EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: Games People Play in Marriage – Breaking Free from Relational Patterns

Chris and Jamie Bailey

EXPEDITION MARRIAGE: Games People Play in Marriage - Breaking Free from Relational Patterns

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THE EXPEDITION MARRIAGE PODCAST

WITH HOSTS CHRIS AND JAMIE BAILEY

AUDIO PODCAST

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same frustrating cycle with your spouse—arguing over the same thing, reacting the same way, or saying, “Here we go again…”?

You might be caught in one of the “games people play” in relationships.

In this episode, we explore some of the unconscious patterns couples fall into and how these games sabotage intimacy and connection. We’ll show you how to recognize these patterns, understand the emotional needs beneath them, and shift toward healthier communication.

You’ll walk away with greater self-awareness and biblical insight on how to stop playing games—and start building trust and connection.

https://expeditionmarriage.org/podcast/ep-136-games-people-play-in-marriage-breaking-free-from-relational-patterns/

🧠 Key Topics Covered:

What “relational games” are and how they show up in marriage
The emotional payoffs that keep us repeating unhealthy patterns
Practical steps to move from reaction to restoration
What Scripture teaches about honest, grace-filled communication

📖 Scriptures to Reflect On:

Ephesians 4:25 – “Speak the truth in love…”
Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath…”
Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens…”
James 1:19 – “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”

🎧 Ready to Break the Cycle?

If you and your spouse find yourselves stuck in the same arguments or disconnected because of poor communication, it may be time to hit pause and start fresh. The L.O.V.E. Your Way Through Conflict Course is a powerful, Christ-centered resource to help you move from frustration to understanding.

💥 Use code COUPLE50 for 50% off the course! 👉 Start the course here

Links mentioned on the show:

Not Your Average Man (NYAM) PODCAST https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-your-average-man/id1640507187

30-Day Praying for your Husband https://expeditionmarriage.org/30-day-praying-for-your-husband-challenge/

30-Day Praying for your Wife https://expeditionmarriage.org/30-day-praying-for-your-wife-challenge/

Newlywed Couples Devotional https://expeditionmarriage.org/newlywed-couples-devotional/

https://www.instagram.com/expedition_marriage/

https://pinterest.com/expedition_marriage/

https://www.instagram.com/expedition_marriage/

https://www.pinterest.com/expedition_marriage/

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About the Author

Chris and Jamie Bailey are professional Christian counselors and marriage coaches. They run their private practice as well as online ministry, Expedition Marriage, from their home in Fort Mill, SC. They are the parents of three adult daughters and two adorable grandchildren. Together they run weekend marriage retreats, offer guest speaking, one day seminars, as well as run workshops in person and online. Together they hope to encourage Christian marriages and help them thrive abundantly.

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