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 10: The Spirit of God

To be filled by the Spirit of God and embrace Oneness ^a
Can you be still without temptation?

To quiet your soul and attain suppleness ^b
Can you be like a child?

To be free of worldly views ^c
Can you take the plank out of your own eye?

To love all people and rule the country ^d
Can you be without cleverness?

To enter the opening and closing gate of Heaven ^e
Can you live according to the Word of God?

To understand the Word as taught by the Spirit ^f
Can you hold back your own words?

He created us ^g
He nurtures us

He gives life without possessing ^h
He achieves without taking credit ⁱ

He leads without dominating ^jThis is the mystic virtue of the Spirit ^k

^a1 Corinthians 6:17-20; Matthew 26:41; Psalm 46:10; John 17:20-24; ^b Psalm 131:1-2; ^c Matthew 7:4-5; ^d Matthew 23:1-7; ^eJohn 1:1-2; 1 John 2:5; Luke 11:28; Genesis 28:17; ^f 1 Corinthians 2:13-14; ^gGenesis 1:24-2; 1 Peter 1:23-25; John 4:10-14; ^h 2 Corinthians 6:10; ⁱJohn 8:54; Hebrews 5:5; ^j Psalm 9:8; ^k John 3:5-6; Romans 5:15.

Chapter 10 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching, titled The Spirit of God, emphasizes the qualities and virtues that arise when one is filled with the Spirit of God. It asks a series of questions that reflect a deep spiritual wisdom, urging the reader to contemplate the ideal state of a soul surrendered to the Spirit. The chapter begins by asking, “Can you be still without temptation?” suggesting that true stillness, devoid of worldly distractions and sinful desires, is a sign of being filled with the Spirit of God. This resonates with Jesus’ call in Matthew 26:41 to “watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation,” recognizing that only by remaining in the Spirit can we resist the temptations of the flesh.

The second question, “Can you be like a child?” evokes the humility and trust children exhibit. Jesus in Matthew 18:3 invites us to become like children in our faith, emphasizing innocence, simplicity, and a deep reliance on God. This aligns with the idea of the Spirit giving us a pure, childlike heart that is humble and open to God’s will. Similarly, the chapter challenges believers to free themselves of worldly views, as seen in the call to “take the plank out of your own eye” from Matthew 7:4-5. This metaphor encourages self-examination and repentance, a crucial part of living a life guided by the Spirit.

The chapter continues with a call to love all people and rule justly, asking, “Can you be without cleverness?” This suggests that true leadership, whether in personal relationships or in governing others, is characterized by humility and sincerity, not by manipulation or self-interest. In Matthew 23:1-7, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for their hypocrisy, urging His followers to adopt a leadership style based on servant-hearted love, much like the leadership demonstrated by the Spirit.

As the chapter progresses, it encourages alignment with God’s will by entering “the opening and closing gate of Heaven,” which can be interpreted as living in accordance with God’s Word. This is echoed in Jesus’ teachings about the importance of hearing and obeying His Word, as seen in Luke 11:28. The Spirit reveals God’s Word to us, allowing us to understand and live it out. This wisdom is not from human intellect but is imparted through the Spirit, as Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:13-14.

Finally, the chapter concludes by describing the nature of God, who creates, nurtures, and gives life without possessing, achieves without taking credit, and leads without dominating. These are the characteristics of God’s Spirit, whose “mystic virtue” is evident in His actions. God, as revealed through the Spirit, does not demand ownership or glory for Himself but acts out of love and grace. In John 3:5-6, Jesus speaks of the Spirit as the source of new birth and life, and in Romans 5:15, Paul contrasts the grace of God through Jesus Christ with the trespass of Adam, showing how God’s Spirit brings life freely and abundantly.

In sum, Chapter 10 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching reflects a call to live in the Spirit, characterized by humility, childlike trust, a surrendered heart, and love for others. It emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who leads believers in ways that are contrary to worldly wisdom and power, demonstrating divine virtues that lead to eternal life and peace.

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. Cultivating Stillness and Freedom from Temptation

Line from the chapter: “To be filled by the Spirit of God and embrace Oneness.”
Mindset: Cultivate stillness and inner peace, focusing on God’s presence rather than worldly distractions or temptations.
Explanation: In a world full of distractions, the ability to remain still allows us to tune into the Holy Spirit. We must approach stillness not just as physical quiet but as a mental and emotional surrender, allowing God’s peace to fill us and guide us.
Real-World Application: Begin each day with moments of silence and prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to calm your thoughts. Center on being still throughout the day, especially in stressful moments, to refocus your attention on God’s will rather than giving in to the pressures or temptations around you.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Embracing Childlike Humility and Trust

Line from the chapter: “To quiet your soul and attain suppleness.”
Mindset: Adopt childlike humility and trust, surrendering control and trusting God’s guidance fully.
Explanation: Children are teachable, humble, and dependent on their caregivers. We must approach God with similar humility, recognizing our need for His direction. To “be like a child” means to trust God without reservation, accepting His wisdom even when it doesn’t align with our own understanding.
Real-World Application: Let go of pride and self-sufficiency. Ask God daily for guidance, knowing that you do not have all the answers. Approach Scripture with a desire to learn and grow, rather than trying to control or manipulate God’s will to fit your own desires.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

3. Adopt Self-Reflection and Humility

Line from the chapter: “To be free of worldly views.”
Mindset: Practice self-awareness and humility, being willing to confront your own flaws and biases before judging others.
Explanation: We must prioritize self-reflection and personal growth before criticizing or judging others. The mindset here is one of humility and personal responsibility, recognizing that we are all flawed and in need of God’s grace.
Real-World Application: Before addressing someone else’s issues, take time to examine your own heart. When you feel anger or judgment toward others, pause and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas in your life that need growth and repentance.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

4. Leading with Love, Not Cleverness

Line from the chapter: “To love all people and rule the country.”
Mindset: Prioritize love and simplicity over cleverness and manipulation, trusting that God’s wisdom will guide you.
Explanation: This mindset encourages us to move away from worldly tactics or schemes. We are called to love unconditionally and lead with humility, allowing God’s wisdom, not human cleverness, to guide our decisions.
Real-World Application: In decision-making, resist the temptation to outsmart others or manipulate situations for your gain. Instead, make choices rooted in integrity, kindness, and love for others, trusting that God’s wisdom will lead you to the right outcome.
Scripture Reference: 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.”

5. Living According to the Word of God

Line from the chapter: “To enter the opening and closing gate of Heaven.”
Mindset: Approach life with a deep commitment to live according to God’s Word, trusting it as the pathway to spiritual fulfillment and eternal life.
Explanation: The mindset here involves total surrender to God’s Word and will. Living according to the Scriptures means seeking God’s guidance in every area of life, from relationships to decisions to personal growth.
Real-World Application: Regularly read and meditate on Scripture, seeking to apply its teachings in your daily life. When faced with a decision, ask yourself what the Bible says about the situation and choose to align your actions with God’s Word.
Scripture Reference: John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

6. Exercising Restraint in Speech

Line from the chapter: “To understand the Word as taught by the Spirit.”
Mindset: Exercise restraint in speech, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions, rather than speaking from a place of impulse or pride.
Explanation: Words have the power to build up or tear down. This mindset calls us to pause before speaking and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance, ensuring that our words reflect love, truth, and humility.
Real-World Application: When in conflict or when tempted to speak hastily, pause and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Practice active listening, and speak with grace, truth, and love, refraining from impulsive or harmful comments.
Scripture Reference: James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

7. Living with Gratitude and Dependence on God

Line from the chapter: “He created us, He nurtures us.”
Mindset: Approach life with gratitude, recognizing that all things come from God, and trust in His care and provision.
Explanation: This mindset calls us to humbly acknowledge that we are dependent on God for both our existence and our well-being. We must rely on His nurturing provision in every area of life and be thankful for His constant presence.
Real-World Application: Acknowledge God’s hand in every aspect of your life. Thank Him for the blessings you have and trust Him to provide for your needs. Live with a sense of gratitude, reflecting God’s goodness in your attitudes and actions.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

8. Living with Selflessness and Generosity

Line from the chapter: “He gives life without possessing.”
Mindset: Practice selflessness in all aspects of life, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, meant to be shared freely with others.
Explanation: God gives life freely and generously without seeking ownership. Similarly, we are called to live with an open hand, offering our resources, time, and love without attachment or expectation.
Real-World Application: Live with an open heart and open hands, sharing your time, talents, and possessions with others without expecting anything in return. Practice generosity as an expression of God’s love and provision.
Scripture Reference: Acts 17:25 – “And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.”

9. Embracing Humility in Accomplishments

Line from the chapter: “He achieves without taking credit.”
Mindset: Adopt an attitude of humility in all your accomplishments, recognizing that all success comes from God and is meant to glorify Him.
Explanation: This mindset involves humbling ourselves before God and giving Him the credit for all our successes. It’s about acknowledging that any achievement is a result of God’s grace, and we are merely vessels for His work.
Real-World Application: When you accomplish something, acknowledge God’s role in your success. Give credit to others where due, and use your achievements as opportunities to bring glory to God, not to elevate yourself.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

10. Leading with Service and Compassion

Line from the chapter: “He leads without dominating.”
Mindset: Lead with humility and service, not with force or control, following the example of Christ, who led by serving others.
Explanation: True leadership, as modeled by Jesus, is about service and humility. Leaders should guide others by setting an example, not through coercion or domination. This mindset calls us to lead with compassion, care, and respect.
Real-World Application: Lead by example in all areas of your life. Encourage, support, and guide others without forcing them or using manipulation. Practice servant leadership, where your focus is on uplifting others rather than asserting control.
Scripture Reference: Mark 10:42-44 – “Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.'”

AIM:

1. Cultivating Stillness and Overcoming Temptation

Line from the chapter: “To be filled by the Spirit of God and embrace Oneness.”
Aim: Focus on stillness and inner peace, seeking to align with God’s Spirit, rather than being led by temptation or worldly desires.
Explanation: In today’s world, it’s easy to be distracted by constant noise, expectations, and desires. However, true peace comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. By stilling your mind and heart, you make room for God’s guidance, which allows you to avoid the pull of temptation. This aim requires intentionality—setting aside time each day for prayer, meditation, or silence to connect with God and cultivate peace.
Real-World Application: Start your day with intentional silence or prayer, asking for God’s presence and peace to fill you. During the day, whenever faced with temptation or distractions, pause and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and actions. Center on stillness in moments of chaos, focusing on God’s peace instead of the noise around you.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Cultivating Childlike Humility and Trust

Line from the chapter: “To quiet your soul and attain suppleness.”
Aim: Strive for childlike humility and trust in God, surrendering control and allowing Him to shape you into His likeness.
Explanation: The focus here is one of humility and trust, like a child who is fully dependent on their parent. In today’s world, we often strive for independence and control, but the way of God calls us to trust in His sovereignty and let go of our need to control every situation. This requires humility and a willingness to be molded by God’s Spirit.
Real-World Application: In moments of difficulty or uncertainty, consciously surrender your need to control and ask God for wisdom and guidance. Choose to trust in God’s plan rather than relying on your own understanding. Approach challenges with a heart that is open to God’s leading, much like a child trusts their parent to guide them.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

3. Focus on Self-Examination and Repentance

Line from the chapter: “To be free of worldly views.”
Aim: Seek personal humility and self-examination, being quick to remove the “plank” from your own eye before addressing others.
Explanation: In a world that often focuses on judging and criticizing others, this principle calls us to first look inward and examine our own faults. By doing so, we become more compassionate and able to help others without hypocrisy. Adopting this aim requires regular reflection and repentance, asking God to reveal areas of your life that need healing and transformation.
Real-World Application: Make it a habit to regularly reflect on your actions, thoughts, and attitudes. Before critiquing or judging others, pause and evaluate your own behaviors. Use moments of self-examination to humble yourself before God and ask for forgiveness where necessary, and extend the same grace to others.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

4. Leading with Love and Simplicity

Line from the chapter: “To love all people and rule the country.”
Aim: Lead with love, humility, and simplicity, avoiding manipulation and prioritizing others’ well-being over personal gain.
Explanation: In a world often driven by power struggles and complex schemes, God calls us to lead with simplicity and love. This principle encourages us to avoid using cleverness or manipulation to get ahead, and instead, to focus on serving others in love and truth. It challenges us to lead by example, putting others’ needs first and showing them the love of Christ.
Real-World Application: In your leadership roles, whether at work, in family, or in community, prioritize the well-being of others. Lead by example, offering kindness and empathy instead of control or coercion. In decision-making, seek simplicity and transparency, ensuring that your actions reflect God’s love and purpose.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

5. Aligning Your Life with God’s Word

Line from the chapter: “To enter the opening and closing gate of Heaven.”
Aim: Seek to live in alignment with the Word of God, making His teachings the foundation of your life and decisions.
Explanation: This principle emphasizes living in harmony with God’s Word as the key to spiritual fulfillment. By understanding and obeying Scripture, you align your life with God’s will, opening the door to His blessings and eternal life. This requires regular study of the Bible and a commitment to live out its teachings in every area of your life.
Real-World Application: Make Scripture reading and meditation a daily practice, seeking to apply God’s principles to your everyday decisions. When faced with challenges or moral dilemmas, ask yourself what God’s Word says about the situation and choose to act according to His will.
Scripture Reference: John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

6. Exercising Self-Restraint in Words

Line from the chapter: “To understand the Word as taught by the Spirit.”
Aim: Prioritize listening over speaking and practice restraint in words, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your communication.
Explanation: Words have immense power, both to heal and to harm. This principle calls us to listen carefully before speaking, allowing the Holy Spirit to direct our words. By holding back impulsive reactions and seeking God’s wisdom, we ensure that our words are a source of life, peace, and truth.
Real-World Application: Before responding in conversations, especially during conflict or disagreement, pause and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, ensuring your words align with God’s truth and love.
Scripture Reference: James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

7. Acknowledging God as the Source of Life

Line from the chapter: “He created us, He nurtures us.”
Aim: Recognize God as the ultimate source of life, thanking Him for His nurturing care and provision.
Explanation: This principle reminds us of our dependence on God for life and sustenance. By recognizing His role as Creator and Sustainer, we develop an attitude of gratitude and trust in His provision. This awareness helps us live humbly and in continual gratitude, acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him.
Real-World Application: In moments of both joy and difficulty, pause and thank God for His care and provision. When you face challenges, remember that He is the one who sustains you and trust that He will provide what you need.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

8. Living Generously and Without Attachment

Line from the chapter: “He gives life without possessing.”
Aim: Live generously, offering your resources without attachment, and trust that God will continue to provide.
Explanation: This emphasizes living with an open hand, offering your time, talents, and resources freely, without expecting anything in return. Just as God gives without possessing, we are called to practice generosity as an outpouring of God’s love, not out of obligation but from a heart of gratitude.
Real-World Application: Look for opportunities to serve and give to others without expecting anything in return. Be open-handed with your time, resources, and talents, trusting that God will provide for your needs. Give without attaching value to what you receive, knowing that your reward comes from God.
Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

9. Humbling Yourself in Achievements

Line from the chapter: “He achieves without taking credit.”
Aim: Approach success and achievements with humility, giving credit to God for all that you accomplish.
Explanation: This principle calls for humility in our accomplishments. We are to acknowledge that all success is a gift from God and not take credit for it. By doing so, we honor God and show that we recognize our dependence on Him.
Real-World Application: When you experience success, whether in work or personal life, give God the glory for your achievements. Acknowledge His role in your progress and use your success as a platform to serve and honor Him, rather than elevating yourself.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Practice:

1. Embrace Stillness and Resist Temptation

Line from the chapter: “To be filled by the Spirit of God and embrace Oneness.”
Practice: Cultivate regular moments of stillness through prayer, meditation, and reflection, asking the Holy Spirit to fill you and guide your actions.
Explanation: In our fast-paced world, stillness allows us to disconnect from distractions and draw closer to God. By intentionally practicing silence, we become more sensitive to His voice and better equipped to resist temptations and worldly distractions.
Real-World Application: Set aside time each day to sit in silence, invite the Holy Spirit into your heart, and seek God’s peace. During moments of temptation, pause and center yourself in God’s presence, asking for His strength to overcome.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Cultivate Humility and Childlike Trust

Line from the chapter: “To quiet your soul and attain suppleness.”
Practice: Develop humility and trust in God, approaching Him with the openness and dependence of a child.
Explanation: Childlike humility involves surrendering control and trusting that God will guide your path. When we approach Him without pretense and with a willingness to learn and grow, we make room for His transformative work in our lives.
Real-World Application: In your daily life, adopt a posture of humility and trust in God. When making decisions, ask for His wisdom and surrender your own plans to His will. Rely on His strength and guidance, knowing He cares for you like a loving parent.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

3. Examine Your Own Heart and Live with Integrity

Line from the chapter: “To be free of worldly views.”
Practice: Regularly examine your heart and actions, ensuring you are living with integrity and not harboring judgment toward others.
Explanation: This principle calls for introspection and self-examination. By removing the “plank” from our own eyes, we avoid hypocrisy and approach others with humility and grace. This practice allows us to align ourselves with God’s truth and live authentically.
Real-World Application: Before criticizing others, take a moment to reflect on your own attitudes and actions. Practice confession and repentance, seeking forgiveness where necessary. Strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and truth, not just in appearance but in your heart.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

4. Lead with Love and Serve Others

Line from the chapter: “To love all people and rule the country.”
Practice: Lead others with love and service, avoiding self-promotion and seeking to meet the needs of those around you.
Explanation: God’s model of leadership involves serving others, putting their needs above your own. This principle challenges us to lead by example, demonstrating compassion and humility in every situation. When we serve others, we reflect Christ’s love in a tangible way.
Real-World Application: Whether at work, in your family, or within your community, practice servant leadership. Look for ways to lift others up, support them, and meet their needs. Choose love over power and humility over control in your interactions.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

5. Align Your Actions with God’s Word

Line from the chapter: “To enter the opening and closing gate of Heaven.”
Practice: Align every area of your life with the teachings of the Bible, making God’s Word the foundation for your decisions.
Explanation: Living according to God’s Word ensures that our actions align with His will. This principle encourages us to allow Scripture to guide our choices, providing wisdom and direction for our lives. By doing so, we open ourselves to the blessings and guidance of God.
Real-World Application: Spend time daily reading and meditating on God’s Word, and make it a habit to pray for understanding. In your daily decisions, ask yourself how your choices align with Scripture. Seek counsel from the Bible in moments of difficulty or uncertainty.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

6. Speak Less, Listen More

Line from the chapter: “To understand the Word as taught by the Spirit.”
Practice: Practice restraint in your speech, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Be quick to listen and slow to speak.
Explanation: In a world full of noise and constant communication, the ability to listen and speak wisely is a virtue. Restraining our words and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us ensures that our communication reflects God’s love and truth, rather than impulsive or hurtful responses.
Real-World Application: In conversations, particularly in times of conflict, listen carefully and be thoughtful before responding. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and speak with intention, choosing words that build up and bring peace.
Scripture Reference: James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

7. Recognize God as the Source of All Life

Line from the chapter: “He created us, He nurtures us.”
Practice: Acknowledge God as the source of all life and nurture a heart of gratitude for His provision.
Explanation: Recognizing God as the Creator and Sustainer of life helps us maintain an attitude of gratitude and dependence on Him. It reminds us that all that we have is a gift from God, and we are stewards of His blessings.
Real-World Application: Begin each day by acknowledging God’s goodness and thanking Him for the gift of life. In your work and relationships, remember that everything you have is from God, and use it for His glory. Practice thankfulness in every circumstance.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

8. Practice Generosity Without Attachment

Line from the chapter: “He gives life without possessing.”
Practice: Live generously, giving freely of your time, resources, and talents without attaching conditions or expectations.
Explanation: Just as God gives freely without possessing, we are called to be generous in all aspects of our lives. This principle encourages us to give out of love, not out of obligation, and to trust that God will continue to provide for us as we bless others.
Real-World Application: Look for opportunities to serve and give to others, whether financially, emotionally, or physically. Do so without expecting anything in return, trusting that God sees your generosity and will bless you in return.
Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

9. Stay Humble in Achievements

Line from the chapter: “He achieves without taking credit.”
Practice: Practice humility in your achievements, giving God the glory for all that you accomplish.
Explanation: This principle calls us to acknowledge that all our successes are ultimately from God. We are merely His vessels, and any accomplishment is a result of His grace and guidance. Living with humility in success prevents pride from taking root and reminds us to use our gifts to serve others.
Real-World Application: When you experience success, whether in career, ministry, or personal life, publicly acknowledge God as the source of your success. Use your achievements as opportunities to serve and bless others, rather than to elevate yourself.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

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. Stillness and Resisting Temptation

Line from the chapter: “To be filled by the Spirit of God and embrace Oneness.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 26:41 – “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
- Islam: Quran 2:45 – “Seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.”
- Buddhism: Meditation is seen as a means of gaining stillness and overcoming the distractions of the mind.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises to meditate and surrender to God, overcoming worldly desires (Bhagavad Gita 9.22).
How This Unites Us: Across these religions, the common thread is the importance of stillness, discipline, and spiritual focus to resist worldly distractions and temptations. Each tradition teaches that seeking divine presence through stillness helps overcome worldly urges.
Real-World Application: Regular spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection help build resilience against distractions. Set aside time each day to cultivate spiritual stillness, whether through prayer, deep reflection, or mindfulness.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Childlike Humility and Trust in God

Line from the chapter: “To quiet your soul and attain suppleness.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
- Islam: Quran 2:285 – “The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and so do the believers. Each one believes in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers, making no distinction between them.”
- Buddhism: Buddha emphasized the importance of purity of heart and a beginner’s mind, free from ego and full of openness.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita (9.22) speaks of approaching God with devotion and trust, free from ego and self-interest.
How This Unites Us: These traditions all emphasize the importance of humility, simplicity, and trust in God, which is central to spiritual growth and alignment with the divine will. They teach that spiritual progress begins with a humble and trusting heart, like that of a child.
Real-World Application: Approach life with a humble, open heart. Practice childlike trust in God by letting go of pride and allowing Him to lead, trusting His plan even when the path is unclear.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 18:3 – “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

3. Self-Examination and Authenticity

Line from the chapter: “To be free of worldly views.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
- Islam: Quran 2:44 – “Do you order righteousness of the people and forget yourselves while you recite the Scripture? Then will you not reason?”
- Buddhism: Buddha emphasized self-awareness and inner purity, encouraging practitioners to remove attachment and delusion.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita (2:47), it speaks about acting without attachment to the results and examining one’s own motives.
How This Unites Us: Every major tradition encourages self-awareness and introspection to avoid hypocrisy. By taking time to examine our actions and thoughts, we align ourselves with divine principles.
Real-World Application: Regular self-examination, repentance, and seeking alignment with divine truth helps ensure we live authentically. Take time for reflection, ask for forgiveness, and focus on internal transformation.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

4. Servant Leadership and Love for All

Line from the chapter: “To love all people and rule the country.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.”
- Islam: Quran 3:159 – “So by mercy from Allah, you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude, harsh-hearted, they would have disbanded from about you.”
- Buddhism: Buddha taught the importance of loving-kindness (metta) for all beings.
- Hinduism: The concept of Seva (selfless service) is central in Hinduism, where acts of service are considered a way of honoring God.
How This Unites Us: All these traditions emphasize love, service, and humility in leadership. True leadership is defined not by control or dominance but by service, compassion, and love for all people.
Real-World Application: Lead by example through acts of service. Help others in your community, serve at work, and love your enemies as Christ teaches. Practice humility and kindness in your leadership roles, both at home and in your workplace.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

5. Aligning with Divine Will

Line from the chapter: “To enter the opening and closing gate of Heaven.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 6:10 – “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
- Islam: Quran 3:19 – “Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”
- Buddhism: The Noble Eightfold Path encourages a life of ethical living in harmony with truth.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita (3:16) speaks of aligning with divine will through righteous action and devotion.
How This Unites Us: All religions teach the importance of aligning ourselves with the will of God or the divine, which is central to spiritual growth and purpose. Each tradition emphasizes that through aligning with divine truth, we access the fullness of life and eternal peace.
Real-World Application: Align your life’s goals, decisions, and actions with divine principles through regular prayer, scripture reading, and seeking guidance from God. In moments of uncertainty, ask for clarity on how God would have you act.
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

6. Wisdom in Silence

Line from the chapter: “To understand the Word as taught by the Spirit.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
- Islam: Quran 33:70 – “O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice.”
- Buddhism: The concept of mindful speech—speaking only words that are true, kind, and necessary—is emphasized in Buddhist teachings.
- Hinduism: The importance of speech in maintaining purity and kindness is emphasized in the Yamas of the Yoga Sutras.
How This Unites Us: Across all traditions, the power of speech is recognized. By being wise with our words, we reflect the wisdom of the divine and avoid causing harm. Silence is valued as a way to listen to the deeper truths of the Spirit.
Real-World Application: Practice active listening in conversations. Be mindful of your words and use them to build up others, rather than to tear down. Use silence to hear God’s voice and reflect before speaking.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 10:19 – “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.”

7. Generosity and Gratitude

Line from the chapter: “He gives life without possessing.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Luke 6:38 – “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”
- Islam: Quran 2:261 – “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a grain of wheat that grows seven spikes, each of which contains a hundred grains.”
- Buddhism: Generosity (Dana) is one of the key virtues in Buddhism, emphasizing selfless giving.
- Hinduism: The concept of Dāna (charity) is fundamental, seen as an offering of love to God and others.
How This Unites Us: Generosity is a universal principle, emphasizing the need to give selflessly and without attachment. It is a means to align with divine love and transcend the ego.
Real-World Application: Practice generosity by sharing your time, wealth, and talents with others. Approach acts of giving with no expectation of return, and cultivate an attitude of gratitude for what you have.
Scripture Reference: Acts 20:35 – “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Summary

Chapter Highlights on the 3 Rs (Restore, Renewal, Respond) for the New Evangelization.

Restore

Renewal

Respond

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