April Lorier, Author and Encourager
Living in Santa Paula, CA
Total page views: 88,722
Published Content: 287
Fans: 71
On AC since: 12.21.07
Bio:
Inspirational author, poet, writer and Christian blogger. Children's rights activist who successfully fought for the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) which was signed into law by Ronald Reagan. Encourager of Christian believers worldwide.
Inspirational author, poet, writer and Christian blogger. Children's rights activist who successfully fought for the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) which was signed into law by Ronald Reagan. Encourager of Christian believers worldwide.
Education/Experience:
Psychology, Biblical Studies, Music (BA and MA)
Psychology, Biblical Studies, Music (BA and MA)
Interests:
abuse, blogs, bible, bloggers, child abuse, child neglect, survivors, writers, authors, writing, religion, God, Christianity, faith, forgiveness, Jesus, spirituality, peace, prayer, Jesus, horticulture, NATURE, Creator, Christ, growth, life, California, Am
abuse, blogs, bible, bloggers, child abuse, child neglect, survivors, writers, authors, writing, religion, God, Christianity, faith, forgiveness, Jesus, spirituality, peace, prayer, Jesus, horticulture, NATURE, Creator, Christ, growth, life, California, Am
Motto:
I am the only Bible some will ever read.
I am the only Bible some will ever read.
Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 287)
We really do teach people how they can treat us, Dad. And my perspective is that you have taught your wife she doesn't have to respect you. As long as she hangs around, that will do.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/13/2010
God always forgives us when we walk away and mess things up; but consequences are always the price we must pay for our actions.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/12/2009
Let's talk about what emotional abuse is. A verbally or emotionally abusive person shows it several different ways. If that person has known you a long time (as your son has), he will:
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/8/2009
I can't count the number of times I have been asked this question: Does talking to my plants, or playing music for them, help them grow? Yes!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/27/2009
I keep getting fired! I have had five jobs in four years. Why? It's not that I'm not well-qualified. I am! My termination always seems to be about relationships.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/26/2009
Ever wonder why 60 seconds make a minute, or why an hour has 60 minutes? After all, there are no natural reasons for this. A year is a natural time measurement, based on the sun's position in the sky.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/20/2009
Perhaps you've seen the Hollywood version of The Invasion of the Body Snatchers, or if you're like me, you don't watch scary movies. But you can see the very same movie if you venture out into nature!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/19/2009
What can you count on to be constant today? Do you worry as the sun goes down that it will never come up again? No? Why? Because it always does! Have you ever considered what blessings the 'constants' in life are?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/18/2009
Is there anyone who has not heard how diminutive David killed humongous giant Goliath? It is a story that has been passed down for thousands of years. But have you heard of the giant David did not kill?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/16/2009
Owning a dog is an exercise in observation and symbolism. Everything she does means something.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/10/2009
I was a good wife and faithful to both my husband and to God. I feel betrayed. So now what happens? I'm left with nothing to show for my 34 years?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/7/2009
I wanted to be God-honoring, but it was so difficult, especially as many of my wounds had not yet healed. So I prayed God would help me think of ways to honor her as the mother He gave me without allowing her to steal me from myself.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/3/2009
I feel so powerless as a mother, like a crazed cuckoo mom. I was abused as a child, and no matter how out-of-control my kids get, I will not touch them. I'm afraid I will begin and not be able to stop.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/3/2009
My husband is the bread winner and controls all the money. I have absolutely no say and have to ask for anything I want. I am given an allowance for my personal needs and to purchase things for the house. It is gone by Friday.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/31/2009
The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (in North Carolina) is a tribute to a hero whose poem "Trees" inspired millions. Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action in France in W.W.I, has a living memorial in his memory, the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/29/2009
Being the weaker vessel is actually a precious term. Let's think about it. What's weaker, an expensive, delicate teacup, or a sledge hammer? Obviously the teacup is weaker, but it's also worth more!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/27/2009
I think we have too many communications problems. If I say I'm too tired to go to one of his family's functions, we will definitely argue. We have been to a short stint in counseling, but I don't think it did that much for us.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/24/2009
I find myself defending him more and more to my friends and family. I wonder if this is instinct, or is it The Holy Spirit trying to tell me he's not the one for me. How do you know the difference?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/22/2009
I just heard President Obama's press conference on the Health Care Bill. He took no questions. But the method of his pitch took me back to days when I was involved in the car-selling business.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/17/2009
He has a good handle on what people are complaining about, so he makes sure he uses all the keywords he knows will appeal to even "the other side." A good example of this was his speech at Notre Dame.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/24/2009
When I am pruning my own Pothos, I am usually thinking I want the plants to last a long time, and they must have constant new growth for that to happen. That takes pruning. It's the same in my spiritual life.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/20/2009
I have been thinking how similar we all are to turtles. We all have protective shells. Some have sharp, horned shells, while others have smooth, shiny, leathery shells. Some even have soft shells! But all turtles (and tortoises) have protective shells.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/18/2009
April 1st was no joke for me. Never did I think I would be shot down by Conficker or any other virus! After all, I take all precautions and don't do anything risky!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/4/2009
I was abused until I left my parents' home, and now I am in my thirties. I have not tried to have children because I'm afraid I would end up treating my children as I was treated. How can you know what kind of mother you will be before you have children?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/16/2009
I find it hard to believe that someone actually sat and wondered why pigs stink. But evidently, someone did. And he wrote a bill that actually made it to Congress. And now you and I must pay $1.7 Million to find out why pigs (and manure) stink!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/27/2009
I don't want to be a welfare mom, but I see no other alternative. I'm a Christian, but I'm scared. How will I provide for my children?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/25/2009
All of us have some situation in our lives we don't like, but because of our codependency'"our desire to please and keep the peace'" we don't say anything. Or, we don't say enough.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/24/2009
I have been a Christian for four months, but I still have my horrible temper. I thought when I accepted Christ as my Savior, my temper problem would go away. But it hasn't.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/20/2009
Self-centered people who don't like who they are. They are obsessed with meeting their every need and yet, like Peggy Lee, they ask "Is that all there is?"
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/17/2009
I am a recovering control freak. I've been one all of my life, and I hate it! I'm sick of my behavior. My mother was also a control freak, so I know how it feels to be on the other side.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/16/2009
Just Google "Reborns" and see all of the sites (including Amazon) that come up. I don't know about you, but this creepy phenomena scares me.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/9/2009
Preaching the "theology of the hammer," Fuller built an army of volunteers that included former U.S. presidents, other world leaders and Hollywood celebrities.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/4/2009
After he abuses me, he is immediately sorry (even crying and begging my forgiveness). But I'm always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 2/1/2009
As the musical mainstay in Mr. Graham's crusades, Bev Shea is often called "America's Beloved Gospel Singer."
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/31/2009
Years before he had become violent, Ted (as a child) had picked through his neighbor's garbage and found porno magazines. It started an inexplicable addiction to violent sex inside of him, and it grew exponentially.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/29/2009
I saw the movie Seven Pounds (with Will Smith) and here are some of my reactions to this "inspirational" movie.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/23/2009
A security breach has occurred and our credit cards have been targeted, and this affects Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/21/2009
I have written before about love being a verb, not just a noun. One who really loves will put feet to his/her feeling. (Actions really do speak louder than words!)
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/18/2009
I never saw this coming. After 28 years of marriage, my husband announced he loved me, but he wasn't "in love" with me. Is it my fault?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/15/2009
As we look forward to Valentine's Day, let's remember the qualities of the love we must share with those to whom we relate. It is the ultimate love.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/15/2009
And before we knew what happened, He said something about being unable to understand why people say untrue things about others.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/13/2009
I came across an amazing story not long ago that reminded me just how much being a follower of Jesus can shape the way you face what you hope you never have to face.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/5/2009
I know too many people who go home feeling as if they have been run over by a train. Here are some helpful hints.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/5/2009
Someone asked me this week what "passive-agressive" behavior was. It sounds like an oxymoron, doesn't it?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/4/2009
"Money, money money, MONEY!" sang the O'Jays.Their grammar wasn't the best, but their message was clear: money can make people do things they wouldn't do otherwise.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 1/3/2009
We keep hearing the term "Ponzi Scheme" on the news as they refer to Bernard Madoff who ripped off $50 Billion from trusting people who were expecting high dollar results. What is a Ponzi Scheme, and why is it called a "Ponzi Scheme"?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/31/2008
Was I ever shocked! This woman spoke in a low, methodical voice and looked Mike Huckabee straight in the eye during the entire interview.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/29/2008
Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/24/2008
Children have a natural curiosity about Christmas, so every feature of Christmas provides a wonderful teaching opportunity.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/22/2008
If your sexual abuse happened at night, your guard was down and you couldn't protect yourself. Sleep equaled vulnerability.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/22/2008
There is little difference between a holiday and a holy day today. With the plethora of holidays, few hold religious meaning, including (sadly) Christmas which is becoming more and more a materialistic secular federal holiday.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/21/2008
Why do we have holidays? Are they just days for making various groups of people feel good?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 12/18/2008
Compared to you, I look like an alley cat, ripped and torn from battle.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/30/2008
I see things on the news that make me want to throw something at the television. Why am I wrong to get angry?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/22/2008
It's Saturday morning. We've all been dealing with The Santa Ana Winds and temperatures in excess of 100 degrees for two days now
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/15/2008
Some of my friends have suggested he might be bipolar. His father was extremely abusive, but my son won't talk about it.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/14/2008
It's "Merry Tosmas" time again! Get those trash bins ready!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/14/2008
Have you wondered why the momentum in the gay marriage fight? Learn about Tim Gill and you will understand.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/11/2008
If you don't recognize the name "Dr Kevin Leman", you may recognize some of his book titles.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/11/2008
The new President will surely need our prayers because he and his administration face huge, serious challenges to the health of our nation and to peace in the world-challenges that, in my opinion, he won't have the power to overcome without divine aid.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/11/2008
Nearly 2,000 people have thanked the president for defending the preborn.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/11/2008
I don't believe I have ever heard the word "change" so much in my entire life. It seems to me, at times, that people want change whether it's good or bad. We had a big change on 9-11-2001, remember?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/4/2008
"I'm one hundred percent sold out to Jesus and one hundred percent pro-life," Norma says. "No exceptions. No compromise."
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 11/1/2008
If you want to know about Saul Alinsky, pick up his book Rules for Radicals. It has a shocking dedication!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/30/2008
To be as committed as I was to the marriage, to my spouse, and to my God, and then to be unceremoniously dumped is devastating.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/29/2008
Once upon a time there was a very rich man who had lots of employees. He decided he wanted to go on a long trip around the world.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/26/2008
This is a message for all people of the world: High and low, rich and poor, this is for you. This comes from hard-earned wisdom and insight.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/26/2008
My job is getting me down emotionally and spiritually. The women just gossip constantly and it's getting to me.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/24/2008
But don't be dismayed by the wave of films and books that mock your faith. Get used to it.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/22/2008
The fear of financial ruin, failure in a relationship or job, fear of sickness or death, or just fear of not being accepted can lead our emotions down a path that makes us believe that certain doom is near.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/21/2008
How do you know what something is worth? Let's say you're trying to sell your second vehicle in this rotten economy.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/19/2008
My question is, as a Christian mother, why is it a sin to be proud of my daughter?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/19/2008
See the parallet God was showing me of us, His children, and how we need to be in the Body of Christ (the forest).
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/17/2008
I can imagine explaining to a young child that there is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger. And a pineapple comes from neither a pine tree nor an apple tree.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/11/2008
Fireproof; is doing better than most people thought it would do at the box office. DVD sales haven't even started yet! The Love Dare, written by the Kendricks, was at No. 8 on Amazon's best-seller list Thursday afternoon.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/9/2008
Lying at the foot of Boaz's bed? I would never have imagined doing something like that! As a teenager, I had a very narrow view of the full meaning of the Book of Ruth.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/8/2008
His life might have started out as a comedy routine, but God used him in ways He's never used anyone else, including his predecessor, Billy Sunday.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/7/2008
Chris did not win "American Idol", but has gone on to bigger and better things because he allowed the Lord to lead him. Yes, he was confused, at first, but because he had a heart to be led by the Lord, he is doing what God created him to do.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/6/2008
Nedra Ross, you might remember, was a member of the '60s group,the "Ronettes." They were the best-remembered of the "girl group" of the early '60s, and achieved their biggest success under producer Phil Spector.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/6/2008
We both love words. We began to out-do each other with examples of words that look the same, but are pronounced differently and mean different things. Actually, this would make a great party game for those who love words!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/5/2008
Picture a triangle. And keep this in mind: the triangle is the trap. You know it well, it feels normal, and yet it produces self-hatred in you.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/5/2008
Listen to your husband. Hear what he complains about the most. It will be a good clue to what his language of love is.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 10/3/2008
Monday, at Sundown marks the beginning of Rosh Hashanah for Jews and Christians who understand we have been grafted in by God and are, in fact, Judeo-Christians.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/29/2008
There is a two-letter word that perhaps has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that is 'UP.' I'm wondering if UP is even UP anymore?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/28/2008
I never dreamt this show would be so delightful! The man, himself, has a wonderful personality and a great sense of humor, but too often I have been seduced by promises of a great show, only to be disappointed. Not this time!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/27/2008
Last year the winners of the song-writing contest were Paul and Erin. Erin did beat-boxing while Paul burped the melody. It was way cool!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/27/2008
We are students from Kindergarten through Third Grade and Miss April is our music teacher. She teaches music in a different way.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/26/2008
All these years I thought balance was acting happy when you were sad;
staying calm when you were upset; being good because you were bad.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/24/2008
It's a very masculine movie, with the firefighters, but it's also a chick flick. And the main character is not some religious guy.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/23/2008
I find myself in a difficult position. I am engaged to a "baby Christian". We were engaged before I started really becoming serious about God.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/22/2008
I'm an avid viewer of America's Got Talent. I especially watch that last 5 or 6 weeks when the cream of the crop talent performs. Last season's winner, Terry Fator was unbelievably talented.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/20/2008
Mama's favorite quip was, "God hates you as much as I do. You're no good and God knows it."
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/19/2008
Would you expect a four-month-old baby to be able to play hide'n'seek, or to carry on an articulate conversation? No? Why not? That's what some of us Christians expect from four-month-old Christians!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/18/2008
I hate my family! I come from a large family, but I am lonely most of the time. We cannot seem to get along with each other.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/15/2008
Today we remember the 9-11 that changed our lives forever, September 11, 2001. All over our country, the pettiness of politics is laid aside and we are, once again, all Americans.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/11/2008
Jesus had a heart for the poor. Through out the New Testament, we are told repeatedly to take care of the poor and needy. Jesus never told us to have a heart for the planet or the animals on it.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/10/2008
Pelosi identified herself as an "ardent, practicing Catholic" and said that she had "studied the issue for a long time."
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/10/2008
When I am treated badly for doing right, God smiles on me and draws me to Himself.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/10/2008
Just in case you've been hiding in a box and don't know anything about Sarah Palin, here's your chance to get a glimpse of her.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 9/4/2008
Consider, if you will, the tiny spider as he builds his web. Back and forth he goes, crocheting a sticky trap for the moth.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/30/2008
Men like your husband are solicitous when fear strikes them: the fear of losing their wives. Once he has won you over temporarily, he will become verbally and emotionally abusive again. It's a game.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/29/2008
How many years did I try unfolding my life and straightening out the chinks in it? Those who have experienced years of abuse keep trying, but without help it is an almost impossible job.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/28/2008
Having been through the book publishing process, I know, full well, the role of the editor in chief. He (or she) has the final word on the finished product. Let's apply that to a life in book form.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/27/2008
Because of the curvature of the earth, the horizon is the place where vision must give way to knowledge that there is more yet beyond, though you cannot yet see it with the natural eye.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/26/2008
Dancing With The Stars is one of the shows I never miss. It will open Monday, September 22 (8:00 pacific time) with a two-night premiere, 2 hours each night. So to prepare you for the dances and the rules, here are the "have-to" criteria on each dance.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/25/2008
I never was one who wanted big bling, preferring the thoughtful $3 gift that was related to some event in my life.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/25/2008
All racers fun, but only one gets the prize. Run in a such a way as to get the prize.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/24/2008
He was still a babe in Christ, so he saw God as some giant Santa Claus in the sky who was similar to a vending machine: put prayer in, get answer out.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/22/2008
My friend keeps telling me I am an "enabler" because I am always there for my children. I thought an enabler was the spouse of an alcoholic, but she says it's more than that.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/21/2008
I have known many kinds of love during my life, and I'm grateful for all of them.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/21/2008
To recap, we were discussing how much our loving Creator loves to communicate with us, not just listen to our hurried prayers (our "to-do" lists).
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/18/2008
God loves to talk! Had you ever thought about that? He is a communicator.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/18/2008
We seem to have lost the ability to hear the music of nature - the music God gave us long ago. So here are some questions to ponder.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/18/2008
Someone said if you have one true friend, you are a rich person. I agree!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/18/2008
Christian Counseling has four distinctives. It is done by a Christian. It is consistent with Christian assumptions. It has Christ at the center. It is consistent with God's revelations.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/13/2008
In parting, I would like to remind you that anything with two heads is a freak. There can only be one head per family, business, or organization.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/8/2008
Tomorrow is the beginning of an eight-day "gossip-free" challenge that is sweeping the nation, thanks to Pastor Kevin Hester of The Sanctuary Baptist Church in Coloma, Michigan.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/7/2008
Did you know using both sides of your brain is an excellent way to move through abuse recovery? It's a way to move through the time line. We are, like God, creative beings.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/6/2008
Didn't seem like Steve had much going for him: abandonment, dyslexia, drugs, alcohol and violence. But he cried out to God, and God heard this very strong man who could be very funny while he shared The Bible with his audience. His first TV show was "The Tonight Show".
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/3/2008
Over the years, I have received so many emails from wounded people, and I've been answering them by email. Now it's time to answer them more publicly (names will be withheld) so other readers can benefit from the questions and, hopefully, from the answers.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 8/2/2008
When the Greeks die, they ask only one question: Did he have passion? I've known that for many years, but yesterday I was the recipient of another person's passion. This man loves what he does!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/30/2008
When a church in Albany, Georgia (Sherwood Baptist Church), released the film Facing the Giants, nobody expected it to become such a success.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/27/2008
For years I have battled depression â€" not surprising for any one who is a child abuse survivor. But we must all grow up and accept responsibility for our adult choices.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/26/2008
For all the years I've been going through recovery, the main asset I have had has been my friend, Ann. There have been times I was so confused, wondering why I was like I was, and that's very normal for survivors of childhood abuse.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/26/2008
I actually heard a German man, leaving the 200,000 member to-do in Germany, say, "Barak is my new messiah!"
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/25/2008
Whole sections of Britain are now considered dangerous" no go" zones for non-Muslims.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/25/2008
Today I am acutely aware of and sensitive to so many "ships" that are battered on this sea of life. Life seems to be a series of battered ships and torn masts: home evictions, debilitating illnesses, broken families and broken hearts, and a sense of What's it all about?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/20/2008
Are you able to be happy just because you are alive and the sun is shining? Or, if it is storming outside, are you happy to have a roof over your head?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/18/2008
Be careful how you talk to yourself because the person we believe the most when we hear them speaking those destructive words is ourselves!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/18/2008
Today I am very sad at the loss of one of my heroes, Tony Snow. He was truly a renaissance man, as well as a man of integrity. He was a man who had his priorities straight: God first, family second, and other people third.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/12/2008
God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go.
They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/11/2008
David knew the skies intimately since he had spent years as a shepherd. Later, he knew sin just as intimately, and always knew he was sinning against God, not just the person.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 7/7/2008
I have been in the presence of people who make me feel very small. In my years as Director of C.O.P.E., I was interviewed many times, and I rarely slept well the night before. I was nervous even though I was committed to my cause.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/29/2008
Though I am in despair right now, LORD,
I will praise You with my whole heart.
There are so many "gods" on this earth,
But I will sing praises only to You
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/29/2008
Sometimes I feel like a turtle, slowly on my path of recovery. I keep reminding myself that the tortoise won the race because of his tenacity in the familiar fairy tale. But that wasn't real life. This is real life!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/27/2008
Why would you want to keep fighting the same old battle over and over again?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/24/2008
I live in California where our three main concerns are fire, landslides and earthquakes.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/24/2008
When you are alone - when there is no one to impress or blame - who are you?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/20/2008
God does not mind our questioning and searching for proof of His Presence. It is in those times when deep calls to deep in our heart as we cry out to The God who promised He would never leave us or abandon us.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/19/2008
One of the most common problems abuse survivors face is depression. You have just had a burst of energy and confidence in your progress, and then WHAM! All of a sudden, the damage done to you hits you right between the eyes and you feel you have made no progress at all!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/17/2008
She was adopted at 13 days old and was her daddy's princess. Renee had a happy childhood until she was 5 years old, and then...
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/9/2008
Someone asked me if I had to describe the love of God, how would I describe it? Well, that's even harder than describing romantic love or familial love! -- This song was written (first two verses) by a supposedly insane mental patient.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/8/2008
Which do you think is more important: to love or to be loved? I have pondered this question most of my life. Now I think I know the answer.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/7/2008
Over 30 Billion Dollars were spent on weight loss methods way back in 1990, and more today. Yet our obesity rate increases exponentially every year!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/7/2008
Many are blaming this crisis on farmers who raised corn, wheat, and hay for ethylene instead of food for human and animal consumption.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 6/4/2008
Abuse recovery is like this too. You reach a point in your journey when you know that it's time to clean house and unclutter - emotionally, relationally, physically, and sexually.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/31/2008
More than 25 years ago, Dr. Victor Cline identified the progressive nature of pornography addiction. He said that once addicted, a person's need for pornography escalates both in frequency and in deviancy.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/30/2008
Today I hear little about the meaning of Memorial Day that squares with my knowledge of it. It appears to me that it is little more than a drinking holiday, a legal "day off" from work, or a day to become a couch potato watching television. And what do many see? Hatred!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/24/2008
I saw her after seven years, and she looked better... "Growth"? Was she trying to kid me as much as she had deluded herself?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/20/2008
Dr. Henrietta Mears used to be a Sunday School Teacher, but she had no curriculum to teach her children. So, as any woman would do, she wrote her own! (That's how Gospel Light Publishing began!)
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/20/2008
I have always been fascinated by crooked or severely gnarled trees. The crooked trees were symbolic to me of damage done during the formative years. The severely gnarled trees spoke to me of life's inevitable pain.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/15/2008
Recovery is a process. Think of peeling an onion. The first layer of flaky skin is taken off. Good! We probably have decided we need help.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/14/2008
Have you ever wondered where bread pudding came from? It was originally created as a waste not, want not use for dry leftover bread.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/13/2008
I sing because of what You have done with my life! What great miracles you do, and how deep are Your thoughts!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/13/2008
Today is Mother's Day and I've been thinking about the years of struggle I experienced as I tried to find ways of honoring my mother (who never wanted to be a mother). She was, after all, an abusive and self-centered mother, thanks, in part, to her own upbringing.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/11/2008
One of my favorite movies came from the 1971 best-selling book The Hiding place by Corrie ten Boom. It is the story of her family's involvement in the Dutch Underground and subsequent imprisonment during Word War II.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/10/2008
I am confused and afraid, God. Changes are coming too fast. I cry out to You without holding back. Oh, if You would listen to me!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/5/2008
Some one asked me what I tell myself during times like this when I am low?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/4/2008
You stand on your tip toes to see what's going on, and see President George Bush! Oh, my gosh! Is that really the President of the United States coming into a grocery store?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/3/2008
If you're looking for a flour with more complex carbohydrates and higher protein, this is the flour for you!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/3/2008
You satisfy me more than even chocolate does! You mean more to me than the most delicious of foods.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 5/1/2008
Isabella Miller, an eight year old girl,may decide the fate of gay marriage! Her mother Lisa Miller, a born-again Christian who left the homosexual lifestyle six years ago,is fighting for custody against lesbian Janet Jenkins.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/28/2008
Luci knelt down beside her bed on the eve of her wedding
and asked the Lord to show her how to be His woman,
for she knew if she could please God, she would please George.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/23/2008
Lately, I have been listening how people describe faith. I mean people of all faiths, "no faith" as if there could be such a thing and from all walks of life.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/23/2008
There they go again, speaking godlike pronouncements, making promises they have no power to keep: meaningless rhetoric.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/20/2008
Isn't it odd how the very things that used to fill all of us with awe, wonder, and exhilaration now seem mundane and expected -- or even worse, unnoticed?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/16/2008
Everything seems worse in the quiet darkness of the night. I could not stay in bed. Some how, it seemed more frightening to lie in bed in this condition.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/10/2008
Ben Stein, a Jew, believes that the consequences of Darwinism have been terrifying and horrible because it has led to academic suppression.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/8/2008
I am not known for my cooking ability! But recently, a neighbor brought me a pot of "Sopa de Albondigas" (aka Mexican Meatball Soup) and I fell passionately in love with it!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/8/2008
When I called, You answered me in a way I understood; You made me bold and stouthearted -- not a victim anymore!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/7/2008
When I was silent, my bones wasted away and I felt a groaning all day long.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/6/2008
Well, today is my birthday. My mother and I used to share this birthday, but since she has passed on to Glory, it is now just my birthday. I have a new "birthday song".
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/5/2008
I am learning how to stay joyful, Lord! I do not follow the advice of the unbelievers, or hang out with those who do not love You, or join in with those who scoff at Your Word.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/2/2008
I could never do enough to show my gratitude, for True Love expects no payment.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/1/2008
Now listening with your eyes may sound peculiar, but to a child it is everything! A child wants and needs to be noticed!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 4/1/2008
Making Psalm 139 and 132 personal. Reversing the order makes me feel God truly loves me.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/29/2008
Is it a coincidence that Alan Greenspan, former Head of The Federal Reserve Bank [and an economic genius!], had early musical training, and still spends many of his evenings playing the piano?
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/27/2008
Now I know what being honored by Donald Pennington feels like. Wow! Read his interview with Yours Truly!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/26/2008
Music is a vehicle used to transport me anywhere I want (or need) to go.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/24/2008
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/22/2008
President Lincoln's "melancholy" was not a secret. He struggled with depression all of his life.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/22/2008
Michael is every bit an artist and a true renaissance man. A true artist has many artistic outlets, and Michael Kocis (Michael John, pseudonym) fits that description to the max!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/21/2008
This blasphemous doctrine is being promoted by Oprah Winfrey who has a large platform. This is the same Oprah that, as a young girl, loved Jesus and wanted desperately to be either a preacher or a missionary for Him.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/21/2008
Prayer of Saint Francis is a Christian prayer for peace. It is attributed to the 13th-century saint Francis of Assisi, although...
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/21/2008
May you have enough success to keep you eager.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/21/2008
if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things... And the God of peace will be with you.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/21/2008
Have you ever felt empty? I mean that feeling that nothing matters, not even yourself? I have. That's why I believe the greatest miracle Jesus performed on earth was His first one.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/20/2008
Every nite I lie in bed, feeling the breeze from my window, and always I thank You, Lord. It's such a peaceful whisper from You that You're watching over me.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/17/2008
Lord, it's Easter time and I'm thinking about the pain Jesus suffered for me and what a blessing it is now.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/16/2008
One Solitary Life is one of the best-loved poems by Christians and non-Christians alike. Some attribute it to Rev James Allan Francis (1864-1928).
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/16/2008
Phil Keaggy is one of the top guitarists in the world, and has recorded over fifty albums.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/16/2008
Easter is a time of renewal!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/15/2008
It has been two steps forward, one step back -- sometimes even three steps back.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/15/2008
I firmly believe there is no more destructive weapon than the tongue.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/15/2008
Eye halve a spelling chequer
It came with my pea sea
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/13/2008
hey are afraid of true intimacy that occurs when people are honest and respectful of each other's feelings. They are creating an illusion of intimacy.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/13/2008
He saw Al Capone, D.L. Moody, Adolf Hitler, and Billy Graham, each making his own, personal, eternal choices.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/13/2008
Joy is a beautiful Christian woman who has been through hell on earth. Her writing is superb and I'm proud to call her FRIEND.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/11/2008
Today I learned, from a probe by the Associated Press, that I am drinking drugged water! They discovered drugs in the water of 41 million Americans!
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/9/2008
Someone once said if you have one true friend in this life, you are a rich human being.
By April Lorier, Author and Encourager | Published 3/7/2008
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