RESTORE

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

Chapter 73: Judgement of God

 

The bold who are brave will die by the sword a 
The bold who are careful will live 
Of these two, one gains and the other loses b

 

One is not favored by Heaven b 
Who knows the reason?
Even the wise find this difficult c

 

The God of Heaven:
Conquers without contending d 
Responds without speaking e
Cannot be summoned and yet is present f 
Does not rush things and yet fulfills g

 

The Heavenly net is wide and vast h
And yet nobody can slip through it i

 

a Matthew 26:51-54; b Luke 9:23-25; c Matthew 5:43-48; d Psalm 46:10-11;

Hebrews 11:30; Exodus 14:14; e 1 Kings 19:11-12; f 1 Corinthians 5:3-4;

John 3:8; g Psalm 27:14; Psalm 33:20; 2 Peter 3:9; h Isaiah 42:5;

Deuteronomy 10:14; i Romans 14:10-12; Revelation 20:11-15; Nahum 1:3.



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. Boldness and Caution in Action

  • Line from this chapter: “The bold who are brave will die by the sword. The bold who are careful will live. Of these two, one gains and the other loses.”
  • Aim: Strive for wisdom in boldness, balancing courage with careful discernment in all actions.
  • Explanation: This principle speaks to the balance between reckless bravery and thoughtful boldness. The reckless may face unnecessary harm, while the cautious still retain the ability to be bold without risking their lives. In Christianity, it aligns with the idea of wisdom and prudence. We are called to be bold in our faith, but we must also be discerning and careful in our actions to avoid unnecessary harm.
  • Real-world application: In today’s world, it’s easy to act out of impulsiveness, especially when we feel passionate about a cause. However, it’s important to be wise in how we respond, whether in personal life, leadership, or social justice. For example, when standing up for justice or speaking about faith, boldness must be coupled with careful thought and respect for others’ perspectives to avoid division or unnecessary conflict.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
    • James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

2. Understanding and Accepting the Mystery of Life

  • Line from this chapter: “One is not favored by Heaven. Who knows the reason? Even the wise find this difficult.”
  • Aim: Embrace humility in the face of life’s mysteries, trusting that God’s wisdom is greater than our understanding.
  • Explanation: Life is filled with mysteries, and we may not always understand why things happen as they do. The principle highlights that even the wise are challenged by the unexplained aspects of life. For Christians, we are encouraged to trust in God’s will, even when we don’t have answers. His wisdom and purposes are beyond our grasp, but we can trust His ultimate plan.
  • Real-world application: When faced with suffering, loss, or injustice, it’s natural to question why such things happen. Rather than trying to control every situation, we should trust in God’s plan, knowing that His ways are not our ways and that He is working everything for our good, even if we cannot see it immediately.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
    • Romans 8:28 – “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.”

3. God’s Sovereignty: Conquering Without Contending

  • Line from this chapter: “The God of Heaven: Conquers without contending, responds without speaking, cannot be summoned and yet is present, does not rush things and yet fulfills.”
  • Aim: Cultivate trust in God’s unhurried sovereignty and His ability to work in silence and through patience.
  • Explanation: God does not need to fight or contend to achieve His purposes. His sovereignty is complete, and His actions often unfold quietly and slowly, yet always fulfill His will. As Christians, we are called to trust in God’s quiet power, knowing He is always present, even when we do not see immediate results. His plan is always moving forward, even if we cannot perceive it in the moment.
  • Real-world application: In our fast-paced world, we may feel the pressure to rush or force things to happen. However, this principle calls us to trust in God’s timing and His methods. When facing challenges or working toward a goal, we must remember that God does not operate on our timeline, and His plans often unfold in ways we do not expect. This trust can bring peace in moments of uncertainty.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
    • Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

4. The Unstoppable Will of God

  • Line from this chapter: “The Heavenly net is wide and vast, and yet nobody can slip through it.”
  • Aim: Trust in the all-encompassing power and justice of God, knowing that nothing escapes His will.
  • Explanation: This principle expresses the idea that nothing can slip past God’s oversight. His sovereignty is far-reaching, and He is always in control. In Christianity, this reminds us that God’s plans cannot be thwarted, and His justice will ultimately prevail. No person or circumstance can escape His righteous judgment or His loving care.
  • Real-world application: Knowing that God’s sovereignty and justice encompass all of life gives us peace, especially when facing uncertainty or injustice. It reassures us that even when we feel overlooked or oppressed, God sees and knows all. We can trust that He will work everything out in His perfect time, and no one can escape His justice or mercy.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Matthew 10:29-31 – “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
    • Romans 8:39 – “Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The principles in this chapter of the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching emphasize humility, patience, trust in God’s timing, and the recognition of His ultimate sovereignty. These teachings remind us that God’s ways are often beyond our understanding, but we are called to trust His perfect plan, whether in times of triumph or trial. By practicing these principles, we can live in peace, knowing that God is at work in all things and will fulfill His purposes in our lives, even when we cannot see it immediately.

AIM:

1. Aim for Wisdom and Discernment in Boldness and Caution

  • Line from this chapter: “The bold who are brave will die by the sword. The bold who are careful will live. Of these two, one gains and the other loses.”
  • Aim: Aim to act with wisdom, balancing boldness with careful consideration.
  • Explanation: The goal here is not to avoid boldness, but to pursue boldness that is tempered with careful discernment. In today’s world, we are constantly faced with decisions that require courage. However, we must aim to ensure that our actions are guided by wisdom and a sense of responsibility. Boldness that is not thought through can lead to unnecessary conflict or failure. The aim is to act confidently but with prudence and caution.
  • Real-world application: Before acting in a critical decision—whether it’s pursuing a new business venture, entering a new relationship, or taking a public stance on an issue—evaluate the risks, benefits, and potential consequences. Take time to plan and seek counsel. The goal is to move forward with confidence, but not recklessly.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Proverbs 2:6 – “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
    • Proverbs 3:21-23 – “My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.”

2. Aim for Humility in Understanding Life’s Mysteries

  • Line from this chapter: “One is not favored by Heaven. Who knows the reason? Even the wise find this difficult.”
  • Aim: Aim for humility, embracing the mystery of life and acknowledging that not everything is within our understanding.
  • Explanation: Life is filled with paradoxes and questions that we cannot fully answer. Our aim should be to humble ourselves before the mysteries of life and trust that God’s wisdom surpasses ours. Humility involves recognizing that we do not have control over everything, and that there are elements of life we must simply trust God with. It requires letting go of the need for certainty and embracing the unknown with faith.
  • Real-world application: In times of hardship or confusion, rather than becoming frustrated or bitter over our lack of understanding, aim to trust in God’s bigger picture. This applies in personal trials, global crises, or moments when life doesn’t make sense. Instead of demanding immediate answers, cultivate patience and trust that God is at work, even when His ways are mysterious.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
    • Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

3. Aim for Patience and Trust in God’s Sovereignty

  • Line from this chapter: “The God of Heaven: Conquers without contending, responds without speaking, cannot be summoned and yet is present, does not rush things and yet fulfills.”
  • Aim: Aim to rest in God’s perfect timing and sovereignty, trusting that He accomplishes His will without haste.
  • Explanation: This principle points to God’s sovereign, quiet, and unhurried nature. The aim is to focus on trusting God’s perfect timing and not rushing things or forcing outcomes. We may want immediate results, but God’s plan unfolds gradually, and He is working even when we do not see immediate action. Trusting in God’s sovereignty means aiming to be patient, knowing that His plans are far greater than our own desires for speed or control.
  • Real-world application: In situations where you are waiting for a change, breakthrough, or healing—whether in your career, relationships, or health—resist the urge to rush or force things. Instead, trust that God is at work in ways you may not see immediately. For instance, when seeking a job or waiting for a family issue to resolve, practice patience and continue trusting God’s will.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
    • Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

4. Aim for Confidence in God’s Unfailing Control

  • Line from this chapter: “The Heavenly net is wide and vast, and yet nobody can slip through it.”
  • Aim: Aim to find assurance and security in the knowledge that nothing escapes God’s plan or authority.
  • Explanation: This principle affirms that God is in control of everything—nothing happens by chance, and nothing escapes His notice. The aim is to live with confidence in God’s sovereignty, trusting that He is in control of all situations. We should aim to walk through life with peace, knowing that God is orchestrating everything according to His will, and nothing can thwart His plan.
  • Real-world application: In times of uncertainty or personal crisis, aim to find peace in the truth that God is always in control. Whether facing a health scare, a financial challenge, or an uncertain future, trust that God’s sovereignty covers all aspects of life. For example, when navigating a difficult season at work, remind yourself that nothing in your life is outside of God’s authority or care.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Romans 8:28 – “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.”
    • Matthew 10:29-31 – “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

In today’s world, we should aim to practice wisdom, humility, patience, and trust in God’s sovereignty. By focusing on these principles, we align ourselves with God’s will and find peace even in challenging circumstances. Our aim should be to live with faith, knowing that God is in control and that His timing and plans are perfect. As we navigate our daily lives, remembering these aims helps us stay grounded in His truth and assures us that we are part of His greater plan.

 

Practice:

1. Practice Discernment in Boldness and Caution

  • Line from this chapter: “The bold who are brave will die by the sword. The bold who are careful will live. Of these two, one gains and the other loses.”
  • Practice: Practice boldness with discernment, being confident in action but careful in approach.
  • Explanation: Boldness can lead to success, but it can also lead to failure if it is reckless. By practicing discernment, you can choose when to be bold and when to act more carefully. The key is not to avoid boldness, but to temper it with wisdom and foresight. This helps to navigate the world with confidence but ensures that your decisions are grounded in careful thought and not rash impulses.
  • Real-world application: In making career decisions, for instance, you might boldly pursue opportunities, but not without first researching and ensuring that the opportunity aligns with your long-term goals. Whether starting a new project or leading a team, approach with both boldness and responsibility.
  • Scripture verses:
    • James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
    • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

2. Practice Humility in Acknowledging Life’s Mysteries

  • Line from this chapter: “One is not favored by Heaven. Who knows the reason? Even the wise find this difficult.”
  • Practice: Practice humility by acknowledging the limits of your understanding and accepting the mysteries of life.
  • Explanation: There will always be aspects of life that are beyond human comprehension. Practicing humility means accepting that not all things are meant to be understood and that God’s plans often transcend human reasoning. By humbling yourself, you open yourself to trust God more fully in situations where you do not have all the answers.
  • Real-world application: When faced with difficult situations, such as loss, failure, or personal trials, resist the temptation to demand answers. Instead, practice humility by trusting that God is in control, even when you cannot understand the reason behind certain events.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
    • Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.”

3. Practice Patience and Trust in God’s Timing

  • Line from this chapter: “The God of Heaven: Conquers without contending, responds without speaking, cannot be summoned and yet is present, does not rush things and yet fulfills.”
  • Practice: Practice patience, knowing that God’s timing and methods are perfect, even when they seem slow or silent.
  • Explanation: God works in ways that often don’t conform to our sense of urgency. His approach is one of deep wisdom and patience. Practicing patience means waiting on God’s timing and trusting that He is at work even when we don’t see immediate results. It also involves resisting the temptation to force things, knowing that God is fulfilling His purpose in His time.
  • Real-world application: When praying for change in your life—whether it’s a new job, healing, or guidance—do not rush or force the situation. Instead, rest in God’s timing, trusting that He is working behind the scenes. For example, if you are waiting for a promotion, practice patience by continuing to work diligently, trusting that God’s timing will bring about the right opportunity.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
    • 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

4. Practice Confidence in God’s Sovereignty

  • Line from this chapter: “The Heavenly net is wide and vast, and yet nobody can slip through it.”
  • Practice: Practice trusting in God’s sovereignty over every aspect of your life, knowing that nothing escapes His plan.
  • Explanation: God’s control over the universe is vast, and nothing can happen outside of His will. Practicing confidence in God’s sovereignty means recognizing that He is in control and that everything happens for a reason according to His greater purpose. It gives you peace knowing that nothing in your life is outside of His reach or care.
  • Real-world application: When you face challenges, whether in your personal life, work, or relationships, practice confidence by trusting that God is in control and that He will work everything together for your good. For example, if you’re going through a difficult time at work, instead of worrying or panicking, trust that God is orchestrating the situation according to His will and that He will guide you through it.
  • Scripture verses:
    • Romans 8:28 – “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.”
    • Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.”

By practicing discernment, humility, patience, and confidence in God’s sovereignty, you align yourself with His way, fulfilling your purpose in the modern world. These practices reflect the way of God—acting with wisdom, trusting in His perfect timing, and knowing that He is always in control. As you practice these principles, you not only grow spiritually, but also experience peace and fulfillment in every area of your life.



RESPOND

Spiritual renewal empowers us to respond to the call of holiness and share the Joy of the Gospel confidently. In this unity of transformation, we reflect God’s presence, illuminating His light to make disciples of all nations."

1. The Balance Between Boldness and Caution

  • Line from this chapter: “The bold who are brave will die by the sword. The bold who are careful will live. Of these two, one gains and the other loses.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Matthew 10:16 – “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”
    • Islam: Quran 16:125 – “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.”
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches detachment and self-control in action, advising to act without excessive boldness or attachment to results.
    • Buddhism: Right Action in the Eightfold Path advocates for moderation and thoughtful behavior in all situations.

  • How This Unites Us:
    This principle underscores the importance of balance—between bold action and thoughtful caution—across multiple faith traditions. All religious teachings recognize that wisdom guides action and avoids reckless or overly aggressive behavior. The universal truth is that unrestrained boldness often leads to negative consequences, while careful wisdom brings lasting peace and success.

  • Real-World Application:
    In leadership, whether in business or community roles, balance boldness with careful consideration. Avoid rash decisions in the heat of the moment, and ensure that any action is thoughtful and aligned with your values.

  • Scripture verses:

    • Proverbs 4:6-7 – “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

2. Humility in Recognizing Life’s Mysteries

  • Line from this chapter: “One is not favored by Heaven. Who knows the reason? Even the wise find this difficult.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
    • Islam: Quran 3:191 – “Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake.”
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 9:22 – “To those who are constantly devoted and who remember Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me.”
    • Buddhism: Dhammapada 1.2 – “All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think, we become.”

  • How This Unites Us:
    Humility in acknowledging that life’s mysteries and God’s will are beyond human understanding is a common thread across major religions. All faiths teach the importance of trusting in the divine will, recognizing that not everything can or should be understood by the human mind. This humility fosters a common sense of reverence, submission, and trust in a higher power.

  • Real-World Application:
    When facing personal challenges, practice humility by recognizing that some things are beyond your control or understanding. Rather than demanding answers, trust in God’s wisdom and timing.

  • Scripture verses:

    • Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.”
    • James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

3. Patience and Trust in Divine Timing

  • Line from this chapter: “The God of Heaven: Conquers without contending, responds without speaking, cannot be summoned and yet is present, does not rush things and yet fulfills.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
    • Islam: Quran 2:153 – “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.”
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita advocates patience and trust in the divine will through the principle of karma yoga—acting in alignment with the universe’s timing.
    • Buddhism: Right Effort and Right Mindfulness encourage patience in understanding the true nature of reality, trusting that all things unfold in their due time.

  • How This Unites Us:
    The principle of divine timing transcends religions. All major traditions emphasize the importance of patience in aligning oneself with divine will. This fosters trust that God is in control, even in times of waiting or uncertainty. It teaches believers to resist rushing, to let go of anxiety, and to trust that God will fulfill His purpose in His perfect time.

  • Real-World Application:
    Whether in prayer, career, or relationships, trust that things will unfold as they should. Cultivate patience when pursuing goals, understanding that God’s timing is not always aligned with human expectations.

  • Scripture verses:

    • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
    • Romans 8:28 – “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.”

4. Confidence in God’s Sovereignty

  • Line from this chapter: “The Heavenly net is wide and vast, and yet nobody can slip through it.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Romans 8:39 – “Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
    • Islam: Quran 94:5-6 – “For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.”
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 9:22 – “To those who are constantly devoted and who remember Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me.”
    • Buddhism: Dhammapada 6 – “The mind is the forerunner of all states. Mind is chief; mind made are they. If one speaks or acts with an impure mind, suffering follows him like the wheel that follows the foot of the ox.”

  • How This Unites Us:
    The belief in God’s control over the universe, that nothing escapes His plan, is central to many religions. This truth teaches that we are all under divine protection and that nothing in life is random. This belief in divine sovereignty brings a sense of security, knowing that nothing happens without God’s permission, and He is ultimately in control of all things.

  • Real-World Application:
    In moments of uncertainty or difficulty, remember that nothing happens without God’s knowledge. Practice faith and confidence in His plan, trusting that He is guiding all events, even when they seem chaotic or out of control.

  • Scripture verses:

    • Isaiah 46:10 – “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'”
    • Matthew 10:29 – “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father.”

The principles found in the Christian version of Chapter 73 of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths that are echoed in the sacred texts of many world religions. Whether through patience, humility, confidence in divine sovereignty, or balance between boldness and caution, these principles guide believers to trust in God, act wisely, and surrender to His will. These shared teachings unite us across cultures and faith traditions, promoting common values of humility, trust, and reverence for the divine.

....................................................................
Top