We all have certain reactions that arise when we feel threatened, whether that threat is real or perceived. We have an innate desire to self-protect. If we aren’t aware of these tendencies, however, we may react in ways that pushes others away and therefore reinforce or deepen our hurts and increases our defensive reactions. In this episode, mental health expert Tina Yeager helps us unpack these potentially destructive responses, what triggers them, and how we can respond to our triggers and our reactions in a grace-filled, healthy way. (Contact Tina through her website provided below to find out how to access the free resource she mentioned in today’s episode.)

(Scroll down to find the group discussion questions)

Find Tina Yeager:
https://www.tinayeager.com/books/
https://www.instagram.com/tina.yeager.9/
https://www.facebook.com/tina.yeager.9

Find Jennifer Slattery at:
https://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/
https://www.instagram.com/slatteryjennifer/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083247680572

Find Wholly Loved Ministries at:
WhollyLoved.com

Join the private Faith Over Fear Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/442736966614671

Join the Private Wholly Loved Community Group (also on Facebook):
https://www.facebook.com/groups/443325386241769

Group Discussion or Personal Journal Questions:

1.What resonated with you most in this episode?
2.When do you most tend to get defensive?
3.In those particular situations, what story are you telling yourself?
4.What are some truths you can reflect upon prior to those types of situations or interactions with that particular person?
5.Why is it important to recognize that not everyone is a safe person who will be helpful while you are working to heal?
6.How did you feel when Tina and Jennifer talked about potentially limiting time with unhealthy family members?
7.What were some signs Tina mentioned that can indicate a person is not willing to change?
8.How can recognizing this help you find the healthiest level of involvement with an individual more focused on casting blame than moving toward relational health?
9.What is one action step God might be asking you to take after having listened to today’s content?