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 41: Mysterious Nature of God

When the wise hear the Word of God
They obey faithfully ^a
When ordinary people hear the Word of God
They believe for a while but sometimes doubt it
When foolish people hear the Word of God
They laugh out loud ^b
If foolish people did not laugh
It would not be the Word of God

Thus, as it was written in ancient times:
The bright path appears dark ^c
The advancement of God appears to retreat ^d
The straight path appears crooked ^e
The highest virtue appears empty ^f
The utmost purity appears tainted ^g
The promised Word appears hopeless ^h
The greatest virtue appears weak ⁱ
The divine truth appears untrue ^j
The perfect square appears shapeless ^k
The finest talent appears unproductive ^l
The voice of God appears silent ^m

The nameless God has no form ⁿ
Invisible, hidden in our hearts
He alone nourishes and brings everything to completion

^a Mark 4:18-20; 2 Peter 1:10-11; ^b Job 12:4; Isaiah 30:12; ^c John 3:19; 1 John 2:8-9; ^d Matthew 20:17-19; ^e John 21:18-19; ^f Matthew 16:21; ^g Luke 6:2-9; ^h 2 Peter 3:9; ⁱ John 19:9-10; ^j 2 Peter 3: 15-16; John 18:36-37; ^k Luke 8:10; John 19:28-30; ^m Matthew 27:46; Matthew 13:15-17; ⁿColossians 1:15-16; Revelation 21:6.

Chapter 41 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching emphasizes the mysterious and paradoxical nature of God, highlighting how His ways often confound human expectations. When the wise hear God’s Word, they respond faithfully, recognizing its truth and aligning their lives accordingly (Mark 4:18-20; 2 Peter 1:10-11). In contrast, ordinary people may believe for a time but waver in their faith during trials, and the foolish dismiss it outright with laughter, failing to see its depth (Job 12:4; Isaiah 30:12). This division reflects the parable of the sower, where different types of soil represent the varied reception of God’s message (Mark 4:3-20). The foolish reaction serves as a confirmation of the Word’s divine origin, as truth often challenges worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18-25).

The chapter poetically describes how divine truths often appear contrary to human reasoning. The bright path of God may seem dark to those blinded by worldly pursuits (John 3:19; 1 John 2:8-9), and His plans, though advancing His kingdom, may seem like retreat or loss (Matthew 20:17-19). Similarly, what appears weak, empty, or hopeless—like Christ’s crucifixion—embodies God’s greatest strength, fullness, and promise (John 19:9-10; 2 Peter 3:9). These paradoxes remind us that God’s ways are higher than ours and require faith to understand their ultimate purpose (Isaiah 55:8-9).

The imagery of “the straight path appearing crooked” and “the perfect square appearing shapeless” reflects the hidden and unexpected ways God works in our lives (Luke 8:10; John 19:28-30). His voice may seem silent at times, especially in moments of suffering or doubt, but it remains active, nourishing, and completing His will (Matthew 27:46). The nameless and formless nature of God (Colossians 1:15-16) emphasizes His transcendence, as He exists beyond human comprehension yet is intimately present in the hearts of believers.

This chapter encourages Christians to trust in God’s mysterious nature and divine wisdom, even when His ways seem counterintuitive or difficult to grasp. By embracing humility and faith, believers can perceive the hidden beauty and purpose in God’s actions, allowing His Word to transform their lives and bring everything to completion (Revelation 21:6).

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. Mindset of Humble Reception

Line from Chapter: “When the wise hear the Word of God, they obey faithfully.”
Mindset: Develop a heart that humbly receives and obeys God’s wisdom without resistance.
Explanation: True wisdom is marked by a readiness to listen deeply and act with trust in God’s guidance, even if it contradicts our personal plans or understanding. This mindset is free from pride or ego, allowing us to be open to God’s higher ways, embracing the simplicity and profundity of divine truth.
Real-World Application: In modern life, this means making time to quiet the mind, meditate on scripture, and seek God’s will before making significant decisions. For example, when facing a challenging career choice, one could spend time in prayer and seek counsel rather than making a decision impulsively.
Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

2. Mindset of Faith Beyond Appearances

Line from Chapter: “The bright path appears dark… The highest virtue appears empty.”
Mindset: Adopt a mindset of faith that trusts in God’s path, even when it looks unclear or seems contrary to worldly wisdom.
Explanation: God’s wisdom and paths may look dark, backward, or counterintuitive to human perception. This mindset acknowledges that what appears weak or foolish in the world’s eyes is often a reflection of God’s profound and hidden power.
Real-World Application: Practicing this principle in today’s world means having faith in God’s purpose, especially when it requires sacrifice or appears difficult. In personal relationships, this could involve choosing forgiveness and peace over anger, even if it’s viewed as weakness, trusting in the redemptive power of love.
Scripture: “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27).

3. Mindset of Embracing Divine Mystery

Line from Chapter: “The nameless God has no form… He alone nourishes and brings everything to completion.”
Mindset: Embrace the mystery of God’s presence and actions, trusting that His unseen hand brings all things to fulfillment.
Explanation: This mindset recognizes that not everything about God or His ways can be understood, but that faith trusts in His ultimate good and completeness. It reflects a spiritual maturity that finds peace in not having all answers, allowing God’s mystery to guide us with awe and wonder.
Real-World Application: This can be applied by letting go of the need for control and answers, particularly during times of uncertainty. For instance, if someone is unsure about their future path, they can focus on daily faithfulness, trusting that God is leading them, even if the destination is unclear.
Scripture: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

4. Mindset of Divine Patience and Restraint

Line from Chapter: “The advancement of God appears to retreat… The greatest virtue appears weak.”
Mindset: Cultivate a patient spirit that values restraint and humility over immediate action or visible strength.
Explanation: God’s work often requires a quiet patience that appears inactive or weak but is actually deeply powerful. This mindset trusts in the strength of waiting and in the virtue of humility, aligning oneself with the steady, nurturing work of God.
Real-World Application: In practice, this means showing restraint in areas where we’re tempted to assert control, trusting instead in God’s timing. For example, rather than forcing outcomes in professional or personal matters, we can take steps to prepare and then patiently allow God to unfold His will.
Scripture: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7).

5. Mindset of Inner Focus Over Outward Appearance

Line from Chapter: “The perfect square appears shapeless… The finest talent appears unproductive.”
Mindset: Focus on inner development and authenticity rather than outward appearances or recognition.
Explanation: True character and spiritual progress are often hidden from others, and what appears “unproductive” may be deeply formative. This mindset values depth over display, seeking to cultivate an inner life aligned with God, regardless of external validation.
Real-World Application: This principle can be practiced by prioritizing personal spiritual growth—like prayer, study, and community involvement—over superficial achievements. For example, choosing a simple, honest life over a materialistic, competitive lifestyle aligns with this focus on inner substance.
Scripture: “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height… The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

These mindsets foster a grounded, patient, and humble approach that aligns with divine principles in an often chaotic world. By focusing on faith, patience, humility, and inner authenticity, we prepare ourselves to act in alignment with God’s wisdom, transforming not only our own lives but also becoming quiet witnesses of His peace and strength to others.

AIM:

1. Aim for a Heart of Faithful Obedience

Line from Chapter: “When the wise hear the Word of God, they obey faithfully.”
Aim: Strive to trust and obey God fully, even when understanding is limited.
Explanation: The wise faithfully follow God’s guidance without resistance, embodying an obedience that is grounded in trust. This teaches us that wisdom includes the humility to recognize God’s authority and the faith to act on it, even when the reasons are unclear.
Real-World Application: This can be seen in everyday choices where we prioritize God’s commands over personal desires or societal pressures. For example, when dealing with ethical dilemmas in work, a person who values integrity may refuse to compromise on honesty, trusting that their decision aligns with God’s will.
Scripture: “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).

2. Aim for Inner Clarity and Trust in God’s Plan

Line from Chapter: “The bright path appears dark… The highest virtue appears empty.”
Aim: Focus on seeing with faith, not just with outward perception.
Explanation: God’s ways can appear hidden or contrary to human logic, teaching us to see beyond appearances. This aim encourages a vision rooted in faith, trusting that God’s purposes are active, even when they seem invisible or distant.
Real-World Application: When facing uncertainties—such as the loss of a job or a strained relationship—this aim encourages us to trust in God’s plan, even if the outcome isn’t immediately clear. Practicing patience and holding on to hope becomes a way of showing this inner clarity.
Scripture: “For we live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).

3. Aim for Humility in Seeking Wisdom

Line from Chapter: “The advancement of God appears to retreat… The divine truth appears untrue.”
Aim: Embrace humility and patience in understanding divine truths.
Explanation: God’s wisdom is often paradoxical, appearing as retreat or even as weakness. By adopting humility, we acknowledge our limitations in fully grasping God’s plans and open ourselves to a greater wisdom.
Real-World Application: This can mean refraining from judgment or assumption in difficult situations and being open to learning from others. For example, in a leadership role, humility might look like listening to team members’ ideas rather than pushing personal agendas, trusting that God works through collective wisdom.
Scripture: “The Lord opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

4. Aim for Endurance Through Spiritual Stillness

Line from Chapter: “The perfect square appears shapeless… The voice of God appears silent.”
Aim: Cultivate stillness and inner strength that allows for endurance.
Explanation: God’s voice can sometimes seem silent, and His guidance can appear shapeless, challenging us to hold on to faith even in the “quiet” seasons. This aim helps us understand the value of patience and perseverance, knowing that God’s work continues even when we don’t perceive it.
Real-World Application: In times of spiritual dryness or when facing life’s hardships, endurance becomes a reflection of faith. Regular prayer and time for quiet reflection, even when immediate answers are lacking, can foster a sense of peace and inner strength that sustains us.
Scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

5. Aim for Depth Over Surface Appearances

Line from Chapter: “The finest talent appears unproductive… The nameless God has no form.”
Aim: Prioritize spiritual depth, valuing inner substance over external recognition.
Explanation: This principle encourages us to find worth in spiritual depth and authenticity, rather than seeking approval or success based on appearances. It reflects a devotion to what’s unseen and meaningful, rooted in God’s character.
Real-World Application: In practical terms, this might look like focusing on acts of kindness that aren’t always visible to others—such as volunteering in unnoticed ways or supporting someone without expecting anything in return. In a culture that often values image and status, this practice of depth can be a quiet testimony of faith.
Scripture: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).

By keeping our eyes on these spiritual aims, we align our hearts with God’s ways, setting a foundation for action that reflects divine wisdom, humility, patience, endurance, and depth. This chapter emphasizes that the way of God is often hidden, paradoxical, and countercultural, reminding us to trust fully in the divine rather than in worldly perceptions.

Practice:

1. Practice Humble Obedience to God’s Word

Line from Chapter: “When the wise hear the Word of God, they obey faithfully.”
Practice: Commit to humble and steadfast obedience to God’s Word.
Explanation: Obedience in faith means trusting God’s commands even when their purpose is not immediately clear. This practice is about yielding personal desires to divine will, recognizing that wisdom is shown through faithful action rooted in humility.
Real-World Application: In day-to-day life, humble obedience might mean prioritizing kindness and integrity at work, home, and in social interactions, even when it’s inconvenient. For example, choosing honesty over shortcuts in professional decisions is an act of obedience that demonstrates trust in God’s way.
Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).

2. Practice Seeing Beyond Outward Appearances

Line from Chapter: “The bright path appears dark… The advancement of God appears to retreat.”
Practice: Focus on spiritual insight rather than surface appearances.
Explanation: This principle teaches us to seek God’s deeper purpose, even when His ways seem hidden. Spiritual insight is developed through prayer, reflection, and patience, learning to look beyond immediate, visible outcomes to trust that God is at work.
Real-World Application: In situations of disappointment or delay—like a project falling through or a prayer seemingly unanswered—choosing to remain faithful and open to God’s guidance is a way to look beyond appearances. Meditation, journaling, and regular prayer help cultivate this ability to perceive with spiritual insight.
Scripture: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).

3. Practice Humility as the Root of True Strength

Line from Chapter: “The advancement of God appears to retreat… The divine truth appears untrue.”
Practice: Adopt humility in interactions and decision-making, acknowledging our need for God’s wisdom.
Explanation: Humility means recognizing that we don’t always understand God’s plans and that real strength comes from reliance on Him. By practicing humility, we become receptive to God’s guidance, which often appears contrary to worldly values of self-promotion.
Real-World Application: This could involve actively listening to others’ perspectives and seeking wisdom from trusted mentors or spiritual leaders, especially when facing complex decisions. In leadership or teamwork, humility fosters collaboration and openness to diverse insights.
Scripture: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up” (James 4:10).

4. Practice Stillness and Endurance in Faith

Line from Chapter: “The greatest virtue appears weak… The perfect square appears shapeless.”
Practice: Embrace stillness and perseverance in difficult times, allowing faith to sustain us.
Explanation: This practice is about trusting in God’s timing and being still in His presence, even when immediate solutions aren’t apparent. Endurance in faith means remaining steady, waiting for God’s will to unfold.
Real-World Application: Practicing stillness can be as simple as setting aside daily quiet time, undistracted by devices, to meditate on Scripture or pray. In challenging times, such as facing illness or job loss, endurance through spiritual practices reinforces trust and emotional resilience.
Scripture: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7).

5. Practice Authenticity Over External Appearances

Line from Chapter: “The nameless God has no form… He alone nourishes and brings everything to completion.”
Practice: Focus on genuine spiritual growth rather than seeking external validation or praise.
Explanation: True spiritual depth is formed through an authentic relationship with God, not by seeking to appear virtuous. This practice encourages us to pursue inner growth and substance over the superficial or visible signs of religiosity.
Real-World Application: In practical terms, this might involve prioritizing personal development over public approval or social media likes. Volunteering in private, helping someone without expecting recognition, or cultivating a daily prayer practice are ways to embody this authenticity.
Scripture: “When you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets… Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:2-4).

By practicing these principles with sincere intent, we align ourselves with God’s purpose, preparing our hearts and actions to reflect His divine wisdom. These practices cultivate a life rooted in humility, patience, faith, and genuine love, allowing us to navigate modern challenges with spiritual resilience and purpose.

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. This encourages meaningful dialogue to embrace shared truths that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.

1. Obedience to Divine Wisdom

Line from Chapter: “When the wise hear the Word of God, they obey faithfully.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Faithful obedience is a central Christian value. “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28).
- Islam: Submission to Allah’s will is core to Islam; “And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger has certainly attained a great attainment” (Quran 33:71).
- Judaism: Jewish teachings emphasize the importance of following God’s commandments as a form of reverence and love (Deuteronomy 6:5).
- Hinduism: Dharma, the path of righteousness and duty, is encouraged, reflecting obedience to divine law and moral duty.
How This Unites Us: This principle emphasizes universal humility before a higher power. By acknowledging divine wisdom, people of all faiths find a shared path of surrender, allowing diverse beliefs to coexist respectfully.
Real-World Application: Obedience in modern life might mean honoring commitments, acting with integrity, and showing respect in all dealings. Taking time for daily prayer or meditation helps center one’s life around divine wisdom, promoting ethical decision-making in work, relationships, and personal development.

2. Seeing Beyond Outward Appearances

Line from Chapter: “The bright path appears dark… The advancement of God appears to retreat.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Paul writes, “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7), emphasizing reliance on spiritual understanding over worldly appearances.
- Buddhism: The concept of maya (illusion) teaches that the external world is often misleading and encourages seeing through illusion to achieve enlightenment.
- Sufism (Islamic Mysticism): Sufis speak of the “hidden” nature of divine truth, which requires inner vision to perceive.
How This Unites Us: Across traditions, there is a call to develop spiritual insight, to look beyond the material world, and to see the divine in all things. This shared value fosters compassion and understanding, helping us to avoid judgment based solely on external factors.
Real-World Application: In modern society, cultivating this mindset might mean practicing empathy, refraining from judging others on appearances, or taking time to reflect on deeper truths through meditation or spiritual study.

3. Humility as the Foundation of Strength

Line from Chapter: “The high is built upon the foundation of the low.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).
- Islam: Humility before Allah is essential; it’s said, “Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves” (Quran 2:222).
- Buddhism: Humility is encouraged as a virtue to counter pride, seen as a barrier to spiritual growth.
- Sikhism: Humility is a core tenet, reflected in the teaching, “Without humility, there is no devotion” (Guru Granth Sahib).
How This Unites Us: Humility creates a level ground for all to connect. Recognizing the strength in humility helps us see others as equals, fostering harmony and reducing conflict.
Real-World Application: Practicing humility might look like actively listening to others, avoiding self-promotion, and serving those in need. This could mean taking on less glamorous tasks at work or prioritizing others’ needs in family life.

4. Patience and Stillness in Challenging Times

Line from Chapter: “The greatest virtue appears weak… The divine truth appears untrue.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Patience is a virtue in Christianity, as seen in “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise” (2 Peter 3:9).
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita advises enduring difficult times with patience and faith.
- Islam: Sabr (patience) is a core value, with the Quran encouraging believers to persevere in difficult times.
How This Unites Us: Across faiths, patience is seen as a spiritual discipline, fostering resilience. This common value encourages people of all beliefs to remain steadfast, creating solidarity in shared struggles.
Real-World Application: Patience in modern life could mean staying calm in stressful situations, such as traffic or work challenges, and relying on spiritual practices to manage stress. Practicing patience helps cultivate mental and emotional resilience.

5. Authenticity Over External Recognition

Line from Chapter: “The nameless God has no form… He alone nourishes and brings everything to completion.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus taught, “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3).
- Judaism: Authentic actions are valued over show; sincerity in worship and charity is encouraged (Micah 6:8).
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches that actions should be performed without attachment to results.
How This Unites Us: This principle of authenticity encourages people to act sincerely, avoiding superficial displays of virtue. It unites us by promoting genuine spiritual growth over appearances, making room for authentic connection.
Real-World Application: Practicing authenticity might look like serving others without expectation of praise, setting realistic boundaries to avoid burnout, and being true to oneself in personal and professional roles.

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