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 57: Governance

 

You can govern a nation with rules a 
You can win a war with surprise tactics 
But you can gain the entire world without interfering 

How do I know this?
Because of this:
When there are many rules and restrictions b 
More people become poor 
When there are many sharp weapons c
More tragedy appears in the country 
When there are many clever plans d 
More cunning things occur 
When there are many enforced laws e
More robbers and thieves appear

Therefore God says:
Be still a 
And the people will transform themselves  
Keep silent 
And the people will rectify themselves 
Do not interfere
And the people will enrich themselves 
Surrender Earthly desires f
And the people will simplify themselves

 

a Psalm 37:6-10; b Proverbs 28:2-3; Isaiah 10:1; c Psalm 37:14-15; d Psalm 64:5-6; e Psalm 50:16-20; f Colossians 3:5-11.



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. The Dangers of Excessive Control and Laws

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many rules and restrictions, more people become poor.”
  • Mindset: Embrace humility and allow for freedom.
  • Explanation: Excessive rules and restrictions create a system where individuals are unable to thrive or grow. In the Christian context, legalism and excessive control can stifle the growth of individuals and communities. Jesus invited us to follow Him freely, rather than being bogged down by heavy rules. A mindset of freedom allows people to find their own path while guided by God’s grace and love.
  • Real-World Application: In leadership and daily life, practice offering guidance and boundaries, but avoid overregulation that leads to burnout or resentment. Encourage personal responsibility and trust that God will guide people to make wise choices.
  • Scripture: “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:30

2. The Dangers of Over-Reliance on Force

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many sharp weapons, more tragedy appears in the country.”
  • Mindset: Seek peace and reconciliation.
  • Explanation: The mindset here is to resist the temptation to solve conflict through force. While military or coercive force may seem like a solution, it often leads to more harm and tragedy. In the Christian context, Jesus teaches the power of peace and turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39). Trust in God’s ability to bring peace, rather than seeking violent solutions to problems.
  • Real-World Application: Approach conflicts with a mindset of reconciliation. Be willing to listen, mediate, and find common ground rather than resorting to aggression or manipulation.
  • Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9

3. The Futility of Cunning Plans

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many clever plans, more cunning things occur.”
  • Mindset: Trust in God’s wisdom, not in human scheming.
  • Explanation: In a world that often values cleverness and manipulation, this principle calls us to trust in God’s divine wisdom rather than relying on human cunning. Trusting in God leads to peace and righteousness, while schemes often lead to division and harm. The mindset here is one of surrender to God’s will and trust that He will guide us in our decisions.
  • Real-World Application: Avoid trying to control outcomes through deceit or manipulation. Instead, pray for wisdom and guidance from God. Make decisions based on integrity and faithfulness, not on what seems like the “smartest” move.
  • Scripture: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3

4. The Burden of Enforced Laws

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many enforced laws, more robbers and thieves appear.”
  • Mindset: Focus on the transformation of hearts, not just legal compliance.
  • Explanation: Rather than focusing on the enforcement of laws, which can lead to resistance or rebellion, the Christian mindset calls for the transformation of individuals’ hearts through God’s love. When people’s hearts are aligned with God’s will, they naturally obey His commandments, making the need for strict laws less necessary. A heart transformed by God’s grace leads to integrity and righteousness.
  • Real-World Application: Work towards fostering a culture of personal responsibility and grace. Encourage moral integrity and ethical living based on love, not just fear of punishment.
  • Scripture: “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.” – Hosea 6:6

5. The Power of Stillness and Non-Interference

  • Line from Chapter: “Be still, and the people will transform themselves / Keep silent, and the people will rectify themselves.”
  • Mindset: Trust in God’s transformative power and give others space to grow.
  • Explanation: The Christian mindset here is one of trust and humility. It calls us to recognize that God works in people’s lives in His own time, and that trying to control or interfere can hinder the process. By being still, we acknowledge that it is God who transforms hearts and minds. The mindset is one of surrender—letting go of our need to control and trusting that God will bring about His will.
  • Real-World Application: In your personal and professional life, practice patience and trust in God’s timing. Allow space for others to grow and make their own decisions, knowing that God is at work in them, even when it seems slow or difficult.
  • Scripture: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

6. Surrendering Earthly Desires

  • Line from Chapter: “Surrender earthly desires, and the people will simplify themselves.”
  • Mindset: Live with simplicity and focus on eternal values.
  • Explanation: The mindset here is one of surrendering attachment to material things and focusing on eternal values. Earthly desires often lead to distractions, dissatisfaction, and complications. Jesus taught that we should seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all other things will be added to us (Matthew 6:33). This mindset fosters contentment and peace, as we prioritize God’s will over the fleeting desires of the world.
  • Real-World Application: Simplify your life by focusing on what truly matters—your relationship with God and others. Avoid the temptation to constantly pursue material wealth or status. Instead, cultivate gratitude for what you have and focus on spiritual growth.
  • Scripture: “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

The principles in this chapter call us to a mindset of humility, trust, and non-interference in today’s world. By trusting God’s wisdom and power, avoiding excessive control, seeking peace, and focusing on inner transformation rather than external conformity, we align ourselves with His will. These principles help us foster a culture of grace, integrity, and spiritual growth, while recognizing that God is the ultimate agent of change in the world.

AIM:

1. Aim for Freedom through Minimal Control

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many rules and restrictions, more people become poor.”
  • Aim: Seek to create environments where freedom flourishes, and burdens are light.
  • Explanation: This principle encourages us to focus on creating space for freedom and growth, rather than imposing excessive control and restrictions that lead to stifled potential. In a Christian context, we are called to give people the freedom to grow in their relationship with God, without relying too heavily on rules and external control. By trusting God’s guidance, we can allow others to thrive without overregulating their lives.
  • Real-World Application: In leadership or personal relationships, avoid over-managing or micromanaging. Instead, empower others with trust, offering guidance rather than strict commands. This leads to more personal responsibility and growth.
  • Scripture: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17

2. Aim for Peace, Not Force

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many sharp weapons, more tragedy appears in the country.”
  • Aim: Foster peace, reconciliation, and understanding over the use of force or aggression.
  • Explanation: The goal here is to promote peace and harmony, not conflict. In the Christian worldview, Jesus teaches that peace comes through love and forgiveness, not through violence or coercion. Seeking peace aligns us with God’s will and creates an environment where healing can take place, both in relationships and in society at large.
  • Real-World Application: In moments of conflict or disagreement, aim for peaceful resolutions through dialogue, understanding, and compromise, rather than resorting to anger or violent solutions. In personal or global matters, embrace diplomacy and reconciliation.
  • Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9

3. Aim for Simplicity and Wisdom, Not Cunning

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many clever plans, more cunning things occur.”
  • Aim: Focus on wisdom and simplicity in decision-making, not complex schemes or manipulative tactics.
  • Explanation: This principle urges us to avoid relying on cunning or deceitful strategies, instead choosing straightforwardness and God’s wisdom. In the Christian faith, we are reminded to trust in God’s plan rather than trying to manipulate outcomes with our own cleverness. Simple and wise decisions will bear fruit in the long term.
  • Real-World Application: In your daily decisions, aim for clarity and integrity. When faced with choices, seek wisdom through prayer and meditation on God’s Word rather than relying on strategies that might seem quicker or more advantageous but could lead to dishonesty or harm.
  • Scripture: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5

4. Aim for Transformation, Not External Enforcement

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many enforced laws, more robbers and thieves appear.”
  • Aim: Focus on inner transformation and personal integrity over enforcing external laws.
  • Explanation: True change comes from the heart, not through strict legalism or forced compliance. In the Christian faith, transformation happens through the Holy Spirit, who writes God’s laws on our hearts. When people are truly changed from within, the need for external regulations diminishes.
  • Real-World Application: In leadership, focus on mentoring and guiding others toward personal growth rather than enforcing rules. Encourage inner transformation through faith, and help others develop a relationship with God that fosters integrity and righteousness.
  • Scripture: “I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” – Jeremiah 31:33

5. Aim for Stillness and Trust in God’s Work

  • Line from Chapter: “Be still, and the people will transform themselves / Keep silent, and the people will rectify themselves.”
  • Aim: Cultivate stillness and trust that God will bring about change.
  • Explanation: This principle teaches us to trust in God’s timing and methods. By being still and silent, we acknowledge that God is at work in our lives and the lives of others. We should resist the urge to control or force change, allowing space for the Spirit to move and guide. It’s a call to have faith that God is the one who transforms hearts and lives.
  • Real-World Application: In moments of uncertainty, avoid rushing into action or decision-making. Instead, take time to be still and trust that God will lead you and others in the right direction. In relationships, give people the space to change and grow without constant interference.
  • Scripture: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

6. Aim for Simplicity and Contentment, Not Earthly Desires

  • Line from Chapter: “Surrender earthly desires, and the people will simplify themselves.”
  • Aim: Pursue simplicity and contentment, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary desires.
  • Explanation: This principle urges us to prioritize spiritual growth and eternal values over the fleeting pleasures of the world. Jesus taught that where our treasure is, our heart will be also. By surrendering our attachment to material possessions and desires, we can focus on living a life of simplicity and contentment, grounded in God’s will.
  • Real-World Application: Evaluate what truly matters in life—relationships, faith, and service to others—and let go of the excess. Create space in your life for spiritual growth, and make conscious decisions that reflect your commitment to God’s priorities over worldly possessions or ambitions.
  • Scripture: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6

The principles from this chapter guide us to keep our eyes on freedom, peace, simplicity, inner transformation, and contentment as we navigate today’s world. By trusting in God’s power to bring change, fostering peace and wisdom, and avoiding the traps of control, force, and earthly desires, we align ourselves with His will. These principles empower us to live with integrity, humility, and faith, reflecting God’s kingdom on earth.

Practice:

1. Practice Freedom Through Grace and Trust

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many rules and restrictions, more people become poor.”
  • Practice: Trust in God’s grace and allow others the freedom to grow without excessive regulation.
  • Explanation: This practice emphasizes that in our pursuit of God’s will, we must create spaces where others can live freely, rather than constantly imposing rules. The Way of God calls us to operate in grace, where transformation and growth occur not through strict control, but through the nurturing freedom of the Spirit.
  • Real-World Application: In your leadership, relationships, or community roles, practice guiding others with understanding and grace rather than enforcing rigid rules. Encourage people to make their own choices, trusting that God’s Spirit will lead them, and promote an environment where personal growth and responsibility thrive.
  • Scripture: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1

2. Practice Peace, Not Force

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many sharp weapons, more tragedy appears in the country.”
  • Practice: Seek peaceful solutions and reconciliation, avoiding conflict and aggression.
  • Explanation: To fulfill God’s purpose, we are called to be peacemakers, living in harmony with others. Rather than using force or harsh tactics to resolve conflict, we must practice gentleness, humility, and a willingness to listen. This reflects Jesus’ call to love our enemies and seek peace, even in difficult circumstances.
  • Real-World Application: In situations of conflict, take the first step to bring about peace—whether in a personal dispute or a global issue. Choose dialogue, empathy, and reconciliation over aggression, violence, or manipulation.
  • Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9

3. Practice Simplicity and Wisdom, Not Manipulation

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many clever plans, more cunning things occur.”
  • Practice: Embrace simplicity, seeking wisdom from God and relying on His guidance rather than complex schemes or manipulations.
  • Explanation: In our modern world, we are often tempted to rely on our own cleverness or cunning to achieve success. However, true fulfillment comes from aligning our actions with God’s wisdom. When we simplify our approaches and trust God’s plan, we invite divine clarity and wisdom into our decisions.
  • Real-World Application: Make decisions based on integrity and simplicity. Resist the temptation to overcomplicate matters or engage in manipulative tactics. Instead, pray for wisdom and follow the simple path that honors God and reflects His will.
  • Scripture: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5

4. Practice Inner Transformation Over External Control

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many enforced laws, more robbers and thieves appear.”
  • Practice: Focus on cultivating personal transformation through the Holy Spirit rather than focusing solely on external regulations.
  • Explanation: The practice here is to allow the Holy Spirit to transform you from within, knowing that true change comes from the heart. God’s kingdom grows not through outward laws and regulations but through the internal renewal that only the Spirit can bring. When we live according to God’s principles, we naturally embody His justice, compassion, and righteousness.
  • Real-World Application: Instead of enforcing external rules or expectations on others, focus on living a life that reflects the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and self-control. When others see the transformation in your life, they will be drawn to follow Christ.
  • Scripture: “I will put my law in their minds, and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” – Jeremiah 31:33

5. Practice Stillness and Trust in God’s Timing

  • Line from Chapter: “Be still, and the people will transform themselves / Keep silent, and the people will rectify themselves.”
  • Practice: Cultivate stillness and patience, trusting that God is working in the hearts of others.
  • Explanation: This practice is about surrendering control and allowing God to move in His timing. Stillness is an act of faith—recognizing that God is in charge and trusting that He will accomplish His will without our intervention. It encourages us to refrain from rushing decisions and to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us with patience and peace.
  • Real-World Application: When faced with decisions or conflicts, take time to pause, pray, and allow God to direct your steps. Avoid hasty actions or rushing others toward change, and trust that God is transforming hearts at the right time.
  • Scripture: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

6. Practice Simplicity and Contentment Over Earthly Desires

  • Line from Chapter: “Surrender earthly desires, and the people will simplify themselves.”
  • Practice: Surrender worldly attachments and focus on simplicity and contentment in Christ.
  • Explanation: This practice emphasizes the importance of putting aside the distractions of materialism and excessive desires. By simplifying our lives, we can focus more on our relationship with God and the things that truly matter—eternal values rather than temporary possessions or ambitions.
  • Real-World Application: Assess areas in your life where you may be pursuing things that pull you away from God’s purpose. Simplify your lifestyle, declutter, and focus more on serving others and growing spiritually. This practice helps you live with contentment and purpose, knowing that God provides all that you need.
  • Scripture: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6

In applying these principles, we are called to practice freedom through grace, peace over force, simplicity in wisdom, transformation over control, stillness and trust, and surrendering earthly desires. These practices not only align us with God’s will, but also equip us to fulfill our purpose in today’s world—living as His witnesses, promoting peace, and guiding others through love, wisdom, and humility. By embodying these practices, we reflect the heart of the Gospel and become conduits of God’s transformative power.



RESPOND

Spiritual renewal empowers us to respond to the call of holiness and share the Joy of the Gospel confidently. In this unity of transformation, we reflect God’s presence, illuminating His light to make disciples of all nations."

1. The Principle of Non-Interference and Trust in Divine Order

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many rules and restrictions, more people become poor.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Trust in God’s plan and guidance, rather than over-regulating life through human-made laws. Jesus emphasized faith and internal transformation over external rules (Matthew 5:20).
    • Buddhism: The concept of non-attachment and letting go of control, focusing on inner peace. The Buddha teaches that controlling desires leads to suffering and enlightenment comes through wisdom and serenity.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches that the true way to act is through selfless action, without attachment to the results (Bhagavad Gita 3:19).
    • Islam: The concept of “tawakkul” (trust in Allah) encourages believers to act with reliance on Allah’s will, recognizing that control is ultimately in the hands of God (Quran 3:159).

  • How This Unites Us: This principle speaks to the universal truth that excessive interference in life and a reliance on human-made laws or methods can often lead to division, oppression, and poverty. Instead, wisdom in trusting in divine order unites all faiths in the belief that God’s will, expressed in various ways across traditions, leads to true peace and fulfillment. It reminds us that peace comes from surrendering to God’s plan, not from human attempts to control outcomes.

  • Real-World Application:
    In a world full of rules, regulations, and overcomplicated solutions, this principle invites us to trust God’s divine wisdom. For leaders, this can mean moving away from control and manipulation and instead empowering others through trust, humility, and faith. For individuals, this means aligning life with God’s will, surrendering our desire for excessive control, and trusting that God’s plan for us is good and purposeful.

    • Scripture: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” – Isaiah 55:8

2. The Principle of Peace Over Force and Violence

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many sharp weapons, more tragedy appears in the country.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Jesus taught peace and non-violence, famously instructing His followers to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39) and to love their enemies (Matthew 5:44).
    • Buddhism: The path to enlightenment includes the practice of non-harming (Ahimsa). Buddhism emphasizes compassion and peaceful coexistence.
    • Hinduism: Ahimsa, or non-violence, is central to Hinduism. Gandhi, a prominent figure, practiced non-violence in both thought and action.
    • Islam: Islam teaches peace and non-violence, with the greeting of “As-Salaam-Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) being a common phrase, and the Quran encourages peaceful resolution (Quran 41:34).

  • How This Unites Us: Every major religion teaches the importance of peace and non-violence. While cultures and practices may differ, the universal truth that peace is preferable to violence is clear across faiths. This principle unites us in the belief that true power comes not from physical force but from spiritual and moral strength.

  • Real-World Application:
    In times of conflict—whether in personal relationships, communities, or nations—embrace peace. Practice active listening, empathy, and patience. Instead of resorting to violence or force, promote dialogue, understanding, and non-violent methods of resolution. This can be applied in resolving disputes, approaching personal struggles, or even in international diplomacy.

    • Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9

3. The Principle of Inner Transformation Over External Laws

  • Line from Chapter: “When there are many enforced laws, more robbers and thieves appear.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Transformation through the Holy Spirit is emphasized over mere adherence to laws. Jesus taught that external actions are not enough without internal change (Matthew 23:25-26).
    • Buddhism: Buddhism teaches that enlightenment and peace come through internal transformation, not through external rituals or laws.
    • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes internal transformation and devotion to God (Bhagavad Gita 9:22) as the path to spiritual progress.
    • Islam: Islam emphasizes the importance of sincerity in faith and action, and the Quran teaches that internal purity (cleanliness of the heart) is more important than external rituals (Quran 2:177).

  • How This Unites Us: Across all religions, there is a shared understanding that external actions alone do not bring true spiritual growth—internal transformation is key. This truth unites us in the belief that spiritual maturity and moral integrity are cultivated from within, not simply through outward actions.

  • Real-World Application:
    Instead of focusing solely on outward behaviors, practice inward transformation by cultivating a pure heart, humility, and a spirit of love. This is reflected in personal growth, the cultivation of virtue, and the way we interact with others. Leaders and individuals alike should prioritize cultivating inner virtue as the foundation for outward actions, fostering a society built on personal transformation.

    • Scripture: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7

4. The Principle of Surrender and Trust in God’s Timing

  • Line from Chapter: “Be still, and the people will transform themselves.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Jesus calls His followers to rest in Him and trust in God’s timing. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
    • Buddhism: The practice of mindfulness encourages letting go of control, being still, and trusting in the natural flow of life.
    • Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna advises Arjuna to surrender to Him, relinquishing personal desires and trusting in divine providence (Bhagavad Gita 18:66).
    • Islam: The principle of surrender, “Islam” itself, means submission to Allah’s will, and the Quran teaches trusting in God’s plan with patience (Quran 3:159).

  • How This Unites Us: All religions teach surrendering to the divine plan and trusting in God’s wisdom and timing. This shared truth calls us to let go of anxiety and control, acknowledging that God’s plan is greater than our own understanding, and trusting that His timing is perfect.

  • Real-World Application:
    In the face of uncertainty or challenge, trust that God is working for your good. Practice surrendering your concerns to Him through prayer, meditation, and trust in His timing. Whether it’s a career decision, a personal struggle, or a life transition, release your need for immediate results and trust in His divine plan.

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

5. The Principle of Simplicity and Contentment Over Materialism

  • Line from Chapter: “Surrender earthly desires, and the people will simplify themselves.”

  • Parallel Religious Teachings:

    • Christianity: Jesus encourages His followers to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). He also teaches the importance of contentment (Philippians 4:11-13).
    • Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths teach that attachment to material things leads to suffering. Simplicity and non-attachment are essential for peace and enlightenment.
    • Hinduism: Hindu teachings encourage detachment from material possessions and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment over worldly desires (Bhagavad Gita 2:47).
    • Islam: The Quran teaches that true contentment comes from reliance on Allah and spiritual wealth, not material goods (Quran 2:261).

  • How This Unites Us: Across all religions, the importance of contentment and detachment from material possessions is emphasized. This universal truth encourages us to look beyond the fleeting pleasures of materialism and find our fulfillment in the divine, fostering a shared understanding of what true wealth is.

  • Real-World Application:
    Simplify your life by focusing on what truly matters—relationships, faith, and service. Let go of the attachment to material possessions or the pursuit of status. Seek contentment in what you have, knowing that true peace and fulfillment come from spiritual richness rather than worldly wealth.

    • Scripture: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6

The principles outlined in the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths found in every major religion. These teachings call us to live in harmony with divine order, practice peace, cultivate inner transformation, trust in God’s timing, and seek simplicity and contentment. By embracing these principles, we acknowledge the common threads that unite us as people of faith, transcending cultural and religious differences and promoting a unified approach to living with purpose and spiritual integrity.

 

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