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 76: A Gentle Approach

People begin life soft and tender ^a
At death they end up hard and rigid

Trees and grass begin life soft and supple
At death they end up hard and brittle

Hence the hard and inflexible are followers of the dead
And the soft and yielding are followers of the living

Thus, the inflexible and unyielding army will fall by their own weight ^b
Just as hard wood will be cut down

The hard and inflexible will occupy the Earth below
While the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above

^a 1 Peter 2:1-3; Proverbs 11:19; ^bPsalm 37:8-13; Proverbs 11:5; Proverbs 28:10.

Chapter 76 of the Tao Te Ching contrasts the characteristics of softness and hardness, noting how the soft and yielding are aligned with life, while the hard and rigid represent death. From a Christian perspective, this chapter highlights the importance of humility, gentleness, and spiritual flexibility, which are central to Christian teachings.

The opening lines, “People begin life soft and tender; at death they end up hard and rigid,” reflect the natural progression of life, but they also carry a deeper spiritual lesson. In Christian thought, the soft and tender are symbolic of a heart open to God’s guidance and grace. Jesus himself exemplified this humility and softness in His life, as He said, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). This gentleness and humility are virtues that Christians are called to cultivate, reflecting the nature of Christ, who was gentle and lowly in heart (Matthew 11:29). Hardness, on the other hand, represents stubbornness and resistance to God’s will, something that ultimately leads to spiritual death, as seen in the hardened hearts of those who rejected Christ.

The passage further states, “Hence the hard and inflexible are followers of the dead, and the soft and yielding are followers of the living.” In Christianity, this can be seen as a call to follow the example of Christ, who was gentle yet strong, unwavering in His commitment to God’s will, but not rigid or harsh in His interactions. The Apostle Paul speaks of the fruit of the Spirit as qualities like gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), which are marks of the “living” believer—those whose lives are shaped by God’s Spirit, rather than by the hardness of sin.

The text then compares a rigid, unyielding army to hard wood that will eventually be cut down. This echoes the biblical principle that those who rely on their own strength and refuse to bend to God’s will will ultimately fall. Proverbs 11:19 states, “The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death.” The inflexible, whether in character or in action, face destruction because they are out of alignment with God’s purposes, which are rooted in love, grace, and mercy.

Finally, “The hard and inflexible will occupy the Earth below, while the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above.” This can be seen as a reflection of Christ’s promise that the meek will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). The “soft and yielding” in Christian terms are those who humble themselves before God and are obedient to His will, trusting in His timing and plan. Such individuals may appear weak or gentle in the eyes of the world, but in God’s kingdom, their humility and gentleness are the true strength that will endure. As the Apostle Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:6).

In conclusion, Chapter 76 of the Tao Te Ching aligns with Christian values of humility, meekness, and submission to God’s will. It teaches that the path to true strength is through gentleness and yielding to God’s spirit, rather than through rigid self-reliance. The lesson is clear: spiritual life is nurtured through softness, humility, and submission to God, while hardness and pride lead to spiritual death and downfall.

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 Importance of Flexibility and Softness in Life

Line from this chapter: “People begin life soft and tender. At death, they end up hard and rigid.”
Mindset: Embrace the natural flow of life and maintain a spirit of adaptability, recognizing that growth comes from being open, flexible, and receptive. Avoid becoming rigid or closed-off to change.
Explanation: Life requires flexibility in order to navigate its challenges. The mindset should be one of humility and openness, understanding that personal growth and spiritual development depend on being soft and adaptable rather than becoming hardened by life’s difficulties. A soft approach enables one to learn, evolve, and remain aligned with God’s will.
Real-World Application: In modern life, adaptability is crucial—whether in the workplace, in relationships, or in your personal journey. When facing new challenges or experiences, approach them with a mindset of learning and growth. For example, when adapting to technological advancements or societal changes, stay open to learning rather than resisting change.
Scripture: Matthew 18:3-4 – “And he said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'”

2. The Consequences of Inflexibility and Rigidity

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible are followers of the dead. And the soft and yielding are followers of the living.”
Mindset: Acknowledge that inflexibility leads to spiritual stagnation and disconnection from God’s will. In order to live fully, we must be willing to yield, to listen, and to be flexible in the face of life’s challenges.
Explanation: Inflexibility leads to spiritual death because it hinders growth. The mindset here is about recognizing that those who resist change, who are unwilling to bend to God’s will, are at risk of spiritual death. To live fully and spiritually, we must approach life with a softness that invites growth, learning, and a deeper connection to God’s purpose.
Real-World Application: Whether in leadership, relationships, or personal decision-making, holding on to rigid views or controlling behaviors can lead to conflict, frustration, and isolation. A mindset of yielding allows us to grow together, fostering collaboration and mutual respect. For instance, in leadership, being willing to listen and adapt fosters trust and respect, which strengthens relationships and results.
Scripture: James 4:6 – “But He gives more grace. Therefore, it says, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'”

3. The Danger of Being Inflexible and the Power of Yielding

Line from this chapter: “Thus, the inflexible and unyielding army will fall by their own weight. Just as hard wood will be cut down.”
Mindset: Understand that pride and inflexibility will lead to downfall, while humility and adaptability are the path to true strength. Adopt a mindset of surrender to God’s will, trusting that His way is the best way.
Explanation: Rigidity in spirit, attitude, or behavior leads to destruction. The mindset should be one that continually seeks God’s guidance, being open to correction and change. Just as an unyielding army is defeated by its own inflexibility, our own stubbornness can hinder us from realizing our potential. Humility and surrender to God allow for peace, success, and spiritual fulfillment.
Real-World Application: In any situation, whether personal or professional, it is vital to let go of the need for control and allow God’s will to guide your actions. Whether it’s handling criticism, working with others, or navigating a major life decision, practice yielding rather than forcing outcomes. By being open to divine direction, you remain aligned with God’s purpose.
Scripture: Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”

4. Living in the Spirit of Humility and Softness

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible will occupy the Earth below. While the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above.”
Mindset: Cultivate a mindset of humility and gentleness, recognizing that true strength lies in humility and the willingness to serve. Understand that the path to greatness in God’s kingdom is through yielding to His will, not through pride or control.
Explanation: The mindset of humility, gentleness, and surrender to God’s will ensures that we inherit spiritual blessings. The “earth above” refers to the heavenly rewards and divine peace that come to those who walk humbly before God. The mindset is about seeking spiritual growth rather than worldly power or influence, embracing meekness and patience.
Real-World Application: In your interactions with others, approach situations with patience and a heart of service. In leadership or conflict resolution, adopt an attitude of humility rather than trying to dominate or control. Serve others without seeking recognition, and trust that God will bless your humility with spiritual rewards and peace.
Scripture: Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

The Christian version of the Tao Te Ching in Chapter 76 calls us to adopt a mindset of flexibility, humility, and surrender to God’s will. In today’s world, where rigidity and pride often lead to failure and spiritual stagnation, the mindset we are called to embody is one that remains soft, adaptable, and open to God’s guidance. By practicing humility and yielding, we invite God’s grace into our lives, leading to spiritual fulfillment and growth. These principles offer us the strength and peace that come from aligning ourselves with the living God, who empowers us to navigate life with gentleness and wisdom.

AIM:

1. Aim for Humility and Flexibility

Line from this chapter: “People begin life soft and tender. At death, they end up hard and rigid.”
Aim: Seek to remain humble and adaptable, embracing the soft and tender nature of the Spirit to grow in grace and maturity.
Explanation: The goal is to maintain a humble, flexible spirit that allows you to respond to life with openness and growth. This mindset acknowledges that the journey of life is one of transformation, and the way to live fully is by staying tender to God’s direction and not becoming hardened by life’s challenges. To aim for humility is to continuously cultivate a heart open to change and new learning, never closing oneself off due to pride or fear of vulnerability.
Real-World Application: In daily life, practice staying open to new ideas and feedback from others, acknowledging that you don’t have all the answers. In leadership, allow others to speak into your life and remain teachable. When facing challenges, remain flexible and trust that God will guide you through, rather than stubbornly relying on your own understanding.
Scripture: 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.”

2. Aim to Avoid Rigidity and Pride

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible are followers of the dead. And the soft and yielding are followers of the living.”
Aim: Focus on nurturing a spirit of life and openness, avoiding the trap of rigidity that leads to spiritual death. Embrace the vitality that comes from being flexible and humble.
Explanation: In a world that often celebrates strength through force and unyielding power, the aim here is to cultivate a soft, yielding nature that aligns with the living way of God. By avoiding the trap of becoming rigid and inflexible, we are open to the divine wisdom that leads to life. Rigidity in thought, actions, or attitude stifles growth and connection with God, while a flexible heart invites transformation and spiritual life.
Real-World Application: In times of conflict or difficult decision-making, don’t let pride or the need to control the outcome hinder you from listening to God or others. Aim for collaboration, understanding, and peace rather than forcing your way. At work or in relationships, practicing patience and humility over pride will allow you to build stronger connections.
Scripture: 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. Aim for Strength in Gentleness and Yielding

Line from this chapter: “Thus, the inflexible and unyielding army will fall by their own weight. Just as hard wood will be cut down.”
Aim: Focus on strength through gentleness and yielding, knowing that true power comes from yielding to God’s will rather than relying on our own strength.
Explanation: This principle teaches that true strength does not come from domination or force but from yielding and flexibility. In God’s kingdom, power is shown in gentleness, and success comes through trust in God’s timing and methods. The aim should be to develop inner strength by trusting in God’s process and being willing to let go of control when necessary. By yielding to God’s will, we align ourselves with His purpose and experience true peace and strength.
Real-World Application: In personal or professional challenges, approach situations with patience and a willingness to yield rather than forcing outcomes. In leadership, learn to empower others instead of dominating them. When facing opposition or criticism, remain calm and gentle, trusting that God will handle the situation in His time.
Scripture: Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

4. Aim to Walk in Meekness and Humility

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible will occupy the Earth below. While the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above.”
Aim: Keep your eyes on the reward of meekness and humility, knowing that the greatest spiritual blessings come to those who walk humbly before God.
Explanation: The principle highlights the reward of humility: the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above. Meekness is not weakness but power under control. To walk in meekness means to trust in God’s sovereignty, to submit to His will, and to serve others without seeking recognition or control. The aim is to remain humble, recognizing that all we have is a gift from God and that true greatness comes through serving others.
Real-World Application: In every situation, aim to serve rather than be served. In leadership, use your influence to lift others up, not to dominate or control. Approach challenges with a humble heart, knowing that God’s plan for you is greater than any personal ambition. Remember that God’s favor and blessings come to those who walk humbly.
Scripture: Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

In this chapter, the Tao Te Ching teaches us that true strength and spiritual fulfillment come from humility, flexibility, and yielding to God’s will. In today’s world, where pride, rigidity, and control often dominate, we are called to aim for a life of meekness, adaptability, and gentleness. By cultivating these qualities, we not only align with God’s will but also become instruments of peace and growth, inheriting the spiritual blessings that come from walking humbly before God.

Practice:

1. Practice Humility and Flexibility

Line from this chapter: “People begin life soft and tender. At death they end up hard and rigid.”
Practice: Cultivate humility and stay flexible in your thinking, approach, and relationships. Avoid becoming hard-hearted or prideful, and remain open to God’s guidance and change.
Explanation: Humility and flexibility are key to living in alignment with God’s purpose. When we are humble, we acknowledge that we do not have all the answers and that we need God’s guidance. Flexibility allows us to adapt to life’s changes without becoming rigid in our ways. By practicing humility and openness, we are more likely to grow spiritually and experience the peace of God in our lives.
Real-World Application: In your daily interactions, avoid becoming defensive or set in your ways. If faced with a new opportunity or challenge, practice openness to change, listening to others, and being willing to adapt your approach when necessary. In leadership, empower others by fostering an environment where flexibility and humility are valued.
Scripture: 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.”

2. Practice Yielding Over Force

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible are followers of the dead. And the soft and yielding are followers of the living.”
Practice: Practice yielding in situations of tension and conflict, trusting that God’s way is one of peace and gentle strength, not forceful control.
Explanation: Yielding does not mean weakness; rather, it means submitting to God’s will and trusting His timing. When we practice yielding, we avoid the temptation to control situations or people. We learn to trust that God is in control and that His wisdom will guide us, even when things are difficult. Yielding is about aligning ourselves with the living way of God, which promotes life and growth.
Real-World Application: When faced with disagreements or challenges, instead of forcing your viewpoint or resisting change, yield to God’s direction and trust His guidance. In relationships, practice patience, and listen more than you speak. In decision-making, rely on prayer and discernment rather than your own strength or control.
Scripture: James 1:19 – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”

3. Practice Gentle Strength

Line from this chapter: “Thus, the inflexible and unyielding army will fall by their own weight. Just as hard wood will be cut down.”
Practice: Develop the strength to remain gentle and composed, especially in moments of conflict or when challenged. Trust that God’s ways are not forceful but are full of grace.
Explanation: Gentle strength is the ability to remain firm in one’s beliefs and values, but to do so with kindness and compassion. It is the strength of being calm in the face of adversity and trusting God to work through you, rather than relying on your own power or might. By practicing gentle strength, we show that we are not afraid of yielding or compromising for the sake of peace and love.
Real-World Application: When conflict arises, instead of reacting with force or anger, practice a calm, composed, and respectful response. Use your words and actions to bring peace, not division. In leadership, guide with understanding and gentleness, recognizing the strength in humility and patience.
Scripture: Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

4. Practice Meekness Over Pride

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible will occupy the Earth below. While the soft and yielding will inherit the Earth above.”
Practice: Practice meekness, acknowledging that God’s will is greater than your own, and that true greatness comes from serving others with a humble heart.
Explanation: Meekness is strength under control, recognizing that God’s purpose for you is higher than personal ambition. It is about serving others, putting their needs above your own, and having a heart that desires to see others succeed. Meekness invites God’s favor because it aligns us with His will and keeps us focused on His glory rather than our own.
Real-World Application: In leadership roles, practice servant leadership, lifting others up instead of seeking recognition or power for yourself. In personal relationships, humble yourself and seek to serve others, putting their needs first. In difficult situations, avoid reacting out of pride, and instead choose humility, trusting God to handle the outcome.
Scripture: Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

By practicing humility, yielding, gentle strength, and meekness, we align ourselves with God’s divine order, following the example of Jesus, who modeled the perfect balance of strength and gentleness. In today’s world, where pride, control, and rigidity often reign, we are called to live differently—by yielding to God’s will, remaining flexible and humble, and practicing gentle strength in all our dealings. These practices fulfill God’s purpose for our lives, and when we embrace them, we reflect His love and grace to the world around us.

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. Humility and Yielding Over Force

Line from this chapter: “The hard and inflexible are followers of the dead. And the soft and yielding are followers of the living.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
- Islam: Quran 16:125 – “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction…”
- Buddhism: “A lion, even when hungry, does not strike or roar, it remains calm and steady.”
- Hinduism: “The one who is free from pride and arrogance, and who is humble, is the true servant of God.”
How This Unites Us: Humility and yielding before God, rather than relying on force or power, are universal values in all major religions. In Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, humility is viewed as a pathway to spiritual growth and alignment with divine will. All traditions teach that by letting go of pride and ego, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s love, aligning ourselves with life rather than death.
Real-World Application: In practice, this means choosing humility over dominance in relationships, in leadership, and in everyday interactions. Whether at work, in family dynamics, or within communities, yielding does not mean weakness; it means submitting to higher principles and allowing others the space to be themselves. Leading with gentleness and kindness creates stronger, healthier relationships.
Scripture: James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

2. Strength Through Gentleness

Line from this chapter: “Thus, the inflexible and unyielding army will fall by their own weight. Just as hard wood will be cut down.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
- Islam: Quran 41:34 – “Good and evil are not equal. Repel evil by that which is better.”
- Buddhism: “The wise are those who remain calm in adversity and show compassion to all beings.”
- Hinduism: “By practicing dharma (righteousness), one attains a gentle yet powerful strength that is unshakeable.”
How This Unites Us: Across all religions, strength is not viewed in terms of force, but as the ability to remain calm, composed, and compassionate, even in difficult situations. Christianity’s model of Christ’s humility and the Quran’s teaching on returning evil with good reflect this idea. Buddhism and Hinduism also speak of strength that arises from patience, peace, and the absence of aggression. All these teachings align with the idea that true strength is not in inflexibility but in gentleness and resilience.
Real-World Application: Practicing gentleness in situations of conflict or adversity enables you to lead with wisdom and peace. In the workplace or at home, responding to tension with a calm demeanor and thoughtful words can turn hostile situations into opportunities for understanding. When a person practices gentle strength, they do not escalate conflicts but diffuse them.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 10:1 – “I appeal to you with the gentleness and kindness of Christ.”

3. Meekness and Letting Go of Control

Line from this chapter: “The treasures of life are gained by those who let go. And missed by those who hold on.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Matthew 16:25 – “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”
- Islam: Quran 9:51 – “Say, ‘Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.'”
- Buddhism: “Attachment is the root of suffering; true freedom lies in letting go.”
- Hinduism: “When one renounces the fruits of actions and surrenders to God, true peace and fulfillment are attained.”
How This Unites Us: The principle of letting go—whether it’s releasing control over outcomes, surrendering our personal desires, or trusting in divine timing—is shared across all major religious traditions. Christianity teaches that those who let go of their own life in service to Christ find true life, while Islam speaks of trusting in Allah’s decree. Buddhism and Hinduism emphasize that detachment and surrender to divine will are key to inner peace. All traditions unite in showing that clinging to control leads to suffering, but yielding to divine will leads to true freedom.
Real-World Application: In practice, letting go involves trust—trusting God’s plans over your own. Whether it’s surrendering your ambitions or trusting in the process of life, letting go means stepping back and allowing life to unfold as God intends. This can be seen in moments of loss, change, or disappointment when trusting God’s guidance brings peace in the midst of uncertainty.
Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

4. Trust in Divine Justice Over Human Judgment

Line from this chapter: “Let the sovereign God be the judge according to our sins. To take the place of God is like trying to cut for the master carpenter.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Romans 12:19 – “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
- Islam: Quran 4:40 – “Indeed, Allah does not do injustice, even as much as an atom’s weight, while people may.”
- Buddhism: “Justice is a reflection of our karma; we should not hasten to judge, for the consequences of our actions will come to pass in their own time.”
- Hinduism: “Karma dictates that justice will be served according to one’s actions; therefore, it is not for us to judge others prematurely.”
How This Unites Us: Trusting in divine justice and surrendering human judgment is a common thread in the world’s religions. Christianity and Islam both teach that God is the ultimate judge, and humans should not seek revenge or impose justice on their own. Buddhism and Hinduism’s teachings on karma emphasize that every action has a consequence, which is handled by the divine order, not humans. These ideas unite us in understanding that ultimate justice belongs to God, not to us.
Real-World Application: Practically, this principle encourages us to avoid judging others or taking matters into our own hands. When we are wronged, we should seek justice through prayer and trust that God will address the situation in His time. Instead of responding in anger or revenge, we allow God to be the judge and act with patience and humility.
Scripture: Psalm 9:8 – “He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.”

The universal truth in this chapter from the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching speaks to principles that transcend individual religions. Humility, yielding, gentleness, letting go, and trusting in divine justice are values upheld by all major religions, showing a shared wisdom across cultures and spiritual teachings. These principles unite us in a common understanding of how to approach life with faith, peace, and trust in God’s will, reinforcing our shared human experience of spiritual growth and transformation.

....................................................................