Called to Marriage: Recent Episodes
Thomas & Marcia
A podcast for the bride of Christ. If you are called, come! As a married couple, the Oppongs talk about their marriage and life in parallel to their union with Christ the King. Through their conversations, they aim to glorify God and edify his body, at the same time leaving a legacy for posterity. Tune in!
In this episode of 'Called to Marriage,' we delve into the significance of finding contentment and simplicity amidst the busyness of life. Beginning with a scripture from Ecclesiastes 4:6, we reflect on its meaning and relevance to our current season of life, which is characterized by living simply and making financial sacrifices. We share our personal experiences of choosing to live on one income, downsizing our home, and the challenges and joys that come with these decisions. We address the societal pressures that often lead to dissatisfaction and compare our journey to others, highlighting the importance of contentment and the dangers of succumbing to FOMO (fear of missing out). Furthermore, we discuss the importance of having a strong vision for the future to navigate life's challenges confidently and the role of sacrifice in achieving long-term goals. We emphasize that life is seasonal, and understanding this can help foster contentment and gratitude in every stage of life. Throughout the episode, we encourage our listeners to embrace their current season, find joy and contentment in the simple things, and remember that personal growth and character development are just as important as material success. We wrap up the episode by inviting our listeners to engage with us through comments and feedback, expressing our gratitude for their support and love.
00:00 Opening and Scripture Reflection
00:45 Embracing Simplicity and Contentment in Life
03:42 The Joy of Living Within Your Means
07:30 The Long Game: Sacrifice Today for Comfort Tomorrow
13:33 The Importance of Vision in Navigating Life's Seasons
17:19 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
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What are you waiting on the Lord for? How are you waiting? What is your attitude and posture toward God in delay? Thomas and I answer these questions for ourselves on this episode. We are waiting, hoping, and praying for another baby. Feel free to agree with us in prayer đđž đ but we are genuinely grateful to and content with God and all He has given us. Be encouraged, and may Godâs PERFECT will be accomplished in all of our lives. FOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage
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Key Qualities to Look for in a Christian Marriage Partner
In this episode hosts Marcia and Thomas discuss essential qualities to look for in a potential Christian marriage partner. They emphasize that choosing a spouse aligned with Christian values and beliefs is crucial for a harmonious and fulfilling marriage. The episode outlines seven key qualities, including being a Christian with shared biblical values, adaptability, selflessness, faithfulness, a vision for the future (especially for men), and respect (particularly important for women to have towards men).
Marcia and Thomas illustrate the importance of these qualities through practical examples and biblical references, stressing that these traits contribute to a strong, unified marriage that reflects Christ's relationship with the church. They encourage listeners to seek and develop these qualities within themselves and in their potential partners.
00:00 Welcome & Introduction: The Importance of Choosing the Right Partner
02:07 The Foundation of Faith in Marriage
12:11 Adapting and Compromising: Key Qualities for a Successful Marriage
18:55 The Impact of Adaptability on Family Dynamics
23:50 The Importance of Self-Sacrifice in Marriage
25:34 Embracing the Mind of Christ for a Stronger Union
25:39 The Significance of Being a Believer in Marriage
28:13 Demonstrating Selflessness: A Key to Marital Success
31:18 The Role of Commitment and Faithfulness in Marriage
36:30 Seeking a Partner with Vision: Guidance for Women
39:22 Respecting Your Partner: A Foundation for Marriage
45:51 Concluding Thoughts on Marriage and God's GlorySummary of qualities to look for in a potential spouse:1. Equally yoked (not just a professing Christian, but shared/biblical values)2. Flexible/Adaptable3. Self-sacrificing4. Committed/FaithfulBonuses:A man with a strong vision or devotedly seekingA woman who respects and admires youFOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage
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After a few lovely years in our last apartment, we have decided to move! Some would consider it a downgrade, but we consider it a great move for us in this season! God has prospered us, and we are trusting Him in our new place and in this new season! We are just sharing some life updates for testimony and posterity sake.FOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:YouTube
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Counsel is important for life in general, and especially when making one the the most important decisions of life, which is who to marry. On this episode, we discuss the value of counseling at every stage of a relationship, whether simply interested in someone, actually seeing someone, about to get married, or married for several years. The Bible said that in the multitude of counselors there is safety, so we conclude that it is wise to get counsel from family, godly friends, seminars, workshops, books, and so forth as you navigate your romantic relationship life.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
Lessons weâve learned from Charlie 1. The activity of the flesh causes visceral reactions in us. We should apply grace but also discipline! (00:43)2. We are made to be moving constantly! (9:06)3. From a young age, we have the capacity for extreme focus and diligence (17:10)4. We are born with courage that we should work to protect. Fear hinders you. (Release your inhibitions!) (22:00)5. bonus Eating habits are learned. (24:55)--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
Weâre talking about the wisdom of the ancestors! NO, we arenât talking about soliciting the voice of your dead ancestor through seance or mediums. We are talking about walking in the GOOD ancient path referred to in Jeremiah 6:16. We are talking about not forgetting the old, good ways of the past that societies sometimes lose value for as they advance in technological conveniences and modernize in culture. FOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriageCALLED TO MARRIAGE PODCAST:https://anchor.fm/calledtomarriageYou can listen on several different platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, etc.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
It is good to make a frequent habit of appreciating your spouse. On this episode, we list the ways we help and add value to one another. Gratitude is good for the soul, and it helps your spouse feel joyful and fulfilled in their service to you. Try it!OUR WEBSITES: thomasandmarcia.comcalledtomarriage.orgFOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
On this episode of CTM, we dig a little deeper into how we live on one income, particularly since having our son. The lifestyle is not for everyone at every time, but if you want it, there is a very good chance you could do it! Set your priorities and make decisions according to them. Most of all, align with your spouse!FOLLOW US FOR MORE CONTENT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage
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Many families struggle to imagine how they could possibly live on one income, but on this episode of Called to Marriage, Thomas and Marcia offer encouragement to those who aspire to do so. They recount going from Marcia being the âprimary breadwinnerâ, to both working for a short period, to neither working for an even shorter period, to finally Thomas being the sole provider. Everyoneâs marriage and financial journey is different. Letâs seek to live by the Spirit, trusting God and resting in His promise to provide our needs.CALLED TO MARRIAGE PODCAST:https://anchor.fm/calledtomarriageYou can listen on several different platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, etc.FOLLOW US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
Responsibility. Life calls for it, and most of the good things in life require it. Sometimes we are afraid of being responsible for anyone or anything other than ourselves. It feels very risky, but we must remember: with big risk comes big reward. We talk about all that and more on this episode of the Called to Marriage podcast.CALLED TO MARRIAGE PODCAST:https://anchor.fm/calledtomarriageYou can listen on several different platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, etc.FOLLOW US:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtomarriageFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtomarriageTikTok: tiktok.com/@calledtomarriage--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/calledtomarriage/support
On this episode, we discuss the importance of going to church. We start out by naming some reasons folks give for not attending church, and then we break down our thoughts and finally try to summarize some reasons why people absolutely should go to church. In addition, we make mention of the fact that the way churches gather in different places and times varies greatly, so regardless of where or how you choose to do so, the main takeaway is that you need the body, and the body needs you. Stay connected, or begin to die!
CALLED TO MARRIAGE PODCAST: https://anchor.fm/calledtomarriage You can listen on multiple platforms!
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Date night is OVERRATED! đ Honestly, date nights are wonderful, but in our opinion, not having regular date nights doesnât mean your marriage is in the red! Date nights are a tool with an important sentiment behind them. That sentiment is vital to a healthy marriage, but the utility of date night in your relationship depends on your circumstances. Hear our thoughts and drop a comment adding your voice to the conversation!
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Does a personâs sex life diminish and become boring and dry once he/she gets married? What can you expect your sex life to look like once you start your married life? On this episode of Called to Marriage, we discuss what weâve discovered over the past four years concerning sex. The reality of sex within marriage is not as grim as it is sometimes portrayed to be!
CALLED TO MARRIAGE PODCAST: https://anchor.fm/calledtomarriage Also available on Apple, Spotify, and other major podcast players
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I reflect on how when we look back to the past, we're able to make sense of many things that we were blind to. Â One of the lessons I take away from this realization is that I need to be humble. I figured the more I grow, the more I'm able to recognize and sincerely appreciate the fact that I'm not as wise as I thought. Â
Someday, I may look back to myself at this very moment I'm typing these words and admit that I thought I knew what I was doing, but I didn't - why not stay humble now? Â Let me know what you think in the comments, thank you.
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In-law relationships can be tough to navigate! On this episode, we draw out the good qualities that our in-laws have which others can adopt for the benefit of everyone. We also caution against some notoriously shady in-law behaviors! Finally, we thank God that in Him we find wisdom for every relationship and circumstance.
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Or who shut in the sea with doors, When it burst forth and issued from the womb; When I made the clouds its garment, And thick darkness its swaddling band; When I fixed My limit for it, And set bars and doors; When I said, âThis far you may come, but no farther, And here your proud waves must stop!â -Job 38:8-11
Boundaries are very important. Even God sets boundaries. Why do we then have so much trouble drawing healthy and helpful boundaries for ourselves? On this episode, we muse on this topic - why boundaries are important, the consequences of not having them, and some areas where we ought to make boundaries for ourselves.
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What does it mean to have security in marriage? And what does it mean for a man to protect his wife? On this episode, we discuss the importance of having a level of commitment that endures even when your spouse isn't doing the right thing. We give some examples of things that cause insecurity in marriage and how commitment to God and our marriage causes us to be willing to work through things that threaten to destabilize it!
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Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4 Â
Have you ever realized something about yourself that you were oblivious to prior? On this episode, we discuss the insidious nature of self-centeredness.
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What does it take to have a stay-at-home parent in the house? On this episode, we talk about establishing our values as parents and the associated costs and benefits that come with our decisions. We also declare our thanks to God and trust in God to help us carry out the vision for our family.
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Oh give thanks unto the Lord, His mercy endures forever!Â
What was it like to experience the thing that many in this season dread? Having survived by the grace of God, we chronicle our experience with Covid-19. With words of encouragement from Scripture, we affirm that we will not fear, and we look to God for help and with a spirit of thanksgiving for His healing power and His love and care through others.
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"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 Â
On this episode of Called to Marriage, we talk about our experience and insights nine weeks into the postpartum journey. We also discuss our experience learning to be parents and navigating decision-making in regards to our child. Lastly, Charlie makes his debut on our podcast! Welcome, Charlie! Mommy and Daddy love you.
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"A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish for joy that a human being has been born into the world." -John 16:21 On this episode of Called to Marriage, we talk about working through all the ups and downs of our pregnancy, including food aversions, baby movements, and all the emotions that come with bringing new life into the world.
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"There are many plans in a man's heart, nevertheless the Lord's counsel- that will stand." - Proverbs 19:21 In this episode we recount our decision and planning to have a child. We also talk about looking forward to being first time parents and the responsibilities that come with that.
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At the time of recording this, we were closer than ever to leaving China indefinitely! We were moving back to the States, but before leaving, we wanted to reflect on the process a bit more. Here is Part 2 of the topic, "Leaving China after 4 years." We talked about seeing God at work in the midst of an uncertain time, and we pray you will be encouraged and have hope after listening.
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The countdown begins! After four blessed and exciting years in China, we are moving to the United States. As we close one chapter and begin another, we reflect on what we'll miss about China and what we look forward to in the U.S.
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In this time of global lockdown, people are spending time with family whom they live with, or perhaps reaching out to loved ones distant from them. But how important is it to stay unified with your family? And what are some of the roadblocks to family unity? On this episode, we explore these topics and highlight the value of the family unit in society.
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Just because you had a Christian upbringing doesn't mean you automatically become a Christian yourself. Faith is personal, and on this episode, we talk about the transition from being guided as young people to having our own personal faith and relationship with God.
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How did your parents both intentionally and unconsciously raise you in Christian faith in your formative years? We are exploring this question as we reflect on what we feel was the most important gift our parents have given us: fear and knowledge of the Lord, leading to faith in the gospel, and our salvation in Christ.
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What friendships do you consider dear to you, and why? We're discussing our oldest and closest friends, and the roles they have played in our lives.
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How do we spend time together, both intentionally and unintentionally? We are getting real about what spending time together looks like in our marriage.
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Should we have achieved complete independence and success before getting married? We're discussing the humble beginning of our relationship, and how we've been able to embrace it and see advantages of building success together.
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Since we are living in China, the origin country of the Coronavirus, we thought we'd give a personal update on what it's been like for us since the outbreak. Our thoughts may surprise you!
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What's the food like here in China, from our perspective? And how do we eat while we're here? We answer that and more on today's episode.
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How in the world did Thomas end up in China? Let's hear his account of the series of events that led him to becoming a civil engineering student in Changchun, China.
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How in the world did Marcia end up in China? Let's hear her recount how she ended up becoming an English teacher in Changchun. As well, she covers what her experience has been like as a university English teacher the past few years in China.
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On this episode, guests Jeremy & Faith Muzenda take the topic of having children to another level, contributing their real-life experience to our thoughts and ideas. What an insightful conversation about pregnancy, parenting, and more!
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Should all Christian marriages bear children? We tackle this controversial topic, as well as revealing how we are dealing with it in our personal marriage. We discuss family planning, parenting, fears, hopes, and adoption.
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Life after marriage for the Oppongs looks like growth, developing our new family unit, humility, learning, and more. On this episode, we cover a hodgepodge of topics related to our lives since being married.
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What were our lives like before getting married? What was our focus? What were our struggles? What helped us in our singleness? What things unique to our singleness changed or were eliminated in marriage? We delve into this and more in a two part series.
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What were our lives like before getting married? What was our focus? What were our struggles? What helped us in our singleness? What things unique to our singleness changed or were eliminated in marriage? We delve into this and more in a two part series.
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Oh the joys of being one! Today, we discuss the ups and downs of living together and how the grace of God compels us to be gracious to one another. We talk through our approach to keeping a peaceful home, including attitudes like agreement, teamwork, and selflessness.
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Having been married over a year, we reflect upon how we made it to this point, giving many thanks to our friends and loved ones who supported us all along the way. God's love and faithfulness being evident in our life and marriage, we encourage our listeners to enjoy and embrace fellowship with other believers, we all being one as the body of Christ.Â
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On this episode, we reveal the atypical circumstances surrounding our marriage and recall having to define what marriage meant to us. We discuss going against the grain in our approach to our marriage, as well as the challenges and rewards that came with that.
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On this episode, we discuss our unlikely meeting in a country foreign to the both of us - China. We touch on some of the challenges of having dated in China, as well as the challenges of dating as Christians. In the end, we reflect upon hand of God upon our relationship and His incredible goodness to us.
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On this episode, we introduce ourselves (Marcia and Thomas) as the hosts of this podcast and explain the reasons why we decided to start it. We talk about the importance of glorifying and thanking God, leaving a legacy for our children, and edifying our listeners. We also reveal what listeners can expect to hear on our podcast in the future.
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