single parents raising children due to various circumstances like death, divorce, desertion, adoption, or being unmarried. Despite facing unique forms of loss, they encounter shared challenges.
Anna Meade Harris, the author of God's Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single-Parent Families and the Churches that Seek to Love Them Well, reminds us that God is there and His grace is enough.
In this compelling episode, Anna offers invaluable perspectives on:
- Embracing your family's unique path, even when it differs from God’s original design.
- Discovering the boundless love and grace of God in the absence of an earthly father.
- Confronting and overcoming the fears that often plague single parents.
- Navigating the complex journey of grieving various forms of loss within single parenthood.
Anna Meade Harris is a single mom of three young adult sons. She is the Senior Director of Content at Rooted Ministry, co-host of the Rooted Parent podcast, and a member of Church of the Cross in Birmingham, AL.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Titus 2:4-5 says young women are to be “sensible, pure, makers of a home [where God is honored], good-natured so that the word of God will not be dishonored” (AMPC). These guardrails are essential for life, especially for single moms!
Moms raising kids in a home without an earthly father must be cautious and sensible in their decision-making, parenting, and lifestyle choices.
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- Defining sensibility and its significance in daily life.
- Exploring the advantages of embracing sensibility.
- Navigating the challenges of fluctuating hormones and their potential impact on sensible living.
- Empowering single mothers with strategies for practicing the art of sensibility amidst life's demands.
Upcoming Special Event:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Other resources:
Ask Dad: Cell Phones and Teens Podcast 108 with our Help Team of Dads: Brandon Apon, Sean Teis, Chris Tuttle, and Ben Whittinghill
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode, we delve into the complex terrain of raising children as a single mother. While every parent faces challenges, single mothers often encounter unique hurdles that demand thoughtful consideration and creative solutions. One of the most challenging aspects of raising children without an earthly father is establishing and enforcing guardrails.
Our first “Ask Dad” for help episode provides wisdom for a single mom's question about how to handle a cell phone violation by her 14-year-old son.
Our “Help Team” offers insight on the following:
- Smart-phone alternatives
- How to handle a phone violation
- Tips for handling disobedience
- The dangers of fear-based parenting
Other Resources:
Fatherless Fathers Podcast Episode 12 with Chris Tuttle
Overcoming the Statistics of Fatherlessness Podcast Episode 29 with Sean Teis
The Importance of a Mentor Podcast Episode 52 with Brandon Apon and Eric Helms
Help Team Guests:
Brandon Apon
Sean Teis, with God is my Dad
Chris Tuttle
Ben Whittinghill
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Parents are given approximately 18 years to train and shepherd each of their children in the way that they should go, and this includes disciplining them when they get off track. Scripture teaches that discipline is God’s idea as a way of affirming His love for us.
One of the most daunting tasks for a single mom is executing discipline while solo parenting. As the only disciplinarian, she doesn't have the luxury of deferring discipline by saying, "Wait until your dad gets home," relying on him to handle the tough tasks while she consoles afterward. Many also wonder if it is okay to discipline a grieving child.
In this episode, Lori discusses
- God’s discipline of His children
- How to handle disobedience, disrespect, deception, and disregard for others and their belongings
- Considerations on discipline and the grieving child
Upcoming Special Event:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Other Resources:
Blog: What grieving teens need from their single mom
Parenting Grieving Teens Podcast Episode 104 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode, explore the profound truth that every believer is purposefully crafted and called by God, endowed with unique gifts, and bestowed with the grace necessary to fulfill their divine purpose.
Throughout scripture, God issues a “call” to men and women alike. Paul tells us that he was called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel. The prophet Jeremiah tells us that God called him from his mother's womb. Every Christian is entrusted with a special calling, as Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”
So is widowhood a calling?
In this episode, Lori shares her testimony of God’s calling on her life, especially her personal call to remain a widow.
Upcoming Special Event:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Other Resources:
The Apon Story
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Hebrews 10:25 tells us “not to neglect meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near.”
Church is God's idea.
If there's ever a time for single moms to consider getting connected to the local church, it is when they have been left alone to raise their children. There's nothing like the support of the body of Chris, being in person with others worshiping the Lord, hearing God’s Word, and being discipled by pastors and teachers.
In this episode, Lori shares her personal experience with going to church and encourages single moms to find a community of faith to connect with.
Upcoming Special Event:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
During the teenage season, a child transitions into adulthood and must take steps toward “putting away childish things.” The end goal is to move towards independence and out of the home, living a life on their own.
When there is no dad in the home, or dad-loss is experienced during these years, it can be even more challenging. Solo moms need wisdom and support in navigating what can be turbulent times. The good news is that even though single moms are physically alone, God is there. He cares about your teen and is able to carry mom and child through.
In this episode, Lori talks about
- What impacts a teen in this season
- The sovereignty of God in our loss
- What to expect the teenage years to look like
- What a grieving teen needs from their single mom
Other Resources:
Milestones that Unlock Grief for Your Teen Podcast Episode 103 with Lori Apon
15 Ways a Single Mom can Help Her Teenage Fatherless Son
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
It is common for kids to appear unaffected by the death or loss of their earthly dad. Toddlers and adolescents will tearfully miss Daddy one moment and then act as if nothing has happened the next, while teens respond in a variety of ways, from anger to isolation. Both responses can cause mom deep concern. Mom will often carry this pain for her child until they grow into their grief and process it on their own.
Significant milestones in life are often the first opportunity for dormant grief to appear. Understanding the potential for triggers and an eruption of unlocked pain will help to soften the blow.
In this episode, Lori discusses the five milestones that unlock dormant grief in teens:
- Accomplishments
- Driving
- First job
- School Dance
- Graduation
Other Resources:
5 Milestones that Unlock Grief for Teens
The Importance of a Mentor Part One with Lori Apon
15 Ways a Mom Can Help Her Fatherless Teenage Son
Finding Role Models for my Fatherless Girl Podcast Episode 22
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Single moms bear a substantial burden, carrying not only the emotional weight for their children but also juggling the demands of work while tending to their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Despite exhaustion, they resiliently navigate the trials that come their way, serving as the glue that binds the family together amidst challenging circumstances.
In the absence of a dad by death, divorce, desertion, or distance due to imprisonment, God keeps His promise to be a Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5 NKJV).
In this episode, our guest talks about:
- Using Scripture to Overcome Challenges: Examining the role of scripture in dispelling the lies of the enemy.
- The Unwavering Faithfulness of God: Reflecting on the assurance of God's faithfulness as a source of strength and hope for single moms.
- Practical Tips for Navigating Single Motherhood: Providing actionable advice and practical tips to empower single moms in their parenting journey.
Other Resources:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a boy moves into manhood, he will go through a series of milestones referred to as a “Rite of Passage.” Reaching a certain age brings with it a new level of responsibility and opportunity to prove himself trustworthy. It is helpful for single moms raising boys to be aware of these and the important role each one plays in the life of her son.
The following are discussed in this episode:
- Eight Rites of Passage a boy will experience as he grows into manhood
- Practical ideas on how to celebrate each rite of passage
- Encouragement for single and widow moms on leading their sons through this process
- Wisdom on how to navigate challenges that may come with the mother/son relationship
Other Resources
Raising a Modern-Day Knight by Robert Lewis
Fatherless Fathers Podcast Episode 12 with Chris Tuttle
How to Plan a Blessing Party for Your Child Podcast Episode 54 with Lori Apon
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In this episode, we explore a key component of parenting, intentionality, especially in the context of spiritual investment in our children. Guests Christina Brummel, a mother of ten, and Kayla Whittinghill, a mother of eight (all under twelve), share their valuable insights on making meaningful connections during mealtime.
Time around the table provides a setting with a “captive” audience to not only feed your children physically but also spiritually, planting seeds from the Word of God that will bring forth fruit in the later years.
Key Discussion Points:
- How Table Time started: Discover what inspired Christina and Kayla to leverage mealtime as a meaningful platform for spiritual growth and how this idea can be transformative for single and widow moms.
- Organic Teaching Moments: Explore the organic and intentional ways these moms incorporate spiritual discussions into their family meals. Learn how these conversations become powerful tools for nurturing faith.
- Practical Tips for Single Moms: Gain practical suggestions on how single and widow moms can integrate intentional table time into their daily routines, fostering a spiritually rich environment for their children.
Other Resources:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
One-on-one time for communicating with your child is important and a priority to include in your family life. Intentional mother/child time provides a safe place for children to share their hearts in a non-threatening way.
In this episode, Lori discusses:
- The value of a consistent tea talk (for girls) and/or chocolate chat (for boys)
- How to make this time easy, effective, and enjoyable
- What to include in mother/child conversations
Other Resources:
Daughters of the King special event for Single and Widow Moms and their fatherless daughters | May 4, 2024 | Acworth, GA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When children lose a dad, especially at a young age, it is crucial that we preserve the story of him for them to have when they want to know who their daddy was and the impact he had on others.
In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
- Practical ideas on how to preserve the story of daddy including Daddy Books and Daddy Boxes
- When and how to share the hard parts of the story, if needed
- The importance of the story of the Gospel and declaring the work of God to all generations
Other Resources:
Celebrating Valentine’s Day as a Single Parent Podcast Episode 45 with Lori Apon
Hope for the Holidays Magazine
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Writing a letter is a simple and effective way to help children with their grief. Journaling can feel laborious for both adults and kids, but writing a letter often doesn’t feel like work. And it’s a great way to connect and share our feelings with those we love. When these letters are stored in a journal or notebook, they offer a safe place to share pain.
In this episode, Lori talks about
- The benefits of letter writing as a form of journaling for kids
- Ideas of what to include in a “Dear God, Dear Daddy” journal
- Sample letters from her children’s journals
Widow Care Support to receive seasonal cards and boxes of Comfort and Care
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
As the new year begins, I'm going to put my mentor hat on and speak candidly and compassionately on some things for young single moms. Even though your family unit has changed, you are a family. Make the most of your time together. Be intentional about how you will do life together, including work, school, home management, extracurricular activities, and vacations. This is your children's childhood, and your time is worth the investment.
In this episode Lori offers
- 16 words of encouragement on the pillars to include in your storm-tossed life.
- Priorities for the single mom
- The importance of leading your family well
Other resources:
Expectations You can Have when God is Father Podcast Episode 94 with Lori Apon
How to Build a Support System
Luncheon of Hope 2024
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There is nothing that captures our attention more than a tragic story that ends in triumph! Sean Teis shares his riveting story of abuse and becoming fatherless as a baby, but the story doesn’t end there. Sean testifies that God intervened, fulfilling His promise to be a Father to the fatherless. Time and time again, God’s hand was on his life protecting and preparing him for the mission he feels called to now. You won’t want to miss his testimony!
In this episode, helpful advice is given to both single moms and fatherless young men on
- Finding balance in Christ when the family unit is off-balance,
- breaking the cycle of sin through forgiveness,
- And the power of perspective - looking at the positives of fatherlessness
You can learn more about Sean’s ministry and resources here:
https://www.godismydad.com/
https://www.lifefactors.org/
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In the last episode, we talked about the three phases of grief a mother experiences with her child. And after the show we received some feedback – moms want to know more! So, in this bonus episode, I will cover the common feelings of fear and abandonment and the 8 realities that many fatherless boys and girls struggle with. For example, boys will wrestle with a fear of failure while girls will be tempted to search for their identity in all the wrong places.
WITH GOD AS FATHER single moms can expect so much more than just the negatives! God will turn what was meant for evil into good and you and your children can expect God to perform miracles!
Related Resources:
- What to Expect When Raising Fatherless Kids: https://bit.ly/raisingfatherless
- Join our private Facebook group for encouragement and community:www.bit.ly/widowmom
- Check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries
You’ve never raised fatherless kids before, so to start, let me tell you something I’m sure you have heard before — you’re not going to wrap this up in a box with a pretty bow. You’re on a journey and every mama's experience will be different.
Today, we’re talking about the processing of grief and carrying grief for our children. In the early days, months, and years, a mom will grieve for her children no matter their age. She has a perspective and a view that is much different from kids. She can see and understand the depth of that loss in a greater way. And as time goes on she will then process the grief with her children.
It is important to put in the suitcase of their hearts only what they can handle. There are three stages of helping our kids with grief that I cover in today’s show, carrying grief, sharing grief, and making grief their own.
Each part is hard and each part is beautiful. I pray today that you will be able to rest in what God is doing in your life and the lives of your children.
More resources:
SOCIALS:
Perspective Ministries: Instagram
Website https://perspectiveministries.org/
Join our Private Facebook page —Help I’m Raising Fatherless Kids https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Interested in Hope Gathering Mom This is a time to meet together for community with other moms raising fatherless children.
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
The days following Christmas as we ring in the new year, require the proper perspective, especially amidst grief and life’s challenges.
In this episode, Lori talks about
- Five perspective considerations
- Keys to restarting a new year
- Her personal family highlights
To donate to Perspective Ministries, click here.
Check out these favorite and most listened-to episodes of 2023!
Let’s Talk About Grief:
- 43 Raising Fatherless Toddlers
- 66 When Grief Acts Like a Toddler
For Fatherless Girls:
- 22 Finding Male Role Models for My Fatherless Girl
- 84 Fatherless by Divorce with Erin Davis
For Fatherless Guys:
- 64 Launching Fatherless Boys into Manhood Part One
- 65 Launching Fatherless Boys into Manhood Part Two
- 56 Accepting Fatherlessess by God’s Grace
- 49 The Value of a Mentor
- 44 Dadvice by one Deserted by Dad
Special Topics:
- 47 Mo Isom Aiken on The Battle of Pornography and Promiscuity for our Daughters
- Motherhood series 58-61
- 76 Mo Isom Aiken on The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health
- 77 Mo Isom Aiken on Forgiving the Unforgettable Loss by Suicide
- 55 Recognizing an Eating Disorder and How to Help
Other Resources:
Widow Care SupportWidowLife Magazines
Luncheon of Hope, February 10, 2023
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
We are all desperately longing for peace. You may be in a season of suffering but able to proclaim that you are experiencing a peace that surpasses understanding, or you may be crying out for peace amidst the turmoil. No matter where you find yourself today, you have access to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
The prophet Isaiah gives four titles for Jesus, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV).
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- What it means for Jesus to be the Prince of Peace
- Scripture about peace
- Prayer for those seeking the peace of God
Have you experienced Christ as your Prince of Peace? Listen in and be drawn closer to your savior.
Other Resources
His Name shall be called Wonderful Counselor Podcast Episode 88 with Lori Apon
He will be called Mighty God Podcast Episode 89 with Lori Apon
Knowing God as Everlasting Father Podcast Episode 90 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website:PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There is no way to understand how the baby born in a manger has been here since eternity, and yet Jesus has been the Everlasting Father. We are also told in Ephesians 1:5 and 11 that before the foundation of the world God predestined those who would be His children. This is truly a mystery.
In this episode, Lori will answer an important question and talk about:
- Jesus Christ, the second Adam, our spiritual Father
- Does Psalm 68:5 mean that all fatherless children are automatically spiritual children of God?
- Promises for the fatherless
Other Resources
Christ, Our Everlasting Father message by Ben Whittinghill, Rivertown Church
How Can Jesus be our Everlasting Father by The Gospel Coalition
His Name—the Everlasting Father by Charles Haddon Spurgeon, December 9, 1866
His Name shall be called Wonderful Counselor Podcast Episode 88 with Lori Apon
He will be called Mighty God Podcast Episode 89 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Each advent season calls us to ponder the promise of Isaiah 9:6, “For a child will be born to us. A son will be given, and the government will rest on his shoulders, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace.”
Scripture uses many names to describe the members of the Trinity, but these names were given in anticipation of Jesus Christ our Messiah, the King of all kings, and Savior. You may be able to recite these familiar titles from memory, but have you taken time this season to treasure their meaning?
In this episode, Lori talks about Jesus, “Mighty God”
- How Jesus shows His might in our lives
- How to create a “Mighty God” list
- Promises of God’s might “Whose power no foe can withstand” (Psalm 91:2, AMPC).
Advent is the time of looking forward to the coming of Jesus who came as the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. Mom, you are in a safe and secure place with Jesus as your Mighty God.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega says the Lord God, the One who is who was and who is to come the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8, NASB).
Other Resources:
Wonderful Counselor Podcasts episode 88 with Lori Apon
Help for the Holidays Podcast episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There are over 100 names for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit throughout the Bible. Each name describes His character and gives believers encouragement. When we think of the names of God at Christmas, four titles for the Messiah from Isaian 9:6 give us hope: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
At some point in all our lives we will need counsel, leading us to Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor!
In this episode, Lori talks about:
- Considerations when looking for a counselor
- Who to go to for counsel
- Scripture on seeking God for counsel
- Knowing God as our Wonderful Counselor
When children need counsel, moms should not discount the value of her own counsel in the lives of her children. God has entrusted them to you and He will shepherd you as you shepherd them.
Other Resources
Help for the Holidays podcast Episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson
Christ, Our Wonderful Counselor Sermon by Pastor Ben Whittinghill, Rivertown Church
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Living an encouraged life means to live IN courage, and courage is the “ability to do something that frightens you or strength in the face of pain or grief.” Single and widow moms are placed in a position where they must live courageously.
In this episode, Lori talks about
- The enemies of healing that will discourage or remove courage from your life
- Woman of courage in the Bible
Other Resources:
Christmas Hope December 2, 2023
How to Show Empathy to Hurting Children with Guest Lisa Peck
Hope Gathering
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a kid loses a dad as an infant or small child, fatherlessness is all they know. A child will grow not only physically but emotionally and spiritually as well. And as they mature, their perspective and understanding of the loss experienced will also grow.
God offers grace to children growing up without a dad. Processing loss by suicide adds layers to the grief process but is no match for God’s mercy, compassion, and healing.
You will be encouraged to hear Evan talk about:
- Grief in the middle school years
- The impact of a mentor
- Becoming a man without a dad
- Encouragement for fatherless young men
Additional Resources:
Christmas Hope: A morning of Comfort and Joy for single and widow moms and their fatherless children.
The Impact of a Mentor with Evan Apon and Dave Inabnit
Thanksgiving and Dining at the King’s Table with Evan Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In the early years of grieving loss, we wonder if the holidays will ever be good again. Moms, let me encourage you, it won’t always be this way. You will make it through the valley and the holidays will be filled with joy again. In the meantime, God is with you!
You won’t want to miss Lisa Appelo, Tara Dickson, and Clarissa Moll talking about:
- How to make it through the first set of holidays
- Navigating traditions
- Anticipating Christmas and managing expectations
- How God embraced them
- Meaningful ways others can help
Lisa Appelo is a mom of seven, and grandmother of eight, and had six in the home when her husband died suddenly. She’s an author and testifies in her book Life Can be Good Again.
Clarissa Moll, became a widow mom after her husband died in a tragic hiking accident while on a family vacation. She is the author of Beyond the Darkness.
Tara Dickson, mother of four. Her husband died after a 14-month battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer and three months later felt the Lord lead her to move her family across the country to another state. Her podcast, Seek and Savor, is one of my favorites!
You can hear more of their stories in the individual episodes
Home for the Holidays with Lori Apon
After Death, How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again with Lisa Appelo
Flourishing during Difficult Holiday Seasons with Clarissa Moll
Creating Moments of Beauty during the Holidays with Tara Dickson
Christmas Hope: A morning of Comfort and Joy for single and widow moms and their fatherless children.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In God’s ideal design, human fathers are supposed to be a shadow of our Heavenly Father, showing their kids what it means to be seen, heard, disciplined, loved, and taken care of. For all those reasons and more, it’s devastating when a child learns that their parents are getting divorced. Life as they knew it changes, leaving them to navigate a path that could lead to further destruction as they process the loss, and in some cases, lose out on a deep connection with dad. But, there is hope in the promise that they are never deserted by God, a Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5).
In this episode, the following is discussed:
- How to handle the ongoing pain of loss from divorce
- Guiding children through stages of anger
- The importance of honoring a dad who is not honorable
- Tips for moms raising children impacted by divorce
Erin is a writer and teacher passionately committed to getting women of all ages into the deep well of God's Word. She is the author of more than a dozen books and Bible studies, including Connected, 7 Feasts, and Fasting & Feasting. Erin serves as the Content Director for Revive Our Hearts and hosts the Women of the Bible podcast and Grounded videocast.
Scripture Quoted:
Deuteronomy 31:8
Lamentations 3:22-23
Romans 8:28
Ephesians 6:12
2 Timothy 2:13
Other Resources:
The Deep Well Podcast with Erin Davis
Hope When a Loved One’s Sin Turns Your World Upside Down Lori Apon on Grounded Podcast
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament by Erin Davis
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Rejection, abandonment, abuse, betrayal, divorce, and desertion often open the door for the enemy to come in with his lies, saying we are a terrible mom and our children will not be okay. As a single mom, navigating the winding path of an inconsistent dad is not easy, but God is with you during your times of isolation, loneliness, and pain and His word offers wisdom, guidance, and hope.
In this episode, Michelle talks about
- Balancing life with all of its emotions and challenges
- Guiding children through the complicated versions of fatherlessness (seeing dad every other weekend but not experiencing his fathering in their home)
- Trusting God as Husband and Father to our fatherless kids
- The path to freedom from the enemy’s lies
Michelle Donelly is the president and CEO of Plus One Parents, a ministry devoted to helping single parents. She is a mother of three, an author, and the host of the Truth and our Trauma podcast.
Other Resources:
Christmas Hope A morning of comfort and joy for single moms and fatherless children
Plus One Parents
The Truth and our Trauma podcast
Safe Haven: A Devotional for the Abused and Abandoned by Michelle Donnelly
Made for More: Life Beyond the Wreckage of Hurt, Loss, & Heartbreak: A Bible Study Experience for Single Moms by Michelle Donnelly
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The poor choices of a dad do not determine the destiny of his children. With God as Father, their story can be one of blessing and hope. God declares Himself to be a Father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5), therefore, we must anticipate His “fathering” and encourage fatherless children to look for the ways that He cares for them as a Father.
In this episode, Christian Norman talks about
- Practical ways God cared for him as a Father
- Breaking the fatherless curse over the next generation
- Challenge for fatherless boys to take ownership of their spirituality
- Encouragement for single mothers
Christian Norman was a former defensive captain for the Michigan State University football team and currently serves as an associate pastor at FBCW teaching and implementing disciple-making strategies for the staff and the leaders there. He is passionate about leading men and women to know Jesus Christ. He's married to Kayla, who was also raised by a single mom, and they have three precious children.
Other Resources:
When a Young Man Longs for His Dad Podcast Episode 81 with Christian Norman Part One
Christmas Hope morning of comfort and joy for single mothers and elementary/middle school fatherless children on 12.2.23
The Investment of a Mentor Podcast Episode 52 with Eric Helms and Brandon Apon
The Value of a Mentor for Fatherless Sons Podcast Episode 49 with Dave Inabnit and Evan Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a boy experiences the absence of his earthly dad at a very young age, the emotional loss is not of an actual person with a specific face but the idea of a dad, someone who is there consistently to ask questions, play, and do the normal things that the dad would do.
How do you work through the emotions of an absent dad who suddenly appears back into your life?
In this episode, Christian discusses
- Navigating emotions from having an absent dad
- How and when to share the story of Dad when there are difficult aspects
- Wisdom on if/when a young man should seek out an absent dad
- Encouragement for single moms as the authority in the home
Christian Norman was a former defensive captain for the Michigan State University football team and currently serves as an associate pastor at FBCW teaching and implementing disciple-making strategies for the staff and the leaders there. He is passionate about leading men and women to know Jesus Christ. He's married to Kayla, who was also raised by a single mom, and they have three precious children.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Losing an earthly dad at a young age launches both child and mother into a lifelong progress of grief. There will be stages when the mother must carry the grief for her child, and as the child grows, so will their grief and understanding of the loss.
Today Lori continues the conversation with a mother and daughter who experienced this type of loss. Jennifer lost her dad in the line of duty at the age of 18 months.
In this episode, Katherine and Jennifer talk about:
- The importance of community support and godly role models
- How God fathered her
- Encouragement for the hard season of growing into grief
Other Resources:
Losing Dad in the Line of Duty Podcast Episode 79 with Katherine Embry and Jennifer Thacker
Jennifer Thacker's life was forever changed when her husband was shot and killed in the line of duty. Connection with other young widows and mothers of fatherless children was crucial. Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) provided an understanding of how to navigate the rocky road of grief while also parenting her daughter as a single mom.
Katherine Embry is a wife and mother, eagerly awaiting the arrival of her second child in October. Her life has been shaped by the loss of her father, who tragically died in the line of duty when she was just 18 months old. Despite the challenges of early grief, Katherine embarked on a journey of forgiveness, finding strength and comfort through her faith in Jesus Christ.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a child loses their dad in the line of duty, grief is complicated with many layers to process. His death leaves behind a newly single mom with the responsibility of raising her children without an earthly dad.
Our mother/daughter guests today provide great insight as they share their experience with losing their husband/daddy while serving his community.
In this episode, the single mom and fatherless daughter duo give insights as they look back on their journey.
The following topics are discussed in this episode:
- Most helpful things for the single mom years
- How, when, and what to include when sharing about the death of dad with a child
- The stages of grief children will experience
- Helping children turn to God, even in their anger
- Filial therapy as part of healing
Jennifer Thacker's life was forever changed when her husband was shot and killed in the line of duty. Connection with other young widows and mothers of fatherless children was crucial. Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) provided an understanding on how to navigate the rocky road of grief while also parenting her daughter as a single mom.
Katherine Embry is a wife and mother, eagerly awaiting the arrival of her second child in October. Her life has been shaped by the loss of her father, who tragically died in the line of duty when she was just 18 months old. Despite the challenges of early grief, Katherine embarked on a journey of forgiveness, finding strength and comfort through her faith in Jesus Christ.
Other Resources
Preserving the Story of Dad
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The absence of an earthly dad is caused by a variety of reasons: death, divorce, desertion, and even when a dad is disengaged from his children. He may be in the home but not involved in the lives of his kids, causing them to feel that they are fatherless.
In this episode, Chad Wallen discusses the following:
- The pain of a disengaged dad and finding healing through giving grace
- Directing the distorted views of an earthly dad to God the Father
- Insights on raising children with a disinterested dad
- How to break the generational curse of the distracted dad
Chad is the founder and director of Advance Camp USA, a ministry that serves fatherless young men. He lives in Texas with his wife and three daughters. They have had the privilege of being foster parents to 14 additional kiddos over the past 9 years. He leads his family to love and serve those God brings to them and is passionate about changing the trajectory of the lives of fatherless young men.
Other Resources
Mom and Man Event October 8, 2023 for single moms and fatherless sons
The Power of a Word Gift Podcast Episode 78 with Lori Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
If you are struggling in any way with suicide ideation or know someone who is, please call the hotline number 988.
The suicide death of a parent leaves behind children on a lifetime journey of processing that loss. Rejection, betrayal, deep grief, and unanswered questions have the potential to cause torment for years. Mo Isom Aiken shares her story of the death of her dad by suicide and the process of healing and forgiveness she experienced.
In this episode, Mo talks about the following:
- Wrestling with the death of a parent by suicide
- Experiencing God as her Abba Father
- How to let go unanswered questions
Other Resources
Solace for Suicide by Lori Apon
Honest Answers for Hard Questions on Suicide Podcast Episode 25 with Lori Apon
The Spiritual Battle of Suicide Podcast Episode 75 with Lori Apon
When the Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health Podcast Episode 76 with Mo Aiken
The Battle of Pornography and Promiscuity for our Daughters Podcast Episode 47 with Mo Aiken
The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health by Mo Isom
Wreck My Life: Journey from Broken to Bold by Mo Isom
Sex Jesus and the Conversations the Church Forgot by Mo Isom
Fully Known: An Invitation to True Intimacy with God by Mo Isom Aiken
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
If you are struggling in any way with suicide ideation or know someone who is, please call the hotline number 988.
Loss by suicide leaves behind loved ones who feel rejected, abandoned, and deep grief over a loss that did not have to happen. Mo Isom Aiken shares her story of the death of her dad by suicide, shifting the trajectory of her life while also being used by God for His glory. Through prayer and deliverance, Mo was launched into a powerful season of victory.
In this episode, Mo candidly discusses:
- The stigma of suicide
- Faking fine when no one understands the loss
- Fighting the spiritual battle
- How to find victory by breaking strongholds and generational curses
Other Resources
Solace for Suicide by Lori Apon
The Spiritual Battle of Suicide Podcast Episode 75 with Lori Apon
Honest Answers for Hard Questions on Suicide Podcast Episode 25 with Lori Apon
The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health by Mo Isom
Wreck My Life: Journey from Broken to Bold by Mo Isom
Sex Jesus and the Conversations the Church Forgot by Mo Isom
Fully Known: An Invitation to True Intimacy with God by Mo Isom Aiken
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Suicide Awareness Week is September 10-16, 2023. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or know of someone who is, please call 988.
Grieving loss by suicide is long, complicated, and has a lot of layers. Moms will carry the grief for their children in the early years and then watch them wrestle through the pain as they grow into an understanding of the choice that was made by their dad. According to Ephesians 6:12, the battle is spiritual, and at the root of suicide is Satan the one who seeks to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10).
In this episode, Lori shares her experience discussing
- Grieving death by suicide
- Understanding Satan’s schemes against us
- The importance of telling children the truth as they grow and teaching them about spiritual warfare
- Modeling forgiveness
- Take the mention of thoughts of suicide seriously
Other Resources:
Honest Answers for Hard Questions Podcast Episode 25 with Lori Apon
Solace for Suicide by Lori Apon
The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health by Mo Isom
Every Moment Holy, Volume 2: Death, Grief, & Hope
Grieving Well Amidst the Confusion of Suicide
A liturgy for Those Who Feel Abandoned by One who Chose Suicide
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The ache of missing a dad to watch a son play sports, guide him through life’s difficulties, or get down on his knees to pray together is a tender spot for all fatherless men. Healing will come when humility is exercised and he is able to trust God, looking to Him as the perfect Father.
Boyd Bailey shares his experience with the pain of missing a dad and his journey of healing by serving, loving, and giving others what he did not have.
In this episode, Boyd discusses:
- The impact of empathy and timely questions
- Humility as the launching pad for forgiveness
- The necessity of community for growth and healing
Boyd Bailey is the founder of Wisdom Hunters, a ministry that helps more than 100,000 readers connect with Christ every day. He is also co-founder of Ministry Ventures, which coaches faith-based nonprofits in board development, administration, and fundraising. He and his wife live in Georgia and enjoy missions and investing in young couples, as well as hiking, reading, traveling, and hanging out with their kids and grandchildren.
Other Resources:
Wisdom Hunters
Humility the Beauty of Holiness by Andrew Murray
Mom and Man - October 8, 2023, 1:30-7:30 pm Glisson Camp Dahlonega, GA - Empowering moms and sons for life’s journey
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a young boy is deserted by his earthly dad, the impact of this loss sends ripples through his whole life. And yet, God is always there. Boyd Bailey tells the story of growing up with a single mom, longing for the affirmation and physical presence of his daddy. He didn’t understand why he couldn’t have a dad like everyone else, but throughout his childhood, seeds of truth and hope were planted bringing about salvation. Knowing God as his Heavenly Father changed the outcome of his life. He discovered that healing was possible and that he could use his pain to make a difference in the lives of others. Boyd Bailey is what we call a trophy of God’s grace.
In this episode, Boyd talks about
- The importance of taking your children to church
- Rebuilding a broken earthly relationship
- Using humility to bring about healing
- Hope for fatherless fathers and encouragement for single moms
Boyd Bailey is the founder of Wisdom Hunters, a ministry that helps more than 100,000 readers connect with Christ every day. He is also co-founder of Ministry Ventures, which coaches faith-based nonprofits in board development, administration, and fundraising. He and his wife live in Georgia and enjoy missions and investing in young couples, as well as hiking, reading, traveling, and hanging out with their kids and grandchildren.
Other Resources:
Wisdom Hunters
Fatherless King Josiah
Humility: The Beauty of Holiness by Andrew Murray
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Words have power. The Bible says that death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). We must be careful with the words of our mouths. Proverbs 16:23 says, “The heart of the wise teaches his mouth.” We must be careful with the words of our mouths, especially when it comes to our children in a moment of frustration or anger. Our words must be full of grace, and if they aren’t, we would be wise to retrain our tongues.
In this episode, Lori highlights the importance of our words by discussing:
- How to correct our children with positivity
- The importance of using affirmation
- How to give a “word gift”
- How to create a book of “word gifts” for your child
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Anger is a reality for everyone, and in grief, it's normal and often unavoidable. But as we navigate loss, we have to be careful to manage anger. If we don't learn to manage this intense emotion, it will inevitably get out of control. Thankfully, the Bible has much to say about anger, reminding us that it is dangerous and opens doors to further destruction.
In this episode, Lori discusses
- The reality of anger and how to manage it
- Talking about anger with our children
- Scripture on anger
Other Resources
Ten Tips for Managing Anger in Grief
Steps to Take when you are Mad at God
How to Show Empathy to Hurting Children with Lisa Peck
Tips for Setting up Fatherless Children for Success in School
How a Mom can Help her Angry Grieving Daughter with guests Jennifer and Erica Bolding
Finding Hope and Joy as a Daughter of the King with guests Jennifer and Erica BoldingWhen Grief Acts Like a Toddler
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
After the loss of dad, the relationship between a mother and daughter is often shaken. But, through the storm of processing grief, their bond can become sweeter and tighter than ever before.
Jennifer and Erica Bolding candidly talk about the emotions that came with the loss of their husband and dad. From anger to making the transition of looking to God as Father and the importance of finding their identity in Christ, they explain how to do it while growing closer together not further apart.
In this episode, the mother/daughter conversation includes:
- Encouragement for moms who are overwhelmed
- Hope for girls who wonder if they will ever be okay
- A warning against fighting fatherlessness vs treasuring being Fathered by God
Other Resources:
Part One
Daughters of the King highlight video
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
God designed girls to have a daddy. The process of grieving his loss is a long journey. Mothers and daughters left without a husband or father will uniquely navigate the pain, sometimes individually while at other times, together.
Children do not have the perspective or maturity to understand the permanence or full impact of death, divorce, or desertion. And moms often don’t understand how to best help their fatherless child, rightly depending on the Holy Spirit to guide them through the valley.
In this mother/daughter conversation, we talk about:
- The impact dad loss has on lives
- Asking why God allowed suffering and loss to be experienced
- Processing the emotions of anger (even towards God) and depression that come with grief
- How a mom can help her angry child
- Accessing God’s grace and comfort in suffering
Other Resources:
Steps to Take When You Are Mad At God
10 Tips for Handling Anger in Grief
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The number one question I get asked is about how to handle loneliness. Even in a room filled with a lot of people, many will say they still feel lonely. And single moms with children in their homes also experience the pain of feeling alone.
In Hebrews 13:5, God promises to never leave or forsake us. The danger comes when the normal and uncomfortable emotion of loneliness turns into bitterness.
In this episode, Lori shares ideas on how to handle loneliness:
- Consider loneliness as a gift from the Lord
- Look at the lonely times as a gift to yourself
- Give your season of loneliness away by serving others in need
Other Resources:
How to Handle Loneliness by Lori Apon
Works Cited
https://www.rd.com/advice/parenting/stop-bullying-strategy/
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The biographies of men and women in the Bible who didn't have an earthly father offer great encouragement.
The youngest king, Josiah, became fatherless at the young age of eight, and it was at this time that he took the throne. No doubt, his mother and others provided the important spiritual guidance this young man needed to live life and rule the kingdom. Even with a wicked father and grandfather, we are told that “there was no king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his might” (2 Kings 22:35).
Today’s episode provides a great opportunity to listen together with your son as a springboard for a conversation on how God worked in Josiah’s life at a young age. You can find the true story of this fatherless boy in 2 Kings 22-23.
In this episode, you will learn the following:
- The power of the Word of God
- It is never too late for God’s Word to make a difference in a life
- God sees and responds to humility (2 Chronicles 7:14)
- God uses young people who obey Him
Scripture to discuss with your children:
- 2 Kings 22-23
- Ezekiel 18:14-17
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There are many reasons a toddler throws a tantrum, one of which is a visible sign of inward frustration, often associated with losing control or moving into independence.
Grief often acts like a toddler. For the widow, she is frustrated with new responsibilities and tasks that she doesn't want to learn. Her community of support often decreases, leaving her feeling more alone than ever before. As she is forced into a season she doesn’t feel ready for, living life without her husband brings a variety of emotions to the surface, including anger.
In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
- Understanding the toddler stage of grief
- What to expect when you are in the toddler stage
- The importance of finding a new community
- The value of a support squad
Other Resources:
Your Newborn Grief by Lori Apon
How to Build a Support System
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Moms are there to provide a nurturing dynamic for their little boys - give them a bath, comb their hair, and put a band-aid on their boo-boos. But when these boys grow up without a dad in the home, the role often shifts, requiring her to stand strong as the winds blow during the transition to manhood. At this time, it is important for a mom to lean into the Lord, her convictions, and help from godly mentors.
Many have never walked this road before so grace upon grace is needed for both the mother and the son. Keep the lines of communication open, pray, and trust that God loves you and your son more than you do. He will be faithful.
Brandon, Isaac, Evan, and Micah Apon join together offering practical help on the following topics:
- How should a young man be expected to spend his time?
- The value of work
- Raising your boys to be husbands and fathers
- Exposing boys to biblical manhood
- The importance of guarding the home against unhealthy influences
Other resources:
Launching Boys to Men Part Two with Brandon, Isaac, Evan, and Micah Apon
The Importance of a Mentor with Brandon Apon and Eric Helms
The Value of a Mentor for Fatherless Sons with Evan Apon and Dave Inabnit
Accepting Fatherlessness by God’s Grace with Isaac Apon
Fatherless Newborns with Micah Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Raising a boy without a man in their life is especially challenging during their high school years as they prepare to launch from the nest. Even with a dad in the home, this season is often filled with an assortment of opportunities for growth, lessons to be learned, and the release of our sons to be the men God called them to be.
Since dad is not around, the single mom is required to step up to the plate in a new way playing “hardball” when previously her major role was to nurture. Dad is not there to balance the scales so during this time everything starts to feel off balance.
Today, Lori’s sons, Brandon, Isaac, Evan, and Micah, join her and practical help is offered on the following topics:
- What a mom should expect when ushering her boy into manhood without a dad
- Handling the battle for control between mother and son
- Navigating the shift in roles during ages 15-18
Other resources:
Our New Father’s Day
The Importance of a Mentor with Brandon Apon and Eric Helms
The Value of a Mentor for Fatherless Sons with Evan Apon and Dave Inabnit
Accepting Fatherlessness by God’s Grace with Isaac Apon
Fatherless Newborns with Micah Apon
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In the early stages of grief, an emotional limbo takes place when you are holding on to the hope that this isn't your story. It's called denial and shock and often keeps you from wanting to move forward.
For Bryan Johnson, limbo was an unknown reality in the formative years of his life, believing that his dad was a prisoner of the Vietnam War only to learn later that he died serving our country.
God is always at work drawing us to Himself. For Bryan, the Holy Spirit planted the seed that He is a Father to the fatherless.
In this episode, Bryan talks about:
- The season of dealing with the shame of the loss of Dad, the what-ifs, and questioning if he had what it would take to become a man
- Releasing the weight of anger
- Freedom that comes with knowing your identity in Christ
Bryan Johnson is the Founder and Board Chair of Psalm68five Ministries. This ministry serves the fatherless by providing summer camp scholarships, developing and collecting resources that specifically share God’s heart for the fatherless, and by seeking to encourage other ministries in their work with the fatherless. The ministry was started in 2015 as a Christian 501c3 non-profit. For more information, please contact Bryan at Bryan.Johnson@psalm68five.org or at their website at www.Psalm68five.org.
Other Resources:
Contact Psalm68five for The Way to the Father Prayer Journal
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Losing one parent is a huge loss, but the death of both parents, leaving a child orphaned, is unimaginable.
In this episode, Pat Reynolds shares her story of becoming an orphan when her parents were killed in a large air disaster.
In this episode, Pat shares
- Her story of God’s grace in the midst of tragedy
- The long pursuit of God
- Obedience, forgiveness, and releasing bitterness
- Encouragement for moms raising children without an earthly dad
- Truth for the fatherless
Pat has taught pre-K and kindergarten for 49 years and is one of the founding teachers at Redeemer Day School located at the Church of Apostles in Buckhead, Atlanta. She is quick to say she is the richest woman that she knows and that is not counting the money in her purse. The story of the historic air tragedy can be read here.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
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This is Part 4 of our series Reflections on Motherhood. The role of a mom is often underappreciated but it’s important to know that God is using you even when you don't see it. Fruit will come from the unseen years. God is working in a beautiful way as you walk obediently with Him.
Having a community of moms who have gone before us, walk beside us, and will follow behind us is crucial, especially when that community helps us find strength in the promises of God. Conversations like today’s help us see the God, who tenderly cares for us as a mother cares for her child, and makes the seasons that feel impossible, more possible!
With my guest Michele Helms, we will discuss:
- Building a solid foundation of trust and communication during the early years of a child’s life
- Understanding the unique bent and personality of our children
- Responding to God’s prompting in parenting
- Learning from our mistakes and regrets
Michele Helms is wife to her husband of 33 years, mother of five, and grandmother to three and counting. She loves being a mom and encouraging moms who are in the trenches. You can follow her on social @the.mama.michele.
Other Resources:
Reflections on Motherhood with Suzanne Miller
The Grace of God in Raising Children with Mary Madeline Whittinghill
The Faithfulness of God in the Child-Raising Season with Kreig Teague
The Investment of a Mentor with Eric Helms
Time Around the Table by Michele Helms
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Raising children has always included blessings, challenges, and lessons to be learned not only by the children but also by the mom. The experience of motherhood provides many opportunities to know God in ways we never knew Him, along with the gift of sanctification making us more like Him.
Although, as single moms we parent alone, God is with you. He sees you, Mom. He knows your struggles, challenges, and the uniqueness of your children. He will be faithful to you. Just as you delight in the presence of your children, God delights in you.
Kreig Teague is wife to her husband of 53 years, mother of five, and grandmother to 14. She believes the top priority of motherhood is to teach our children to know God and that He is absolutely crazy about them and wants the best for their lives.
In this episode, a variety of topics on mothering are discussed, including:
- The gift of sibling friendships
- How to show love to children through encouragement
- The power of believing in our kids
- Delighting in the presence of our children
- The answer to depression
Other resources:
Reflections on Motherhood Part One with Suzanne Miller
The Grace of God in Raising Children with Mary Madeline Whittinghill
Mother's Helper: A Guide for Desperate Parents by Kreig Teague
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Motherhood takes humility and endurance. And a big measure of grace is required in a season where comparison, stress, exhaustion, and grief want to rob us of the joy of our high calling. But we can rest assured knowing that God carries moms and gently leads those who have young (Isaiah 40:11, NKJV).
During the month of May, we are having conversations with moms sharing what they would do differently and what they would do again given the chance. In Part Two Mary Madeline Whittinghill encourages young moms from her experience in raising children.
In this episode these helpful topics are discussed:
- Important lessons to teach your children with practical ideas on how to do this
- How to equip children for life with a long-term perspective
- The importance of modeling forgiveness
Mary Madeline Whittinghill is wife to her husband of 45 years, mother of five, and grandmother to 21. She loves the Lord and His word. Motherhood is one of her greatest joys and she delights in investing in her grandchildren.
Other Resources:
Reflections on Motherhood Part One with Suzanne Miller
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
As Mother’s Day approaches, we turned to seasoned mothers and grandmothers for their reflections on motherhood. In Part One we are joined by wife, mom, and grandmother, Suzanne Miller."
God is not silent about mothering. It is interesting to note that even in the Book of Kings, God would often name the king and also his mother. And King Solomon talks of the value of a mother’s teaching in the book of Proverbs.
In this episode, the following will be discussed:
- The top priorities of motherhood
- Practical ways to show love to your children
- Training tools for building a solid foundation in the life of a child
Suzanne Miller is wife to her husband of 51 years, mother of 7, and grandmother to 13. She has a passion to pass on what was passed to her, namely a love for God and His Word, encouragement, and teaching it to those in the trenches of motherhood.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The first Thursday in May is designated by the United States Congress as a day when all US citizens are asked to turn to God in prayer. Every year the president is required by law to sign a proclamation encouraging all Americans to pray on that day.
This focus on prayer for our country is crucial and prompted today’s podcast on the subject of prayer. When death intersects our lives, it is unwanted, often unexpected, and interrupts everything. When this happens, it is important that we do not let grief separate us from talking to God. This is the time when we need Him the most. And it is essential that we pray with and for our children.
In this episode, Lori discusses prayer including:
- Her journey and experience with prayer
- Prayers of Jesus and prayer in the Bible
- Reasons to pray
- Different types of prayer
- Prayer resources
Resources on Prayer:
What Happens When Women Pray by Evelyn Christensen
Fervent: A Woman's Battle Plan to Serious Specific, and Strategic Prayer by Priscilla Schier,
The Power of Praying for Your Adult Children by Stormie Omartian
Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop.
War Room
Prayers for the Fatherless
Prayers for the Widow booklet
PrayerMate
Other Resources:
Accepting Fatherlessness by God’s Grace with Isaac Apon
The Investment of a Mentor with Brandon Apon and Eric Helms
The Value of a Mentor for Fatherless Sons with Evan Apon and Dave Inabnit
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The process of growth from a fatherless little boy into manhood includes growth spurts, maturity, emotions, and time. Mentors, a biblical perspective, and the grace of God also impact the depth of healing.
Isaac Apon lost his dad by suicide at the age of five. He understands the pain and found peace when He placed his trust in God and looked to Him as Father.
In this episode, Isaac Apon discusses the following:
- Hope for those experiencing childhood father loss
- Bullying
- Mentors as God’s vessel for fathering - learning manhood from an earthly dad even when he is not your own
- Encouragement for moms raising kids with childhood dad loss
- Challenge for fatherless boys
Additional Resources:
The Importance of a Mentor Part One
The Value of a Mentor Part Two
The Investment of a Mentor
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Eating disorders are rampant today. The common age of struggling children is ages 13-15. There are many factors opening the door for this type of bondage, including social media, peer influence, loss of a parent, and the fear of losing control. Mothers raising fatherless children must be aware of the temptation to fill the void in a variety of ways including an unhealthy relationship with food.
In today’s episode, Dr. Bowden discusses the following:
- How to recognize the signs of a child struggling with an eating disorder
- Conversations you must have with your children
- How a mom can be proactive in helping her child
- Encouragement for one who is battling disordered eating
Michelle Bowden is a follower of Jesus, a pastor’s wife, and a mom of two who works as an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center and as a pediatrician in Adolescent Clinics at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. There, she leads a multidisciplinary eating disorder clinic to evaluate and treat teenagers with eating disorders including Anorexia nervosa, Bulimia nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake
Additional Resources:
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
https://www.feast-ed.org/
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
This is such a special episode because it's the first birthday of the Help! I’m Raising Fatherless Kids podcast! Moms, thank you for taking the time to listen when you have so much demanding your attention.
One of the most important celebrations that I had with my children was the “Blessing Party” at the beginning of their teenage season. This is a time to guide your child in putting away childish things and transitioning them to adulthood.
In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
- What is a “Blessing Party”
- The specific steps in planning one
- What to include in a letter of blessing
Other resources:
The Blessing by John Trent, Gary Smalley, and Kari Trent Stageberg
The letter of blessing that was written and then spoken over my child at the Blessing Party included some of the following:
- A scripture verse God has used in a great way in their life
- A brief personal testimony of how God walked them through the teenage season and how that could encourage them
- A challenge, encouragement, or counsel
- A promise of God
- A special memory I shared with my child
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries or email lori@perspectiveministries.org
As a mom, one of the greatest responsibilities and joys is telling her children the story of Jesus and the good news of the Gospel.
In today’s episode, Lori talks about Easter including:
- The history and the familiar symbols and traditions of Easter
- Practical ideas for celebrating the true meaning of Easter with children
- The hope of Easter and how to invite Jesus Christ into your life
Other resources:
Advent: Count Down to the Coming of Christ
Resurrection Eggs
Easter Music
Easter Song
The Old Rugged Cross
At the Cross
Christ the Lord is Risen Today
He Lives
Because He Lives
Crown Him with Many Crowns
It is Finished
Arise My Love
Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:55-57
Hebrews 9:12
John 3:16
Matthew 28:1-6
Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
1 John 1:9
Romans 10:9
Romans 10:13
If you prayed with me the prayer of salvation, or have a prayer request, please email lori@perspectiveministries.org to share the good news!
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
God will often use mentors as a vessel for His fathering. One of the most important investments a single mom can make in the life of her children, especially her sons, is providing a mentor. A man who will come alongside to help navigate the path of a boy from childhood to manhood, from teaching simple skills of a handshake to pursuing a wife, and everything in between.
Single moms will need to release a lot of their preconceived ideas of what family looks like and consider that it will take a village to help raise their children. A fatherless child is not likely to stay on the right path without the strong support of somebody guiding them along the way.
Eric Helms is the founder of Driven to Encourage Ministries and the territory servant leader for Atlanta Metro and travels to many locations sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He does this through a variety of topics including his own radical testimony. He wants others to understand how much the Savior loves them, desires personal relationships with them, and how Jesus wants us to be obedient to Him. Eric and his wife, Michele, live in north Georgia.
Brandon Apon, the oldest son of Lori Apon, went to Liberty University where he graduated with a degree in Business Marketing. Upon walking on to the football team, Brandon earned team captain honors, a full scholarship, and was named a Hammer Strength All-American as well as 1st Team All-State and All-Conference. It was at Liberty where Brandon met his wife, Brittany. They moved to Atlanta after graduation and have enjoyed building both a family and a career in Georgia. Brandon started selling cars for the Hendrick Automotive Group as his first job after college. At 27, he was promoted to General Manager of Mall of Georgia Mazda in Buford, GA, one of the youngest in the organization. He was recently named Automotive News 40 Under 40, highlighting the top leaders in the industry. Brandon and Brittany are celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary, and are blessed with two boys, Brantley (4) and Barrett (2).
In this episode, Eric and Brandon discuss the following:
- What the mentoring interaction looked like
- Accountability for mother and child
- The eternal impact of a mentor
- The sustaining grace of God for a long-term mentoring commitment
Additional Resources:
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
The Importance of a Mentor Part One
The Value of a Mentor Part Two
The Impact of a Mentor
Mom, you are not alone!
Last week our guest, Zach Garza, shared his fatherless journey and the impact mentors had on his life. As we continue the conversation, Zach shares insight and wisdom on what moms should anticipate as their children, especially boys, process the loss of an earthy father.
Zach Garza, the founder of Forerunner Mentoring and Vice President of Expansion for the Mentoring Alliance, which equips and encourages mentors to build relationships with kids who have experienced adverse circumstances.
In this episode, Zach talks about the five stages for processing dad loss:
- Curiosity
- Anger or apathy stage
- Desire
- Forgiveness
- Identity in Christ
Additional Resources:
The Importance of a Mentor Part One
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
The Mentoring Alliance
Forerunner Mentoring
You Can Mentor by Zach Garza
You Can Mentor Podcast with Zach Garza
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The loss of an earthly dad deeply impacts the life of a child, although it’s not always realized in childhood. Children can often grow into grief and not deal with dad loss until their adult years.
Many times a positive mentoring relationship is the tool that God will use to remove an infected emotional splinter and bring about healing.
Zach Garza, the founder of Forerunner Mentoring and Vice President of Expansion for the Mentoring Alliance, equips and encourages mentors to build relationships with kids who have experienced adverse circumstances.
In this episode Zach talks about:
- The pain of his loss at the start of his teenage years
- The power of mentoring over the course of his life
- Positive influences that provided healthy safeguards
Additional Resources:
The Mentoring Alliance
Forerunner Mentoring
You Can Mentor by Zach Garza
You Can Mentor Podcast with Zach Garza
The Importance of a Mentor Part One
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Mentoring plays a valuable role in the life of a fatherless young man. A young man needs to be challenged in ways beyond what a mom can offer. When a boy does not have an earthly dad, he needs a mentor who will make a practical, emotional, and spiritual investment in his life.
Although this important relationship will look different for everyone, the benefits are often the same - God uses men as His vessel for fathering. Affirmation, guidance, and prayer join together with hands-on teaching of skills men need to learn in life. Mentors help boys turn into men.
Today’s guests, Dave Inabnit and Evan Apon, discuss the following:
- What mentoring looked like for them and its progression
- Trusting God when entrusting our sons to mentors
- The impact of mentorship on both the mentor and mentee
- Encouragement for moms
Additional Resources:
The Importance of a Mentor Part One
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Inserting mentors into the lives of your children is crucial during those child-raising years even if there are two parents in the home but especially if you are raising children without a dad.
Mentoring for a fatherless family provides not only a vessel of God’s tangible fathering for children who do not have an earthly dad but also guidance for the single mom. Being intentional about asking men and women to mentor our family was one of the “Pillars of Grace” that God used in the life of my family.
In this episode Lori shares her experience with mentors discussing the following:
- What is a mentor
- The value of a mentor for both the mom and her child
- How the mentoring process worked
Additional Resources:
The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The average age of exposure to pornography is 9 years old. Any child can stumble onto this perversion whether they are looking for it or not.
Pornography is a subject that is often uncomfortable for moms to discuss with their children, but it is an important conversation. Moms must be proactive against this battle that many fight against, even Christians.
In the conversation today Mo Isom Aiken candidly talks about:
- The impact of her father’s suicidal death and her battle with pornography and promiscuity
- Spiritual warfare
- The power of shame vs freedom in Christ
- Encouragement for single moms and their daughters
- Guidance on how to handle mistakes our children make in this area
Additional Resources:
The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health by Mo Isom
Wreck My Life: The Journey from Broken to Bold by Mo Isom
Sex, Jesus, and the Conversations the Church Forgot by Mo Isom
Fully Known by Mo Aiken
Pornography, More than a Battle with Joe Rigney
Mo (Isom) Aiken is a New York Times bestselling author, a nationally
sought-after speaker, and a powerful voice rising up for her generation. In her younger years, she was an All-American goalkeeper for the LSU Women’s Soccer team and the first female to train with and try out for an SEC men’s football team. Her life was riddled with great personal tragedy – including battling an eating disorder, overcoming the suicide of her father, struggling with promiscuity, and surviving a horrific car accident. But by the grace of God, alone, she encountered the love and mercy of Jesus – the Great Deliverer and the One who makes all things new.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There are many conversations that moms must have with their fatherless children including talking about purity, pornography, and the enemy's plan to work against our children and moms in this area. Even though these conversations might be awkward they should not be avoided. God created us as sexual beings therefore we must teach our children about the gift of sex with its delights and dangers.
Dr. Joe Rigney, the author of the book More than a Battle, joins us today to provide wisdom and practical guidance for moms as she navigates this territory with their sons.
In this episode Dr. Joe Rigney provides helpful insights including the following:
- Laying a good foundation for age-appropriate discussions on purity and sex
- Timing for a mom and son to talk about pornography
- Guardrails Mom should have in place to protect her sons from accidental exposure
- The importance of mentors
- How a mom should respond when her son stumbles onto pornography
Helpful Resources
- More Than a Battle by Joe Rigney
- The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality by Luke Gilkerson
- Good Pictures Bad Pictures: Porn-Proofing Today’s Young Kids by Kristen A. Jenson
- Gabb Phone
Lori’s story:
My Fairytale Romance
My Greatest Fear Becomes Reality
Dr. Joe Rigney served as the President and Professor of Theology and Literature at Bethlehem College and Seminary. He is also the pastor at City Church in St. Paul, MN, and serves as a teacher at Desiring God.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Valentine's Day brings with it many memories and emotions - exchanging cards with friends, chocolate, roses, and romance. Single moms get to decide how to celebrate the day by showing love to others instead of waiting for someone to show love to them. Even though it's hard, we can push into the tender and hard emotions, and instead of focusing on what we don't have, we choose to make new memories.
Today’s episode offers a practical idea for celebrating Valentine’s Day as a single parent with these considerations:
- Recreate Valentine’s Day and make new memories
- Plan a progressive dinner
- Invite godly couples to join you in sharing their love stories
- Remember that God loves you and your children.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
A big fear moms have when raising fatherless boys is that they will not learn some of the valuable skills needed in life. Who's going to teach them how to change a tire or tie a tie (the basic things that they might learn just by watching Dad)? Fatherless boys themselves often fear that they will walk with that limp in life.
Rob Kenney grew up fatherless and dispels this and many other fears. Two years ago Rob started a YouTube channel called Dad How Do I? and thought he was going to help 30-40 people learn a few basic skills, and in just a month and a half, his channel went viral, growing to over 1,000,000 subscribers. Two years later, he has over 4,000,000 subscribers and he's known as “YouTube’s Dad”.
Rob candidly shares his Dadvice on the importance of:
- Trusting God
- Forgiveness
- Asking for help
- Fighting against the victim mentality
Additional resources:
Dad How Do I?
Dad, How Do I?: Practical "Dadvice" for Everyday Tasks and Successful Living
God is my Dad: Hope for Fatherless Families
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The beautiful thing about toddlers and little ones is they package grief in a way that we all want to - really quickly. A toddler's ability to understand loss will increase as they grow, but in the beginning, they are unable to truly grieve. Toddlers will grieve, but they don't grieve in the same way that older children and that adults grieve. Moms will grieve that loss for them, and eventually with them. In a lot of ways, a toddler’s slow processing of grief is a gift allowing the mom to focus on her own grief.
In this open conversation Lori and her daughter candidly talk about the following:
- How to care for a grieving toddler
- Insights from a fatherless toddler with an adult perspective
- Important conversations to have with your child over the course of their life
- Questions toddlers ask after losing a loved one
Additional Resources:
How to Show Empathy to Hurting Children with Lisa Peck
How to Build a Support System
With Hope by Steven Curtis Chapman
Finding Male Role Models for your Fatherless Girls
Who Will Walk Me Down the Aisle
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When we think about what God uses to shape us, people, books, and practices play an important role. The apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (2 Peter 3:18). It’s that time of year when discipline becomes a priority in our lives. What comes to mind when you think of the word discipline? Physical exercise, training children, or personal habits that help you grow spiritually?
Psalm 84:7 says we will go from strength to strength. So let's start where you are. Maybe this is your first day in the spiritual gym and you can only do one push-up. You might be able to take one of these disciplines and add them to your life.
Listen as Lori shares 5 Spiritual Disciplines that she has grown into over the years:
- Prayer
- One-line-a-day journaling
- Bible Study
- Devotional reading
- Scripture memory
Suggested Resources mentioned in this episode
What Happens When Women Pray by Evelyn Christensen
Disciplines of a Beautiful Woman by Anne Ortlund
Life Can Be Good Again by Lisa Appelo
Beyond the Darkness by Clarissa Moll
The Bible Recap Podcast
The One-Line-a Day Five Year Memory Book
7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament by Erin Davis
Elijah: Faith and Fire by Priscilla Shirer
He’s Where the Joy is - Bible Study book - Getting to Know the Captivating God of the Trinity by Tara-Leigh Cobble
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Last year was very exciting for Perspective Ministries!
One of last year’s highlights of the ministry and for me personally was launching this podcast, offering help for moms who are raising kids without an earthly dad because of death, divorce, or desertion.
Check out these favorite and most listened-to episodes!
Let’s Talk About Grief
- 7 Your Newborn Grief
- 8 Newborns and Grief with Brittany Brooker and Julie Thomason
For Fatherless Girls
- 15 Accepted not Abandoned with Tami Glasco
- 16 Who will Walk me Down the Aisle Part 1
- 17 Who will Walk me Down the Aisle Part 2
- 18 Who will Walk me Down the Aisle Part 3
- 27 Living with Hope when Hope is Gone with Mary-Kate Burson
For Fatherless Guys
- 9 Fatherless Newborns with Micah Apon
- 12 Fatherless Fathers with Chris Tuttle
- 23 When a Fatherless Boy Becomes a Father with Anthony Knight
- 29 God is my Dad with Sean Teis
- 36 Deserted by Dad but not Forsaken by Father God with Antonio Gandy-Golden
Special Topics
- 2 My Fairytale Romance
- 3 My Greatest Fear becomes Reality
- 4 Psalm 68:5 my anchor
- 5 What to Expect When Raising Fatherless Kids
- 24 Grieving Loss by Suicide with Krissie Garland
- 25 Honest Answers for Hard Questions on Suicide
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The end of the year brings us to a point of reflection. Scripture records two occasions when Mary, the mother of Jesus, treasured and reflected. Both times of treasuring came after she had experienced something that was beyond her understanding and her imagination.
Setting aside intentional time to reflect on the past year is an important habit.
In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
- The importance of reflection
- Practical ways to include children in remembering
- Questions to consider when looking back at the year
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
We all have a story, and God weaves together our stories with lots of pieces, just like a puzzle. He does the same in Scripture concealing Jesus in the Old Testament and revealing Him in the New Testament at just the right time and place.
When we stop to recall the Christmas story, many characters come to mind – Mary and Joseph, shepherds, angels, wise men, animals, and of course, baby Jesus. Other famous components join together to highlight the beauty and majesty of this great narrative: a star, a manger, and the sign.
“This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:12 comes to life as Lori shares the story behind this clue God gave the shepherds when Jesus was born.
In this episode, Lori highlights and gives an understanding to the following:
- The need for a blood sacrifice as payment for sin
- The birthplace of the sacrificial lambs
- The birthplace of Jesus and understanding the manger as a sign
Resources:
Add link to Lamb of God blog
Wrap this One Up by Christy Nockels
Works Cited:
The Birth Revisited by Harold Smith
Jesus’ Birth, The Case for Migdal Edar
Jesus’ Birth: The Significance of Migdal Edar
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Holidays are celebrated in the Bible but not in the traditional ways of Easter and Christmas we are now familiar with. Leviticus outlines seven feasts (holy convocations) that God instructed His people to remember. Although Christians are not required to observe these feasts, there is much to glean from these insightful times.
Advent not only counts down to the arrival of Jesus Christ as a baby in the manger but also the anticipation of His return - the Second Coming.
In this episode, Lori discusses the holidays that God ordained and Jesus observed including:
- Understanding the meaning of Advent
- The Biblical Holidays foreshadowing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
- The feasts that anticipate the Second Coming of Christ.
Resources:
Leviticus 23
Counting Down to the Coming of Christ Part One
Home for the Holidays Podcast Series:
Home for the Holidays Part One
After Death: How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again Home for the Holidays Part 2 with Lisa Appelo
Flourishing During Difficult Holiday Seasons Home for the Holidays Pt. 3 with Clarissa Moll
Creating Moments of Beauty During the Holidays Home for Holidays Part 4 with Tara Dickson
Works Cited:
https://www.wycliffe.org/feast/7-feasts-that-point-to-christ
A Family Guide to the Biblical Holidays
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
We all experience countdown seasons in our lives. A child counts the days until their birthday, an expectant mom counts down to the birth of her baby, and a bride numbers the days to her wedding day. Advent is just that! Counting down to the birth of Jesus Christ as well as counting down to His return.
In this episode, Lori discusses ideas that help guide the Advent seasons, including:
- Celebrating Advent with children,
- ornaments that tell the story of Jesus,
- and other helpful Advent resources.
Resources:
Big Picture Bible
The Advent Book
Jotham's Journey
Advent Ornaments
The Nativity story
Home for the Holidays Podcast Series:
Home for the Holidays Part One
After Death: How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again Home for the Holidays Part 2 with Lisa Appelo
Flourishing During Difficult Holiday Seasons Home for the Holidays Pt. 3 with Clarissa Moll
Creating Moments of Beauty During the Holidays Home for Holidays Part 4 with Tara Dickson
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Rejection, betrayal, and abandonment are excruciating, especially when dad is still living life in this world. When abandoned by his dad, Antonio Gandy-Golden confidently testifies that God did not forsake him.
Antonio is a former American football wide receiver. He played college football at Liberty University and then the Washington Commanders drafted him in 2020 during the NFL Draft.
In this episode, Antonio candidly talks about the following:
- The reality of rejection
- Encouragement for moms raising kids impacted by the desertion of dad
- The truth vs the lie that it’s my fault dad is gone
- Mentors, sports, and his NFL experience
Other Fatherless Stories:
- When a fatherless boy becomes a father with Anthony Knight
- God is my Dad - Overcoming the Statistics of Fatherlessness with Sean Teis
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When Thanksgiving rolled around a few months after my husband died, I was in a fog, full of emotions, and I didn't feel thankful. I knew I should be able to find something to be thankful for, but during those early days, the holidays were not the most wonderful time of the year. And neither were the other grief-filled days, weeks, and months. Life was hard and I was sad.
But, I found that practicing thankfulness and trusting God's heart would be our lifeline for the holiday season and for the rest of our lives.
In this episode Lori talks about:
- Giving thanks as an act of worship with thanks-giving prompts
- Turning your woe-is-me perspective to Wow-is-God!
- How to engage children in remembering and giving thanks
Suggested resources:
Thanksgiving and Dining at the King’s Table
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful, and yet when suffering, it is easy to ask the question, “why me?” When fatherlessness plays a role in this pain, it is encouraging to look to God’s Word for hope. Nestled in the Old Testament is the true story of a young, fatherless man who was granted the unmerited, honor of an invitation to dine regularly at the king’s table.
Not only is this a rich story, but it’s also a picture of God's invitation to each of us. He wants us to experience Jesus, the bread of life, and regularly feast at His table.
Evan Apon beautifully tells the story of the gain only God can bring through father loss.
In this episode Evan talks about:
- Mephibosheth, an unlikely guest at the King’s table.
- King Jesus' covenant of mercy, kindness, and hope.
- Hope extended when asking “why me”?
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Christmas looks different when our loved one is gone and the feeling of loss upon loss is often experienced. Tara Dickson found this to be true after the death of her husband. But despite the pain, new memories were made and lessons were learned, becoming powerful turning points in the life of her family. Her stories of how she felt held and seen by God offer hope.
In this episode, Tara talks about:
- Giving our “why” to the Lord
- How to handle despair when it comes knocking on the holidays
- The power of a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving
- Practical ideas on how to bless a widow and fatherless at Christmas
Tara Dickson is the host of the Seek and Savor podcast.
Related Resources:
Pep Talk for a Downcast Soul
How to Find Joy the Day After
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
After Clarissa’s husband died in a hiking accident on their family vacation leaving her to raise four small children, the holidays were different and grief became their companion.
You won’t want to miss Clarissa talking about:
- Sorting through traditions and saying “no” to the traditional “yes”
- How to anticipate the holidays and handle the days afterward
- Keys to taking charge of the holidays and flourishing again
- The example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, experiencing joy and sorrow at the same time
Also be encouraged by her book, Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss.
https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Darkness-Gentle-Living-Thriving/dp/1496458931/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2UVL1CJCRN9T3&keywords=beyond+the+darkness+clarissa+moll&qid=1666204498&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjEyIiwicXNhIjoiMC44MSIsInFzcCI6IjAuNzkifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=beyond+the+darkness%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1
Other helpful resources:
When Going to Church is Hard:https://perspectiveministries.org/2021/04/12/when-going-to-church-is-hard/
Anticipating the Remembrance Day:https://perspectiveministries.org/2020/10/12/pre-memory-syndrome-anticipating-the-remembrance-day/
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
The holidays can be daunting at your house when you are trying to “make Christmas good” as a single mom. As the special days approach, you might want to run for your life because of the hurt you feel from grieving the loss of your husband and knowing your children miss their daddy.
Lisa Appelo, widow and mother of seven, shares insightful wisdom and inspiration on how to recreate the holidays. In this episode she talks about:
- The beauty of simplicity
- The joy that comes when we give joy away
- Releasing expectations
- Practical tips for holiday survival
You will also be encouraged by her book, Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart.
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Can-Be-Good-Again/dp/0764239287/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30XCQS2ZB5KBU&keywords=life+can+be+good+again+lisa+appelo&qid=1666208864&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjAyIiwicXNhIjoiMC42MiIsInFzcCI6IjAuNTgifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=life+can+be+%2Caps%2C88&sr=8-1
Read more from Lisa by visiting LisaAppelo.com/HopeInGrief.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Just because the holidays are hard and heavy doesn’t mean they can’t be happy.
This episode is the kick-off to a mini-series on how to handle the holidays as a solo mom.
Seasoned moms will join us in this series to talk about how the Lord led them over the years.
In this episode Lori discusses:
- The holidays leading up to Christmas (Halloween and Thanksgiving)
- Practical tips and potential traditions
- Powerful considerations for making Christ the main focus including Advent, Christmas Eve, and Christmas
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There is nothing that captures our attention more than a tragic story that ends in triumph! Sean Teis shares his riveting story of abuse and becoming fatherless as a baby, but the story doesn’t end there. Sean testifies that God intervened, fulfilling His promise to be a Father to the fatherless. Time and time again, God’s hand was on his life protecting and preparing him for the mission he feels called to now. You won’t want to miss his testimony!
In this episode, helpful advice is given to both single moms and fatherless young men on
- Finding balance in Christ when the family unit is off-balance,
- breaking the cycle of sin through forgiveness,
- And the power of perspective - looking at the positives of fatherlessness
You can learn more about Sean’s ministry and resources here:
https://www.godismydad.com/
https://www.lifefactors.org/
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Today's discussion was prompted by a question from a mom. How do we help our children who have experienced trauma?
Trauma, defined as a “deeply distressing or disturbing experience,” prompts questions that have been asked from the beginning of time.
Why does God allow suffering? If God is good, why do bad things happen? And these are really good questions. But often with no satisfactory answers this side of heaven. We will not always understand God's ways. We want to avoid pain at all costs. Even Jesus, God in the flesh, asked for another way when He was going to the cross.
Lori suggests that our first response in leading our children out of a traumatic experience should be to go to God and His Word. It is helpful to look at how He has worked in the past in a variety of traumatic situations.
Lori offers practical tips for moms on guiding children in processing trauma :
- The importance of prayer, seeking God and leaning into the testimonies of others who have also experienced trauma in their lives
- Understanding that trauma impacts us, but it is our response to trauma that shapes us.
- The value of perspective and lessons to be learned bringing post-traumatic growth
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Grab your fatherless daughters and bring them in to listen to this episode today, because I feel confident they will be encouraged, even though in a journey they never wanted and that God has ordained. They will see that He is working it all out for our good.
Mary-Kate Burson is a true trophy of grace, one who grew up fatherless and testifies to God’s faithfulness.
In this episode she talks about:
- Growing up fatherless and her experience in foster care
- How God was a father to her, even on her wedding day
- The impact of mentors
- Trusting God when experiencing tragedy upon tragedy
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Seven helpful tips that worked in my life as I was navigating parenting alone.
In this episode Lori gives insight from her own days as a single mother with steps to consider to prevent burnout:
- Take one day at a time.
- Be comfortable with routine
- Do the next thing
- Receive or request help.
- Get some rest
- Insert solitude into an already really lonely season.
- Keep the big picture in mind.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Suicide brings to the table tormenting questions that add extra layers of grief. If you have lost a loved one or your children have lost a dad to suicide, today’s episode will discuss some of the topics you may be wrestling with:
- The seduction of suicide
- Is suicide the unpardonable sin?
- Is suicide God’s will?
- The Sovereignty of God in suicide
- Telling your children about the suicide death of a parent
If you would like to receive the Solace for Suicide booklet, please email info@perspectiveministries.org and put “Solace” in the subject line.
Listen to Micah’s story of growing up fatherless as mentioned in this episode.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/09-fatherless-newborns-with-guest-micah-apon/id1615039015?i=1000563761842
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Suicide Awareness Week is September 4-10, 2022, and so it is fitting to have Krissie Garland share her story.
Krissie Garland, the author of the bookOpen Letters to our Fellow Fighters, shares transparently how God has been walking her through the journey of losing her husband to suicide. She helps widows know that they didn’t fail their husbands or children because they could not fix their problems.
We discuss several hard topics with transparency, ones the church often does not know how to handle:
- Grieving loss by suicide
- How to grow Awareness of the enemy’s lies and tactics
- Handling guilt and shame in the aftermath of suicide
- Help for moms who experienced loss by suicide
If you are interested in Solace for Suicide, please email info@perspectiveministries.org and put “Suicide” in the subject line.
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
When a boy loses his dad, he not only grieves his absence, but he grieves the tools that dad would have put in his life “toolbox” along the way. Actions often speak louder than words and parents model so much for their children as they go through life. God designed parenting to happen in this way according to Deuteronomy 6:7, “You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.”
Anthony Knight is a Trophy of Grace. His testimony of God’s protection from bitterness after the passing of his dad is inspiring.
Listen as Anthony offers practical encouragement for moms raising boys without a dad:
- Receive affirmation for the hard job
- Hear God’s plan to step in with redemption and restoration
- How to not overcompensate for the loss of dad
And, Anthony challenges fatherless guys:
- Harnessing the power of forgiveness over bitterness
- Break the cycle of generational sin
- Hear how God will raise and shepherd you as Father
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries
Moms raising fatherless kids have questions, good questions, regarding bringing up their children without the important role of a dad in their life.
Today’s question comes from a mom raising a young daughter concerned about her girl's potential quest to fill the void in the wrong way.
“How do I set boundaries for my daughter and respect her inner need for a male figure in her life?”
Today four fatherless women share their “Trophies of Grace” stories of God’s protection and provision of male figures in their lives.
In this episode they talk about:
- Helping girls understand their worth and value in God
- Teaching mom to fulfill the role of gatekeeper and to be a powerful influence on her child’s perspective
- How God uses others as a vessel for His fathering
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Death often comes like a thief in the night, and along with that, fear enters in. It’s easy for death to make us feel robbed, invaded, and exposed.
New locks are installed on our homes, we update our passwords on our computers, and we install alarm systems because we want to make sure we are protected from further loss. We're often left afraid and want to know that we are protected.
The good news for any woman who's been left alone is that Almighty God protects us. He is our Defender.
Today, Lori talks about the powerful truth that God protects women who have been left alone, discussing these important truths:
- Hope when you’re afraid and feel alone
- Who God promised to protect
- Promises from God’s Word for you to cling to
Jeremiah 49:11
Isaiah 41:10
2 Thessalonians 3:3
Psalm 91:4
Psalm 91:11
Psalm 68:5
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
Lisa Peck shares how God used growing up in a home filled with pain, trauma, and alcoholism to bring her to a pivotal crisis of faith in college. Join us as she recounts how the Lord used her challenging family background to change her life forever and to give her a mission and passion to care for individuals and families who have also experienced trauma. Lisa is the creator of Revive, and she is committed to helping others experience “relational revival” to become healthier personally, spiritually, and relationally.
She loves showing you how to grow, even in the midst of trials, through laughter and meaningful conversations with yourself, God, and others. In this episode we talk about:
- Wisdom for dealing with the impact of trauma
- How to show empathy to hurting children
- Establishing an emotional vocabulary with your children
For more information on Lisa’s services or resources, check out her website: www.ReviveWithLisaPeck.com
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
There are many factors to consider when making the decision of where your children will go to school. There’s so much more than education happening at school. Belief systems are formed, identity is challenged, temptations knock, and choices are made that impact the direction of life.
Moms need to understand that the foundation of their children’s lives is being built day by day, moment-by-moment with every word spoken and action modeled.
On today’s episode, Lori uses the acrostic for S.C.H.O.O.L. to discuss tips for setting fatherless children up for success as they head back to school:
Send them off in peace
Call on others for support
Help them succeed
Observe and overlook mistakes
Open the door for conversation
Live with an eternal perspective
Christian Education was one of the five “Pillars of Grace” that God used in the lives of the Apon family
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIcHWTiovBA
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Piano music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay
Singleness is not for everyone and most girls pray that this is not the call of God for their lives. But waiting is often part of the story, at least that was a huge part of Christieanna’s story. A lot took place during that time of waiting as God prepared her for marriage.
Fatherless girls often wonder, who will walk me down the aisle? This question may trigger an array of emotions or just curiosity about what that special day will look like without a dad.
Christieanna concludes the mini-series with Lori and her four fatherless daughters, sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle.
In this episode Christieanna shares:
- Her season of singleness and waiting on God
- Her love story
- Who walked her down the aisle
- Encouragement for fatherless girls and their moms
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Little girls dream of meeting their “Prince Charming” and anticipate their own fairytale wedding day. This special season in the life of a fatherless girl comes with an array of emotions including the big question, who will walk me down the aisle?
Kayla Apon Whittinghill and Amy Apon Carroll join the mini-series with Lori Apon and her four fatherless daughters, sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle. Each one testified that God was there, even though daddy was not.
In this episode each bride shares:
- Their love story and wedding day
- Who walked her down the aisle
- How God was with them
- Encouragement for fatherless girls and their moms
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Everyone enjoys a good love story! And every fatherless girl anticipates her wedding day with a big question tucked inside her heart, “Who will walk me down the aisle?”
Abi Fasciano kicks off a mini-series with Lori Apon’s four fatherless daughters sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle. Each one testified God was there, even though daddy was not.
Diane Tuttle joins the conversation by sharing her involvement when she responded to God’s invitation to plan their weddings.
In this episode Abi shares:
- Her “man book” of prayers and letters to her future husband
- Meeting her husband, Nick Fasciano
- Planning her wedding
- Who walked her down the aisle
- Encouragement for fatherless girls and their moms
Scripture: The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)
The Manbook by Abi Fasciano
Fatherless Fathers with Christ Tuttle
The Bride
By: Abigail Apon
A young girl gently smoothes her dress.
A prayer to God she does confess.
And taking up her flowers red
she goes to meet him for more, or less.
Her father gone and dead,
never kept the promise he said.
She swiftly brushes away a tear
and makes ready to leave the life she led.
Then, tucking stray hair behind her ear,
a new problem does appear.
Who will walk her down the aisle?
Then a little voice she does hear.
God will walk her down the aisle.
He will walk her down the aisle.
Forever and ever down the aisle.
He'll walk her down the aisle.
Then gingerly she holds her dress
and with both hands, cradles her flowers red.
Hopefully expecting the best,
she waits for words to be said.
Then joyfully the song is played.
The doors open to let her in,
And the little girl she once portrayed
waits for a new life to begin.
A young man awaits her at the front
smiling, yet shy.
She smiles at her love, there at the front,
but inside wants to cry.
The white veil hides her waiting face.
She's nervous as a bird.
She thinks of God's Amazing Grace,
and thinks of something she once heard.
God will walk her down the aisle.
God will walk her down the aisle,
and guide her with His loving care.
The veil is removed from her face.
She smiles an honest smile.
Covered in white, dainty lace,
God had walked her down the aisle.
The whole time she was standing there,
Her Father never left her side.
His everlasting care.
His presence did not hide.
Then her Father put her hands in His.
His hands so scarred and bruised.
The cross that stood in the crowd amiss.
The rusty nail they used.
Then, wrapping His arm around her shaking one,
He led her back up the aisle.
She was wrapped in the arms of the Son.
His smile shone for miles.
Then He ever carefully, gently,
truly asked her to be the bride of Christ.
Then softly whispered in her ear "come follow me"
She was the bride of Christ.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Although Tami Glasco had five dads, she never viewed God through the lens of an earthly father. At the age of eight, she learned that God was her true father. This truth calmed her and stuck with her. During the turmoil of great rejection and abandonment, when afraid, she found comfort by singing “Jesus Loves Me this I know.”
“Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord cares for me” (Psalm 27:10).
Tami shares with us how God can redeem broken stories and how the broken pieces of her story have shaped her into who she is today. She shares that we must let go of the life we thought we would have in order to live the life that God's given us.
In today’s episode, Tami will share:
- Her difficult childhood and the longing for a relationship with her father
- The impact of a grandmother, the church, and mentors in her life
- Restoration and healing that came from her godly husband
- Grieving what could have been after the suicide death of her alcoholic father
Tami has six children—3 daughters by birth and 3 sons by marriage and 11 grandchildren—10 live in Brenham, Texas, and one lives with Jesus and her husband in Heaven. She is the founder of Hope Gathering with the purpose of sharing the promise of HOPE with hurting widows.
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Kia Stephen’s story begins in college when a friend casually mentions building a bookcase with her dad, an experience Kia never had with her own father.
Kia is passionate about helping women to know God as a father. God is still good even when He allows bad things to happen in our lives. And God is sovereign and has a purpose and plan for our lives, even when life doesn't make sense.
In this episode we talk about:
- The powerful role that grief and honesty play in the healing process.
- The impact of continual forgiveness
- The importance of writing out prayers of hope for our daughters
Kia created The Father Swap Blog to help women exchange their father wounds for the love of God the Father. She is also the founder of Entrusted Women, created to equip Christian women communicators of color. In addition to these ministries, Kia faithfully serves in Bible Study Fellowship and her local church in Atlanta, Georgia. And she will be releasing her first book, Overcoming Father Wounds, on March 7, 2023. https://www.kiastephens.com/
The Forgiveness Dare is a five-day plan mentioned in the podcast. Kia will walk you through forgiving anyone for anything, including helping daughters walk through the process of forgiving their fathers.
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/29133-the-forgiveness-dare
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Summer is approximately 42 days, and when you count it in days, it just doesn’t feel that long. It can quickly escalate stress levels, making it more of a sanctifying season instead of relaxing. But, your preparation and perspective for summer can make a big difference.
On today’s episode, Lori shares some practical tips to help mom survive and thrive through the summer months. In the podcasts she discusses,
- How to kick off the summer with a brainstorming session
- Benefits of Vacation Bible School and summer camps
- Recommendations for non-negotiables that make for a healthy summer experience
- Sharing the summer load with other moms, family, and friends
- Exploring ways for mom to have some summer solitude
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
We conclude the Father’s Day mini-series with an honest and hope-filled conversation with Chris Tuttle, a true “Trophy of Grace,” who has been fatherless for fifty years! Chris accepted Jesus into his life as Savior and Father at the age of 19 and from that time on, God began a work of deep healing. He believes that fatherlessness is a process – a lifelong journey that God will use for good.
Chris Tuttle’s story begins with the sting of a bitter divorce and desertion.
In this episode Chris discusses:
- The impact of dormant grief
- Struggling with fear of failure and people-pleasing and how God set him free.
- How Chris learned to be a father without his dad as a role model
- The importance of knowing our identity in Christ
- An admonition to fatherless young men
Chris also defines the goal of manhood:
-
Reject Passivity
-
Accept Responsibility
-
Live Courageously
-
Wait on God's Reward
-
Discipline children in love
-
Keep your focus on the family before yourself
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Father’s Day series Part 2 of 3
Dr. Jay Strack knows what it's like to experience loneliness, abandonment, abuse, broken homes, and drug addiction. And he really believes that anyone can overcome their past and walk confidently into their future.
Jay’s life began to turn around when he heard the Romans 8:31 message, “if God is for you, who could be against you?” At the age of 17, when he received Jesus, he also received a father, a family, and a future.
In this episode, Jay candidly discusses:
- The pain of experiencing so much loss
- Spiritual Fatherhood
- The battle for your mind, your body, your family, and your soul
- Encouragement for mothers raising fatherless sons
- A challenge for boys growing up without a dad in their lives
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org and follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
With Father's Day right around the corner, we are starting another mini-series centered around this day. For single moms and kids who do not have a dad, it’s the elephant in the room during this season. There are cards in the store for dad and talk among friends about what they are going to do for Father's Day.
In this episode, Lori shares practical suggestions on how to handle this day including:
- Re-naming the day of death as your new Father’s Day (the day that God became father to your children)
- Re-locating the traditional Father’s Day to the day of death, the Remembrance Day
- How to lead children in remembering their dad on the day of death
- And gives encouragement for remembering from Psalm 145
Mom, you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
(Mini-series on Newborns and Grief, Part 3/3)
From the time he was a baby, Micah Apon navigated life without an earthly father. As the youngest of Lori’s eight children, Micah only knew his daddy through pictures and stories from his siblings and his mom. In this episode, Lori and Micah have a discussion about his experience growing up fatherless, and Micah shares practical tips for moms of fatherless kids.
Micah talks about:
- Grieving the loss of a daddy he never knew
- Building relationships with godly “dads”
- Growing into grief
- Navigating milestones without a dad
- Learning to be a man
- Preparing to be a husband and father without an example to follow
- Realizing that God is his Father that’s proud of him
Today, Micah is enjoying life as a newlywed with his sweet wife, Haley. He works in sales and loves impacting those around him in his leadership role.
If you’re a mom of a fatherless boy, this episode will be enlightening and very encouraging. You might even consider having your son listen to Micah’s “Trophy of Grace” testimony.
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Episode 8 Newborns and Grief with Guests Brittany Brooker/Julie Thomason
(Mini-series on Newborns and Grief, Part 2/3)
SHOW NOTES
The job of caring for little ones is exhausting, especially when you are in your own newborn stage of grief. You may feel that it is more than you can handle. If this is your season of life, you are in the right place!
Today’s guests, Brittany Price Brooker and Julie Thomason, are two beautiful young moms who definitely understand what it's like to be a widow-mom in the midst of grief.
Julie Thomason (@spilledmilkmamma) became a widow recently when her amazing, young husband was tragically killed in a car accident, leaving her to raise her newborn and toddler. She shares candidly from the darkest part of the valley. Her hope now is to encourage and inspire others through using honesty, humor, grief truths, parenting tips, and more.
Brittany Price Brooker (@brittanypricebrooker) talks about suddenly becoming a young widow at the age of 25 with three small boys to raise. With her story of God’s faithfulness in deep grief, she encourages others walking through the pain. Now remarried, she and her husband, Daniel, the Brooker Bunch, are blending a family of six precious children, many of which have experienced great trauma in their young lives, as well. When Brittany isn’t at home being a chaos coordinator, she travels the country, speaking about motherhood, teaching on the word of God, grief, loss, and the hope we have in Jesus.
You will want to follow both of these moms on Instagram! They are engaging, tell the truth with understanding, and will come alongside you with stories of real-life in the valley.
In today’s episode they talk about:
- The parallel between a newborn baby and newborn grief
- The early days of newborn grief
- The comfort of their newborns brought to them
- And how their community of friends and family can be a great support system
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org& follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
(Mini-series on Newborns and Grief, Part 1/3)
Are you raising a newborn baby without a dad in their life? Are you in the early stages of your own personal grief? Then you will find hope and comfort in this episode.
Having walked out her own grief, Lori has a unique understanding of how the first several months of the healing process is similar to pregnancy, birth, and the newborn stage. Like a first-time mom, you might not have a clue what to do with this grief.
Lori is here to help by talking about:
- The basic needs of a mom in her newborn stage of grief (the first few months after loss)
- Denial - God’s “grace coma”
- The need for spiritual nourishment for the journey
- Finding a promise of God that will allow you to grieve with hope
- The importance of tears in the healing process and how precious they are to God
- How the Holy Spirit prays for you when you can’t pray for yourself
- Journaling to record the story of God’s faithfulness for your child to read later - even with the hard parts
- Learning to embrace the pain to deliver your “newborn grief”
- Knowing that, just as you hold, love, and comfort your child, God is holding you.
Lori includes a section with Scripture and prayer to wash over you and your newborn baby and a special song that was a great source of comfort and hope during her own stage of “newborn grief.”
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom
For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
Scriptures:
1 Peter 2:1-3
Psalm 56:8
Psalm 126:5-6
Psalm 30:5
Revelation 21:4
Psalm 18:6
Psalm 55:17
Romans 8:26-27
Romans 8:34
Jeremiah 1:5
Psalm 27:13-14
Genesis 41:52
Psalm 22:9-10
Psalm 8:2
Isaiah 49:15
Isaiah 40:11
Isaiah 66:13
“Rest My Child” by This Hope. Used with permission from the songwriter and This Hope, who released the song.
“Because He Lives” by William Gaither (Piano Instrumental). Used with permission.
Lori shares her adventure of trusting God with their family size and He took them up on that blessing them with eight children in ten years. And then they were fatherless. People thought they were crazy and started rumors that they were having children “for religious purposes!” Lori agrees. Children are a gift from the Lord.
Have you ever been criticized for a decision you made that you knew God was calling you to make? Learning to trust God’s leading instead of man’s is something every parent must learn, especially for the inevitable valleys ahead!
It can be hard to raise kids in today’s world with so many skeptics and counter opinions! Lori felt the same way when she and her husband Bobby decided to have 8 kids.
In this special Mother’s Day episode, Lori shares the story of how the Lord blessed her uniquely with each of her eight children. You’ll learn how Lori and her husband began to trust God with their family size, and how they stood on their convictions and were comforted in the face of backlash. Lori also tells how the Lord prepared her heart to look to Him as the Father of her children, and how she taught her children to do the same.
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone!
Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community:www.bit.ly/widowmom
For more information and helpful widow resources, check our website:PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.
In the last episode, we talked about the three phases of grief a mother experiences with her child. And after the show we received some feedback – moms want to know more! So, in this bonus episode, I will cover the common feelings of fear and abandonment and the 8 realities that many fatherless boys and girls struggle with. For example, boys will wrestle with a fear of failure while girls will be tempted to search for their identity in all the wrong places.
WITH GOD AS FATHER single moms can expect so much more than just the negatives! God will turn what was meant for evil into good and you and your children can expect God to perform miracles!
Related Resources:
- What to Expect When Raising Fatherless Kids: https://bit.ly/raisingfatherless
- Join our private Facebook group for encouragement and community: www.bit.ly/widowmom
- Check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries
You’ve never raised fatherless kids before, so to start, let me tell you something I’m sure you have heard before — you’re not going to wrap this up in a box with a pretty bow. You’re on a journey and every mama's experience will be different.
Today, we’re talking about the processing of grief and carrying grief for our children. In the early days, months, and years, a mom will grieve for her children no matter their age. She has a perspective and a view that is much different from kids. She can see and understand the depth of that loss in a greater way. And as time goes on she will then process the grief with her children.
It is important to put in the suitcase of their hearts only what they can handle. There are three stages of helping our kids with grief that I cover in today’s show, carrying grief, sharing grief, and making grief their own.
Each part is hard and each part is beautiful. I pray today that you will be able to rest in what God is doing in your life and the lives of your children.
More resources:
SOCIALS:
Perspective Ministries: Instagram
Website https://perspectiveministries.org/
Join our Private Facebook page —Help I’m Raising Fatherless Kids https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Interested in Hope Gathering Mom This is a time to meet together for community with other moms raising fatherless children.
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse, the story intensifies. In less than 24 hours my world turned completely upside down leaving me to process betrayal, rejection, suicide, widowhood, and 8 fatherless children. With help from God’s Word, the hardest moment of my life was also one of the holiest.
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Suicide Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States, please call 1-800-273-8255
Resources from today’s podcast:
Pillars of Grace
Bobby Apon Funeral
Resources relating to suicide:
Choose Life
The Sovereignty of God in Suicide
Suicide is Not the Unpardonable Sin
Follow us:
Instagram: @PerspectiveMinistries
Website: PerspectiveMinistries.org
Private Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
My Greatest Fear becomes Reality SHOW NOTES From today’s podcast:
Psalm 139:6
Ecclesiastes 3:11
Understanding the Grief Fog
The False god of Anorexia
Eating Disorders: What to look for and How to Help
SOCIALS:
Perspective Ministries: Instagram
Website https://perspectiveministries.org/
Join our Private Facebook page —Help I’m Raising Fatherless Kids https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Interested in Hope Gathering Mom
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
From today’s podcast:
Pillars of Grace story behind Perspective Ministries
Bobby Apon Funeral
SOCIALS:
Perspective Ministries: Instagram
Website https://perspectiveministries.org/
Join our Private Facebook page —Help I’m Raising Fatherless Kids https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Interested in Hope Gathering Mom
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
From today’s podcast:
Job 22:21-23
Psalm 139:5-6
Psalm 139:11-12
Psalm 139:16-17
Ecclesiastes 3:11
Habakkuk 2:3
Hebrews 10:35-38
Bobby and Lori Apon wedding https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBlEPZXpHNM
Her Story: Lori Apon
My False god of Anorexia
SOCIALS:
Perspective Ministries: Instagram
Website https://perspectiveministries.org/
Join our Private Facebook page —Help I’m Raising Fatherless Kids https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Interested in Hope Gathering Mom
Want Lori Apon to speak at your event? Click here for more info!
Season 1 will launch on April 6, 2022!
Join our Help! I'm Raising Fatherless Kids Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/321489763333254
Learn more about Perspective Ministries: https://perspectiveministries.org/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perspectiveministries/