Finding Peace in Marriage, Surviving a Tornado's Wake-Up Call, The Power of Biblical Community - w/ Chris & Jessica Speas

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Keith Simon, co-author of "Joyful Outsiders" and co-host of the Truth Over Tribe podcast. After 35 years of marriage and raising four children, Keith shares his wisdom on how Christians can positively influence culture without conforming to it. As a pastor in Columbia, Missouri, Keith explains how believers can embrace their role as outsiders in an increasingly post-Christian world, while maintaining joy and unity within the diverse body of Christ.In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore:How Christians have always been outsiders since Genesis 3, and why this role should be embraced rather than resistedThe six different ways believers can engage culture: as ambassadors, trainers, builders, protesters, advisors, and artistsWhy unity doesn't require uniformity, and how the diversity of gifts within the church strengthens our cultural witnessThe dangers of retreating from, conforming to, or fighting against culture instead of joyfully engaging itHow parents can raise children who are confident in their faith despite cultural oppositionThe importance of seeing other Christians as teammates rather than competitors, even when approaches differWhy Jesus calls us to be "in the world but not of it" and how to navigate this tensionHow focusing on Christ as King brings perspective to political and cultural changesPractical ways families can cultivate joy in their faith journey regardless of external circumstancesWhether you're feeling discouraged by cultural shifts, struggling to know how to engage with the world around you, or seeking to raise children with a confident faith, this conversation offers biblical wisdom for approaching life as a joyful outsider.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Keith Simon:Book: "Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture" (co-authored with Patrick Miller)Website: joyfuloutsiders.comPrevious Book: "Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant"Podcast: Truth Over Tribe and Ten Minute Bible TalksFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Keith Simon, joyful outsiders, Christian engagement, cultural influence, biblical unity, cultural diversity, Christian parenting, faith and culture, body of Christ, Christian witness, biblical perspective, cultural outsiders, church unity, Truth Over TribeSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Arlene Pellicane, author of ten books including her latest, "Making Marriage Easier." After 25 years of marriage and raising three children (two now in college), Arlene shares practical wisdom about cultivating a thriving marriage relationship. Her humorous approach combined with biblical principles offers couples a refreshing perspective on how small, intentional decisions can transform their relationship.In this insightful conversation, we explore:The four core decisions that make marriage easier: playing by the rules, giving thanks, serving one another, and taking fun seriouslyWhy addressing small issues before they become "dragons" is essential for marital healthHow to understand your spouse's perspective and find humor in your differencesThe importance of intentionally prioritizing your marriage above parentingPractical ways to nurture your relationship while raising childrenWhy honest communication about sensitive topics builds trust and intimacyHow cultivating an attitude of gratitude transforms your marriage perspectiveThe value of seeking wisdom from couples with strong marriagesSimple, specific actions that can lead to significant relational changeWhy humility is the foundation for receiving feedback from your spouseWhether you're newlyweds learning to navigate life together, parents struggling to find balance, or a couple looking to inject more joy into your relationship, this conversation offers practical wisdom for making marriage not just work, but thrive.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Arlene Pellicane:Website: makingmarriageeasier.com (get free date night ideas!)Book: "Making Marriage Easier"Podcast: The Happy HomeSpokesperson for National Marriage Week, a movement to shift the culture to value marriage once againOther Books: "Parents Rising" and "Screen Kids" (co-authored with Dr. Gary Chapman)Follow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Arlene Pellicane, making marriage easier, marriage priorities, family relationships, intentional parenting, gratitude in marriage, marriage communication, marriage humor, serving your spouse, marriage decisions, biblical marriage, marriage boundaries, marriage funSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron and Jennifer Smith return together to share powerful insights from their family life. As parents of six children, they discuss their intentional approach to parenting, how they're preparing their children for life's challenges through the Word of God, and the refining process they've experienced in their marriage through recent challenges. They also share exciting news about their new children's books and reflect on seven years of podcast ministry.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore:How setting aside intentional one-on-one time with each child creates space for meaningful spiritual growthThe power of asking questions instead of only pointing out character issues with our childrenWhy preparing our children with the gospel equips them for life's "winter seasons" of hardshipHow Scripture familiarity creates a foundation children can return to in adulthoodThe importance of humility and self-reflection in personal and marriage growthWays that challenges and hardships serve as refining opportunities for couplesThe impact of praying together during emotionally challenging seasonsHow God uses devotional practices to reveal areas where we need to growWhether you're a parent seeking practical ways to disciple your children, a couple walking through a refining season, or simply looking for encouragement in your spiritual journey, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and real-life examples for growing together in faith.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Aaron and Jennifer Smith:New Children's Books: "This is How You Love Your Mommy" and "This is How You Love Your Daddy" (Available on Amazon) https://amzn.to/41fFtfpExperiencing God Devotional by Henry Blackaby (Recommended resource)https://amzn.to/4klshP5Follow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Jennifer Smith, intentional parenting, spiritual disciplines, children's discipleship, marriage refinement, gospel-centered parenting, biblical parenting, marriage challenges, spiritual growth, family devotions, character development, Christian parenting, Bible studySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Jinger Duggar Vuolo, New York Times bestselling author of People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations. Jinger shares her personal journey—from growing up on TLC's reality shows as part of the Duggar family and being raised under the strict teachings of Bill Gothard, to realizing the heavy cost of seeking constant approval. In this honest conversation, she reveals how asking the question “Who am I?” led her to break free from people-pleasing tendencies, embrace her true identity in Christ, and discover the beauty of community.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:How growing up in the public eye and under rigid expectations shaped her early identity and relationships.The lasting impact of Bill Gothard’s teachings on her life, and the struggle to disentangle truth from man-made rules.The transformative journey of self-discovery—learning to rely on God for approval and self-worth.The role of authentic community in healing from the burden of people pleasing.Practical insights on parenting in the spotlight and maintaining family privacy in today’s digital age.How her marriage with Jeremy provided the space to overcome people pleasing and cultivate honest, loving communication.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Jinger Duggar Vuolo:Book & Audiobook: People Pleaser – available wherever books are sold Discover more about her journey in her other works, including Becoming Free Indeed, The Hope We Hold, and the children’s book You Can Shine So Bright.https://www.jingerandjeremy.comFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Jinger Duggar Vuolo, People Pleaser, people pleasing, identity in Christ, reality TV upbringing, Duggar family, Bill Gothard, authentic parenting, self-discovery, community, faith journeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Chris and Jessica Speas, long-time friends and ministry partners. From their whirlwind five-month courtship to marriage, through seasons of spiritual growth and challenges, they share how God has shaped their relationship over 13 years. After surviving a devastating tornado in Tennessee, their experience led to spiritual renewal and Jessica's ministry teaching women about biblical prophecy.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:Why seeking "calm" in relationships is more valuable than emotional highs and lowsHow to maintain marriage commitment even when feelings fluctuateThe importance of letting the Holy Spirit work in your spouse instead of trying to control themWhy community is essential for spiritual growth and marriage healthThe power of choosing to stay married through difficult seasonsHow God uses challenging circumstances to draw us closer to HimWays to rebuild spiritual intimacy after seasons of stagnationThe beauty of allowing God to work through trauma for ministry purposesWhether you're newlyweds seeking wisdom, walking through a spiritually dry season, or looking to deepen your faith together as a couple, this conversation offers practical insights and hope for building a marriage that honors God.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Jessica Speas:Instagram: @jessica_speasBible Prophecy Teaching and Resources - https://stan.store/JessicaSpeasMaranatha ApparelFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Chris Speas, Jessica Speas, marriage commitment, spiritual growth, biblical community, tornado testimony, faith renewal, prophecy ministry, marriage wisdom, Holy Spirit, Christian marriage, biblical truthSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Abby Johnson, former Planned Parenthood director turned pro-life advocate and author. After witnessing an ultrasound-guided abortion in 2009, Abby left the abortion industry and has since helped over 700 abortion workers find new careers and embrace Christ. Now a mother of eight and author of the new children's book "What's in Mommy's Tummy?", Abby shares her powerful journey of transformation and discusses the importance of teaching children about the sanctity of life.In this powerful conversation, we explore:How God's forgiveness frees us from shame and empowers us to help others find healingWhy children deserve honest conversations about life from a biblical perspectiveThe importance of parents being the primary spiritual authority in their children's livesHow to create a home environment where children feel safe sharing difficult newsWhy babies should always be celebrated as blessings, regardless of circumstancesThe critical role of men as spiritual leaders in both homes and churchesThe power of bringing sin into the light through open family discussionsHow to speak truth boldly while maintaining love and compassionWhether you're carrying the weight of past choices, seeking to build a strong biblical foundation for your children, or wanting to speak truth more boldly in today's culture, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom for walking in God's grace and truth.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Abby Johnson:Website: abbyj.comNew Book: "What's in Mommy's Tummy?" Ministry: https://abortionworker.com/And Then There Were None MinistryProLove MinistriesFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Abby Johnson, pro-life ministry, parenting wisdom, spiritual authority, biblical truth, children's ministry, Christian parenting, family values, abortion recovery, God's grace, redemption, biblical marriage, forgivenessSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Jerry Jenkins, bestselling author of over 195 books including the Left Behind series. With 54 years of marriage and over 71 million books sold, Jerry shares his time-tested wisdom about protecting your marriage through intentional boundaries he calls "hedges."In this wisdom-filled conversation, we explore:• Why even strong marriages need protective boundaries• The seven specific hedges Jerry uses to protect his marriage• How to identify and create your own personal hedges• Why quality time with your children matters more than career success• Practical ways to show respect and love to your spouse daily• The new challenges social media and technology pose to marriages• How sharing your love story strengthens your family legacyWhether you're newly married, raising children, or seeking to protect your marriage from modern temptations, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical steps from someone who has faithfully lived what he teaches.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Jerry Jenkins:• Books: "Hedges", "Left Behind Series", and over 195 other titles• Website: JerryJenkins.com• Writers Guild: Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild• Watch: The Chosen TV SeriesFollow Marriage After God:• Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergod• Instagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwife• Instagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:• Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/• Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Jerry Jenkins, marriage protection, family time, parenting wisdom, marriage boundaries, The Chosen, Left Behind, Christian marriage, family legacy, marriage hedges, protecting marriage, quality time, marriage advice, biblical marriageSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Dustin Garrett from Samaritan Ministries, who shares his remarkable journey from heroin addiction to finding freedom in Christ. Now serving as a leader in a Christian healthcare sharing ministry, Dustin's story demonstrates how God's transformative power can radically change lives and restore families.In this powerful conversation, we explore:How scripture and community support played crucial roles in recoveryWhy belief in God's promises is essential for overcoming addictionThe importance of church authority and accountability in healingHow to support loved ones struggling with addictionThe role of boundaries and tough love in relationshipsWhy professional help combined with spiritual guidance mattersHow Christian healthcare sharing provides an alternative that honors lifeWhether you're battling addiction, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand God's power to transform lives, this conversation offers hope and practical wisdom for the journey of recovery and restoration.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Samaritan Ministries:Website: samaritanministries.orgFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Dustin Garrett, addiction recovery, faith journey, church community, Christian healthcare, Samaritan Ministries, spiritual transformation, family restoration, healing, accountability, church discipline, biblical truth, recovery supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Elisha and Katie Voetberg, who share their remarkable journey of building an intentional family life - from embracing a large family to living off-grid in a wall tent. With their sixth child on the way, they demonstrate how stepping away from modern conveniences has actually brought their family closer together.In this inspiring conversation, we explore:How growing up in large families shaped their vision for their own homeWhy they chose to live off-grid and disconnect from smartphones and social mediaThe importance of modeling authentic conflict resolution for childrenCreating a multi-generational vision for family legacyPractical ways to build an intentional family cultureThe beauty of embracing simplicity in family lifeHow to maintain joy and purpose while raising childrenWhether you're just starting your family journey or seeking ways to create a more intentional home environment, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and practical insights for building a family culture that honors God.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with the Voetbergs:Website: https://www.nowthatwereafamily.com/Academy: https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.com/Podcast: Now That We're a FamilyFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Elisha Voetberg, Katie Voetberg, intentional family, off-grid living, digital detox, family culture, parenting wisdom, family legacy, multi-generational vision, Christian family, family ministry, authentic marriage, simplicity, biblical parentingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations

In today's episode of the Marriage After God podcast, Aaron interviews Roland Warren, CEO of Care Net, who shares his powerful journey from facing an unplanned pregnancy as a Princeton student to leading one of the largest pregnancy care networks in America. Through his story and ministry experience, Roland presents a transformative perspective shift from being merely "pro-life" to embracing what he calls "pro-abundant life."In this profound conversation, we explore:How Roland's personal experience with unplanned pregnancy shaped his ministryWhy the traditional "pro-life" label falls short of God's complete visionThe crucial role fathers play in pregnancy decisionsHow the story of Mary and Joseph provides a biblical model for facing unplanned pregnancyThe church's vital role in supporting vulnerable familiesThe connection between the Great Commandment, Great Commission, and the sanctity of lifeWhy discipleship must be at the heart of pregnancy care ministryWhether you're passionate about life issues, interested in family ministry, or simply want to understand how to better support those facing unplanned pregnancies, this conversation offers biblical wisdom for embracing God's complete vision for life and family.Please subscribe to our channel on YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify and leave us a star rating and review to help us reach new listeners. Your support and feedback mean the world to us!Connect with Roland and Care Net:Website: care-net.orgBook: The Alternative to Abortion: Why We Must Be Pro-Abundant LifeFollow Marriage After God:Instagram: Marriage After God - https://www.instagram.com/marriageaftergodInstagram: Unveiled Wife - https://www.instagram.com/unveiledwifeInstagram: Husband Revolution - https://www.instagram.com/husbandrevolutionSupport this podcast:Shop: https://shop.marriageaftergod.com/Become a patron: https://marriageaftergod.com/patronSmith Family Resources, Inc © 2025KEY WORDS: Marriage After God, Aaron Smith, Roland Warren, Care Net, pro-abundant life, unplanned pregnancy, family ministry, church support, father involvement, pregnancy care, discipleship, biblical perspective, Christian ministry, life issues, family values, marriage supportSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marriageaftergod/donations