"If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." Many of us grew up hearing this phrase, usually with the purpose of teaching us not to insult others or gossip behind their backs. However, sometimes choosing not to say anything, not to use our words and communicate, can actually be more hurtful than sharing what's on our hearts. My silence can end up causing anxiety and frustration in my relationships. So how do I recognize the kind of impact my refusal to engage is having on the people I'm connected to? And how do I break the habit of playing the quiet game in my relationships?

Scripture References: Proverbs 25:11, Ephesians 4:25, Matthew 18:15, Luke 6:31

Related Topics: Communication, Relationships | More Messages from Marshall Brown | Download Audio

From Series: "Games We Play"

It’s common for people to “play games” in certain relationships. We make choices and say things in order to win the argument or get things to go our way, and at the same time we end up undermining trust and respect with that other person. At Flagstone for the month of February, we are going to take an honest look at the games people play in relationships and discover how we can truly “win” by making our different connections the healthiest they can be.