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 39: Humility

 

In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness a
The sky attained Oneness and became clear 
The Earth attained Oneness and became still 
The Spirit attained Oneness and became divine 
The valley attained Oneness and became abundant 
The myriad of things attained Oneness and became alive 
The rulers attained Oneness and became sovereign 
These all arise from the Oneness of God 

Without clarity, the sky will break open with hailstones b
Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake 
Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish 
Without abundance, the valley will dry up 
Without life, the myriad of things will be extinct 
Without sovereignty, the rulers will fall 

Humility is the root of honor c
The high is built upon the foundation of the low 
Thus, true rulers call themselves alone and unworthy 
Don’t they depend on being humble and low? Absolutely! 
Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise 
Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade d
But be common and dull as the rocks

a Exodus 3:13-15; Psalm 102:25-27; Genesis 1:31; Ecclesiastes 3:9-15; b Mark 13:5-8; Ezekiel 13:1-19; c Luke 14:10-11; d Matthew 23:5-7; Matthew 23:27.

Chapter 39 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching highlights the centrality of humility and dependence on God’s Oneness as the source of all creation and stability. In the beginning, the heavens and earth attained unity through the Oneness of God, echoing the divine harmony described in Genesis 1:31 and Ecclesiastes 3:9-15. The clarity of the sky, the stillness of the earth, and the abundance of the valleys symbolize how creation reflects God’s sustaining presence. Without this Oneness, chaos ensues—stormy skies, trembling earth, and desolate valleys remind us of the fragility of life apart from God, as seen in Ezekiel 13:1-19 and Mark 13:5-8.

The chapter then emphasizes humility as the foundation of honor. Just as the high depends on the low for support, true greatness arises from a posture of humility. This aligns with Jesus’ teaching in Luke 14:10-11, where those who humble themselves will be exalted. Leaders who recognize their unworthiness before God exemplify this principle, understanding that their authority is rooted not in self-glorification but in service and submission to the divine.

The imagery of avoiding the adornment of “sparkling jade” in favor of being “common and dull as rocks” underscores the value of simplicity and authenticity over outward displays of greatness. This mirrors Jesus’ critique of the Pharisees in Matthew 23:5-7 and 23:27, who sought recognition through their external appearance rather than genuine humility and faithfulness to God.

In essence, this chapter calls believers to align with the Oneness of God, acknowledging Him as the source of all life and stability. By cultivating humility and resisting the temptation to seek worldly praise or adornment, we reflect the true nature of God’s kingdom—where greatness is found in lowliness, and life flourishes through dependence on His sustaining power. This humility ensures that we remain connected to the divine Oneness, allowing God’s presence to bring clarity, stillness, and abundance to our lives.



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. Embrace the Oneness of Creation

  • Line from the chapter: In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness…
  • Mindset: Cultivate awareness of the interconnectedness of all creation.
  • Explanation: The Oneness of the heavens, earth, spirit, and all things reminds us that everything is interconnected under God’s sovereign will. When we recognize that all life is interrelated, we begin to view ourselves, others, and the natural world through the lens of unity and respect.
  • Real-World Application: Approach every situation with a holistic view, understanding that our actions affect not just ourselves but the wider world. Practice kindness and empathy, knowing that we are all part of the same creation.
  • Scripture Reference: Romans 11:36 (“For from him and through him and for him are all things.”)
    John 17:21 (“That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”)

2. Humility as the Foundation of True Greatness

  • Line from the chapter: Humility is the root of honor… The high is built upon the foundation of the low…
  • Mindset: Adopt a posture of humility, recognizing the value in serving others.
  • Explanation: Humility is not self-deprecation but an honest recognition of our dependence on God and others. By embracing humility, we find the true strength that comes from serving others. True greatness lies not in being exalted but in living in harmony with the divine order, which calls us to live for others.
  • Real-World Application: In positions of leadership, practice servant leadership—lead by example and prioritize the well-being of those you lead. When interacting with others, avoid prideful behavior and consider their needs before your own.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:11-12 (“The greatest among you will be your servant.”)
    Philippians 2:3-4 (“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”)

3. Simplicity Over Materialism

  • Line from the chapter: Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade but be common and dull as the rocks.
  • Mindset: Seek spiritual richness over material wealth and external appearances.
  • Explanation: Simplicity isn’t about living in poverty but about prioritizing spiritual wealth over material goods. The pursuit of material possessions can cloud our judgment and lead us away from our true purpose. By embracing simplicity, we focus on the things that truly matter—our relationship with God and others.
  • Real-World Application: Simplify your lifestyle by decluttering your space, reducing unnecessary expenses, and investing more in relationships and experiences. Be content with what you have, and focus on cultivating inner peace rather than acquiring more things.
  • 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.”)
    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. Seek Divine Approval, Not Human Praise

  • Line from the chapter: Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise.
  • Mindset: Focus on pleasing God rather than seeking recognition from people.
  • Explanation: The desire for praise can be a distraction from our true purpose. When we seek the approval of people, we risk becoming enslaved to their opinions. True fulfillment comes from serving God sincerely, without the need for recognition. By living authentically and humbly, we reflect God’s glory rather than seeking it for ourselves.
  • Real-World Application: Perform acts of kindness without expecting praise, and let your actions reflect God’s love without needing public acknowledgment. Focus on God’s approval rather than trying to please others.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:1 (“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”)
    Galatians 1:10 (“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”)

5. The Importance of Stillness and Reflection

  • Line from the chapter: Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake… Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish…
  • Mindset: Prioritize inner stillness and reflection as a means to connect with God.
  • Explanation: Stillness and reflection allow us to quiet the noise of the world and listen to God’s voice. Without stillness, we become distracted by life’s chaos, leading to spiritual instability. In moments of silence, we can renew our relationship with God and reflect on His guidance for our lives.
  • Real-World Application: Set aside time each day for quiet prayer or meditation, allowing yourself to rest in God’s presence. Use moments of stillness to reflect on your actions, desires, and God’s will for your life.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 (“Be still, and know that I am God.”)
    Mark 1:35 (“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”)

By adopting these mindsets, we can practice these principles in our daily lives and align ourselves more closely with God’s will, allowing us to navigate today’s world with peace, purpose, and divine guidance.

AIM:

1. Oneness in God

  • Line from the chapter: In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness…
  • Aim: Seek unity with God in all things.
  • Explanation: The Oneness of God is the foundation of all creation. Everything in the universe finds its purpose and unity in Him. In today’s world, this principle teaches us to aim for harmony in our relationships, society, and the natural world by acknowledging the centrality of God. The understanding that all things are interconnected through God helps us to view every aspect of life as sacred and integral.
  • Real-World Application: In our everyday actions, strive to live in alignment with God’s will. Promote unity in communities, work toward reconciliation in conflicts, and engage in care for the environment, knowing all these efforts reflect the Oneness of God’s creation.
  • Scripture Reference: Colossians 1:16-17 (“For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”)
    John 17:21 (“That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”)

2. Humility Before Honor

  • Line from the chapter: Humility is the root of honor… The high is built upon the foundation of the low…
  • Aim: Focus on humility and servant leadership.
  • Explanation: Humility is foundational for true honor. In contrast to the world’s values, which often prize power and prestige, humility is the path that leads to true greatness. In the Christian life, we are called to model the humility of Christ, who, though being in the form of God, humbled Himself for the sake of others. By aiming for humility, we turn away from selfish ambition and seek to serve others in love.
  • Real-World Application: In leadership or everyday roles, practice humility by considering others’ needs, serving rather than seeking recognition, and recognizing that every position is an opportunity to be a vessel of God’s love.
  • Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:3-4 (“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”)
    Matthew 23:11-12 (“The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”)

3. Simplicity Over Worldly Desire

  • Line from the chapter: Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade but be common and dull as the rocks.
  • Aim: Embrace simplicity in living.
  • Explanation: The pursuit of wealth, status, or superficial recognition often distracts us from the deeper truths of life. Jesus warned against storing up treasures on earth, as they do not last and can divert our hearts from God’s Kingdom. To aim for simplicity is to focus on what truly matters—faith, love, and service to others—rather than being consumed by materialism or worldly approval.
  • Real-World Application: Practice contentment with what you have, prioritize relationships over possessions, and make intentional choices that foster a life of simplicity and godliness. Let go of excessive desires for status or things, and focus on cultivating inner peace and spiritual growth.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 (“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”)
    Luke 12:15 (“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”)

4. Seeking True Praise

  • Line from the chapter: Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise.
  • Aim: Seek to please God rather than seeking external praise.
  • Explanation: The desire for human recognition can lead us to do things for the wrong reasons. True praise comes not from the applause of others but from living in accordance with God’s will. Jesus taught that when we do good works, we should do them in secret, not for the attention of others, but to bring glory to God.
  • Real-World Application: Evaluate your motivations before taking action. Do good deeds not for recognition or reward but for the glory of God. Let your actions reflect the love and grace of Christ, focusing on His approval rather than the praise of men.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:1-4 (“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”)
    Galatians 1:10 (“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”)

5. The Importance of Stillness and Divinity

  • Line from the chapter: Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake… Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish…
  • Aim: Cultivate stillness and connection with the divine.
  • Explanation: Just as the natural world requires balance and stillness to thrive, our spiritual lives require stillness before God to hear His voice and align with His will. Without this connection, we may lose sight of our purpose and spiritual vitality. The divine presence must be at the center of our lives for us to maintain peace and clarity.
  • Real-World Application: Set aside time each day for prayer, meditation, and reflection to cultivate stillness in your heart. Allow the divine presence of God to shape your thoughts, actions, and decisions. In moments of chaos or uncertainty, return to this inner stillness to find peace and direction.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 (“Be still, and know that I am God.”)
    John 15:4 (“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”)

By aiming for the principles of Oneness with God, humility, simplicity, seeking true praise, and cultivating stillness, we align ourselves with the divine order that sustains all things. These principles guide us in living a life that honors God, promotes peace, and encourages love and service toward others.

Practice:

1. Oneness with God and Creation

  • Line from the chapter: In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness…
  • Practice: Cultivate awareness of God’s presence in every aspect of life.
  • Explanation: Understanding that all things are interconnected through God calls us to practice seeing His hand in everything—from the natural world to human relationships and actions. Living with a sense of Oneness with God requires us to reflect on His creation, honoring the unity that He has established and recognizing the divine purpose in all things.
  • Real-World Application: In everyday life, consciously acknowledge God’s presence in the world around you. Whether in nature, work, or relationships, seek to live in alignment with God’s will, reflecting His love, wisdom, and justice in your actions.
  • Scripture Reference: Colossians 1:16-17 (“For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”)
    Romans 11:36 (“For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.”)

2. Humility in Leadership and Daily Life

  • Line from the chapter: Humility is the root of honor… The high is built upon the foundation of the low…
  • Practice: Embrace humility as the foundation of your actions and leadership.
  • Explanation: True greatness in God’s eyes comes not from external power or status but from humility. To fulfill your purpose, practice humility by serving others, putting their needs before your own, and recognizing your dependence on God. This aligns with the servant leadership model demonstrated by Jesus.
  • Real-World Application: Whether in the workplace, at home, or in community service, practice humility by listening more than speaking, seeking to serve others rather than seeking power or praise. In leadership roles, embrace servant leadership, putting the interests of others first.
  • Scripture Reference: Philippians 2:3-4 (“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”)
    Matthew 23:11-12 (“The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”)

3. Simplicity in Living

  • Line from the chapter: Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade but be common and dull as the rocks.
  • Practice: Live simply and focus on what truly matters.
  • Explanation: In a world where consumerism and external appearance often take precedence, practicing simplicity means prioritizing spiritual and relational wealth over material possessions. Simplicity in living fosters contentment, peace, and a deeper focus on God’s Kingdom rather than fleeting earthly desires.
  • Real-World Application: Let go of unnecessary material pursuits and focus on what is essential—relationships, spiritual growth, and service. Practice generosity with your resources, choosing to invest in the eternal rather than the temporary. Live modestly, finding joy in the simple things.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 (“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”)
    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. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”)

4. Seeking True Praise from God

  • Line from the chapter: Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise.
  • Practice: Focus on pleasing God rather than seeking human approval.
  • Explanation: The pursuit of external praise and recognition can distract from the true purpose of life, which is to serve God and others. To fulfill your purpose according to the Way of God, practice humility by seeking God’s approval in all things. True fulfillment comes from knowing that your actions honor Him, not from the accolades of others.
  • Real-World Application: Before taking any action, ask yourself whether it aligns with God’s will, not whether it will garner praise or recognition. Practice living authentically, not for applause, but for the sake of God’s glory. Encourage others through your actions, without seeking self-promotion.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:1-4 (“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”)
    Galatians 1:10 (“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”)

5. Cultivating Stillness and Divinity

  • Line from the chapter: Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake… Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish…
  • Practice: Seek moments of stillness and reflection to connect with God.
  • Explanation: Just as the world requires balance and stillness to maintain order, our hearts and minds need stillness to hear God’s voice and align with His purposes. In a fast-paced world, cultivating inner stillness allows the divine presence to guide us in fulfilling our purpose and strengthens our relationship with God.
  • Real-World Application: Set aside time each day for prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection. Use these moments to disconnect from distractions and focus on God’s presence. In moments of stress or confusion, return to stillness to find clarity and direction.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 (“Be still, and know that I am God.”)
    John 15:4 (“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”)

To fulfill your purpose according to the Way of God in modern times, practice oneness with God, humility, simplicity, seeking true praise, and cultivating stillness. These principles will guide you in living a life of integrity, peace, and alignment with God’s will, helping you to serve others and grow spiritually. Through these practices, you will reflect the divine purpose in all aspects of your life.



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. The Sacred Unity of All Creation

  • Line from the chapter: In the beginning, the Heavens and Earth attained Oneness…

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “For from him and through him and for him are all things.” (Romans 11:36)
    • Hinduism: Brahman as the ultimate source of all things.
    • Buddhism: Pratītyasamutpāda (interdependence).
    • Islam: “And He it is who created the heavens and the earth in six days.” (Quran 7:54)
    • Judaism: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)

  • How This Unites Us: The belief in the Oneness of God and creation highlights the interconnectedness of all life, fostering unity among religions in their reverence for the divine origin of the universe.

  • Real-World Application: Acknowledge the unity of all life, treating every person, creature, and element of nature with respect and stewardship.

  • Scripture Reference: Romans 11:36 (“For from him and through him and for him are all things.”)
    Genesis 1:1 (“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”)

2. The Power of Humility in Spiritual Life

  • Line from the chapter: Humility is the root of honor… The high is built upon the foundation of the low…

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11-12)
    • Hinduism: True greatness comes from humility, as seen in Bhagavad Gita 13.30.
    • Buddhism: “Humility is the gateway to wisdom.” (Dhammapada)
    • Islam: “And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily…” (Quran 25:63)
    • Judaism: “Before honor is humility.” (Proverbs 15:33)

  • How This Unites Us: Humility is seen as foundational to spiritual wisdom and peace, offering a common ground for believers in all religions to practice selflessness and service.

  • Real-World Application: Engage in acts of service and practice putting others’ needs before your own, cultivating a spirit of humility in leadership and daily life.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:11-12 (“The greatest among you will be your servant.”)
    Proverbs 15:33 (“Before honor is humility.”)

3. The Virtue of Simplicity

  • Line from the chapter: Do not adorn yourself with sparkling jade but be common and dull as the rocks.

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth.” (Matthew 6:19)
    • Hinduism: “He who is free from desire… he alone is truly free.” (Bhagavad Gita 2.71)
    • Buddhism: “Contentment is the greatest wealth.” (Dhammapada)
    • Islam: “The example of those who spend in the way of Allah…” (Quran 2:261)
    • Judaism: “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” (Proverbs 15:16)

  • How This Unites Us: Across religions, simplicity encourages a life focused on spiritual values rather than material excess, helping believers cultivate gratitude and spiritual fulfillment.

  • Real-World Application: Practice minimalism, focusing on essentials and cultivating a content heart, reducing the pursuit of material possessions and distractions.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:19-21 (“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth.”)
    Proverbs 15:16 (“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.”)

4. Seeking Divine Approval Over Human Praise

  • Line from the chapter: Therefore, seeking praise does not win true praise.

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.” (Matthew 6:1)
    • Hinduism: “Act without attachment to outcomes.” (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)
    • Buddhism: “If you do not seek to impress anyone, your deeds will naturally speak for themselves.” (Dhammapada 223)
    • Islam: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those done with sincerity.” (Quran 98:5)
    • Judaism: “Let your deeds shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

  • How This Unites Us: Across religions, the shared value of seeking God’s approval rather than human praise emphasizes sincerity, humility, and divine connection, promoting authentic spirituality.

  • Real-World Application: Focus on performing acts of kindness and service for the glory of God, not for recognition. Let your character speak for itself.

  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:1 (“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others.”)
    Quran 98:5 (“The most beloved of deeds to Allah are those done with sincerity.”)

5. The Importance of Stillness for Divine Connection

  • Line from the chapter: Without stillness, the Earth will tremble and quake… Without divinity, the Spirit will vanish…

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
    • Hinduism: Meditation and stillness lead to divine realization.
    • Buddhism: Mindfulness and meditation help one connect with the present moment and the divine.
    • Islam: “Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Quran 13:28)
    • Judaism: Practices such as Shabbat help reconnect with God through reflection and stillness.

  • How This Unites Us: The practice of stillness is a universal approach across faiths to open oneself to divine connection. It helps believers tune in to the deeper spiritual truths beyond the distractions of the world.

  • Real-World Application: Take time for quiet reflection, whether through meditation, prayer, or mindfulness, to center your life around divine guidance and peace.

  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:10 (“Be still, and know that I am God.”)
    Quran 13:28 (“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”)

Conclusion

By recognizing these shared principles across all major religions—such as the Oneness of God, humility, simplicity, sincerity, and the importance of stillness—believers can find common ground in their pursuit of a deeper connection with the Divine. These teachings guide individuals toward spiritual growth, unity, and peace, regardless of religious background, fostering a harmonious world where all can live according to divine principles.

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