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 37: Absence of Desire

The unchanging God is in non-action ^a
Yet through Him all things are done

If powerful leaders live according to God ^b
The world will transform itself
Even if people begin to desire
They will be drawn back by the simplicity of God

The simplicity of God
Brings absence of desire
The absence of desire leads to stillness
Thus, the world will be One in harmony ^c

^a Ecclesiastes 3:9-15; James 1:17; Daniel 7:14; ^b2 Peter 1:3-8; Romans 8:5-6; Romans 12:2; John 16:12-16; ^c1 Corinthians 1:10; John 17:23; Romans 12:16.

Chapter 37 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching highlights the profound impact of God’s unchanging nature and the absence of worldly desire on the harmony of creation. God, in His divine essence, is described as being in “non-action,” not in the sense of inactivity, but as the source of all existence and accomplishment without striving or exertion. This resonates with Ecclesiastes 3:9-15, which affirms that God’s works are eternal, perfect, and beyond human comprehension. James 1:17 reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from the unchanging Father, who works through His creation effortlessly to accomplish His divine purposes.

When leaders live according to God’s principles, the transformation of the world occurs naturally. This reflects the call in Romans 12:2 to be transformed by the renewing of the mind, allowing God’s will to guide every decision. Such leadership rooted in God’s Spirit leads people away from selfish desires and towards simplicity and divine purpose (2 Peter 1:3-8). Simplicity, in this context, is not about deprivation but about aligning one’s desires with God’s will. As Romans 8:5-6 states, living according to the Spirit brings life and peace.

The simplicity of God cultivates an absence of desire for worldly things, which fosters stillness and contentment in the hearts of people. This absence of desire is not emptiness but a fullness rooted in God’s sufficiency. In this stillness, individuals and communities find harmony, reflecting Jesus’ prayer in John 17:23 for His followers to be unified as one, just as He is one with the Father. The absence of strife and the presence of divine simplicity allow the world to experience peace and oneness in harmony with God’s design (1 Corinthians 1:10).

This chapter ultimately calls believers to trust in the sufficiency of God’s nature and to let go of striving after worldly desires. By embracing the simplicity of God, individuals and leaders alike can foster an environment where transformation, stillness, and unity naturally flourish, bringing the world into alignment with the harmony of God’s eternal kingdom.

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. Trust in Divine Non-Action

Line from the Chapter: The unchanging God is in non-action, Yet through Him all things are done.
Mindset: Trust that God’s work is continually unfolding, even when it seems like there is no immediate visible change.
Explanation: God’s sovereignty is not bound by our human understanding of time or action. His purpose is being accomplished in ways we may not always perceive, and He is at work even when nothing seems to be happening.
Real-World Application: In moments of uncertainty or when facing challenges, remember to rest in God’s plan. Do not rush or try to force results; instead, trust in His timing. Practice patience, knowing that God is actively working behind the scenes.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Lead by Example for Transformation

Line from the Chapter: If powerful leaders live according to God, the world will transform itself.
Mindset: Lead with humility and faith, knowing that your actions speak louder than words and set an example for others to follow.
Explanation: Leadership in God’s kingdom is not about power or control, but about serving others and living in alignment with His values. True change begins when individuals, especially leaders, live according to God’s principles.
Real-World Application: In your family, workplace, or community, model God’s love, humility, and integrity. Let your actions reflect His teachings, and influence others positively. This will not only change your environment but also inspire those around you to follow suit.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant…” Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice.”

3. Seek Contentment in Simplicity

Line from the Chapter: Even if people begin to desire, they will be drawn back by the simplicity of God.
Mindset: Embrace simplicity and find joy in the things that truly matter, rather than pursuing material desires.
Explanation: The simplicity of God provides a sense of peace that surpasses all worldly temptations. When we focus on what is truly important—our relationship with God, love for others, and inner peace—we find true satisfaction.
Real-World Application: Practice contentment by focusing on the blessings you already have and simplifying your desires. Instead of chasing after the latest trends or material possessions, seek fulfillment in spending time with family, serving others, and growing in your faith.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness…” Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

4. Live Without Desire for Worldly Gain

Line from the Chapter: The simplicity of God brings absence of desire.
Mindset: Let go of worldly attachments and desires that distract from God’s purpose for your life.
Explanation: The absence of desire is about focusing on God’s will and not allowing the world’s temptations to control your heart. This doesn’t mean abandoning ambition or goals, but rather aligning them with God’s purposes.
Real-World Application: Evaluate your desires and motivations. Are they aligned with God’s will? Practice detachment from material things and focus on eternal rewards. Serve others and make decisions based on God’s guidance, not worldly gain.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy…” 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

5. Cultivate Peace Through Stillness

Line from the Chapter: The absence of desire leads to stillness.
Mindset: Quiet your heart and mind in order to experience God’s peace.
Explanation: Stillness is a spiritual discipline that allows us to hear from God. When we let go of inner turmoil and worldly distractions, we can experience God’s peace and be guided by His wisdom.
Real-World Application: Set aside time each day for quiet reflection or prayer. In the midst of a busy life, create moments of silence where you can connect with God. This stillness will help center your spirit and give you clarity on His will.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” Mark 1:35 – “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place…”

6. Promote Harmony by Embracing God’s Will

Line from the Chapter: Thus, the world will be One in harmony.
Mindset: Strive to bring unity through God’s love and truth.
Explanation: When we live according to God’s will, we contribute to the peace and harmony that can unite the world. Harmony comes not from external control but from the inner peace that results from living a life aligned with God’s will.
Real-World Application: Be a peacemaker in your relationships and communities. Promote unity by showing God’s love, listening to others, and seeking reconciliation. Work toward collective peace by reflecting God’s harmony in your own life.
Scripture Reference: Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

These principles encourage a mindset that focuses on God’s work, simplicity, and inner peace, providing a foundation for navigating the complexities of life in today’s world.

AIM:

1. Trusting Divine Timing

Line from the Chapter: The unchanging God is in non-action, Yet through Him all things are done.
Aim: Focus on God’s perfect timing and trust that His will is unfolding, even when it seems that nothing is happening.
Explanation: God’s power is not limited by human action; His purpose is at work in all things, whether we see it or not. The divine action of God often happens quietly and subtly behind the scenes, with results that may only become visible later.
Real-World Application: In moments of impatience or frustration, resist the urge to take matters into your own hands. Instead, focus on trusting that God is in control, even in the silence or stillness. Seek His guidance through prayer and meditation, knowing that His work is happening beyond what you can immediately see.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.”
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Leading with God’s Will

Line from the Chapter: If powerful leaders live according to God, the world will transform itself.
Aim: Strive to live as an example of God’s principles and influence others through your actions, especially those in leadership roles.
Explanation: True leaders reflect God’s wisdom, humility, and justice. When they live according to His will, their influence has the potential to bring about positive, lasting change in the world. Leadership rooted in God’s ways promotes peace, unity, and integrity.
Real-World Application: Whether in your work, family, or community, live according to God’s standards of justice, compassion, and service. Lead by example, demonstrating love, humility, and patience in all your decisions. Your influence, especially as a leader, can inspire others to follow God’s path.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice.”

3. Embracing Simplicity and Contentment

Line from the Chapter: Even if people begin to desire, they will be drawn back by the simplicity of God.
Aim: Keep your focus on the simplicity of God’s blessings, rejecting the complexity and distractions of worldly desires.
Explanation: The simplicity of God leads to contentment. By focusing on what truly matters—our relationship with Him and our connection to others—we discover peace and joy, free from the desires that often complicate life. Simplicity provides clarity and allows us to prioritize what is eternal over what is temporary.
Real-World Application: In today’s consumer-driven culture, practice contentment by resisting the pull of materialism and finding joy in simpler, more meaningful experiences. Spend time in nature, with loved ones, or in prayer, appreciating the blessings God has already provided.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness…”
Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

4. Living with Freedom from Desire

Line from the Chapter: The simplicity of God brings absence of desire.
Aim: Focus on freeing your heart from worldly attachments and align your desires with God’s will.
Explanation: The absence of desire is not about living without ambition, but about releasing unhealthy attachments to the world’s fleeting rewards. When we center our desires on God, we find that peace and contentment replace the endless chase for material gain or recognition.
Real-World Application: Evaluate your priorities and examine whether your desires align with God’s will. Practice contentment by regularly reflecting on your life’s purpose and adjusting your goals to reflect eternal values. Focus on serving others and pursuing God’s purposes over personal gain.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy…”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

5. Cultivating Inner Stillness

Line from the Chapter: The absence of desire leads to stillness.
Aim: Pursue inner stillness and peace by detaching from distractions and focusing on God’s presence.
Explanation: Stillness is a state of rest that allows us to hear God’s voice and feel His presence more clearly. When we let go of unnecessary desires, we create space for peace and guidance. In this stillness, we align ourselves more deeply with God’s will and purpose.
Real-World Application: Make time each day for quiet reflection, prayer, or meditation to center yourself in God’s presence. In a noisy world, create pockets of stillness to restore your spirit. Through this practice, you’ll gain clarity and strengthen your relationship with God.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Mark 1:35 – “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place…”

6. Seeking Unity and Peace

Line from the Chapter: Thus, the world will be One in harmony.
Aim: Strive for unity and peace, aligning your actions with God’s purpose to bring people together in harmony.
Explanation: God’s will is for unity and peace, not division. When we live according to His will, we contribute to the healing and reconciliation of relationships, communities, and even nations. Unity arises when we focus on what unites us—God’s love and truth.
Real-World Application: Promote harmony by practicing kindness, listening to others, and seeking peace in your relationships. Resolve conflicts through love and understanding, and encourage others to live in unity with one another. By reflecting God’s love, you help to foster greater unity in the world.
Scripture Reference: Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

By aiming to live out these principles—trusting in God’s non-action, leading with humility, embracing simplicity and contentment, cultivating inner peace, and resisting worldly desires—we align ourselves with God’s will for our lives. In a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, these principles help us stay focused on what truly matters and bring about transformation, both within ourselves and in the world around us. Through these actions, we can bring about unity, peace, and harmony, reflecting God’s love and wisdom to the world.

Practice:

1. Trust in God’s Timing and Action

Line from the Chapter: The unchanging God is in non-action, Yet through Him all things are done.
Practice: Practice patience and trust in God’s timing, knowing that He is at work in all things, even when they seem still or quiet.
Explanation: God’s work is often done in ways that are beyond human comprehension. His timing is perfect, and He operates in His own way, silently and powerfully behind the scenes. Trusting in His unseen actions allows us to focus on His will rather than striving in our own strength.
Real-World Application: In your personal and professional life, practice patience when outcomes don’t appear immediately. Instead of rushing or forcing results, trust that God is orchestrating events in ways that are for your ultimate good. Spend time in prayer, aligning your actions with His purposes.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.”
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Lead by Example in God’s Way

Line from the Chapter: If powerful leaders live according to God, the world will transform itself.
Practice: Lead with integrity, humility, and a commitment to God’s principles, allowing your actions to inspire and influence others.
Explanation: Leaders are in a unique position to affect change. When leaders align their actions with God’s will, they create an atmosphere of peace, righteousness, and justice that transforms communities. Leadership rooted in love and humility has a profound and lasting impact.
Real-World Application: In your professional and personal leadership, model behaviors of honesty, fairness, and servant-leadership. Seek to lead not for personal glory but to reflect God’s will and serve others selflessly. Your example can inspire those around you to do the same.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Proverbs 29:2 – “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice.”

3. Embrace Simplicity and Contentment

Line from the Chapter: Even if people begin to desire, they will be drawn back by the simplicity of God.
Practice: Focus on the simplicity of life, valuing spiritual growth over material desires. Practice contentment with what you have and avoid the temptation to accumulate possessions.
Explanation: True satisfaction comes from seeking God’s presence rather than material possessions. A life of simplicity helps reduce distractions, making space for spiritual growth and deeper relationships. When we focus on God, we find joy in simplicity.
Real-World Application: In a world of consumerism, practice simplicity by decluttering your home, prioritizing relationships over possessions, and resisting the desire for things that don’t contribute to your well-being or purpose. Find contentment in daily moments with God, and practice gratitude for what you already have.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness…”
Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

4. Let Go of Excessive Desires

Line from the Chapter: The simplicity of God brings absence of desire.
Practice: Practice detaching from worldly desires and attachments that pull you away from God’s calling and purpose.
Explanation: Desires often lead to dissatisfaction and discontent. By letting go of the desire for things that are temporary, we make room for spiritual growth, peace, and alignment with God’s will. A life free of excessive desire is a life of clarity and purpose.
Real-World Application: Reflect on your desires and evaluate whether they align with God’s plan for your life. Regularly engage in practices like fasting, prayer, or meditation to break free from the grip of materialism or unhealthy attachments. Prioritize things that contribute to your spiritual development over fleeting pleasures.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy…”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

5. Cultivate Inner Peace and Stillness

Line from the Chapter: The absence of desire leads to stillness.
Practice: Cultivate inner stillness through regular practices like prayer, meditation, and mindful reflection, allowing God’s peace to fill your heart and mind.
Explanation: Inner peace comes from releasing desires and focusing on God’s presence. Stillness is not just the absence of noise but the calmness that comes from trusting in God’s plan for your life. It allows us to hear His voice and receive His guidance clearly.
Real-World Application: Create moments of stillness in your daily routine. This could be through meditation, quiet time in prayer, or simply pausing throughout the day to center your thoughts on God. Allow this stillness to guide your decisions and interactions, leading to a more peaceful, purposeful life.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Mark 1:35 – “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place…”

6. Strive for Unity and Harmony

Line from the Chapter: Thus, the world will be One in harmony.
Practice: Practice reconciliation and peace-building, aiming to create unity and harmony wherever you go.
Explanation: God’s ultimate plan is for unity among His people, and we are called to live as peacemakers. This doesn’t just mean avoiding conflict, but actively seeking to reconcile differences and promote peace in our relationships, workplaces, and communities.
Real-World Application: In all of your relationships, take active steps toward understanding, forgiving, and building harmony. Seek common ground with those who may have differing views and find ways to serve and support others, fostering unity. Promote peace and healing in every environment you influence.
Scripture Reference: Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

By practicing these principles, we align ourselves more closely with God’s will, fulfilling our purpose in a way that brings peace and transformation to the world around us.

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. God’s Non-Action Yet Powerful Work

Line from the Chapter: The unchanging God is in non-action, Yet through Him all things are done.
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: God’s sovereign will works through His silence and unseen actions, trusting in His timing. Isaiah 55:8-9 (“For my thoughts are not your thoughts…”).
- Buddhism: The concept of “wu wei” (effortless action) resonates with the idea that true power is in non-action or spontaneous action, in alignment with the natural flow of the universe.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna speaks of action performed without attachment to the results, which aligns with divine non-action yet all-powerful work.
- Islam: Allah’s will is supreme, and even when hidden, it is always at work in the world. Surah 3:26 (“Say, ‘O Allah, Owner of the kingdom… You give the kingdom to whom You will…”).
How This Unites Us: All major religions acknowledge the divine power that works beyond human understanding, often in ways that are hidden, subtle, or quiet. The belief in an all-knowing, all-powerful force guiding the world despite seeming stillness is a unifying truth across these spiritual traditions.
Real-World Application: In our lives, we must trust that God is at work even when we don’t see immediate results. By being still and waiting for His guidance, we acknowledge that some actions are best left to God’s timing and that we need not force outcomes.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 (“Be still, and know that I am God.”)
Matthew 11:28-30 (“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”)

2. Leaders Living According to God’s Will

Line from the Chapter: If powerful leaders live according to God, the world will transform itself.
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 5:14-16 calls believers to be the “light of the world,” showing leadership through righteous living.
- Judaism: In the Torah, leaders are called to act justly and with humility (Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?”).
- Buddhism: Leaders should embody compassion and wisdom, guiding their followers to live in harmony with the world around them.
- Islam: Leadership is defined by justice, mercy, and humility. Surah 4:58 calls leaders to be just, particularly in their dealings with others.
How This Unites Us: A common thread across faiths is the emphasis on righteous leadership. Whether in the form of spiritual, political, or personal leadership, all religions agree that leadership must be rooted in justice, humility, and a commitment to higher moral principles.
Real-World Application: Strive to live as a servant leader, not for personal gain but for the good of others. Whether in the workplace, community, or church, let your actions reflect God’s justice and love, leading by example.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 29:2 (“When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice…”)
Luke 22:26 (“But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank…”)

3. Embracing Simplicity

Line from the Chapter: Even if people begin to desire, they will be drawn back by the simplicity of God.
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 6:19-21 teaches that true treasure lies in heavenly values, not material things.
- Buddhism: “Simplicity” is central to Buddhist teachings, where attachment to material possessions leads to suffering. Dhammapada 180 states, “The root of suffering is attachment.”
- Hinduism: Simple living is encouraged, focusing on spiritual growth rather than material desires. Bhagavad Gita 4:39 (“A person who is devoted to spiritual knowledge attains the highest truth”).
- Islam: Surah 2:261 speaks of the simplicity and purity of faith, contrasting material pursuits with spiritual rewards.
How This Unites Us: Across these faiths, there is a shared belief that the pursuit of simplicity, contentment, and spiritual richness leads to fulfillment, helping followers resist worldly distractions.
Real-World Application: In a world full of distractions and materialism, make conscious decisions to prioritize simplicity. Declutter your life, avoid excess, and seek spiritual richness over possessions, finding joy in what truly matters.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:11-12 (“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”)
Luke 12:15 (“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”)

4. Absence of Desire Brings Stillness

Line from the Chapter: The absence of desire leads to stillness.
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus taught contentment in Him. Matthew 6:33 (“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”).
- Buddhism: Desire is the root of suffering. The Four Noble Truths emphasize letting go of desires to achieve Nirvana.
- Hinduism: The concept of detachment is a major theme, where relinquishing desires leads to peace and moksha (liberation).
- Islam: Surah 57:16 describes those who detach from worldly desires and focus on worship as being the closest to peace.
How This Unites Us: All major religions emphasize that desire, when uncontrolled, leads to suffering, and by releasing attachments and focusing on spiritual matters, we find true peace.
Real-World Application: Engage in regular moments of mindfulness and reflection, releasing the grip of desires that distract from your spiritual well-being. Practice detachment in areas like wealth, fame, and pleasure, knowing that true fulfillment comes from God alone.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:11-13 (“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…”)
1 John 2:16 (“For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”)

5. Cultivating Unity and Harmony

Line from the Chapter: Thus, the world will be One in harmony.
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus prayed for unity among His followers. John 17:21 (“That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you”).
- Buddhism: Harmony and peace are central to Buddhist teachings, where meditation and compassion are used to bring about personal and collective peace.
- Hinduism: The concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” meaning “the world is one family,” promotes universal unity.
- Islam: Surah 49:10 (“The believers are but a single brotherhood. So make peace and reconciliation between your two brothers”).
How This Unites Us: Regardless of religious tradition, unity is seen as a divine goal. Every faith calls for peace, mutual respect, and the harmonious coming together of people for a common spiritual purpose.
Real-World Application: In your daily life, prioritize creating peace and understanding in relationships. Seek reconciliation where there is conflict, promote dialogue over division, and serve as a peacemaker in your community.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:9 (“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”)
Romans 14:19 (“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”)

In these principles, we see a convergence of teachings that transcend individual religions, emphasizing a deep and common truth: God’s power is seen in quiet actions, peace comes through simplicity and detachment, and true harmony arises when we unite under divine guidance. These universal truths provide a foundation for all believers to strive toward, irrespective of their faith tradition.

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