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 12: Living in the Spirit

 

Sight betrays the eye a
Noise deafens the ear b

Gluttony dulls the taste c
Racing and wild hunting trouble the mind d
Worldly treasures confuse the heart e

Thus, the wise seek the Spirit and not the flesh f
Choosing the internal and letting go of the external g

 

a John 9:41; b Ecclesiastes 12:4; Mark 4:9; 1 Kings 19:12; c Romans 14:17; Proverbs 23:19-21; Colossians 2:16-19; Philippians 3:19; d Psalm 37:7-9; Proverbs 19:21; 1 John 2:10; Romans 14:13; f John 6:63; Matthew 26:41; Philippians 3:3; g 1 Samuel 16:7.



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 Clarity and Discernment

  • Line from the chapter: “Sight betrays the eye. Noise deafens the ear.”
  • Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of discernment, where clarity and stillness take priority over external distractions.
  • Explanation: In a world full of distractions—visual, auditory, and mental—it’s easy to lose focus on what truly matters. Developing a mindset of discernment helps us focus on the inner truths, the things that God wants us to see and hear beyond the noise of society. This mindset requires us to tune out worldly distractions and turn our attention inward, where God can speak to us through His Spirit.
  • Real-world application: When you’re overwhelmed by external noise, take intentional breaks to pray or meditate. Seek times of solitude where you can connect with God, allowing His voice to become louder than the distractions around you.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Mindset of Moderation and Self-Control

  • Line from the chapter: “Gluttony dulls the taste.”
  • Mindset: Adopt a mindset of moderation and self-control in all areas of life, including physical desires, consumption, and indulgence.
  • Explanation: Gluttony dulls not just the physical senses but also our spiritual sensitivity. By embracing moderation, we allow ourselves to remain alert and spiritually attuned. This mindset encourages us to avoid excess and to focus on that which is essential—both for our physical and spiritual well-being. It reminds us that true satisfaction comes not from indulgence, but from simplicity and balance.
  • Real-world application: Start with practical steps like eating in moderation, limiting indulgences, and reassessing how you spend your time and resources. Engage in acts of fasting or self-discipline, such as setting boundaries on screen time or material purchases.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 9:27 – “No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

3. Mindset of Simplicity and Focus

  • Line from the chapter: “Racing and wild hunting trouble the mind.”
  • Mindset: Approach life with a mindset of simplicity and focus, avoiding the rush and distractions that pull us away from our purpose.
  • Explanation: The modern world encourages speed, efficiency, and constant activity. But these pursuits often trouble the mind and prevent us from deeply connecting with our true purpose. The mindset of simplicity allows us to avoid burnout, enabling us to focus on what truly matters—God’s calling, relationships, and inner peace.
  • Real-world application: Practice mindfulness in everything you do, from work to family life. Break down your to-do list into manageable tasks and tackle them one by one. Instead of multitasking, choose to be fully present in each moment.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

4. Mindset of Detachment from Materialism

  • Line from the chapter: “Worldly treasures confuse the heart.”
  • Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of detachment from material wealth, understanding that true fulfillment comes from spiritual treasures, not earthly possessions.
  • Explanation: Worldly treasures can easily become a source of confusion, leading us to equate success and happiness with material wealth. This mindset encourages us to keep a proper perspective on material things, recognizing that they are temporary and can never satisfy our deeper spiritual needs. By detaching ourselves from the pursuit of wealth, we free ourselves to focus on God’s greater plan for us.
  • Real-world application: Reevaluate your relationship with possessions and money. Instead of pursuing material gain as an end in itself, shift your focus to how you can use your resources to serve others and advance God’s kingdom.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”

5. Mindset of Spiritual Priorities

  • Line from the chapter: “Thus, the wise seek the Spirit and not the flesh.”
  • Mindset: Focus on spiritual growth and eternal values rather than earthly desires and immediate gratification.
  • Explanation: The flesh seeks momentary pleasures, but the Spirit calls us to seek deeper, lasting fulfillment. This mindset prioritizes our spiritual life, guiding us to focus on things that bring us closer to God and His eternal kingdom. It shifts our desires away from temporary satisfaction to the pursuit of divine purpose and lasting joy.
  • Real-world application: Shift your goals from material success to spiritual growth. Spend time daily in prayer, Bible study, and serving others. Embrace practices that strengthen your spirit and deepen your relationship with God.
  • Scripture Reference: Romans 8:5 – “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”

6. Mindset of Emptiness Filled with the Spirit

  • Line from the chapter: “What profit is the body without the emptiness indwelt by the Holy Spirit?”
  • Mindset: Embrace the mindset of spiritual emptiness—making space for the Holy Spirit to dwell within us and fill us with His purpose.
  • Explanation: This principle encourages us to recognize that without the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we are like an empty vessel. Our bodies and lives are meant to be filled with God’s purpose and grace. By cultivating a mindset of spiritual emptiness, we open ourselves to His transformation and guidance.
  • Real-world application: Set aside time to invite the Holy Spirit into every aspect of your life—your work, relationships, and personal time. Daily surrender your will and make space for His presence to fill you.
  • Scripture Reference: John 14:17 – “The Spirit of truth… He lives with you and will be in you.”

In today’s world, it is essential to develop a mindset that is aligned with God’s purpose and truth. By focusing on spiritual clarity, self-control, simplicity, detachment from materialism, spiritual priorities, and openness to the Holy Spirit, we can navigate the challenges of modern life while staying rooted in the eternal truths that guide us toward fulfilling God’s will.

 

AIM:

1. Aim for Inner Clarity and Stillness

  • Line from the chapter: “Sight betrays the eye. Noise deafens the ear.”
  • Aim: Focus on inner stillness and clarity, tuning out external distractions.
  • Explanation: In a world full of distractions, we must aim to cultivate a quiet mind and a discerning heart. External stimuli, such as images, sounds, and opinions, can cloud our spiritual vision. The goal is to quiet the noise around us and seek clarity within. By doing so, we allow God to guide us more effectively.
  • Real-world application: Set aside daily moments for prayer or meditation, reducing the noise of daily life. During these moments, practice being still and opening your heart to God’s voice, free from the distractions of the world.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Aim for Moderation and Discipline in Your Desires

  • Line from the chapter: “Gluttony dulls the taste.”
  • Aim: Cultivate self-control and moderation in all things.
  • Explanation: Overindulgence in food, material possessions, or desires dulls our spiritual sensitivity and can lead to a life that is disconnected from God’s purpose. Aim to practice moderation and discipline in every area of life, avoiding excess that leads to imbalance. When we cultivate temperance, we allow ourselves to remain open to deeper, spiritual fulfillment.
  • Real-world application: Be mindful of what you consume—whether food, media, or material goods—and make intentional choices that support your spiritual health. Practice fasting or limit indulgences to develop greater self-control.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 9:25 – “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.”

3. Aim for Simplicity and Focus in Your Actions

  • Line from the chapter: “Racing and wild hunting trouble the mind.”
  • Aim: Seek simplicity and clarity in your daily tasks and goals.
  • Explanation: In a world that prizes speed and achievement, it is important to resist the temptation to rush through life. Aim for simplicity, intentionality, and focus. This allows you to direct your energy toward what truly matters, leaving behind distractions and needless pursuits that hinder spiritual growth.
  • Real-world application: Slow down in your actions. Avoid multitasking and set specific, focused intentions for each day. Take time to reflect on your life’s direction and ensure that your goals align with your spiritual purpose.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

4. Aim for Freedom from Material Attachment

  • Line from the chapter: “Worldly treasures confuse the heart.”
  • Aim: Prioritize eternal, spiritual values over worldly possessions.
  • Explanation: Materialism often leads us to confusion, as we mistakenly equate possessions or wealth with happiness and success. The aim is to free ourselves from attachment to the fleeting things of this world and focus on what is eternal—love, kindness, and service to others. By doing so, we align our lives with God’s greater purpose.
  • Real-world application: Regularly assess your relationship with material possessions. Avoid consumerism and embrace generosity, knowing that wealth is not the true measure of success.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”

5. Aim for the Spirit Over the Flesh

  • Line from the chapter: “Thus, the wise seek the Spirit and not the flesh.”
  • Aim: Prioritize spiritual growth and heavenly rewards over earthly pleasures.
  • Explanation: The flesh often seeks immediate gratification, but the Spirit calls us to something higher—eternal life, peace, and joy that transcends temporary pleasures. Aim to focus on nurturing your spirit through prayer, worship, and love for others. By doing so, you fulfill the purpose God has set for you.
  • Real-world application: In moments of temptation, pause and reflect: Is this action serving your spiritual growth? Choose spiritual activities like prayer, reading the Bible, and helping others over momentary pleasures.
  • Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:16 – “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

6. Aim for Spiritual Fulfillment Over Physical Success

  • Line from the chapter: “What profit is the body without the emptiness indwelt by the Holy Spirit?”
  • Aim: Seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit rather than focusing solely on physical success.
  • Explanation: True fulfillment is not found in external accomplishments, but in the depth of our relationship with God. The body is a vessel, but it is the Spirit that gives it life and purpose. Aim to nurture the inner life—your connection to God—above all else.
  • Real-world application: Focus on cultivating your inner spiritual life through regular communion with God, meditation on His word, and living according to His will. Value your soul’s growth over outward success.
  • Scripture Reference: John 6:63 – “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.”

In today’s world, we must set our sights on what truly matters—inner peace, spiritual growth, and alignment with God’s purpose. These principles from the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching guide us toward a life that is simple, focused, and rich in eternal value, rather than one that chases fleeting distractions or material gain. By aiming for these virtues, we live in a way that honors God and fulfills His purpose for our lives.

 

Practice:

1. Embrace the Power of Inner Stillness

  • Line from the chapter: “Sight betrays the eye. Noise deafens the ear.”
  • Practice: Cultivate moments of stillness and silence.
  • Explanation: The distractions of external stimuli—whether sight, sound, or other sensory experiences—can often cloud our judgment and spiritual clarity. To live according to the Way of God, we must intentionally seek inner peace and quiet the mind. By doing so, we open ourselves to listen to God’s voice, discern His guidance, and deepen our connection to the divine.
  • Real-world application: Begin your day with quiet prayer or meditation, shutting off external distractions like phones, media, or noise. In times of decision, pause to reflect inwardly before acting.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

2. Practice Moderation in All Things

  • Line from the chapter: “Gluttony dulls the taste.”
  • Practice: Practice moderation in eating, spending, and other indulgences.
  • Explanation: Overindulgence in material or physical pleasures distracts us from our spiritual purpose and dulls our sensitivity to God’s presence. By practicing moderation, we avoid becoming entangled in the excesses of the flesh, allowing us to maintain a deeper spiritual focus. This principle also reminds us that our physical bodies are vessels meant to serve a higher calling, not to be consumed by selfish cravings.
  • Real-world application: Choose to fast periodically, not only from food but from anything that might be distracting—be it entertainment, material pursuits, or excessive work. Use these moments to reconnect with your higher purpose.
  • Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:5 – “Let your moderation be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.”

3. Slow Down and Focus on What Truly Matters

  • Line from the chapter: “Racing and wild hunting trouble the mind.”
  • Practice: Slow down and evaluate the true purpose behind your pursuits.
  • Explanation: Our fast-paced society encourages constant activity and striving, which often leads to stress, confusion, and a lack of peace. The Way of God calls us to evaluate our desires and actions, seeking alignment with divine purpose rather than worldly success. A life that is too focused on external accomplishments can cloud our spiritual clarity, so we are encouraged to pursue only what will truly satisfy our soul.
  • Real-world application: Take regular time to reflect on your life’s direction. Are you pursuing goals that bring lasting peace, or are you chasing after things that only bring temporary satisfaction? Reevaluate priorities and find ways to slow down in your work, relationships, and goals.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

4. Avoid Becoming Attached to Material Possessions

  • Line from the chapter: “Worldly treasures confuse the heart.”
  • Practice: Cultivate detachment from material goods and focus on spiritual wealth.
  • Explanation: Materialism can cloud our hearts and minds, leading us away from God’s true purpose for our lives. When we become too focused on accumulating wealth, status, or material possessions, we lose sight of what truly brings joy and fulfillment: a relationship with God and a life of service. The practice of detachment frees us to live more fully in the presence of God, relying on His provision rather than worldly security.
  • Real-world application: Regularly assess your attachment to material possessions. Practice generosity by donating items you no longer need or supporting those in need. Set boundaries for yourself in terms of consumption and wealth accumulation.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”

5. Seek the Spirit, Not the Flesh

  • Line from the chapter: “Thus, the wise seek the Spirit and not the flesh.”
  • Practice: Prioritize spiritual growth over worldly desires.
  • Explanation: The flesh represents our earthly desires, often rooted in selfishness or short-term gratification, while the Spirit represents the divine, guiding us toward love, wisdom, and eternal truths. To fulfill our purpose according to the Way of God, we must choose spiritual fulfillment over earthly pleasures. This involves living with an eternal perspective and seeking to serve others and grow in love, peace, and understanding.
  • Real-world application: In decision-making, ask yourself if the choice is rooted in short-term satisfaction or long-term spiritual growth. Embrace a lifestyle of prayer, worship, and service that reflects your desire to follow the Spirit rather than the impulses of the flesh.
  • Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:16 – “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

6. Find Value in the Invisible and Intangible

  • Line from the chapter: “What profit is the body without the emptiness indwelt by the Holy Spirit?”
  • Practice: Focus on cultivating your spiritual life and nurturing your relationship with God.
  • Explanation: While physical appearance, wealth, and external accomplishments may seem valuable in the eyes of the world, they are temporary. The true profit in life is found in spiritual fulfillment and in being indwelt by the Holy Spirit, which brings eternal life and peace. By nurturing the inner life through prayer, contemplation, and acts of service, we fulfill our divine purpose and experience the richness of God’s presence.
  • Real-world application: Prioritize spiritual practices like daily prayer, meditation on the Scriptures, and engaging in acts of kindness. Invest in building your inner spiritual strength and cultivating peace, knowing that this is what will sustain you in the long term.
  • Scripture Reference: Ephesians 3:17 – “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love…”

In today’s world, we must practice mindfulness, moderation, and spiritual growth to align with God’s purpose for our lives. These principles from the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching challenge us to slow down, focus on the inner life, and cultivate a deeper connection with the Divine. By practicing these principles, we align our lives with God’s will and find true fulfillment, not in external achievements or possessions, but in the peace and presence of the Holy Spirit.

 



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 Limitations of External Perception

  • Line from the chapter: “Sight betrays the eye.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). True perception comes from spiritual insight, not worldly appearances.
    • Buddhism: The concept of seeing beyond illusions or “Maya” teaches that reality is often obscured by our perceptions.
    • Hinduism: The idea of “Jnana” (knowledge) encourages discerning truth beyond surface appearances, aligning with the need to see through the divine, not the material world.
    • Islam: “Say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge'” (Quran 20:114). Islam encourages a deeper, spiritual understanding of life beyond external views.

  • How This Unites Us: All major religions highlight the importance of seeing with spiritual eyes, not just physical ones. True wisdom and understanding come from seeking divine insight rather than relying on mere appearances. This encourages humility and openness to God’s greater truth, beyond what is seen.

  • Real-World Application: Instead of judging a situation or person based on first impressions or external factors, approach them with the awareness that true understanding requires deeper insight, often gained through prayer, reflection, or meditation.

  • Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:7 – “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

2. The Value of Inner Silence

  • Line from the chapter: “Noise deafens the ear.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Spiritual clarity comes in moments of quiet.
    • Buddhism: The practice of meditation emphasizes silence and inner peace to calm the mind.
    • Hinduism: “Silence is the language of God, all else is poor translation.” The importance of quieting the mind to listen for the divine.
    • Islam: The practice of prayer (Salah) includes moments of stillness to align oneself with God’s will, fostering a relationship through silent devotion.

  • How This Unites Us: The silence advocated in each tradition reflects a shared understanding that God or spiritual truth cannot be fully understood through noise or worldly distractions. It is in quietness that we hear the voice of the Divine.

  • Real-World Application: Seek silence and solitude in daily life—whether through meditation, prayer, or simply taking a break from distractions—so you can better listen to what God is speaking to you.

  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”

3. The Danger of Overindulgence

  • Line from the chapter: “Gluttony dulls the taste.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth” (Matthew 6:19-21). The love of material things can blind us to spiritual nourishment.
    • Buddhism: The Middle Way encourages moderation and balance, avoiding excess in all areas of life.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches that self-control over desires and appetites leads to spiritual growth.
    • Islam: “Eat and drink, but be not excessive” (Quran 7:31). Islam teaches moderation in all things, especially in consumption.

  • How This Unites Us: All religions emphasize moderation and self-discipline, warning against indulgence in material or sensory pleasures. They teach that such excess impairs our spiritual well-being and connection to the Divine.

  • Real-World Application: Practice moderation in your daily life, especially in eating, material pursuits, and entertainment. Focus on the nourishment of the spirit rather than overindulgence in the flesh.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.”

4. The Dangers of Constant Striving

  • Line from the chapter: “Racing and wild hunting trouble the mind.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matthew 6:34). The pursuit of worldly success and the stress it brings can interfere with peace.
    • Buddhism: The Eightfold Path teaches to avoid attachment and striving, cultivating a peaceful mind free from the anxiety of desires.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita advises renouncing the fruits of action and focusing on selfless work, which brings peace and clarity.
    • Islam: The Quran speaks about surrendering to God’s will and not being consumed by the pursuit of worldly things (Quran 2:201).

  • How This Unites Us: The message in all traditions is clear: the constant race for material success and pleasure disrupts inner peace and clarity. True fulfillment comes from aligning oneself with spiritual values, not chasing after fleeting desires.

  • Real-World Application: Focus on slowing down and reflecting on your actions before pursuing them. Practice mindfulness, and prioritize actions that align with your higher purpose and values.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

5. The Confusion of Materialism

  • Line from the chapter: “Worldly treasures confuse the heart.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Material wealth can mislead the heart from its true purpose.
    • Buddhism: The Buddha teaches that attachment to material things causes suffering. Only detachment can lead to true peace.
    • Hinduism: The pursuit of wealth is often seen as a lower pursuit compared to seeking spiritual knowledge and connection with the divine.
    • Islam: The Quran warns against the love of money, urging believers to focus on the remembrance of Allah and the pursuit of good deeds.

  • How This Unites Us: All religions emphasize the danger of wealth and material possessions. They teach that true fulfillment comes not from earthly gain but from spiritual alignment and selfless living.

  • Real-World Application: Regularly assess what you value most in life. Shift your focus from material accumulation to spiritual growth and service to others.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:21 – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

6. The Primacy of the Spirit over the Flesh

  • Line from the chapter: “Thus, the wise seek the Spirit and not the flesh.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). Christians are encouraged to live according to the Spirit, not the flesh.
    • Buddhism: Emphasizes the importance of cultivating the mind and spirit over bodily pleasures and material attachments.
    • Hinduism: The Gita teaches detachment from worldly desires and an embrace of the spiritual path, focusing on devotion to God.
    • Islam: Islam teaches the importance of purifying the heart and soul, seeking God’s pleasure over worldly gratification.

  • How This Unites Us: Every tradition calls for transcending bodily desires in favor of spiritual growth. The essence of spiritual life in all religions is to prioritize the spirit over the flesh, aligning with divine purposes.

  • Real-World Application: When faced with temptation or desires that conflict with your higher purpose, make a conscious choice to prioritize spiritual fulfillment over immediate gratification. Practice fasting, prayer, or acts of service to strengthen your connection to the Spirit.

  • Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:16 – “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

The universal truths found in these principles span across the major world religions, calling for moderation, spiritual discernment, inner peace, and a deep connection with the divine. Whether in Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, or Islam, the shared message is one of moving beyond worldly distractions and aligning with spiritual truths. By integrating these principles into your life, you align yourself with a common purpose that transcends individual faith traditions, fostering unity and growth in the pursuit of God’s will.

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