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 29: Better Left Alone

 

Can you better the world? a
I know that it cannot done 
The world is a sacred vessel 
You can neither control nor improve it 
If you try to change it, you will fail 
If you hold on to it, you will lose it 

In fact, consider the things of nature: a
Some things either lead or follow 
Some things either breathe fast or slow 
Some things either have strength or weakness 
Some things either remain standing or are taken down 

Therefore, the wise avoid extremes, excess, and extravagance b


a Ecclesiastes 3:1-22; Job 38:1-41; b Ecclesiastes 7:15-18.



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. Understanding the Uncontrollable Nature of the World

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel. You can neither control nor improve it. If you try to change it, you will fail. If you hold on to it, you will lose it.”

  • Mindset:

    • Surrender and Trust: Recognizing that the world is a sacred vessel created by God, it is beyond human control. Rather than trying to change it, we should learn to trust God’s will and work in harmony with His plan.
    • Humility in Action: Acknowledge that God’s creation is beyond our comprehension, and we must approach the world with humility, rather than attempting to dominate or force change.

  • Explanation: This principle calls for acceptance and humility, teaching us to recognize that the world, as part of God’s creation, has its own divine order. Our attempts to control or improve it through sheer force of will often lead to failure or destruction. Instead, we are called to work in harmony with God’s will and nature, trusting that He is in control.

  • Real-world application: In our modern world, we often strive to fix problems, correct injustice, or control outcomes. Instead, this principle invites us to focus on where we can have positive influence—through love, service, and humility—while recognizing that there are things we cannot change. In relationships, business, or personal struggles, we can act with wisdom, trusting that God is sovereign over all things.

  • Scripture references:

    • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…”
    • Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

2. Recognizing the Natural Order and Cycles

  • Line from the chapter: “Some things either lead or follow, Some things either breathe fast or slow, Some things either have strength or weakness, Some things either remain standing or are taken down.”

  • Mindset:

    • Acceptance of God’s Design: Understand that God’s creation operates according to His divine plan, with natural rhythms and cycles. We are not meant to interfere with the natural order but rather to align ourselves with it.
    • Patience and Awareness: Cultivate patience in recognizing the seasons and cycles of life, understanding that there are times for action and times for rest, and strength in weakness as part of the divine flow.

  • Explanation: This principle mirrors the Christian understanding of God’s timing in the natural world. Everything has its proper time and place in the divine plan. The wise person recognizes that the world operates according to God’s design, with natural cycles and rhythms. Strength and weakness, rise and fall, all have their purpose within the overarching plan of creation.

  • Real-world application: In our lives, we often face challenges, and we may be tempted to fight against the natural rhythms of life. This principle encourages us to accept the times when we are weak or down, trusting that God will bring strength in due time. In leadership, business, or personal growth, we learn to work within the rhythms of life rather than pushing against them.

  • Scripture references:

    • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
    • Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

3. Avoiding Extremes, Excess, and Extravagance

  • Line from the chapter: “Therefore, the wise avoid extremes, excess, and extravagance.”

  • Mindset:

    • Moderation and Simplicity: The wise person practices moderation in all things, recognizing that excess leads to imbalance, while simplicity leads to peace. By avoiding extremes, we align with God’s desire for us to live humble and content lives.
    • Contentment with Enough: Instead of striving for more than what is necessary, focus on being content with what God has provided, trusting in His provision.

  • Explanation: This principle speaks to the Christian value of living a life of moderation and simplicity. We are called to avoid the idolatry of excess and to live humbly, focusing on what truly matters—our relationship with God and others. Jesus warns against the dangers of wealth and materialism (Matthew 6:19-21), teaching that contentment is found in simplicity rather than abundance.

  • Real-world application: This principle invites us to examine our lives for areas of excess—whether in material possessions, desires, or distractions. In our consumer-driven culture, we are encouraged to seek a life of simplicity and focus on eternal treasures, rather than temporary, worldly indulgences.

  • Scripture references:

    • Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
    • 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…”

4. Living in Harmony with the World

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel…you can neither control nor improve it.”

  • Mindset:

    • Respect for Creation: Understanding that creation is sacred and that we are stewards of it, rather than owners or controllers, shifts our approach to the world. We are called to respect, care for, and live in harmony with God’s world.
    • Surrender and Rest in God’s Sovereignty: By recognizing that the world is ultimately in God’s hands, we can rest in His sovereignty, avoiding the constant struggle to “improve” or “control” things beyond our ability.

  • Explanation: Christians are called to be stewards of God’s creation, not dominators. This mindset helps us approach the world with a sense of humility, recognizing that while we have a role to play, ultimate control belongs to God. We cannot improve on the world as He designed it, and attempts to do so can lead to frustration or harm.

  • Real-world application: In a world that encourages control and constant improvement, this principle invites us to practice contentment and stewardship. As stewards, we take care of the earth, nurture relationships, and care for our communities without attempting to force things into our image. We act with humility, recognizing that God’s plan is perfect, and we are but participants in His unfolding story.

  • Scripture references:

    • Genesis 2:15 – “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”
    • Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”

The Christian Tao Te Ching teaches us that we cannot control or improve the world according to our own will. The world is a sacred vessel created by God, and our role is to live in harmony with it, avoiding extremes and trusting in God’s perfect plan. Through humility, simplicity, and contentment, we align ourselves with God’s order and purpose for creation, finding peace in surrendering to His will.

AIM:

1. Aim for Acceptance of God’s Sovereignty Over the World

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel. You can neither control nor improve it. If you try to change it, you will fail. If you hold on to it, you will lose it.”
  • Aim: Embrace humility and trust in God’s sovereignty over the world, accepting that there are things beyond our control.
  • Explanation: This principle calls for a deep awareness that the world operates under God’s will and divine plan. It is an invitation to surrender our desire for control and accept that God is ultimately in charge. Our attempts to change or hold onto the world in our own strength will only lead to frustration and loss. Instead, we should rest in the knowledge that God’s plan is perfect.
  • Real-world application: In our daily lives, we often encounter situations where we wish we could control outcomes—whether it’s in personal relationships, work, or global issues. This principle encourages us to let go of the desire to control everything and trust that God is working even in the situations we can’t change. Focus on aligning yourself with His will and working in partnership with His guidance.
  • Scripture references:
    • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…”
    • Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

2. Aim for Alignment with God’s Natural Order

  • Line from the chapter: “Some things either lead or follow, Some things either breathe fast or slow, Some things either have strength or weakness, Some things either remain standing or are taken down.”
  • Aim: Align yourself with God’s natural rhythms and cycles, trusting that everything has its purpose.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches us to understand that life operates in cycles and rhythms created by God. There are times to lead and times to follow, times to act with strength and times to yield in weakness. The wise person understands these natural rhythms and works within them. Pushing against them leads to frustration and imbalance. Instead, we should embrace God’s design, trusting in His timing and plan.
  • Real-world application: In a world where we often push for immediate results, this principle reminds us that God’s timing is perfect. Whether in personal growth, work, or relationships, we should trust in the natural progression of things rather than forcing outcomes. This might mean practicing patience in waiting for the right moment or learning to rest when life calls for it.
  • Scripture references:
    • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
    • Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

3. Aim for Balance and Moderation in All Things

  • Line from the chapter: “Therefore, the wise avoid extremes, excess, and extravagance.”
  • Aim: Seek balance, moderation, and simplicity in every aspect of life, avoiding the extremes of excess.
  • Explanation: The Christian principle of living in moderation is rooted in the idea of humility and contentment. Excessive desires for wealth, power, or recognition can lead to an imbalance that detracts from our relationship with God and others. Aiming for simplicity in lifestyle and decisions allows us to focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God, service to others, and personal integrity.
  • Real-world application: In a consumer-driven culture, it is easy to be swept up in the desire for more—more possessions, more status, more comfort. This principle calls us to resist those temptations and focus on what is truly essential. By living modestly and prioritizing spiritual growth and service to others, we stay grounded in God’s call for our lives.
  • Scripture references:
    • Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
    • 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…”

4. Aim for Humility and Contentment with God’s Provision

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel…you can neither control nor improve it.”
  • Aim: Live with humility, content with God’s provision, and resist the urge to strive for more than what is necessary.
  • Explanation: This principle encourages us to adopt an attitude of humility, recognizing that everything we have comes from God. By focusing on contentment with God’s provision, we release the desire for excess and trust that what we have is sufficient. This mindset helps us to avoid pride and to keep our focus on eternal values rather than material gain.
  • Real-world application: In practice, this could mean choosing simplicity in how we spend our time, resources, and energy. Instead of constantly chasing after more possessions or accolades, we can focus on what God has already provided, cultivating a life of thankfulness and service to others.
  • Scripture references:
    • 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
    • Matthew 6:11 – “Give us today our daily bread.”

These four aims are rooted in the wisdom of aligning ourselves with God’s will, trusting in His sovereignty, and living humbly and moderately in His creation. By adopting these principles, we can navigate life with peace, contentment, and a deep sense of purpose, grounded in the eternal truths of our faith.

Practice:

1. Practice Humility and Surrender to God’s Sovereignty

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel. You can neither control nor improve it. If you try to change it, you will fail. If you hold on to it, you will lose it.”
  • Practice: Surrender control and trust in God’s plan for the world and your life.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches us to recognize that the world, in all its complexity, is beyond our control. Our role is not to dominate or force change but to trust God’s will and surrender our attempts to control outcomes. It requires a daily practice of humility, accepting that God’s timing and ways are better than ours.
  • Real-world application: In your personal and professional life, you may often encounter situations where you want to “fix” things or control outcomes. This principle invites you to practice letting go, placing your trust in God’s sovereignty. For example, if you’re facing a challenging work situation, instead of forcing a resolution, you can pray for guidance, trust God’s timing, and focus on living with integrity and patience.
  • Scripture references:
    • 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.”
    • Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.”

2. Practice Awareness of God’s Natural Order and Timing

  • Line from the chapter: “Some things either lead or follow, Some things either breathe fast or slow, Some things either have strength or weakness, Some things either remain standing or are taken down.”
  • Practice: Recognize and align with God’s natural rhythms and timing in your life.
  • Explanation: This principle calls for a practice of discernment, understanding that life unfolds in cycles and seasons according to God’s plan. We are called to recognize when it’s our time to lead, rest, or yield. Practicing this involves understanding that strength and weakness, success and failure, rise and fall, are all part of God’s perfect design.
  • Real-world application: In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to become impatient with God’s timing. This practice involves embracing patience, knowing that there are times for action and times for rest. For instance, if you’re in a season of growth and opportunity, take the lead; but when facing challenges or setbacks, trust in God’s plan and rest in His timing.
  • Scripture references:
    • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
    • Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

3. Practice Moderation and Simplicity in Life

  • Line from the chapter: “Therefore, the wise avoid extremes, excess, and extravagance.”
  • Practice: Live with moderation, avoiding excess in your lifestyle, desires, and actions.
  • Explanation: The principle teaches the wisdom of living simply and with balance. Excess and extravagance often lead to pride, discontent, and a loss of focus on what truly matters. Practicing moderation allows us to remain grounded, content, and focused on our true purpose, which is to love God and others, not to accumulate wealth or status.
  • Real-world application: In today’s world of consumerism and comparison, living with moderation requires intentionality. This might look like avoiding the temptation to over-consume or over-schedule, making time for quiet reflection and meaningful relationships. In your work, avoid the temptation to overextend yourself in search of recognition. Instead, focus on the quality of your contributions, the relationships you build, and the service you offer to others.
  • Scripture references:
    • Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
    • 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…”

4. Practice Contentment and Humility in All Things

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel…you can neither control nor improve it.”
  • Practice: Live contentedly with God’s provision, embracing humility in all situations.
  • Explanation: This practice involves contentment—being grateful for what God has given you, whether it’s abundance or scarcity—and humility in acknowledging that all things come from Him. The world is a sacred vessel, and we are called to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Practicing contentment means resisting the urge to compare ourselves to others and being thankful for what we have.
  • Real-world application: In everyday life, this practice can help you avoid the trap of discontentment or comparison. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or material possessions, you can practice gratitude and humility by focusing on what you have rather than what you lack. For instance, instead of constantly striving for the next promotion or material possession, practice appreciating the relationships and opportunities you already have.
  • Scripture references:
    • 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
    • Philippians 4:11 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

5. Practice Trust in God’s Perfect Plan

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel. You can neither control nor improve it.”
  • Practice: Trust in God’s divine plan, even when circumstances seem beyond your control.
  • Explanation: This practice requires surrendering to the truth that God is sovereign and that His plan is always for our good, even if it doesn’t align with our expectations or desires. Trusting in God’s plan means not forcing situations or trying to change things in our own strength but waiting for His guidance and acting in faith.
  • Real-world application: In your professional and personal life, trust that God is at work, even in moments of uncertainty. When faced with a challenge, practice surrendering the outcome to God. For example, if you’re in a difficult season, instead of striving to change everything, pray for God’s guidance and trust that He is leading you to what is best, even if you can’t yet see the full picture.
  • Scripture references:
    • Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
    • Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

By practicing these principles—surrendering control, aligning with God’s natural order, living with moderation, embracing contentment, and trusting in His plan—you are actively fulfilling your purpose according to the Way of God for our modern times. Each of these practices leads to a deeper relationship with God, a more balanced life, and a greater ability to serve others.



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. Universal Truth of Humility and Surrender

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel. You can neither control nor improve it. If you try to change it, you will fail. If you hold on to it, you will lose it.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Ankabut 29:69 – “And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”
    • Buddhism: The Buddha’s teachings on letting go and accepting impermanence—“Attachment leads to suffering.”
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 18:66 – “Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions; do not fear.”

  • How This Unites Us: This universal principle of surrender and humility is shared across major faiths, calling for individuals to recognize their limited control over life and to trust in the greater power and wisdom of the divine. Humility leads to spiritual maturity, acknowledging our dependence on God (or the divine) and our inability to control everything around us. Whether through surrendering to God’s will in Christianity, accepting impermanence in Buddhism, or letting go of attachment in Hinduism, the core message is to trust in a higher power and live in alignment with divine order.

  • Real-world application: In our daily lives, this teaching encourages us to stop fighting against circumstances and accept that some things are beyond our control. For example, during a challenging period of uncertainty in your career or family life, you can practice trusting in God’s plan, focusing on doing your best without trying to force outcomes. This can help reduce stress and increase peace as you learn to trust the process of life rather than resisting it.

  • Scripture references:

    • 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.”
    • Matthew 6:25-34 – Jesus teaches not to worry about the future but to trust God for provision.

2. Universal Truth of Understanding Natural Rhythms

  • Line from the chapter: “Some things either lead or follow, Some things either breathe fast or slow, Some things either have strength or weakness, Some things either remain standing or are taken down.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Hashr 59:18 – “O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has sent for tomorrow…”
    • Buddhism: The principle of impermanence—recognizing that all things are in constant flux and we should adapt accordingly.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 2:47 – “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”

  • How This Unites Us: Across all major religions, there is a shared recognition that life moves in cycles, with moments of strength, weakness, rise, and fall. These rhythms are part of God’s natural order. Christianity emphasizes the wisdom of knowing the right time for action, as does Islam with its teachings on making wise decisions for the future. Buddhism teaches acceptance of change and impermanence, while Hinduism stresses the need for detachment from the fruits of actions. All these traditions emphasize wisdom in navigating the natural flow of life.

  • Real-world application: This principle can guide your decision-making in uncertain or changing times. For example, in times of prosperity, focus on being generous and wise in your actions. In times of difficulty, be patient and trust that this season will pass. In the workplace, you may encounter moments of growth and challenge; recognizing these rhythms will help you respond wisely, taking action when needed and resting when appropriate.

  • Scripture references:

    • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 – “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…”
    • Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

3. Universal Truth of Moderation and Simplicity

  • Line from the chapter: “Therefore, the wise avoid extremes, excess, and extravagance.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-A’raf 7:31 – “O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
    • Buddhism: The Middle Way—avoiding both extreme self-indulgence and self-mortification.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 6:16 – “There is no possibility of one’s becoming a yogi, O Arjuna, if one eats too much or eats too little, sleeps too much, or does not sleep enough.”

  • How This Unites Us: The principle of moderation and simplicity is a universal truth across religions. Christianity teaches contentment, Islam calls for avoiding excess, Buddhism promotes the Middle Way, and Hinduism advises balance in all aspects of life. All these teachings urge us to resist the pull of excess and focus on what truly nourishes the soul—be it in food, possessions, or desires.

  • Real-world application: In our consumer-driven world, living simply requires intentionality. For instance, instead of constantly upgrading your lifestyle or possessions, this principle calls you to find contentment in what you have and focus on spiritual growth. You can practice simplicity in your choices, whether that’s reducing clutter in your home or seeking satisfaction in relationships and service rather than material wealth.

  • Scripture references:

    • 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.”
    • 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”

4. Universal Truth of Contentment with God’s Provision

  • Line from the chapter: “The world is a sacred vessel…you can neither control nor improve it.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: 1 Timothy 6:6-8 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Baqarah 2:286 – “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.”
    • Buddhism: The concept of Santosha (contentment) in Yoga—being satisfied with whatever you have, no matter the external circumstances.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 18:66 – “Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions; do not fear.”

  • How This Unites Us: The universal truth of contentment is found in all major religions, where believers are encouraged to find peace in what they have and trust in God’s provision. Christianity speaks to the contentment found in godliness, while Islam reassures that we will not be burdened beyond our capacity. Buddhism and Hinduism both teach satisfaction with what is, fostering a sense of peace in the present moment. Contentment transcends cultural and religious boundaries, inviting us to trust in God or the divine for what we need.

  • Real-world application: You can practice contentment by taking time each day to express gratitude for what you have—whether it’s your health, relationships, or abilities. In your work or personal life, resist the urge to constantly seek more, and instead focus on being thankful for the current blessings in your life. For example, instead of always striving for the next promotion, find joy in your current role and responsibilities, giving your best while being grateful for the opportunity.

  • Scripture references:

    • Philippians 4:11-12 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
    • Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.”

These principles unite major world religions by emphasizing humility, surrender, moderation, and contentment, which all lead to a deeper understanding of our relationship with God (or the divine) and a more peaceful, balanced life. Through these teachings, we can build bridges of understanding and common purpose across faiths.

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