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 15: Power in Stillness

 

The chosen are most profound and subtle a
Their wisdom is measureless 
We cannot discover its depth 
All we can do is describe their appearance 

Careful, like men crossing thin ice b
Watchful, like men waiting for their master c
Courteous, like a guest d
Yielding, like melting ice e
Simple, like an uncarved block of wood f
Open-minded, like a widespread valley g 
Non-revealing, like muddy water h

Who can be still while the muddy water clears?
It is in stillness that the mind becomes clear i
Who can be calm and yet persist? 
It is in stillness that the right action arises 

Men of God do not need to be self-fulfilled j
Since they have no desire to be self-fulfilled 
They can live in the present moment

 

a  Ecclesiastes 7:23-25; 1 Kings 4:29-34; b Ephesians 5:15-17; Luke 21:34; 1 Corinthians 8:9; c Luke 12:35-40; d Luke 14:10-11; e Psalm 1:1-3; f 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; g  Isaiah 40:4; Psalm 23:4; Matthew 7:7-8; h Numbers 5:16-31; Proverbs 25:26; John 8:54; Matthew 7:6; i Psalm 46:10; Psalm 37:7-8; Luke 8:24-25; j 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Galatians 5:16-18; James 4:13-17.



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. Approaching with Humility and Depth

  • Line from Chapter: “The chosen are most profound and subtle; their wisdom is measureless.”
  • Mindset: Begin with humility, recognizing the depth and vastness of true wisdom, which goes beyond our limited understanding.
  • Explanation: This principle reminds us that true wisdom is beyond measure and often hidden. Before taking action, embrace a mindset that seeks understanding and discernment, knowing that deep wisdom requires humility and patience. This perspective allows us to approach decisions with respect for the unknown and a readiness to learn.
  • Real-world Application: In moments of decision-making or leadership, acknowledge that true wisdom often goes deeper than immediate solutions. Listen to others’ perspectives, and allow time to reflect and understand the layers beneath each situation.
  • Scripture Reference: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10

2. Maintaining Caution and Awareness

  • Line from Chapter: “Careful, like men crossing thin ice; watchful, like men waiting for their master.”
  • Mindset: Approach every task with caution and attentiveness, aware of each step’s impact on your path and others.
  • Explanation: This mindset encourages mindfulness in our actions. Like those crossing thin ice, we must recognize the delicate balance in life and approach each situation with care and respect. This means staying alert to God’s guidance and remembering that our actions have real, lasting effects.
  • Real-world Application: Before making big life choices or leading others, pause and consider how your actions might impact others. Reflect in prayer or meditation, inviting God’s guidance to make thoughtful, considerate decisions.
  • Scripture Reference: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” – Matthew 24:42

3. Approaching Others with Courtesy and Respect

  • Line from Chapter: “Courteous, like a guest; yielding, like melting ice; simple, like an uncarved block of wood.”
  • Mindset: Adopt an attitude of gentleness and respect for others, approaching each situation with a yielding and open heart.
  • Explanation: Just as a courteous guest is respectful and adaptable, this mindset encourages us to be humble and respectful toward others, keeping our hearts unguarded and ready to listen. Yielding like melting ice implies a gentle, cooperative spirit, letting go of rigid stances.
  • Real-world Application: In conversations or disagreements, approach others with an attitude of respect and openness. Be willing to listen without insisting on your viewpoint, and allow room for mutual understanding to develop.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

4. Maintaining an Open and Receptive Heart

  • Line from Chapter: “Open-minded, like a widespread valley; non-revealing, like muddy water.”
  • Mindset: Stay open to new ideas and possibilities, allowing time for clarity to emerge naturally rather than forcing answers.
  • Explanation: An open-minded heart is receptive to the wisdom around it, much like a valley that receives all things openly. Holding back judgment is like letting muddy water settle—clarity comes with patience. This mindset reminds us to pause, observe, and allow deeper understanding to surface in God’s time.
  • Real-world Application: In a fast-paced world, practice pausing rather than jumping to conclusions. Give yourself and others the grace to gain clarity over time rather than reacting impulsively.
  • Scripture Reference: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Finding Patience in Stillness

  • Line from Chapter: “Who can be still while the muddy water clears? It is in stillness that the mind becomes clear.”
  • Mindset: Approach life with patience, trusting that clarity and insight will come through stillness and calm.
  • Explanation: Stillness allows time for thoughts and emotions to settle, letting us see situations clearly without distortion. This mindset fosters trust in the process, believing that God’s guidance will come in moments of quiet rather than through hurried action.
  • Real-world Application: When facing challenging situations or decisions, take time to find stillness through prayer or meditation. Trust that by pausing, God’s wisdom and guidance will reveal the right course of action.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

6. Releasing Self-centered Desires

  • Line from Chapter: “Men of God do not need to be self-fulfilled. Since they have no desire to be self-fulfilled, they can live in the present moment.”
  • Mindset: Let go of personal ambition, focusing instead on serving God’s purpose and living fully in the present.
  • Explanation: When we release the drive for self-fulfillment, we become free to live in the present and open to God’s will. This mindset shifts the focus from personal gain to genuine presence, service, and gratitude. Living without constant concern for self allows us to better follow God’s guidance moment by moment.
  • Real-world Application: In daily life, practice gratitude and contentment, letting go of concerns about what you need to accomplish for personal satisfaction. Focus on serving others and honoring God’s work through your actions and presence.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

AIM:

1. Aim for Depth and Spiritual Understanding

  • Line from Chapter: “The chosen are most profound and subtle; their wisdom is measureless.”
  • Aim: Seek spiritual depth and understanding, recognizing that true wisdom is often subtle and beyond immediate comprehension.
  • Explanation: In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in surface-level information and quick answers. But this principle teaches us to aim for deeper spiritual understanding and insight, acknowledging that true wisdom is vast and often hidden. Rather than rushing, we are encouraged to look beyond the obvious and seek wisdom that aligns with God’s greater truth.
  • Real-world Application: Spend time in quiet reflection, study, and prayer before making major decisions. Allow God’s wisdom to guide you rather than relying solely on worldly knowledge. This could mean reading scripture, engaging with mentors, or exploring teachings that encourage deeper understanding.
  • Scripture Reference: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6

2. Aim for Awareness and Attentiveness

  • Line from Chapter: “Careful, like men crossing thin ice; watchful, like men waiting for their master.”
  • Aim: Be attentive and mindful in every action, staying aware of God’s presence and guidance.
  • Explanation: This principle encourages us to approach life with caution and vigilance, keeping our eyes open to God’s will in every moment. Like crossing thin ice, we should consider our steps carefully, knowing that each decision matters and that we are ultimately accountable to God.
  • Real-world Application: In your daily routine, aim to remain focused and aware, whether at work or home. Before important decisions, take a moment to pause, breathe, and invite God’s guidance. For instance, practice a moment of prayer before meetings or challenging tasks, seeking God’s wisdom for each step.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8

3. Aim for Humility and Openness

  • Line from Chapter: “Courteous, like a guest; yielding, like melting ice; simple, like an uncarved block of wood.”
  • Aim: Foster a humble and open heart, willing to adapt and learn without rigid preconceptions.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches us to be courteous and humble, approaching others and life situations without pride or preconception. By being like an uncarved block of wood, we remain open to God’s shaping influence, and by yielding, we allow God’s guidance to direct us rather than forcing our own way.
  • Real-world Application: Practice listening more than speaking in conversations, being genuinely open to others’ perspectives. Aim to let go of assumptions and respond with grace and patience, whether in family relationships, work, or community interactions.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

4. Aim for Openness to Growth and Clarity

  • Line from Chapter: “Open-minded, like a widespread valley; non-revealing, like muddy water.”
  • Aim: Keep a heart and mind open to growth, allowing time for clarity and understanding to emerge.
  • Explanation: This principle encourages us to be like a valley, open and receptive to all things. It teaches that we should not rush to reveal everything at once but instead allow thoughts and feelings to settle. Clarity comes with patience and openness to God’s wisdom.
  • Real-world Application: When faced with uncertainty or stress, resist the urge to make hasty conclusions. Take time to pause and reflect. For example, in times of confusion, set aside dedicated moments for prayer or meditation, trusting that God’s guidance will become clearer over time.
  • Scripture Reference: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Aim for Patience and Stillness

  • Line from Chapter: “Who can be still while the muddy water clears? It is in stillness that the mind becomes clear.”
  • Aim: Embrace patience and trust in stillness, allowing God to reveal the path in His timing.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches that clarity and wisdom come through patience and stillness. When life is confusing or difficult, we must be willing to pause and wait, trusting that God will provide understanding in due time.
  • Real-world Application: In moments of stress, instead of reacting impulsively, practice patience. For instance, if a work decision feels pressured, take a moment of silence or prayer to gain clarity before acting. Allow your mind to calm, and listen for God’s quiet guidance.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

6. Aim for Selflessness and Living in the Present

  • Line from Chapter: “Men of God do not need to be self-fulfilled. Since they have no desire to be self-fulfilled, they can live in the present moment.”
  • Aim: Release self-centered pursuits and focus on living in alignment with God’s purpose, fully engaged in the present.
  • Explanation: By letting go of the need to pursue personal gain or satisfaction, we become free to live in the present moment and serve others with joy and gratitude. This principle encourages a life focused on God’s will, rather than our own desires, leading to genuine fulfillment.
  • Real-world Application: Practice contentment by shifting your focus from personal goals to acts of service and kindness. For example, when faced with an opportunity to help others, prioritize it over self-centered ambitions, trusting that God will provide for your needs.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

Practice:

1. Practicing Depth and Reverence in Understanding

  • Line from Chapter: “The chosen are most profound and subtle; their wisdom is measureless.”
  • Practice: Cultivate a sense of reverence and seek a deeper understanding of God’s wisdom beyond surface-level knowledge.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches us to approach life and faith with a desire for true understanding rather than superficial answers. Practicing depth involves dedicating time to prayer, scripture, and spiritual reflection, allowing us to move beyond quick solutions and instead seek the timeless wisdom God offers.
  • Real-world Application: Dedicate time each day to study scripture and meditate on its deeper meanings. Reflect on how these teachings apply to current challenges or decisions, asking God for insight beyond what appears immediately clear.
  • Scripture Reference: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10

2. Practicing Vigilance and Caution

  • Line from Chapter: “Careful, like men crossing thin ice; watchful, like men waiting for their master.”
  • Practice: Develop a vigilant mindset, remaining cautious and attentive to God’s direction in every decision.
  • Explanation: Practicing vigilance involves staying alert to both the opportunities and challenges presented in life. It’s about being sensitive to God’s will in each situation, knowing that our choices have real impact. This watchful approach helps us avoid impulsive actions and encourages discernment, listening for God’s guidance.
  • Real-world Application: In decision-making, pause and pray, asking God for direction. For example, before accepting a new responsibility or making a financial decision, consider the impact it may have on your life and others, inviting God’s insight.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8

3. Practicing Humility and Open-heartedness

  • Line from Chapter: “Courteous, like a guest; yielding, like melting ice; simple, like an uncarved block of wood.”
  • Practice: Approach others with humility and a willingness to yield, showing openness to God’s shaping influence.
  • Explanation: This practice is about embracing humility and simplicity. Like a guest who treats the host with respect, or melting ice that takes the shape of its surroundings, we are to remain flexible and open, allowing God to mold us according to His purpose.
  • Real-world Application: In interactions with others, listen more and speak with kindness, allowing space for their perspectives. Seek to yield your own preferences, trusting that God may be teaching or guiding through others’ insights.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

4. Practicing Openness to Growth and Wisdom

  • Line from Chapter: “Open-minded, like a widespread valley; non-revealing, like muddy water.”
  • Practice: Keep an open mind and heart, allowing time for wisdom and clarity to emerge in God’s timing.
  • Explanation: Just as a valley accepts all things openly, we are called to maintain openness to new perspectives and lessons. This practice encourages us to accept that understanding may not come immediately but will reveal itself in God’s timing as we remain receptive.
  • Real-world Application: When faced with uncertainty or conflicting ideas, resist making quick judgments. Practice patience, allowing yourself to absorb and consider different perspectives. For example, in a discussion, avoid rushing to conclusions and instead listen with an open heart.
  • Scripture Reference: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Practicing Stillness and Patience

  • Line from Chapter: “Who can be still while the muddy water clears? It is in stillness that the mind becomes clear.”
  • Practice: Embrace stillness and patience, trusting that clarity and wisdom come in God’s timing.
  • Explanation: Stillness is a form of trust and surrender. By pausing and letting the “muddy water” of our thoughts settle, we allow clarity to emerge naturally rather than forcing an outcome. This practice encourages us to let go of urgency and to wait on God’s timing for the right course of action.
  • Real-world Application: Take time each day for moments of silence, allowing your mind to rest in stillness. In situations that feel unclear or overwhelming, resist the urge to act immediately; instead, practice patience, trusting that insight will come as you let go and wait.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

6. Practicing Selflessness and Presence

  • Line from Chapter: “Men of God do not need to be self-fulfilled. Since they have no desire to be self-fulfilled, they can live in the present moment.”
  • Practice: Release personal ambitions and focus on living fully in the present, aligning with God’s purpose rather than seeking self-fulfillment.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches that self-fulfillment can become a barrier to true purpose. By letting go of the desire to satisfy personal goals, we open ourselves to serve God’s purpose in the here and now. Practicing selflessness allows us to experience each moment with gratitude and attentiveness, free from the distractions of personal ambition.
  • Real-world Application: Shift your focus from pursuing personal achievements to serving others with love and gratitude. Practice being fully present with those around you, whether at work or home, and let go of the need to seek validation or accomplishments for self-gain.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3



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. Depth of Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding

  • Line from Chapter: “The chosen are most profound and subtle; their wisdom is measureless.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10
    • Judaism: In the Talmud, wisdom is highly valued as a divine gift. “Happy is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding.” – Proverbs 3:13
    • Islam: The Quran emphasizes that wisdom is given to those whom Allah chooses. “He grants wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been granted wisdom has been given much good.” – Quran 2:269
    • Buddhism: Wisdom (prajna) is one of the highest virtues, leading to enlightenment and ultimate understanding.
    • Hinduism: Wisdom (jnana) is a central theme in the Bhagavad Gita, where understanding and enlightenment are viewed as the ultimate goals.
  • How This Unites Us: Wisdom is universally seen as divine and transcendent in every major religion, connecting us through a shared reverence for profound spiritual insight. Each tradition encourages a pursuit of wisdom, not for personal gain, but as a journey toward understanding life, divinity, and self in deeper ways.
  • Real-world Application: Practicing wisdom can involve interfaith dialogue, where individuals from various backgrounds share spiritual insights and teachings. This fosters understanding, respect, and unity in diverse communities.
  • Scripture Reference: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6

2. Practicing Vigilance and Awareness

  • Line from Chapter: “Careful, like men crossing thin ice; watchful, like men waiting for their master.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Jesus instructed His followers to “be on guard” and to “keep watch,” as vigilance is necessary for spiritual readiness (Mark 13:33).
    • Judaism: The Shema prayer in Judaism is a call to be ever-mindful of God and His commandments, encouraging constant awareness.
    • Islam: The concept of Taqwa (God-consciousness) is central, urging Muslims to stay mindful of God in all actions.
    • Buddhism: Mindfulness (sati) is a core practice, fostering awareness in every moment.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches detachment and focus, urging practitioners to remain aware and mindful in action.
  • How This Unites Us: The value of vigilance and mindfulness is universal, underscoring the importance of staying attentive to our spiritual paths. Regardless of faith tradition, staying mindful of divine presence and ethical principles guides us toward compassion and thoughtful living.
  • Real-world Application: Developing mindfulness practices, such as meditation or focused prayer, can help us remain spiritually alert. This is something that can be shared across faith communities, promoting mutual respect and a shared commitment to spiritual growth.
  • Scripture Reference: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8

3. Humility and Openness

  • Line from Chapter: “Courteous, like a guest; yielding, like melting ice; simple, like an uncarved block of wood.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). Humility is a key teaching in Christian faith.
    • Judaism: The Talmud teaches that humility is the foundation of wisdom, and Moses, the greatest prophet, is described as “very humble, more than any other person” (Numbers 12:3).
    • Islam: Humility (tawadu) is highly valued, and Muslims are taught to be humble in their interactions and worship.
    • Buddhism: Humility is essential, as ego and pride are obstacles to enlightenment.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita extols humility as the foundation of spiritual growth, urging practitioners to see all beings as equal.
  • How This Unites Us: Humility is a universal quality that bridges all faiths, helping us acknowledge our limitations and see others with respect and compassion. In every tradition, humility is seen as a pathway to greater closeness with the divine and with others.
  • Real-world Application: Practicing humility can involve serving others selflessly, volunteering in community programs, or engaging in acts of kindness without seeking personal recognition. This builds unity by focusing on collective good rather than individual accomplishment.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3

4. Openness to Growth and Clarity

  • Line from Chapter: “Open-minded, like a widespread valley; non-revealing, like muddy water.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Test everything; hold fast to what is good.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:21
    • Judaism: Openness to learning and growth is reflected in Proverbs: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser” (Proverbs 9:9).
    • Islam: Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge and wisdom as a lifelong journey.
    • Buddhism: Wisdom comes through open-minded inquiry and personal insight, essential for enlightenment.
    • Hinduism: A core principle is remaining open to knowledge, as shown in the Upanishads, which encourage self-inquiry and reflection.
  • How This Unites Us: Openness to learning and clarity fosters universal understanding. When we embrace other perspectives with openness, we break down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding, opening ourselves to a shared pursuit of truth.
  • Real-world Application: By engaging in interfaith study groups or dialogues, individuals can learn from one another, growing spiritually and breaking down misconceptions. This promotes peace and unity in multicultural communities.
  • Scripture Reference: “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

5. Patience and Stillness

  • Line from Chapter: “Who can be still while the muddy water clears? It is in stillness that the mind becomes clear.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
    • Judaism: In the Psalms, waiting on God and finding peace in stillness is encouraged (Psalm 62:5).
    • Islam: Sabr (patience) is a virtue, teaching Muslims to be patient and wait on God’s guidance.
    • Buddhism: Mindfulness and meditation are practiced to still the mind and reach a state of clarity.
    • Hinduism: Yoga and meditation focus on quieting the mind to find inner peace and divine connection.
  • How This Unites Us: Stillness and patience are universal practices that allow individuals across religions to access deeper understanding. Practicing stillness is an act of faith, trust, and surrender in all traditions, bringing peace and clarity.
  • Real-world Application: Incorporate moments of stillness in your day, like meditative breathing or quiet prayer. This can be practiced in interfaith meditation groups or individually, fostering a sense of shared peace and reflection.
  • Scripture Reference: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

6. Selflessness and Living in the Present

  • Line from Chapter: “Men of God do not need to be self-fulfilled. Since they have no desire to be self-fulfilled, they can live in the present moment.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Jesus emphasized self-denial and living according to God’s will (Luke 9:23).
    • Judaism: The teachings in Ecclesiastes stress living meaningfully and in alignment with God, rather than chasing personal gain.
    • Islam: Islam encourages detachment from material desires, focusing on submission to God’s will.
    • Buddhism: Buddhist teachings encourage letting go of desire to find true contentment in the present.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches non-attachment, living fully in the present while serving a higher purpose.
  • How This Unites Us: Selflessness is a universal virtue, promoting unity by reducing self-centeredness and allowing us to live in harmony with others. All faiths teach that true fulfillment comes from aligning with a higher purpose beyond oneself.
  • Real-world Application: Engage in acts of kindness without expectation of reward, whether through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or showing compassion to strangers. These selfless acts foster community spirit and reinforce our shared purpose of love and service.
  • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
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