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