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 61: Honoring the Lowly

 

The great kingdom is like the low lands where rivers flow a
It is the central meeting-ground of the world 
It is the female reservoir of the world 

The masculine honors the feminine for her stillness b
She uses stillness to keep the lower position 

Similarly, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller 

Likewise, a small kingdom that remains in the low place gains the honor of a great kingdom

One gains honor by taking the lowest place and the other gains honor by remaining low 

A great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes c
And a small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater 

Both kingdoms achieve what they desire 
Thus, whoever takes the lowest place will be honored by the other b

 

a Genesis 2:8-15; b Luke 14:10-11; c Proverbs 14:28.



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 Humility in Leadership and Influence

  • Line from the Chapter: “The great kingdom is like the low lands where rivers flow. It is the central meeting-ground of the world. It is the female reservoir of the world.”
  • Mindset: Embrace humility and understand that true greatness lies in serving others. Leadership is not about power or dominance, but about creating space for others to thrive.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches that a great kingdom, or by extension, any person or institution, finds its strength not in forcing itself to the top, but by assuming a position of humility where it nourishes and supports others. The “lowlands” symbolize a place where resources are shared, and life flourishes. To lead effectively, one must adopt the mindset of a servant—one who nourishes, supports, and lifts others up.
  • Real-World Application: In today’s world, this could look like a leader focusing on empowering their team rather than dominating them. For example, a business leader who listens to their employees, values their input, and provides resources for growth creates an environment where the collective can thrive. This mindset emphasizes service over self-interest.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

2. Mindset of Patience and Reflection

  • Line from the Chapter: “The masculine honors the feminine for her stillness. She uses stillness to keep the lower position.”
  • Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of patience, stillness, and contemplation. Understand that sometimes strength is shown through restraint and reflection, not immediate action or force.
  • Explanation: The feminine principle of stillness is about quiet strength, wisdom, and patience. In the modern world, where busyness and action are often prized, this principle reminds us that taking time to reflect, listen, and be still can lead to greater insight and effectiveness. Stillness is not weakness; it is a space for discernment and clarity.
  • Real-World Application: Before reacting to a challenging situation, take a step back and create space for stillness. For example, in a stressful work environment, instead of making a snap decision, take time to pray, meditate, or reflect on the best course of action. This can lead to more thoughtful, godly choices.
  • Scripture: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
  • “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17)

3. Mindset of Service Over Dominance

  • Line from the Chapter: “Similarly, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller.”
  • Mindset: Adopt the mindset of serving rather than seeking to dominate. Greatness is achieved through humility, service, and placing the needs of others before your own.
  • Explanation: The great kingdom, by taking the low position, serves the smaller one, and in doing so, earns its respect and honor. This illustrates that those who serve humbly and put others first gain far more than those who seek to assert their superiority. The world often values power, but the Kingdom of God values service and humility.
  • Real-World Application: In a work environment or in family life, look for opportunities to serve others before asserting your own wants or desires. For instance, in a family, a parent who listens to their children’s needs and serves them with love will build stronger relationships than one who only seeks to command authority. The same applies in a business context—leaders who serve their teams, rather than simply expecting obedience, build a loyal and effective workforce.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “The last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16)

4. Mindset of Growth Through Humble Service

  • Line from the Chapter: “A great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes. And a small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater.”
  • Mindset: Embrace a mindset of growth through humble service. Seek to grow and expand not by competition or dominance, but through acts of service and humility that benefit others.
  • Explanation: Both great and small kingdoms desire to grow. The great kingdom does so by nourishing others, while the small kingdom grows by joining with the greater, through service. In this, both achieve their goals. This principle teaches that growth and success come from how well we serve others, not how much we assert ourselves.
  • Real-World Application: In business, focus on how you can add value to others rather than solely on personal gain. For instance, a company that focuses on solving real problems for its customers will grow and thrive, while a company focused only on profits without serving the customer will struggle. Similarly, in personal relationships, growth occurs when we seek to support and serve others selflessly.
  • Scripture: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
  • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

5. Mindset of Honor Through Humility

  • Line from the Chapter: “Thus, whoever takes the lowest place will be honored by the other.”
  • Mindset: Adopt the mindset that true honor comes not from seeking it, but from humbling yourself. The more you humble yourself and serve others, the more you will be elevated in the eyes of others.
  • Explanation: This principle directly opposes the worldly notion that honor comes from asserting superiority or seeking recognition. True honor comes from a heart of service and humility. When we humble ourselves, others naturally recognize our worth. The world teaches us to seek glory, but the Kingdom of God teaches us to seek service.
  • Real-World Application: In work and relationships, practice selflessness and humility. For example, in the workplace, avoid seeking recognition for everything you do; instead, focus on the collective success of the team. When others notice your humble service and dedication, honor will follow naturally.
  • Scripture: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
  • “But he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves.” (Luke 22:26)

The mindset we should adopt is one of humility, service, and stillness. In today’s world, these principles teach us that greatness is found in lifting others up, not in elevating ourselves. A servant’s heart, patience, and a focus on growing through helping others will lead to true honor and success. Practicing these principles in our everyday lives—whether in leadership, relationships, or personal growth—aligns us with the example of Christ, who humbly served others and was ultimately exalted by God.

AIM:

1. Aim for Humility in Leadership and Influence

  • Line from the Chapter: “The great kingdom is like the low lands where rivers flow. It is the central meeting-ground of the world. It is the female reservoir of the world.”
  • Aim: Focus on humility as the foundation of leadership, recognizing that true influence comes from serving others and creating space for them to thrive.
  • Explanation: The great kingdom’s strength comes from being a place that nourishes, serves, and sustains others. As leaders, we should aim to create environments that promote the growth and well-being of others, not solely our own advancement. Humility should be the guiding principle, allowing us to lead through example, rather than control or manipulation.
  • Real-World Application: In the workplace, aim to empower others by providing support, mentorship, and the resources they need to succeed. Focus on the well-being of your team rather than seeking personal accolades or recognition. Leaders should ensure their actions reflect service to others, helping them grow, just as the great kingdom helps its people thrive.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

2. Aim for Patience and Reflection in Decision Making

  • Line from the Chapter: “The masculine honors the feminine for her stillness. She uses stillness to keep the lower position.”
  • Aim: Seek to cultivate a calm and patient demeanor, focusing on reflection and discernment before acting.
  • Explanation: Stillness and patience are powerful tools for making wise and godly decisions. Rather than rushing into action or decisions, this principle teaches us to wait, listen, and be still so that we can discern the best course of action. Stillness allows us to approach situations from a place of calm and wisdom, avoiding impulsive decisions.
  • Real-World Application: In times of uncertainty or challenge, make it a habit to pause and reflect before making decisions. Whether in personal relationships, business, or community matters, take a step back to pray, meditate, or consult with trusted individuals. This process of reflection ensures that our actions align with our values and goals, guided by God’s wisdom.
  • Scripture: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
  • “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17)

3. Aim for Service Over Domination

  • Line from the Chapter: “Similarly, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller.”
  • Aim: Keep the goal of serving others in mind rather than seeking control, and understand that true honor and influence come from humility and selflessness.
  • Explanation: True greatness in God’s kingdom is demonstrated through service, not domination. By serving others and taking the lower position, we reflect Christ’s example of humility. Aiming to serve others, rather than seek power, aligns us with God’s will and enables us to lead with integrity and compassion.
  • Real-World Application: In any relationship—whether at home, at work, or in the community—aim to serve rather than control. For instance, in leadership, seek opportunities to mentor and support others, showing that you are invested in their success. By doing so, you build trust and respect, and you create a culture where everyone thrives together.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “The last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16)

4. Aim for Growth Through Humble Service

  • Line from the Chapter: “A great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes. And a small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater.”
  • Aim: Seek growth, both personally and communally, through serving others and contributing to their well-being and development.
  • Explanation: Growth, whether for individuals or organizations, comes when we focus on serving and nourishing others. When we aim to grow through service, we align ourselves with the pattern of a kingdom that nurtures others, understanding that this leads to mutual benefits and growth for all.
  • Real-World Application: In business, your goal should be to serve your customers and employees, adding value to their lives. This could involve focusing on solving problems for customers or investing in the development of your employees. When you grow through these acts of service, both you and those you serve will thrive. In personal life, aim to contribute positively to your community by volunteering, mentoring, or offering support to those in need.
  • Scripture: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
  • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

5. Aim for Honor Through Humility

  • Line from the Chapter: “Thus, whoever takes the lowest place will be honored by the other.”
  • Aim: Focus on placing others before yourself, knowing that true honor comes through humility and service rather than self-promotion.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches that taking the lowest place will result in honor from others. The world teaches us to fight for recognition and position, but God’s kingdom turns this on its head, showing that the humble are ultimately exalted. Our aim should be to focus on lifting others up, serving them, and letting God take care of our honor and recognition.
  • Real-World Application: In your workplace, relationships, or community, aim to take the humble route. Avoid seeking recognition or accolades for your actions. Instead, let your work and your service speak for themselves. For example, in a group project, let others shine and be recognized for their contributions while you quietly support their success. This will build your character and reputation as someone who serves others selflessly.
  • Scripture: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
  • “But he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves.” (Luke 22:26)

In today’s world, we must aim to lead with humility, serve others selflessly, and focus on growth that comes through service. When we center our actions on these principles, we reflect the values of God’s kingdom and align ourselves with the example of Christ. Through humility and service, we not only honor others, but we create a world where everyone is uplifted, leading to mutual flourishing and fulfillment.

Practice:

1. Practice Humility in Leadership

  • Line from the Chapter: “The great kingdom is like the low lands where rivers flow. It is the central meeting-ground of the world. It is the female reservoir of the world.”
  • Practice: Adopt a posture of humility, viewing yourself as a servant to others and leading with a mindset of nourishing and empowering those around you.
  • Explanation: A great leader is one who sees their role as supporting, uplifting, and serving others. In the Kingdom of God, leadership isn’t about asserting control, but rather about creating an environment where others can flourish. By practicing humility, we focus not on our personal gain but on the well-being and growth of others.
  • Real-World Application: In your personal and professional life, practice listening to those you lead. Encourage growth and provide opportunities for others to excel. For example, as a business owner, you can empower employees by giving them responsibilities that allow them to shine, and support them with mentorship and training.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

2. Practice Patience and Stillness in Decision-Making

  • Line from the Chapter: “The masculine honors the feminine for her stillness. She uses stillness to keep the lower position.”
  • Practice: Incorporate moments of stillness and reflection into your decision-making process, pausing to seek God’s guidance before acting.
  • Explanation: The power of stillness and reflection lies in the ability to listen to God’s voice and discern the right path. It is in the quiet moments that we receive wisdom and clarity. By practicing patience and stillness, we avoid rash decisions and instead move forward with confidence, knowing that our actions are rooted in God’s will.
  • Real-World Application: Before making any significant decision, whether at work or in personal life, take a moment to pray and reflect. Avoid acting impulsively or reacting to the moment’s pressures. For instance, if you’re faced with a challenging situation at work, step away for a moment of prayer or meditation to gain clarity.
  • Scripture: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
  • “The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17)

3. Practice Service Over Self-Interest

  • Line from the Chapter: “Similarly, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller.”
  • Practice: Focus on serving others, even when it means taking the lower or less prestigious position. Look for opportunities to serve and lift others up.
  • Explanation: True greatness comes from serving others, not from asserting dominance or striving for recognition. By practicing service, we not only fulfill God’s command to love our neighbors, but we also build a community based on mutual respect and care.
  • Real-World Application: In your daily interactions, practice service in small ways, such as helping a colleague with a task, supporting a friend in need, or giving your time to a cause. If you hold a leadership position, seek to serve your team rather than simply direct them. Encourage collaboration and offer support to others’ success.
  • Scripture: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
  • “The last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16)

4. Practice Growth Through Serving Others

  • Line from the Chapter: “A great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes. And a small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater.”
  • Practice: Focus on growth by nurturing and serving others. Whether in a business, family, or community setting, seek opportunities to support the development and flourishing of those around you.
  • Explanation: Both great and small kingdoms achieve growth by serving others. The greater kingdom nourishes others, while the smaller one finds its purpose through aligning itself with and serving the greater. Growth in the Kingdom of God is not about competition, but about collaboration and mutual care.
  • Real-World Application: In the workplace, focus on mentoring others, helping them develop their skills, and setting them up for success. In personal relationships, look for ways to support others in their spiritual, emotional, and personal growth. When you serve others selflessly, you contribute to your own growth in the process.
  • Scripture: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
  • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)

5. Practice Honor Through Humility

  • Line from the Chapter: “Thus, whoever takes the lowest place will be honored by the other.”
  • Practice: Seek to take the humble position, trusting that God will honor you in His timing. Focus on serving others and let honor follow as a natural consequence.
  • Explanation: Honor comes not from striving for recognition, but from humbling oneself before God and others. This principle teaches that by taking the low place—serving and humbling ourselves—we invite honor and respect from others, which comes as a natural result of selflessness.
  • Real-World Application: Whether in professional settings or personal relationships, practice humility by acknowledging others’ contributions, offering support without expecting anything in return, and avoiding the urge to seek attention for your actions. As you serve others, honor will come, not through self-promotion, but through your integrity and humility.
  • Scripture: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
  • “But he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves.” (Luke 22:26)

By practicing humility, patience, service, growth through others, and honoring God through humility, we align ourselves with the purpose and way of God in modern times. These practices help us fulfill our God-given purpose by embodying the values of His Kingdom—serving others, leading with humility, and fostering growth through service. Through these actions, we not only enrich the lives of those around us but also fulfill the call to live a life that reflects Christ’s love and grace.



RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with a new ardor, empowering us to confidently proclaim the Gospel and make disciples of all nations.

1. Universal Truth of Humility in Leadership and Service

  • Line from the Chapter: “The great kingdom is like the low lands where rivers flow. It is the central meeting-ground of the world. It is the female reservoir of the world.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)
    • Islam: “The best of you are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Hadith)
    • Buddhism: “The one who is humble is closer to awakening than the one who is arrogant.” (Dhammapada 223)
    • Hinduism: “He who is free from pride and arrogance, and who serves the truth, is the greatest.” (Bhagavad Gita 18:68)
  • How This Unites Us: This principle of humility in leadership and service is universally recognized across all major religions. Humility is not only seen as a virtue but as the path to true greatness. By serving others and adopting a posture of humility, individuals align with a higher purpose that transcends personal ambition. This principle unites humanity in recognizing that selflessness, rather than self-promotion, is the true way to influence the world for good.
  • Real-World Application: In every sphere of life—whether in family, business, or community—this principle calls us to prioritize the well-being and growth of others. In leadership roles, it encourages us to serve those we lead rather than dominate or control them. This can be applied by mentoring someone at work, volunteering, or simply offering help to a neighbor in need.
  • Scripture: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)

2. Universal Truth of Stillness and Reflection in Decision Making

  • Line from the Chapter: “The masculine honors the feminine for her stillness. She uses stillness to keep the lower position.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
    • Islam: “And seek help in patience and prayer.” (Quran 2:45)
    • Buddhism: “Meditate… do not brood over your thoughts, let them go, and you will find peace.” (Dhammapada 190)
    • Hinduism: “The mind is restless, O Krishna, but with practice and detachment, it can be controlled.” (Bhagavad Gita 6:26)
  • How This Unites Us: All major religions recognize the importance of stillness, reflection, and meditation as essential to connecting with the Divine and making wise decisions. Stillness in the face of adversity or decision-making leads to a deeper understanding of the self and God. This practice unites us in acknowledging that inner peace and clarity are required for making decisions that honor both God and others.
  • Real-World Application: In moments of uncertainty or decision-making, taking time to pause, pray, meditate, or reflect allows us to discern God’s will and avoid impulsive actions. Whether in professional, personal, or spiritual decisions, cultivating moments of stillness helps to maintain peace and ensure that choices are made in alignment with a higher purpose.
  • Scripture: “In quietness and trust is your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15)

3. Universal Truth of Serving Others Over Self-Interest

  • Line from the Chapter: “Similarly, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • Islam: “And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy.” (Quran 17:24)
    • Buddhism: “If you light a lamp for someone else, it will also brighten your path.” (Dhammapada 182)
    • Hinduism: “He who serves the world with the spirit of detachment and devotion is the true servant of God.” (Bhagavad Gita 18:46)
  • How This Unites Us: The principle of serving others selflessly transcends all religious boundaries. Whether it is through acts of charity, kindness, or simply putting others’ needs before our own, this principle emphasizes that service to humanity is sacred. This teaching unites us as it calls all people to prioritize the welfare of others, creating a common understanding that greatness is found in humility and service.
  • Real-World Application: Serve others by actively seeking out opportunities to help those in need, whether through volunteer work, acts of kindness, or supporting those less fortunate. In your workplace, support your colleagues and team members. In your community, contribute to causes that help improve the lives of others, regardless of your own gain.
  • Scripture: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)

4. Universal Truth of Growth Through Mutual Support and Service

  • Line from the Chapter: “A great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes. And a small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10)
    • Islam: “Help one another in righteousness and piety.” (Quran 5:2)
    • Buddhism: “Just as a flower does not pick or choose the bees, so do I choose not to be self-centered in my service to others.” (Dhammapada 201)
    • Hinduism: “The world is bound by the laws of action, but the one who acts for the sake of others attains liberation.” (Bhagavad Gita 3:9)
  • How This Unites Us: The principle of growth through mutual service emphasizes cooperation and community over competition. In every tradition, there is an emphasis on supporting others in their growth, whether through teaching, mentoring, or offering material help. This principle helps unite religions by showing that spiritual and material growth is deeply connected to serving others and working together for the common good.
  • Real-World Application: In your personal and professional life, focus on collaboration and support rather than competition. Whether you’re working on a team project or raising a family, practice contributing to the success of others. By investing in others’ growth, you will naturally find your own growth as well.
  • Scripture: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

5. Universal Truth of Honor Through Humility

  • Line from the Chapter: “Thus, whoever takes the lowest place will be honored by the other.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
    • Islam: “He who is humble for the sake of Allah, Allah will raise him in status.” (Hadith)
    • Buddhism: “The humble man sees no difference between himself and others.” (Dhammapada 223)
    • Hinduism: “By serving others, the person achieves the highest status, for the one who serves is a true devotee of God.” (Bhagavad Gita 9:22)
  • How This Unites Us: Across all faiths, the notion that true honor comes from humility is a common thread. Whether it is in recognizing the value of others, showing respect, or taking the humble position, these teachings all emphasize that true greatness comes not through exaltation but through service and humility.
  • Real-World Application: Whether you are in a leadership role or part of a team, practice humility by acknowledging the contributions of others. Allow others to take the spotlight when it is due and seek to uplift those around you. By prioritizing humility in your actions, you foster an environment where honor is shared, and everyone can thrive.
  • Scripture: “For those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14)

The principles found in this Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths that resonate across all major world religions. By emphasizing humility, service, reflection, and growth through mutual support, these teachings foster unity among humanity. Regardless of religious background, the practice of serving others, seeking humility, and working for the common good transcends all faith traditions, encouraging a harmonious world built on compassion and mutual respect.

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