RESTORE

This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to RESTORE the Truth.

Chapter 14: Presence of God

We look and do not see it ^a
And call it invisible
We listen and do not hear it ^b
And call it silent
We reach and do not grasp it ^a
And call it formless
These three cannot be fathomed ^c
Thus, they are joined into One

Above, there is no brightness ^d
Below, there is no darkness Infinite, unnamable ^e
Returning to the realm of nothingness
The form of the formless
The image of the imageless
Indefinable, beyond all imagination ^f
Approach it, there is no beginning ^a
Follow it, there is no end

When one knows the Spirit of the ancient past ^g
One can begin to understand the present
Knowing the mystery of the beginning
Is the way to know God

^a Romans 1:20-21; John 14:17; ^b John 8:47; Mark 4:12; ^c Jude 20-21; 1 Corinthians 2:6-16; ^d Isaiah 60:19; ^eColossians 1:15-16; Isaiah 40:28; ^f Job 9:10-11; ^g John 1:1-2; John 14:6-7; John 8:14-18.

RENEWAL

The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for RENEWAL, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.

Mindset:

1. Embrace the Mystery of the Divine

Line from Chapter: “We look and do not see it, and call it invisible. We listen and do not hear it, and call it silent. We reach and do not grasp it, and call it formless. These three cannot be fathomed, thus, they are joined into One.”
Mindset: Approach life with humility and openness, acknowledging that God’s ways are often beyond our understanding.
Explanation: This mindset encourages believers to live with a sense of awe and reverence toward God’s mystery. Instead of trying to control or completely understand every situation, trust that God is working behind the scenes, even when His actions are not immediately visible or understandable.
Real-world Application: In challenging or uncertain situations, practice patience and trust in God’s unseen work. This is evident in moments of doubt, crisis, or loss, when you trust that God is still at work, even when you can’t see it.
Scripture References: “We live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7; “For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” – 1 Corinthians 1:25

2. Recognize the Limitations of Human Understanding

Line from Chapter: “Above, there is no brightness, below, there is no darkness. Infinite, unnamable, returning to the realm of nothingness.”
Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of surrender to God’s infinite wisdom, recognizing the limitations of human knowledge and perspective.
Explanation: This principle invites us to acknowledge that our human intellect and perception are limited, and we cannot fully grasp the magnitude of God’s eternal wisdom. By surrendering to God’s sovereignty and trusting in His infinite knowledge, believers can live with peace, knowing that God is in control, even when things seem beyond our comprehension.
Real-world Application: When facing complex decisions or challenges, avoid over-relying on your understanding. Instead, seek God’s guidance through prayer and scripture, knowing that His wisdom surpasses our own.
Scripture References: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. – Isaiah 55:8; “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5

3. Trust in God’s Eternal and Unchanging Nature

Line from Chapter: “The form of the formless, the image of the imageless, indefinable, beyond all imagination. Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Mindset: Adopt a mindset of trust and stability, knowing that God is eternal and unchanging, no matter what circumstances we face.
Explanation: God’s constancy offers peace amidst life’s changes. While everything around us may change, God remains the same. This eternal nature of God provides a solid foundation, reminding us that we can trust Him through all circumstances.
Real-world Application: When facing life’s uncertainties, anchor your trust in God’s unchanging nature. In times of personal challenges or societal upheaval, remember that God’s love and truth are constant, giving you stability and peace.
Scripture References: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8; “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” – Psalm 90:2

4. Seek the Knowledge of the Divine to Understand Our Lives

Line from Chapter: “When one knows the Spirit of the ancient past, one can begin to understand the present. Knowing the mystery of the beginning is the way to know God.”
Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of spiritual curiosity and desire to seek deeper understanding of God’s nature and His plan for the world.
Explanation: Understanding God’s eternal Spirit and His plan helps us comprehend our purpose and navigate our present circumstances. By seeking God’s knowledge, we gain clarity about our lives and the world around us.
Real-world Application: Make a commitment to study scripture, reflect in prayer, and seek fellowship with others to gain a deeper understanding of God’s ways. This mindset helps when you’re facing uncertainty or need guidance on decisions.
Scripture References: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” – John 1:1; “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Live with a Heart of Trust in God’s Plan, Beyond What We Can See

Line from Chapter: “Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Mindset: Embrace a mindset of faith and perseverance, trusting in God’s plan for the beginning and the end, even when we can only see part of the picture.
Explanation: God’s plan is eternal, and while we may only see parts of it, we can trust that He is leading us toward a greater purpose. This mindset encourages us to rely on God’s guidance, knowing that He is sovereign over both the beginning and end of our journey.
Real-world Application: When facing long-term goals, transitions, or challenges, trust that God is leading you, even when the way forward is unclear. This mindset provides confidence to persevere through difficult seasons, knowing that God’s plan unfolds over time.
Scripture References: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11; “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

AIM:

1. Aim for Humility and Openness to the Divine

Line from Chapter: “We look and do not see it, and call it invisible. We listen and do not hear it, and call it silent. We reach and do not grasp it, and call it formless. These three cannot be fathomed, thus, they are joined into One.”
Aim: Focus on cultivating humility, acknowledging that God’s ways may not always be immediately evident or understandable.
Explanation: The aim here is to remain open to God’s presence and activity in the world, even when it isn’t immediately visible. Instead of expecting God to meet our expectations, we must develop a posture of humility, trusting that God’s work is often unseen or beyond our comprehension.
Real-world Application: In moments of confusion or uncertainty, aim to stay humble and trusting. Don’t rush to judgment or try to control every outcome. Instead, trust that God is working even when you cannot perceive His actions.
Scripture References: “We live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7; “For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” – 1 Corinthians 1:25

2. Aim for Peace in the Face of the Unknown

Line from Chapter: “Above, there is no brightness, below, there is no darkness. Infinite, unnamable, returning to the realm of nothingness.”
Aim: Focus on achieving peace by surrendering to God’s infinite nature, beyond human understanding.
Explanation: This principle encourages believers to seek peace by letting go of the need to fully understand everything. God’s wisdom and ways are beyond our grasp, but we are called to trust in Him. Rather than becoming anxious in the face of uncertainty, we can aim for peace by embracing God’s sovereignty over all.
Real-world Application: In moments of confusion or overwhelm, focus on finding peace by surrendering your need for complete understanding. Trust that God is sovereign over everything, and His wisdom exceeds what we can imagine.
Scripture References: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6; “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

3. Aim for Stability in God’s Unchanging Nature

Line from Chapter: “The form of the formless, the image of the imageless, indefinable, beyond all imagination. Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Aim: Focus on finding stability in God’s eternal and unchanging nature, regardless of life’s circumstances.
Explanation: This principle teaches that, although our lives may feel unpredictable and full of change, we can anchor ourselves in the unchanging nature of God. Aiming for stability means trusting that God’s character, truth, and promises remain constant, even when everything else in our world seems to shift.
Real-world Application: In times of transition or crisis, remind yourself of God’s unchanging nature. Focus on His eternal love and faithfulness, and let this be the foundation upon which you stand.
Scripture References: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8; “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” – Psalm 90:2

4. Aim for Spiritual Insight and Understanding of God’s Ways

Line from Chapter: “When one knows the Spirit of the ancient past, one can begin to understand the present. Knowing the mystery of the beginning is the way to know God.”
Aim: Seek spiritual insight into the eternal truths of God, which provide understanding of both the past and the present.
Explanation: Understanding the “Spirit of the ancient past” refers to knowing God’s eternal wisdom and plan, which begins with understanding His creation and nature. When we aim for this deep spiritual insight, we are better equipped to understand our place in the world and God’s ongoing work in our lives.
Real-world Application: Dedicate time to studying scripture and reflecting on God’s eternal nature. Through prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking community, aim to understand how God’s past work shapes your current life and decisions.
Scripture References: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” – John 1:1; “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Aim for Faith in God’s Ultimate Plan and Purpose

Line from Chapter: “Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Aim: Focus on trusting God’s eternal and complete plan, which transcends any immediate obstacles or challenges.
Explanation: This principle calls us to recognize that God’s plan is without end—His eternal purpose remains true through all of time. As we aim to trust in this ultimate plan, we must also let go of the need to control or fully understand the journey, knowing that God is in control from start to finish.
Real-world Application: When life seems confusing or when your path forward feels unclear, focus on trusting in God’s ultimate purpose. Even when facing setbacks or difficulties, remember that God is guiding you toward a greater, eternal purpose.
Scripture References: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11; “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Practice:

1. Practice Humility and Acceptance of God’s Mystery

Line from Chapter: “We look and do not see it, and call it invisible. We listen and do not hear it, and call it silent. We reach and do not grasp it, and call it formless. These three cannot be fathomed, thus, they are joined into One.”
Practice: Practice surrendering your need to understand or control every situation, trusting in God’s unseen work.
Explanation: To fulfill your purpose, it’s essential to practice humility and acknowledge that God’s ways may not always be visible or understandable. You must accept that there are mysteries in life that only God knows, and by surrendering control, you allow God to lead you through the unknown.
Real-world Application: When faced with uncertainty or confusion, remind yourself to trust God’s will even when it doesn’t make sense. For example, in personal or professional challenges, you might face a setback or detour, but trust that God is at work behind the scenes.
Scripture References: “We live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7; “For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” – 1 Corinthians 1:25

2. Practice Surrendering to God’s Infinite Wisdom

Line from Chapter: “Above, there is no brightness, below, there is no darkness. Infinite, unnamable, returning to the realm of nothingness.”
Practice: Practice surrendering your finite understanding and embracing God’s infinite wisdom, trusting His plan even when it’s beyond your comprehension.
Explanation: To fulfill your purpose, you must practice surrendering your limited perspective and acknowledging that God’s wisdom is beyond human understanding. This means letting go of your need for clarity and control and trusting that God has a higher purpose, even in things that seem unclear.
Real-world Application: In times of doubt, let go of the need to understand why things are happening the way they are. Instead, focus on trusting in God’s sovereignty. For instance, when faced with a difficult decision, seek God’s guidance through prayer and be open to His leading, even if the path isn’t immediately clear.
Scripture References: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. – Isaiah 55:8; “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5

3. Practice Steadfast Faith in God’s Eternal Plan

Line from Chapter: “The form of the formless, the image of the imageless, indefinable, beyond all imagination. Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Practice: Practice steadfast faith in God’s eternal plan, remembering that God’s purpose transcends your present circumstances.
Explanation: To fulfill your purpose, you must maintain faith that God’s plan is eternal and unchanging. Even when you can’t see the full picture or when life’s circumstances are challenging, trust that God is leading you according to His greater purpose, which has no end.
Real-world Application: When faced with moments of doubt or uncertainty, remind yourself of God’s eternal promises. For example, if you’re struggling with a personal setback, keep your eyes focused on God’s ultimate plan for you and your life, knowing that His timing is perfect.
Scripture References: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8; “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” – Psalm 90:2

4. Practice Seeking Deeper Spiritual Insight

Line from Chapter: “When one knows the Spirit of the ancient past, one can begin to understand the present. Knowing the mystery of the beginning is the way to know God.”
Practice: Practice seeking God’s eternal wisdom through scripture, prayer, and reflection, allowing His insights to guide your actions.
Explanation: To fulfill your purpose, it’s important to practice spiritual growth and seek deeper understanding of God’s will. Knowing God’s eternal wisdom and understanding the beginning of His plan helps us navigate our present lives and gives us insight into how we should live.
Real-world Application: Set aside time for regular Bible study, prayer, and reflection. When faced with decisions, seek God’s wisdom through these practices. For example, if you are considering a significant life change, pray for God’s guidance and reflect on His Word to help discern His will.
Scripture References: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” – John 1:1; “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Practice Trust in God’s Sovereign Direction

Line from Chapter: “Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Practice: Practice trusting God’s sovereign direction in your life, knowing that He is guiding you through every season with purpose.
Explanation: Fulfillment of your purpose requires that you trust God’s sovereign control over all things. No matter where you are in life, God is guiding you toward your ultimate purpose. This practice involves actively trusting God’s plan, even when you don’t see the next step.
Real-world Application: In moments when the future seems uncertain, focus on trusting that God is leading you. For example, if you’re uncertain about a career path or personal decision, trust that God’s plan will unfold in His timing and continue to follow His guidance step by step.
Scripture References: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11; “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with ardor, empowering us to RESPOND to the call of holiness and make disciples of all nations.

1. Embracing the Mystery of the Divine

Line from Chapter: “We look and do not see it, and call it invisible. We listen and do not hear it, and call it silent. We reach and do not grasp it, and call it formless. These three cannot be fathomed, thus, they are joined into One.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: God is often described as invisible and beyond human comprehension. “No one has ever seen God; the one and only Son, who is himself God and is at the Father’s side—he has revealed him.” – John 1:18
- Islam: Allah is described as beyond human sight and understanding: “Vision perceives Him not, but He perceives all vision; and He is the Subtle, the Acquainted.” – Quran 6:103
- Hinduism: The concept of Brahman is that of an unseeable, formless essence of reality. “He is the one God, hidden in all beings, all-pervading, the Self within all beings.” – Svetasvatara Upanishad 6.11
- Buddhism: The nature of reality and ultimate truth is seen as beyond ordinary perception, pointing toward the concept of Śūnyatā, or emptiness, which transcends all forms.
How This Unites Us: Every major religion acknowledges a mystery or ineffable quality about the Divine that eludes human comprehension. This shared acceptance of a higher, invisible power fosters unity in the humility of recognizing our own limits in understanding the Divine. By embracing this universal mystery, people of all faiths can come together with reverence, humility, and awe for something greater than themselves.
Real-world Application: In discussions about spirituality or faith, acknowledge the shared mystery of the Divine with others. Use this shared humility to foster respect, allowing space for diverse beliefs and practices. For example, in interfaith gatherings or friendships, focus on shared wonder and reverence rather than differences in doctrinal specifics.
Scripture References: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10; “His greatness no one can fathom.” – Psalm 145:3

2. Seeking Peace by Accepting the Infinite

Line from Chapter: “Above, there is no brightness, below, there is no darkness. Infinite, unnamable, returning to the realm of nothingness.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: God is infinite and all-encompassing, transcending light and darkness: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” – Revelation 22:13
- Islam: Allah is infinite and beyond all opposites, unbounded by human distinctions of light or dark. “He is the First and the Last, the Ascendant and the Intimate, and He is, of all things, Knowing.” – Quran 57:3
- Hinduism: The concept of the universe as the play of Brahman shows an ultimate reality beyond opposites like light and dark. “He moves, and He moves not. He is far, and He is near. He is within all, and He is outside all.” – Isha Upanishad
- Buddhism: The nature of Nirvana is beyond duality, a state that is not bound by birth or death, light or darkness.
How This Unites Us: Major religions teach that Divine reality is beyond dualistic understanding, encouraging us to look beyond superficial distinctions to find peace in the transcendent. This unity calls us to embrace the infinite, relinquishing judgment and division. By seeing the divine as encompassing all, we find peace that transcends cultural or religious boundaries.
Real-world Application: Practice recognizing the Divine in every person and situation, rather than focusing on differences. In moments of conflict or disagreement, choose to see others with compassion and understanding, knowing we are all part of an infinite creation.
Scripture References: “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” – 1 John 1:5; “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.” – Psalm 145:8

3. Trusting in the Eternal, Unchanging Nature of the Divine

Line from Chapter: “The form of the formless, the image of the imageless, indefinable, beyond all imagination. Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: God is eternal, existing beyond the confines of time. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8
- Islam: Allah is eternal and unchanging. “Say, He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge.” – Quran 112:1-2
- Hinduism: Brahman is the eternal essence, the foundation of all things. “That which is not, never comes into being; that which is, never ceases to be.” – Bhagavad Gita 2.16
- Buddhism: The Dharmakaya, or “body of truth,” is eternal, representing ultimate reality beyond change.
How This Unites Us: The belief in an unchanging, eternal Divine helps people of all faiths to anchor their lives in stability and continuity. It unites us by encouraging steadfastness and faith in a world that is constantly changing, helping us rely on a greater constancy beyond ourselves.
Real-world Application: Practice grounding yourself in this eternal truth in times of change or instability. Draw strength from the fact that Divine reality is unchanging, and let this help you remain calm and resilient through life’s ups and downs. For example, in times of transition, remind yourself of this eternal foundation.
Scripture References: “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” – Psalm 90:2; “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” – Matthew 24:35

4. Seeking Wisdom from Ancient Teachings

Line from Chapter: “When one knows the Spirit of the ancient past, one can begin to understand the present. Knowing the mystery of the beginning is the way to know God.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: The Bible provides wisdom from the past to guide the present. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.” – Romans 15:4
- Islam: The Quran emphasizes wisdom from previous prophets and teachings as guidance for today. “And We have certainly given Moses and Aaron the Criterion and a light and a reminder for the righteous.” – Quran 21:48
- Hinduism: The Vedas and Upanishads are revered as timeless wisdom. “He who has realized by himself that the Spirit is ancient, subtle, more subtle than the atom, and is hidden in the cave of the heart, is free from all bonds.” – Katha Upanishad
- Buddhism: The Buddha’s teachings, preserved as Dhamma, are considered a timeless guide to enlightenment.
How This Unites Us: Major religions share a reverence for the wisdom of ancient teachings, connecting people to their spiritual roots and timeless principles. By learning from these sources, we unite in a shared heritage of seeking truth and moral guidance. This unites us in a collective effort to live wisely and compassionately.
Real-world Application: Regularly study and reflect on ancient spiritual texts, using them as a compass for modern challenges. In interfaith dialogue, appreciate and learn from others’ sacred texts and traditions to build mutual respect and shared understanding.
Scripture References: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105; “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16

5. Living with Faith in a Unified Divine Plan

Line from Chapter: “Approach it, there is no beginning. Follow it, there is no end.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: God’s plan is eternal and all-encompassing. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
- Islam: Allah’s will is part of a greater plan beyond human understanding. “And [Allah] is the Best of Planners.” – Quran 3:54
- Hinduism: The cosmic order or dharma aligns life with a divine plan, emphasizing that all things are connected in the cycle of life. “All this is Brahman. Let a man meditate on that (visible world) as beginning, ending, and breathing in it.” – Chandogya Upanishad
- Buddhism: The law of karma and rebirth reflects a belief in a cyclical, interconnected flow that guides life towards enlightenment.
How This Unites Us: This belief in a unified plan helps unite people in understanding life as part of a larger Divine order. This shared perspective fosters a sense of community and purpose, as people can find peace knowing they are part of something greater.
Real-world Application: Cultivate a deep faith that your life is unfolding according to a Divine plan. In moments of doubt or struggle, hold onto this unity and encourage others to do the same. For example, if friends or colleagues face hardship, remind them of this larger plan to offer comfort and resilience.
Scripture References: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” – Romans 8:28; “The plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” – Psalm 33:11

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