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 77: Divine Balance

 

The God of Heaven is like drawing a bow a
The top end bends down to a lower position 
The bottom end bends up to a higher position 
Reduce the draw if it is too much b
Add to the draw if it is too little 

The Heavenly Way of God b 
Reduces from what is too much  
In order to add to what is too little 

The way of people is different c
They reduce from what is too little 
In order to add to what is too much 

Who can offer their excess to serve the world? d 
Only those who have the Spirit of God 

Therefore, they fulfill their purpose without recognition e
Achieve without taking credit 
And do not wish to glorify their good works

 

a Luke 14:8-11; b 1 Samuel 2:7-8; Proverbs 13:7; 2 Corinthians 8:9; c James 2:1-5; Proverbs 22:16; Proverbs 28:27; d John 14:10-12; e John 8:54-55.

Chapter 77 of the Tao Te Ching introduces the concept of divine balance, comparing God’s way to the act of drawing a bow—where the tension and balance between opposing forces are carefully regulated. From a Christian perspective, this chapter underscores the principles of humility, generosity, and selflessness, which align with key Christian teachings about God’s justice and mercy, as well as the self-sacrificial nature of Jesus Christ.

The passage begins by describing the God of Heaven as someone who adjusts the bow, with the top end bending down and the bottom end bending up. This suggests that God’s divine balance is about elevating what is low and humbling what is high. In Christian terms, this reflects God’s ability to reverse earthly values, as seen in the Beatitudes where Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3) and “The last will be first, and the first will be last” (Matthew 20:16). God’s kingdom operates on principles that often invert worldly expectations—exalting the humble and bringing down the proud. This is echoed in the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who proclaimed, “He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble” (Luke 1:52).

The text continues with the notion that God’s way is to reduce what is too much and add to what is too little. This speaks to God’s justice, mercy, and provision. In Christian theology, this is exemplified by God’s grace, where He gives abundantly to those who are in need, and humbles those who have much but lack generosity. Jesus demonstrated this through acts of compassion, feeding the hungry, healing the sick, and offering forgiveness to sinners. The idea that God’s balance leads to fulfillment and restoration aligns with the Christian belief that God restores the broken, heals the wounded, and gives hope to the lost.

In contrast, the “way of people” is described as reducing from what is too little in order to add to what is too much. This human tendency often leads to inequality and injustice, where the rich are made richer while the poor are left in poverty. The Bible warns against such imbalances and calls for justice and fairness. James 2:1-5 speaks against showing favoritism to the wealthy while neglecting the poor, and Proverbs 22:16 warns, “Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and whoever gives to the rich—both come to poverty.” This imbalance is counter to the way of God, which seeks to uplift the lowly and provide for those in need.

The chapter then challenges those who have excess to offer it in service to the world. In Christian terms, this speaks to the call for believers to be generous and selfless, using their resources to bless others. Jesus emphasized this principle in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and in His teachings about the kingdom of God. In John 14:10-12, Jesus encourages His followers to do even greater works than He did, showing that those who are filled with the Spirit of God are empowered to serve others sacrificially, giving without expecting anything in return. This spirit of generosity reflects the heart of Christ, who gave Himself completely for the sake of humanity.

Finally, the chapter points out that those who follow the divine balance fulfill their purpose without recognition, achieve without taking credit, and do not seek to glorify their good works. This echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6:1-4, where He warns against doing righteous acts for public approval. True followers of God act selflessly, with humility, and without the desire for glory. Jesus exemplified this through His life, especially in His sacrificial death on the cross, which was done not for His own glory, but for the salvation of humanity. As John 8:54-55 notes, Jesus did not seek His own glory but glorified the Father.

In conclusion, Chapter 77 of the Tao Te Ching from a Christian perspective emphasizes divine balance—God’s justice, mercy, and provision—and the call for believers to live humbly, generously, and selflessly. The chapter invites Christians to reflect God’s nature in their actions by serving others without seeking recognition, embodying the principles of the kingdom of God. It challenges the world’s values of accumulation and self-promotion, instead promoting a life of humility, justice, and sacrificial love.



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. Adopt a Mindset of Balance and Moderation

  • Line from the Chapter: “The God of Heaven is like drawing a bow. The top end bends down to a lower position, the bottom end bends up to a higher position.”
  • Mindset: Seek balance by lowering what is too high and raising what is too low.
  • Explanation: God’s way is about balance, reducing extremes and creating harmony. Just as a bow is balanced by drawing both ends together, we are to act in a way that fosters balance in our lives and relationships.
  • Real-World Application: When making decisions, focus on bringing harmony and balance into relationships, work, and personal life. Avoid extremes of excess or lack, whether it’s time, resources, or attention.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 11:1 – “A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.”

2. Cultivate a Generous and Giving Spirit

  • Line from the Chapter: “The Heavenly Way of God reduces from what is too much in order to add to what is too little.”
  • Mindset: Adopt a heart of generosity that willingly gives to those in need.
  • Explanation: God’s way is to bring balance by helping those in need, while the human tendency is often to hoard or acquire more. A mindset of generosity means being open-hearted and willing to share one’s resources and time with others.
  • Real-World Application: When you have an abundance—whether of time, resources, or skills—offer them to others who are lacking. This might mean volunteering, donating, or mentoring someone who needs guidance.
  • Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

3. Reject the Human Tendency to Hoard

  • Line from the Chapter: “The way of people is different. They reduce from what is too little in order to add to what is too much.”
  • Mindset: Resist selfish inclinations and focus on the well-being of others.
  • Explanation: People often strive for personal gain, even at the expense of others. A God-centered mindset recognizes that true abundance comes from giving, not from amassing more.
  • Real-World Application: In career or personal ambitions, avoid choices that lead to excessive self-promotion or materialism. Instead, focus on what benefits others and promotes fairness and compassion.
  • Scripture: Luke 12:15 – “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”

4. Embrace Humble Service Without Seeking Recognition

  • Line from the Chapter: “Who can offer their excess to serve the world? Only those who have the Spirit of God.”
  • Mindset: Serve humbly without desire for praise or acknowledgment.
  • Explanation: Those who are filled with God’s Spirit give freely, out of love and not for recognition. Practicing humility means finding joy in service itself, not in the rewards it brings.
  • Real-World Application: When helping others, avoid publicizing your actions or seeking validation. This could mean giving anonymously, focusing on the benefit to others rather than personal gain.
  • Scripture: Matthew 6:3-4 – “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.”

5. Prioritize Purpose Over Personal Glory

  • Line from the Chapter: “Therefore, they fulfill their purpose without recognition, achieve without taking credit, and do not wish to glorify their good works.”
  • Mindset: Let your purpose be guided by God’s will rather than a desire for praise.
  • Explanation: True fulfillment comes from aligning with God’s purposes, not seeking worldly glory. This mindset means finding satisfaction in knowing you are contributing to a greater good, not in public approval or applause.
  • Real-World Application: Focus on your purpose with integrity, whether in family, community, or work. Let your efforts speak for themselves and trust that God sees and values your work.
  • Scripture: Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”

The mindset before taking action, as taught in this chapter, is one of balance, generosity, humility, and service aligned with God’s will. By living according to these principles, we reflect divine values in the world around us and move in harmony with God’s purpose.

AIM:

1. Aim for Balance in Your Influence and Resources

  • Line from this Chapter: “The God of Heaven is like drawing a bow; the top end bends down to a lower position, the bottom end bends up to a higher position.”
  • Aim: Seek to equalize and balance areas of excess and lack in your life and environment.
  • Explanation: Just as a bow’s tension requires balance, our actions should aim to harmonize extremes. By bringing excesses into moderation and uplifting areas of deficiency, we align ourselves with the gentle adjustments of the Divine. This principle encourages humility, recognizing that balance leads to true strength and endurance.
  • Real-World Application: In personal finance, relationships, or time management, assess what has too much emphasis and where there is too little. For example, if work dominates life, aim to balance it with more time dedicated to family and rest.
  • Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

2. Aim for Generosity and Kindness Toward Others

  • Line from this Chapter: “The Heavenly Way of God reduces from what is too much in order to add to what is too little.”
  • Aim: Use your abundance to support others and uplift those in need.
  • Explanation: Generosity reflects God’s nature by redistributing resources to those who have less. God’s way doesn’t take from what is scarce but instead fills in where abundance can make a difference. Practicing this keeps us mindful of the needs of others and contributes to building a more compassionate and supportive community.
  • Real-World Application: Share resources—such as time, finances, or knowledge—with those in need. This might look like volunteering, donating to charity, or mentoring someone who could benefit from your skills.
  • Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:14 – “At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality.”

3. Aim for Humility and Selflessness Over Self-Glorification

  • Line from this Chapter: “Who can offer their excess to serve the world? Only those who have the Spirit of God.”
  • Aim: Seek to contribute quietly and focus on serving rather than seeking personal recognition or praise.
  • Explanation: Genuine fulfillment comes from contributing without expecting praise. In God’s way, purpose is realized through humble service, making it essential to avoid self-glorification. This mindset aims to fulfill our roles as servants, reflecting divine love and care through actions rather than through acclaim.
  • Real-World Application: When performing acts of kindness or community service, do so without drawing attention to yourself. For instance, you could anonymously help someone in financial need or volunteer behind the scenes in your church or community.
  • Scripture: Matthew 6:3-4 – “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.”

4. Aim to Be Attuned to God’s Timing

  • Line from this Chapter: “Does not rush things and yet fulfills.”
  • Aim: Practice patience and trust in God’s perfect timing.
  • Explanation: The chapter underscores that God’s timing is neither rushed nor delayed. Our aim should be to trust this divine rhythm rather than forcing outcomes before their time. By being patient, we align with the wisdom of God’s timing, which is always purposeful and complete.
  • Real-World Application: In personal and professional pursuits, practice patience. If a situation feels delayed, use it as a time for preparation or prayer, trusting that the right outcome will arrive in God’s timing.
  • Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

5. Aim to Rely on God’s Sovereignty Rather than Human Control

  • Line from this Chapter: “The way of people is different. They reduce from what is too little in order to add to what is too much.”
  • Aim: Trust in God’s guidance over human striving or manipulation.
  • Explanation: Humans often attempt to control or hoard resources, operating from a place of fear rather than trust. This principle suggests that by relying on God’s direction, we resist the temptation to control or grasp but instead flow with divine wisdom, allowing God to provide as needed.
  • Real-World Application: In decision-making, allow God’s will to lead rather than relying solely on human ambition or anxiety. For instance, in career or financial choices, seek guidance in prayer and trust that God’s wisdom will ensure the right provision.
  • 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.”

6. Aim for Modesty in Achievements

  • Line from this Chapter: “Achieve without taking credit and do not wish to glorify their good works.”
  • Aim: Accomplish with a spirit of humility, deflecting praise toward God.
  • Explanation: While achievements are meaningful, the aim here is to recognize that all good comes from God’s grace. Rather than seeking validation for ourselves, we reflect glory back to God, who empowers us to do all things.
  • Real-World Application: In moments of success, whether at work or in ministry, take the opportunity to redirect credit to God. When people praise you, simply acknowledge God’s role in the achievement and let gratitude shape your response.
  • Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:31 – “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

This approach to “aiming” in life involves cultivating balance, generosity, humility, patience, reliance on God, and modesty. By setting these as intentions, we align ourselves more closely with divine principles that ultimately bring peace, purpose, and fulfillment in our daily actions.

Practice:

1. Practice Balance in All Things

  • Line from this Chapter: “The God of Heaven is like drawing a bow; the top end bends down to a lower position, the bottom end bends up to a higher position.”
  • Practice: Strive to create balance by lowering excesses and uplifting deficiencies in your life and in the lives of others.
  • Explanation: God’s way is harmonious; it involves bringing balance to everything, avoiding extremes of abundance or lack. This means assessing areas in life—like time, wealth, or attention—where adjustments could lead to a more centered life.
  • Real-World Application: Prioritize balance in relationships, work, and resources. This could mean re-evaluating work-life balance, ensuring time with family and community, or reallocating resources where needed.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 16:11 – “A just balance and scales are the Lord’s; all the weights in the bag are his work.”

2. Practice Generosity with a Willing Heart

  • Line from this Chapter: “The Heavenly Way of God reduces from what is too much in order to add to what is too little.”
  • Practice: Be generous with what you have in abundance, offering it to those who are lacking.
  • Explanation: In contrast to human nature, which often seeks to keep more than needed, God’s way encourages us to give freely to balance the needs of others. Practicing generosity strengthens community and aligns our actions with God’s way of love and compassion.
  • Real-World Application: Identify areas where you have excess, whether money, time, or skills, and offer them to someone who is in need. For instance, volunteer time to a charitable cause or provide mentorship.
  • Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 – “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

3. Cultivate Selflessness Over Self-Preservation

  • Line from this Chapter: “The way of people is different. They reduce from what is too little in order to add to what is too much.”
  • Practice: Be mindful to act in ways that prioritize the good of others, resisting the impulse to accumulate only for personal gain.
  • Explanation: This principle calls us to reverse our natural inclination toward self-preservation and accumulation. True purpose is fulfilled not by amassing personal wealth or recognition but by considering and acting in the interest of others.
  • Real-World Application: In your professional and personal pursuits, consider how actions affect others. Practice fair and ethical behavior even when it might limit personal gains.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

4. Serve Without Expectation of Reward

  • Line from this Chapter: “They fulfill their purpose without recognition, achieve without taking credit, and do not wish to glorify their good works.”
  • Practice: Act with a heart of service, finding fulfillment in the work itself rather than in external praise or acknowledgment.
  • Explanation: This practice teaches us to find purpose through humble service. A life dedicated to God’s way is marked by actions done for their inherent value, not for the accolades they bring.
  • Real-World Application: Engage in charitable acts, community service, or even daily kindness without seeking recognition. This could involve supporting coworkers quietly, helping neighbors, or giving to charity without broadcasting it.
  • Scripture: Matthew 6:1-4 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”

5. Prioritize Spiritual Over Material Pursuits

  • Line from this Chapter: “Who can offer their excess to serve the world? Only those who have the Spirit of God.”
  • Practice: Dedicate time to spiritual practices that align your heart and mind with God’s will, allowing you to serve others authentically.
  • Explanation: Those filled with God’s Spirit are called to prioritize spiritual growth over material gain. This practice centers on deepening one’s relationship with God, which in turn fuels purpose and compassion.
  • Real-World Application: Regularly engage in spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, and study of scripture. Use this grounding to guide decisions that prioritize long-term, God-centered values over temporary, material success.
  • Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:11-12 – “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.”

To fulfill our purpose in modern times, this chapter encourages us to practice balance, generosity, selflessness, humility, and spiritual alignment. By embodying these principles, we walk in harmony with God’s way, living out our purpose in a world that needs compassion, balance, and godly action.



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. Universal Truth of Balance and Moderation

  • Line from this Chapter: “The God of Heaven is like drawing a bow; the top end bends down to a lower position, the bottom end bends up to a higher position.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Proverbs 11:1 – “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.” This emphasizes the importance of fairness and balance.
    • Islam: Surah Al-Baqarah 2:143 – “Thus We have made you a just nation…” Islam calls for balance and moderation in all things.
    • Buddhism: The Middle Way—Buddha teaches avoiding extremes and finding balance in life to avoid suffering.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 6:16-17 – “There is no possibility of one’s being a yogi, O Arjuna, if one eats too much or eats too little, sleeps too much, or does not sleep enough.” This highlights the balance needed in one’s lifestyle.
  • How This Unites Us: Across all major religions, the theme of balance and moderation is present, teaching us to avoid extremes and to seek harmony in our actions, thoughts, and lives. Whether it’s balancing material desires with spiritual growth or balancing work with rest, these teachings emphasize a universal truth about living in harmony with both the self and the world.
  • Real-World Application: In daily life, apply this principle by balancing your work, relationships, and personal time. Avoid overworking or underachieving and strive for fairness in interactions with others.
  • Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

2. Universal Truth of Generosity and Selflessness

  • Line from this Chapter: “The Heavenly Way of God reduces from what is too much in order to add to what is too little.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Luke 3:11 – “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Baqarah 2:177 – “It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the east or the west, but righteousness is in one who believes in Allah… and gives his wealth, in spite of his love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.”
    • Buddhism: The practice of dana (generosity) is one of the key virtues in Buddhism, teaching that giving selflessly leads to spiritual growth.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 17:20 – “Those who give food, shelter, and other essentials to the poor, to guests, and to their relatives are said to be charitable.”
  • How This Unites Us: The principle of generosity transcends all religions and invites us to help those in need, both materially and spiritually. Regardless of faith, the act of reducing personal excess to help others is a universally revered virtue that unites humanity in compassion.
  • Real-World Application: Contribute your time, resources, or energy to support charitable causes. Whether through monetary donations, volunteer work, or simply offering kindness to someone in need, this principle encourages a life of service to others.
  • Scripture: Matthew 6:3-4 – “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.”

3. Universal Truth of Humility and Non-Glorification

  • Line from this Chapter: “Who can offer their excess to serve the world? Only those who have the Spirit of God.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Insan 76:9 – “They give food, despite their love for it, to the poor, the orphan, and the captive.”
    • Buddhism: Humility is central in Buddhism, as it teaches that selflessness and renouncing pride lead to true wisdom.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 3:19 – “Thus, without attachment, perform the work that you must do. Perform your duties without attachment, because by doing work without attachment, a person attains the Supreme.”
  • How This Unites Us: This teaching of humility, practiced universally, encourages individuals to act from pure motives, not for recognition or self-promotion. It teaches that true fulfillment comes from serving others without expecting praise.
  • Real-World Application: In every action, do not seek attention or glory. Whether it’s at work, home, or within your community, practice performing acts of kindness anonymously or without seeking approval.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

4. Universal Truth of Patience and Trust in Divine Timing

  • Line from this Chapter: “Does not rush things and yet fulfills.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: James 5:7 – “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it until it receives the early and late rains.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Imran 3:200 – “O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful.”
    • Buddhism: Patience is a central virtue in Buddhism, known as one of the perfections (paramitas), necessary for overcoming suffering.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 2:47 – “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”
  • How This Unites Us: Patience is a virtue honored in all religions. Trusting in God’s timing over our own urgency is a common thread, showing that ultimate success and fulfillment come through trust, patience, and perseverance in the face of trials.
  • Real-World Application: In situations of stress or uncertainty, practice patience by trusting that God’s plan is unfolding in its time. Whether it’s waiting for career opportunities or personal growth, avoid rushing the process.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

5. Universal Truth of Selflessness in Action

  • Line from this Chapter: “Achieve without taking credit and do not wish to glorify their good works.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
    • Islam: Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261 – “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a grain of wheat which produces seven ears, and each ear contains one hundred grains.”
    • Buddhism: The concept of right intention in Buddhism emphasizes selflessness and doing good deeds without attachment to the outcome or recognition.
    • Hinduism: Bhagavad Gita 9:22 – “To those who are constantly devoted and who remember Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me.”
  • How This Unites Us: This universal truth encourages all to act selflessly and humbly, fostering a world where the focus is on collective well-being rather than personal gain or recognition.
  • Real-World Application: When performing good deeds or acts of service, do so without expecting acknowledgment. Volunteer, donate, or help others without the desire for personal gain or recognition.
  • Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10 – “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

The principles from this chapter of the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths that are present across all major world religions. These teachings of balance, generosity, humility, patience, and selflessness transcend cultural and religious boundaries, uniting humanity in the common goal of living a life that reflects divine wisdom and compassion. Through these practices, we align ourselves with the fundamental truths that guide all spiritual traditions toward peace, unity, and fulfillment.

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