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 46: Contentment

When the world is right with God ^a
Horses retire to haul fertilizer on the fields

When the world is separate from God ^b
Horses trample the fields equipped for cavalry

There is no sin greater than excessive desire ^c
There is no disaster greater than discontentment
There is no misfortune greater than excessive greed

Thus, to know contentment is everlasting fulfillment ^d

^a Romans 8:5-8; ^bJeremiah 6:8, Isaiah 59:2; ^c 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Ecclesiastes 5:10; ^dPhilippians 4:11-13.

Chapter 46 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching emphasizes the importance of contentment and the dangers of excessive desire, greed, and discontentment. It begins by illustrating that when the world is in alignment with God, the need for forceful ambition fades—symbolized by horses retiring to haul fertilizer. In this context, the focus is on peaceful productivity rather than striving for conquest. This reflects the biblical principle found in Romans 8:5-8, where living according to the Spirit and not the flesh leads to peace and life. When the world is in harmony with God, there is a natural contentment in the life that God provides, and there is no need for unnecessary striving or excessive desire.

Conversely, the chapter points out that when the world is separated from God, the need for aggression and conquest arises—illustrated by horses tramping the fields equipped for cavalry. This mirrors the destructive nature of sin and separation from God, as seen in Jeremiah 6:8 and Isaiah 59:2, where disobedience to God leads to destruction and violence. The more we are distanced from God, the more we are consumed by worldly desires that lead to unrest and conflict.

The chapter also warns that excessive desire, discontentment, and greed are among the greatest sources of sin and disaster. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 cautions that the love of money and materialism leads to ruin and destruction, while Ecclesiastes 5:10 reminds us that those who love wealth will never be satisfied with what they have. Excessive desire pulls us away from the satisfaction that comes from God alone.

The key message of this chapter is that true fulfillment and peace come from knowing contentment in God. Philippians 4:11-13 speaks to this contentment, where Paul, regardless of his circumstances, has learned to be content in the Lord, finding peace and strength through Christ. This aligns with the teaching that when we trust in God’s provision and align our desires with His will, we experience lasting fulfillment, free from the destructive forces of greed, discontentment, and excessive desire.

Thus, this chapter reinforces the Christian understanding that contentment comes not from the accumulation of wealth or worldly success but from a relationship with God and trust in His sovereign provision.

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 Humility and Purpose

Line from the Christian Version: “Horses retire to haul fertilizer on the fields.”
Mindset: Adopt a mindset of humility and purpose, understanding that serving others, no matter how simple the task, aligns with God’s will and leads to fulfillment.
Explanation: In a world that values status and prestige, it’s easy to overlook the importance of humble service. The mindset here is to embrace simplicity and find joy in doing what is necessary, whether or not it receives external recognition. Humility leads to peace, knowing that our worth is not tied to what others think of us, but to our faithfulness in the work God has given us.
Real World Application: Many people today measure success by career advancements or social status. Instead, shift your focus to the daily actions you can take to serve others—whether it’s through your job, volunteering, or simply being kind. Recognize that your purpose in God’s plan is not dependent on external approval, but on doing good in the world.
Scriptures: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26) and “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23)

2. Mindset of Connection with God

Line from the Christian Version: “When the world is separate from God, horses trample the fields equipped for cavalry.”
Mindset: Cultivate a deep awareness of God’s presence and remain connected to Him, recognizing that separation from God leads to chaos and destruction.
Explanation: The mindset of remaining connected to God helps us avoid destructive actions and choices. In today’s world, distractions and temptations pull us away from God’s peace and wisdom. When we prioritize our relationship with Him, we make decisions that align with His will, leading to personal peace and societal well-being.
Real World Application: In a busy and often disconnected world, intentionally make space for time with God. This could mean daily prayer, reading scripture, attending church, or simply taking moments to pause and reflect on God’s guidance throughout your day.
Scriptures: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18) and “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” (John 15:5)

3. Mindset of Gratitude and Contentment

Line from the Christian Version: “There is no sin greater than excessive desire. There is no disaster greater than discontentment. There is no misfortune greater than excessive greed.”
Mindset: Develop a mindset of gratitude and contentment, recognizing that excessive desire, greed, and discontentment lead to spiritual emptiness and turmoil.
Explanation: This mindset calls for resisting the pull of consumerism and the endless pursuit of more. By cultivating contentment in what God has provided, we free ourselves from the chains of greed and dissatisfaction. Contentment doesn’t mean complacency, but rather finding joy and peace in the present moment and trusting God to meet our needs.
Real World Application: In a culture that constantly encourages acquiring more, practice gratitude daily—whether through journaling, prayer, or simply reflecting on the blessings in your life. When faced with the temptation to buy more or achieve more, pause and evaluate whether it aligns with God’s will for your life.
Scriptures: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) and “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

4. Mindset of Trust in God’s Provision

Line from the Christian Version: “Thus, to know contentment is everlasting fulfillment.”
Mindset: Cultivate trust in God’s provision, knowing that true fulfillment comes from contentment and reliance on His timing and resources.
Explanation: This mindset requires the belief that God knows our needs and will provide for us, whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually. Instead of anxiously striving for more, we trust in His goodness and sovereignty. Fulfillment is not found in possessions or achievements, but in the peace of knowing God is in control.
Real World Application: If you find yourself constantly striving for more, take a step back and ask yourself whether your desires reflect God’s will. Practice trust by focusing on living faithfully and contentedly in your current circumstances, knowing that God will provide what you need.
Scriptures: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) and “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

5. Mindset of Simplicity and Humility

Line from the Christian Version: “Great straightness seems crooked. Great skill seems clumsy. Great eloquence seems silent.”
Mindset: Embrace simplicity, humility, and quiet strength, understanding that true greatness in God’s eyes is often quiet and unassuming, not flashy or self-promoting.
Explanation: In a world that often values success and outward appearances, it’s important to focus on developing internal qualities like humility, patience, and love. This mindset shifts the focus from impressing others to serving them in humility. True greatness, as God defines it, comes from a heart of service, not from seeking recognition or fame.
Real World Application: In today’s world of social media and personal branding, it can be easy to fall into the trap of seeking attention or accolades. Instead, focus on serving others quietly, seeking no praise or recognition, and allowing your actions to speak for themselves. Be content in the knowledge that your worth comes from God, not from the world’s standards.
Scriptures: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11) and “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)

6. Mindset of Rest and Renewal

Line from the Christian Version: “Bustling-about overcomes cool times. Stillness overcomes heated times.”
Mindset: Adopt a mindset of rest and renewal, recognizing the importance of stillness and quiet as a means to overcome life’s stresses and challenges.
Explanation: In a world that values constant motion and achievement, this mindset teaches the importance of stillness, reflection, and rest. Rather than pushing ourselves to the brink of exhaustion, we are called to find peace and renewal in God’s presence, knowing that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.
Real World Application: In the midst of busy schedules, make time for rest and reflection. Set aside time for prayer, meditation, and Sabbath rest, allowing yourself to recharge spiritually, emotionally, and physically. This practice will help you approach life with a renewed sense of purpose and peace.
Scriptures: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) and “The Lord replied, ‘My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.'” (Exodus 33:14)

By adopting these mindsets, we can live out the principles of contentment, humility, and trust in God’s will, allowing us to navigate today’s world with peace, purpose, and fulfillment. Each mindset encourages a shift from worldly desires to spiritual depth, ensuring that our lives are rooted in God’s truth and aligned with His plans for us.

AIM:

1. Aim for Contentment and Trust in God’s Provision

Line from the Christian Version: “There is no sin greater than excessive desire. There is no disaster greater than discontentment. There is no misfortune greater than excessive greed.”
Aim: Focus on contentment and trust in God’s provision, knowing that He provides for your needs, and avoid the trap of excessive desire, greed, and discontent.
Explanation: The world often pushes us toward pursuing more—more money, status, possessions, and achievements. However, true fulfillment comes from contentment in God’s provision. This principle reminds us that excessive desire can lead to dissatisfaction, and we must focus on being content with what we have, trusting that God knows our needs and provides accordingly.
Real World Application: Instead of constantly striving for more material success or comparing yourself to others, set goals that align with your values and trust in God’s plan. Practice gratitude daily, acknowledging what you have, and trust God for what you need. Focus on non-material achievements like spiritual growth, relationships, and service to others.
Scriptures: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) and “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” (Hebrews 13:5)

2. Aim for Humility and Simplicity

Line from the Christian Version: “Great straightness seems crooked. Great skill seems clumsy. Great eloquence seems silent.”
Aim: Seek humility and simplicity in your actions, understanding that true greatness in God’s eyes often appears humble and unassuming.
Explanation: This principle emphasizes the idea that true greatness is not about outward appearances, skill, or eloquence but rather about humility and sincerity. In today’s world, where success and perfection are highly valued, this calls us to focus on being faithful and humble in our actions, without seeking recognition or accolades.
Real World Application: Focus on serving others in ways that may not bring attention or praise but align with God’s purpose. Practice humility in your relationships, your work, and your interactions. Recognize that sometimes, the most impactful actions are the simplest and least flashy.
Scriptures: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11) and “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)

3. Aim for Inner Peace and Stillness

Line from the Christian Version: “Stillness overcomes heated times.”
Aim: Focus on achieving inner peace and stillness, especially in times of stress or conflict, trusting that peace in your heart allows you to navigate difficult circumstances with wisdom.
Explanation: The world is often chaotic and filled with noise, but true strength lies in finding stillness within. This principle calls us to aim for peace of mind, which comes from trusting in God and removing distractions. When we remain still in God’s presence, we find clarity and direction, which allows us to act wisely and with calmness.
Real World Application: Practice daily moments of stillness, whether through prayer, meditation, or simply pausing during a hectic day to breathe and reflect. This will help you maintain peace and composure, particularly when facing pressure, and allow you to make thoughtful decisions.
Scriptures: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) and “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27)

4. Aim for Humble Service to Others

Line from the Christian Version: “Horses retire to haul fertilizer on the fields.”
Aim: Keep your focus on serving others in humility, understanding that even the most humble tasks are significant in God’s eyes.
Explanation: The mindset of serving humbly, like a horse hauling fertilizer, teaches us that God values service over status. Even the most mundane or unnoticed tasks contribute to His kingdom, and we should see the value in serving without seeking recognition or reward.
Real World Application: In your daily life, look for ways to serve others in simple, meaningful ways. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, offering a listening ear, or doing a task without expecting anything in return, aim to serve God by serving others in humility.
Scriptures: “Serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13) and “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)

5. Aim for Balance and Moderation in Life

Line from the Christian Version: “Bustling-about overcomes cool times.”
Aim: Strive for balance and moderation, avoiding extremes of work and rest. Both action and stillness are necessary for a healthy life.
Explanation: This principle speaks to the importance of balance. While work and productivity are necessary, it’s crucial not to overburden ourselves with constant activity. There is a time for action and a time for rest, and finding this balance is key to maintaining our physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Real World Application: In the modern world, many people suffer from burnout due to an imbalance between work and rest. Be intentional about setting boundaries with your time, ensuring you have regular periods of rest, relaxation, and reflection. Work hard, but also take time to rejuvenate so you can serve and lead effectively.
Scriptures: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

6. Aim for Eternal Perspective Over Temporary Gains

Line from the Christian Version: “To know contentment is everlasting fulfillment.”
Aim: Keep your focus on eternal values rather than temporary desires or fleeting success, trusting that God’s will for your life leads to lasting fulfillment.
Explanation: In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in pursuing temporary successes or possessions. However, this principle reminds us to focus on eternal fulfillment through our relationship with God and aligning with His purpose. True satisfaction comes not from fleeting material gains but from living in harmony with God’s will and finding joy in serving Him and others.
Real World Application: Regularly reflect on your values and priorities, ensuring that your actions are aligned with eternal truths. Focus on relationships, personal growth, and spiritual health as the true sources of fulfillment, rather than the accumulation of wealth or fame.
Scriptures: “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…” (Matthew 6:19-20) and “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

By keeping our eyes on these goals—contentment, humility, peace, service, balance, and an eternal perspective—we can take action with purpose and direction. These aims help us align with God’s will, navigate the complexities of the modern world, and live lives of fulfillment and meaning.

Practice:

1. Practice Contentment and Trust in God’s Provision

Line from the Christian Version: “There is no sin greater than excessive desire. There is no disaster greater than discontentment. There is no misfortune greater than excessive greed.”
Practice: Cultivate contentment by practicing gratitude and focusing on God’s provision rather than chasing after material wealth or success.
Explanation: The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive desire and greed, both of which can lead to dissatisfaction and spiritual emptiness. By practicing contentment, you shift your focus from what you lack to what you already have. Trusting in God’s provision means knowing that He will provide what you need, and you can be at peace with that.
Real World Application: Begin a daily gratitude practice, listing things you’re thankful for. When you’re tempted to desire more than you need, pause and reflect on how God has already provided. Practice moderation and simplicity in your lifestyle to avoid the trap of excessive materialism.
Scriptures: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) and “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” (Philippians 4:12-13)

2. Practice Humility and Embrace Simplicity

Line from the Christian Version: “Great straightness seems crooked. Great skill seems clumsy. Great eloquence seems silent.”
Practice: Embrace humility in your actions and speech. Do not seek recognition for your skills or abilities; instead, serve with sincerity and simplicity.
Explanation: This principle highlights that true greatness often manifests in quiet, humble ways that may not immediately be apparent to the world. Greatness in God’s kingdom is not about outward recognition but about sincere service and humility. By practicing humility, you align yourself with Christ’s example, who came to serve, not to be served.
Real World Application: In your career, relationships, and ministry, choose to serve others without seeking acknowledgment. Let your actions be motivated by love and sincerity rather than by the desire for praise. Practice listening more than speaking and seek to learn rather than show off what you know.
Scriptures: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11) and “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)

3. Practice Peace and Stillness in the Midst of Chaos

Line from the Christian Version: “Stillness overcomes heated times.”
Practice: Develop inner peace through prayer, meditation, and moments of silence, especially in stressful or chaotic situations.
Explanation: The world is filled with noise and distractions, but stillness is a powerful tool for finding peace. When we stop and center ourselves in God’s presence, we are better equipped to handle stress, conflict, and emotional turbulence. Peace comes from knowing that God is in control and that He gives us the strength to endure.
Real World Application: Take moments throughout the day to pause, breathe, and pray. Create space for stillness in your daily routine—whether through silent reflection, journaling, or prayer. In moments of conflict or stress, choose to respond with calm and prayer, trusting God for wisdom and peace.
Scriptures: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) and “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27)

4. Practice Service and Humility in Everyday Life

Line from the Christian Version: “Horses retire to haul fertilizer on the fields.”
Practice: Serve others with humility, recognizing the value in even the most seemingly insignificant tasks.
Explanation: The example of the horse hauling fertilizer teaches us that even the most humble work can be of great value in God’s kingdom. Jesus demonstrated this through His life by serving others, washing His disciples’ feet, and ultimately giving His life for us. Practicing humility means serving others without seeking recognition or praise, and valuing the impact of service over status.
Real World Application: Look for opportunities to serve in small, unseen ways. This could mean helping a colleague, supporting a family member, or volunteering in your community without the expectation of recognition. Practice making serving others a priority in your daily life, regardless of the task’s visibility.
Scriptures: “Serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13) and “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26)

5. Practice Balance and Moderation in Life

Line from the Christian Version: “Bustling-about overcomes cool times.”
Practice: Seek balance by moderating your actions, ensuring there is a proper rhythm between work and rest, activity and reflection.
Explanation: Life is often driven by extremes—either working too hard or resting too much. The principle of balance teaches us to practice moderation, avoiding burnout from overwork and spiritual stagnation from inactivity. This balanced approach allows for sustainable living, where you can work effectively and rest rejuvenatingly, both aligning with God’s rhythm for life.
Real World Application: Schedule regular times of rest and reflection in your week. Prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit—whether it’s a day off, exercise, hobbies, or time in prayer. Strive to avoid the extremes of overworking or neglecting responsibilities, and find a healthy rhythm that aligns with your calling.
Scriptures: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

6. Practice Eternal Perspective Over Temporary Desires

Line from the Christian Version: “To know contentment is everlasting fulfillment.”
Practice: Focus on eternal goals rather than temporary desires, cultivating a perspective rooted in God’s eternal promises and purposes.
Explanation: In the world, it’s easy to get distracted by temporary gains—wealth, status, or possessions—but true fulfillment is found in seeking God’s kingdom and living with an eternal perspective. By practicing this principle, you prioritize spiritual growth, relationships, and God’s will over the fleeting satisfaction of worldly achievements.
Real World Application: Evaluate your daily choices and decisions through the lens of eternity. Are they leading you closer to God’s purpose for your life, or are they feeding temporary desires? Practice aligning your career, relationships, and goals with God’s kingdom values, understanding that eternal rewards far outweigh temporary pleasures.
Scriptures: “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…” (Matthew 6:19-20) and “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

By practicing these principles—contentment, humility, peace, service, balance, and an eternal perspective—you align your actions with the Way of God. These practices will help you fulfill your purpose in modern times, living a life that reflects God’s wisdom and love, and enables you to impact the world positively while remaining anchored in His will.

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. Contentment and Trust in God’s Provision

Line from the Christian Version: “There is no sin greater than excessive desire. There is no disaster greater than discontentment. There is no misfortune greater than excessive greed.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) and “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” (Hebrews 13:5)
- Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths teach that desire (tanha) leads to suffering (dukkha), and that by letting go of desire, one can attain peace (nirvana).
- Islam: “And be moderate in your pursuit of this world, just as you are moderate in your pursuit of the Hereafter.” (Quran 28:77)
- Hinduism: The concept of santosha (contentment) is central to spiritual practice. The Bhagavad Gita teaches about seeking contentment rather than material possessions.
How This Unites Us: This principle of contentment transcends cultural and religious boundaries because it addresses the universal human experience of dissatisfaction and craving. Each religion encourages its followers to find peace and fulfillment not in external possessions or achievements, but through inner contentment and a trust in a higher power or order. It reminds us that true happiness is not found in accumulating material goods, but in aligning ourselves with a deeper spiritual truth.
Real World Application: In a consumer-driven society, practicing contentment involves resisting the temptation to continually chase after the next “thing” or “achievement” for happiness. Instead, we focus on cultivating gratitude for what we have and trusting that God will provide what we need. This could mean practicing financial stewardship, reducing unnecessary possessions, and learning to value relationships and spiritual growth over material wealth.

2. Humility and Simplicity in Action

Line from the Christian Version: “Great straightness seems crooked. Great skill seems clumsy. Great eloquence seems silent.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11) and “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
- Buddhism: The practice of humility is central in Buddhism, as seen in the concept of non-attachment to the self and its ego. The Buddha taught that the path to enlightenment involves letting go of pride and arrogance.
- Islam: “And do not turn your cheek in contempt toward people, nor walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.” (Quran 31:18)
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches humility as a key virtue, with the idea that ego and pride hinder spiritual progress.
How This Unites Us: Across all these religions, humility is taught as a fundamental virtue. They emphasize that greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking personal glory or recognition. Humility allows individuals to serve their communities, acknowledge their dependence on a higher power, and be open to learning from others. This concept brings people of all faiths together in recognizing that humility is central to a good and meaningful life.
Real World Application: In professional and personal life, we can practice humility by listening more than speaking, serving others without expecting anything in return, and acknowledging our limitations. In the workplace, instead of seeking credit for accomplishments, we can acknowledge the contributions of others and work towards common goals.

3. Peace and Stillness in a Chaotic World

Line from the Christian Version: “Stillness overcomes heated times.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) and “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” (John 14:27)
- Buddhism: Buddhism teaches the importance of stillness and mindfulness to overcome mental distractions and chaos. Meditation is a key practice for cultivating inner peace.
- Islam: The Quran speaks of finding peace through submission to Allah’s will, and the practice of dhikr (remembrance) provides moments of inner peace.
- Hinduism: In Hinduism, the practice of meditation and yoga helps one to achieve mental stillness and spiritual peace, reflecting the harmony of the universe.
How This Unites Us: The universal teaching of peace and stillness in the midst of life’s storms unites us in our shared human need for calm. Regardless of our religious tradition, we all experience stress, anxiety, and chaos. Each tradition offers pathways to find peace—whether through prayer, meditation, mindfulness, or reflection. The underlying message is that stillness and trust in God (or the divine) can calm our hearts and guide us through turbulent times.
Real World Application: In moments of stress or conflict, we can cultivate stillness through prayer, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. When facing difficult decisions or emotional turmoil, pausing to reflect and center ourselves can help us respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. This can be applied in moments of conflict at work or in family matters, where taking time to be still before acting leads to better outcomes.

4. Service to Others and Humility in Work

Line from the Christian Version: “Horses retire to haul fertilizer on the fields.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26) and “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
- Buddhism: Service to others is viewed as an important practice in Buddhism, and it is often connected to the idea of alleviating suffering (compassion).
- Islam: “The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Hadith, Ibn Majah)
- Hinduism: The idea of seva (selfless service) is central in Hinduism, where service to others is seen as a form of devotion to God.
How This Unites Us: All religions recognize the value of service to others, especially the humble service of those who work behind the scenes. Whether it’s through feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, or assisting the poor, the concept of selfless service builds community and reflects the divine nature. This shared value calls us to humble ourselves, putting the needs of others before our own, aligning with the universal principle of compassion.
Real World Application: Serving others can be done in both big and small ways—whether it’s volunteering in a community organization, helping a neighbor, or assisting someone at work. You can practice this principle by seeking ways to serve others with no expectation of recognition, embodying a heart of humility and compassion.

5. Moderation and Balance in Life

Line from the Christian Version: “Bustling-about overcomes cool times.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
- Buddhism: The concept of the Middle Way in Buddhism encourages avoiding extremes, advocating a balanced approach to life that avoids both indulgence and asceticism.
- Islam: “And thus We have made you a balanced nation.” (Quran 2:143)
- Hinduism: Hinduism teaches about the balance between material desires and spiritual pursuits, as reflected in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, which emphasizes the importance of moderation.
How This Unites Us: Across all major religions, the value of balance and moderation is emphasized. Whether it’s in physical desires, work-life balance, or emotional responses, maintaining moderation is a universal path to peace and fulfillment. This principle resonates with the wisdom of managing our time, energy, and resources so that we can live in harmony with God and others.
Real World Application: This principle can be applied by finding a balance between work, rest, and leisure. It encourages you to avoid extremes such as overworking or excessive indulgence. In your daily life, practice moderation in consumption (food, media, shopping) and dedicate time to reflect, pray, and rest, ensuring a sustainable lifestyle that nurtures your spirit and health.

These principles, rooted in the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching, reflect universal truths that transcend religious boundaries. They all call us to a deeper understanding of life—one that values contentment, humility, peace, service, balance, and a focus on eternal fulfillment. Regardless of our faith tradition, these teachings align us with the divine will and help foster greater unity, compassion, and understanding among people of all beliefs. By practicing these timeless principles, we contribute to the well-being of humanity and the glorification of the divine in our world.

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