Publisher's Synopsis
Description: We yearn to be accepted and loved for who we really are. Unfortunately, we sabotage our efforts to develop successful relationships when we feel threatened. We play manipulative games with each other, protecting ourselves without realizing it. These subtle games are crippling our relationships. Let's Stop Playing Games addresses this issue with some serious fun, helping us: o expose our unhealthy games and why we play them; o enjoy humorous yet sad stories that show how these games work (or don't work) for us; o explore some game changers--practical, loving solutions to replace our games. In the end, we hope to be lovingly transformed in our relationships with our friends and family and even with God. We will be connected to each other, forming the authentic community we yearn for. What a great place to live! Endorsements: ""I'm so grateful for Joe's honesty about the games we all play and the hope that, despite our hang-ups, there's a way to be real with one another."" -Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove author of The Wisdom of Stability ""Joe gives a personal glimpse of his journey that becomes a parable of our own. Knowing truth doesn't automatically keep us from thinking and communicating in ways that hide rather than reveal or that attempt to control rather than to grow. Gracefully dismantling guarded protections from too much light in the room, he shows us the way back. This book is a good window cleaning for the soul and a resource for rebuilding relationships. If you want authentic relationships that make for a full and rich life, this is a keepsake."" -Donald Mann Pastor, Teacher, and Marriage & Family Therapist ""Does your heart long for community and communion? God made us this way but many things can hinder us along the way. In the pages of this book you can find out what some of these hindrances are and how they impact your relationships. Practical and insightful, this approach bridges the gap between spiritual and relational understanding. Drawing from biblical precepts as well as interpersonal insights, Lineberry's approach offers ideas and guidance that the reader can put to use immediately. With a heart for God and for relationships, he leads the reader toward relational healing and spiritual growth."" -Joseph Verga Psychologist and Executive Director of Associates in Christian Counseling ""Readers everywhere are destined to relate to the common 'games' we play (even if subconsciously) and are likely to be disarmed and delighted by the author's conversational style, self-disclosure, and witty sense of humor . . . My husband and I have been looking for new, relevant material that we can share with a small group; our current search has now ended."" -Janet Smith-Hill SVP of Human Resources, Novant Health About the Contributor(s): Joe Lineberry is a business consultant who works alongside his wife, Beth, in ministry to those with broken relationships. They have organized Possibilities (www.exploringpossibilities.net), an umbrella organization for people of faith to tell their stories, exploring the possibilities of faith in their lives. Joe and Beth have led several interactive workshops and have coauthored the book ""Give Me Your Son"" and Other Reflections from our Journey.
