Chapter 22: Divine Wholeness

 

Remain yielding to become whole a
Remain bending to become straight 
Remain empty to become filled 

The weary will be renewed b
The poor will receive 
The abundance will be confused 

Therefore, the Master embraces Oneness c
To be an example for the world 

Because He does not exalt himself d
He shines forth 
Because He does not look to justify himself e
He becomes distinguished 
Because He does not boast of himself f
He gains merit 
Because He does not glorify himself
He endures
Because He does not contend e
He cannot be contended against 

The ancients said, “Remain yielding to become whole”
Were they speaking empty words?

Become whole and you will return to harmony a

 

a Psalm 37:7-24; Luke 3:4-6; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 11:28-30; b Isaiah 40:31; c John 17:22-23; John 17:11; d Matthew 23:12; e Luke 16:15; Matthew 27:11-26; f John 17:1-9; John 8:54-55 .



Trinitarian M.A.P.

Mindset, Aim, and Practice are the three pillars of a spiritually guided path rooted in Love, Trust, and Faith, empowering us to fulfill our God-given mission. Understanding the Love of the Father will shape our MINDSET, opening our hearts to Trust in the teachings of the Son to direct our AIM, and empowers us to deepen our Faith in the Holy Spirit to guide our daily PRACTICE.

Mindset:

  1. Embrace Humility and Yielding:
    The principle of remaining “yielding to become whole” speaks to the importance of humility and submission to God’s will. In modern times, humility may seem countercultural, especially in a world that values self-promotion and individualism. However, Jesus teaches that those who humble themselves will be exalted (Matthew 23:12). Cultivating humility means putting aside self-interest and recognizing that we are part of a greater purpose. Before taking action, consider whether your approach is rooted in humility, submitting to God’s plan rather than pursuing personal ambition.

  2. Trust God’s Timing and Will:
    The verse emphasizes how the Master does not “exalt himself” but “shines forth.” This refers to the act of trusting God to bring glory through your actions, rather than seeking it for yourself. In practical terms, this means letting go of the need for validation and recognition. Instead of rushing to act for your own gain, wait on God’s timing (Proverbs 3:5-6). His plans are always for your good, even when they may not immediately align with your desires or the world’s standards of success.

  3. Focus on Internal Transformation:
    The chapter speaks to the idea of remaining “empty to be filled”—being open to God’s transformation. In a world that values external achievements and possessions, the spiritual discipline of inner emptiness and receptivity to God’s spirit is essential. It means cultivating a heart that is not focused on material wealth or external accolades, but on living according to God’s will (Matthew 6:33). Before taking action, ask yourself: Are you seeking God’s guidance and presence first? Are you allowing God to fill you with His Spirit?

  4. Seek God’s Strength, Not Your Own:
    The Christian principle of being “weak yet strong in God” mirrors the Taoist wisdom of yielding to become strong. In practical terms, this may mean relying on God’s strength rather than your own. When faced with challenges, instead of striving in your own power, seek God’s help through prayer and surrender (Isaiah 40:29-31). This mindset will help you to act with greater wisdom and patience, knowing that God’s power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

  5. Live as an Example for Others:
    The passage also speaks about the Master being an example for others because of his humility and lack of self-exaltation. In today’s world, living as an example of God’s love and wisdom in a society driven by ego and self-interest can be challenging. But when we model humility, love, and patience in our actions, we reflect Christ to the world. This can involve everyday acts of kindness, honesty, and integrity that align with God’s truth, even when they contradict popular culture (Matthew 5:16).

  6. Avoid Contention and Seek Peace:
    “Because He does not contend, He cannot be contended against.” In a world where conflict and competition often take center stage, this principle of avoiding unnecessary disputes and seeking peace is incredibly relevant. Before you act, consider whether your actions are in pursuit of peace or fueled by contention. Jesus taught His followers to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and to forgive, as He forgave us (Colossians 3:13). Reflect on this mindset before engaging in conflict or pursuing goals.

Today’s application of this chapter’s principles would involve living with a mindset of humility, trusting in God’s will and timing, and relying on His strength. It would also involve serving as an example of God’s love and wisdom, avoiding unnecessary conflicts, and seeking peace in every situation. Through such actions, you align yourself with God’s purpose and fulfill His Will.

Aim:

  1. Aim for Humility
    The chapter emphasizes the importance of being “yielding to become whole,” which teaches us to approach life with humility. Rather than striving for self-promotion or recognition, the focus should be on allowing God’s will to shape us. In today’s world, this means resisting the pressure to compete or assert dominance, but instead cultivating a heart that is willing to serve others. As the Bible says in Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

  2. Focus on the Peace of God
    The passage highlights that by avoiding self-exaltation and boasting, we can be at peace with both God and others. Keeping your eyes on peace means resisting the urge to fight for your own way or engage in conflict unnecessarily. This is similar to what Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:9, where He says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” So, before taking action, aim for peace, harmony, and reconciliation.

  3. Trust in God’s Timing
    The principle of remaining “empty to become filled” suggests that we should avoid rushing to fill ourselves with worldly desires or answers. Instead, trust in God’s timing and His plan for us. Before taking any action, take a moment to reflect on whether your desires align with God’s timing and purpose. As Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “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.”

  4. Strive for Wholeness in God
    Aiming for wholeness in God comes from recognizing that only through yielding to God’s will can we find true fulfillment and completeness. In the world, it is easy to chase after external goals and validation, but Jesus invites us to focus on spiritual growth and unity with Him. As John 15:5 teaches, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

  5. Seek the Glory of God, Not Yourself
    The idea of not exalting oneself but rather reflecting God’s glory is a call to avoid selfish ambitions. This aligns with what Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Keep your focus on God’s glory and allow Him to exalt you in due time.

  6. Focus on Inner Transformation, Not External Validation
    “Remain empty to become filled” invites us to prioritize inner spiritual transformation over external success or recognition. Instead of seeking outward success as the world defines it, aim for inner peace and alignment with God’s will. As Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:1-4, our actions should be done quietly and without a desire for human praise, focusing instead on God’s approval.

These principles offer a grounded approach that aligns both with the Christian faith and the wisdom of Taoism as seen in this chapter. By keeping these aims in mind, we can navigate modern challenges while staying true to God’s Will.

Practice:

  1. Embrace Humility and Yielding
    Just as the chapter teaches the value of remaining “yielding to become whole,” in life, practicing humility allows you to become open to God’s direction. Rather than striving for self-promotion or dominance, seek opportunities to serve and submit to God’s will. This humility will allow you to grow spiritually and fulfill the unique purpose God has planned for you. Jesus embodies this principle perfectly, as He says in Matthew 23:12: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

  2. Seek Inner Peace and Trust in God’s Plan
    The chapter suggests remaining “empty to become filled,” which indicates that we must empty ourselves of pride, selfish ambitions, and worldly desires in order to be filled with God’s Spirit and purpose. This practice is about surrendering control to God and trusting in His timing. As Proverbs 3:5-6 advises: “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.”

  3. Live as an Example of Oneness with God
    The Master in the chapter embraces “Oneness,” which symbolizes unity with God. To practice this, align your life with God’s Word and live out His love in your actions. Strive to reflect His peace, mercy, and grace in all situations. This means embodying the values of the Kingdom of God in your work, relationships, and decisions, remembering that your life is a testament to God’s transforming power. As 1 Peter 2:12 instructs, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.”

  4. Do Not Seek Glory or Validation from Others
    The chapter stresses not exalting yourself, and instead, letting your actions speak for themselves. This is a reminder to seek God’s approval above all else. In the modern world, it is easy to seek validation from peers or social media, but instead, focus on seeking approval from God. Colossians 3:23-24 teaches, “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.”

  5. Be Resilient and Endure Without Contending
    The passage suggests that the one who does not contend is invincible, and that by yielding, they cannot be contended against. Practicing non-contention means avoiding unnecessary conflict and instead focusing on solutions, peace, and reconciliation. It requires patience and trust in God’s justice. Romans 12:17-19 advises, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone…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.”

  6. Return to Harmony Through Simplicity and Submission to God’s Will
    The chapter concludes by affirming that if we become whole through yielding, we return to harmony. In real-world application, this means seeking simplicity and peace by prioritizing spiritual nourishment over worldly distractions. By letting go of the complexity of self-centered goals and focusing on God’s will, you return to a place of inner peace and alignment with His purpose. Matthew 11:28-30 invites us: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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.”

  • Practice humility: Seek to serve rather than be served.
  • Empty yourself: Let go of selfish desires to make room for God’s will.
  • Live as an example: Let your life reflect God’s love and unity with Him.
  • Seek God’s approval: Do not seek validation from others, but from God.
  • Avoid unnecessary conflict: Trust in God’s justice and resist the urge to contend.
  • Return to harmony: Simplify your life and prioritize God’s will for peace and fulfillment.

By embodying these principles, you align your actions with God’s will, fulfilling your purpose as He has designed it.



Universal Language of Truth

The New Evangelization aims to unite all people and nations through a universal language of truth that speaks to diverse cultures, histories, and faiths. This chapter highlights our commonalities rather than our differences. Through this, we become the "Light" of the Holy Spirit for others to follow in the Body of Christ, illuminating His presence in the world.

Humility and Yielding

  • Christianity: The call to humility is echoed in Jesus’ teachings, especially in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus says, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). Humility is not about weakness but strength under control, as exemplified by Christ who humbled Himself to serve others (Philippians 2:6-8).
  • Buddhism: Humility is also a core virtue in Buddhism. The Dhammapada teaches that “a fool who knows his foolishness is wise at least to that extent.” This reflects the understanding that yielding to the truth and letting go of ego leads to enlightenment.
  • Islam: In Islam, humility before Allah is seen as a virtue, as shown in the Quran: “And do not turn your cheek in scorn toward people, nor walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful” (Quran 31:18).

2. Non-Contention

  • Christianity: Jesus commands His followers to love their enemies and avoid retaliation, as found in Matthew 5:39: “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
  • Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita discusses the importance of non-violence (Ahimsa) and how true strength is found not in conquering others but in conquering oneself. “He who is free from all attachments…who does not seek to harm anyone, is dear to me” (Bhagavad Gita 9:30).
  • Taoism: The Tao itself speaks to the power of non-contention, as the Tao Te Ching teaches that those who do not seek to win but instead remain in harmony with the natural flow of life will find true strength.

3. Empty Yourself to Be Filled

  • Christianity: The Bible frequently teaches that by emptying ourselves of pride and selfishness, we can be filled with God’s presence. John the Baptist’s famous statement, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30), aligns with this principle.
  • Buddhism: Buddhist teachings emphasize the importance of selflessness and the cessation of attachment to worldly desires as a way to achieve Nirvana. The Dhammapada states, “All beings are the owners of their actions… their happiness and sorrow depend upon their actions” (Dhammapada 165).
  • Islam: In Islam, submitting to Allah’s will is a way to empty oneself of personal desires and pride. “Whosoever submits his face to Allah and is a doer of good, his reward is with his Lord…” (Quran 2:112). This idea of submitting to the divine will is mirrored in the Taoist concept of yielding to the flow of the Tao.

4. Oneness with the Divine

  • Christianity: The notion of becoming one with God is central to Christian mysticism, especially in the context of unity with Christ, as seen in John 17:21: “That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”
  • Sufism (Islamic Mysticism): Sufism emphasizes the union of the self with the Divine, with the ultimate goal being the merging of one’s will with the will of Allah. The famous Sufi poet Rumi said, “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
  • Hinduism: In Hinduism, the concept of oneness with the Divine is found in the teachings of Advaita Vedanta, where it is said that the ultimate truth is that Atman (the soul) is Brahman (the Divine). As the Upanishads state, “You are That.”

5. Enduring without Exalting Yourself

  • Christianity: The Bible teaches that those who humble themselves will be exalted by God. James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
  • Buddhism: Buddhism encourages a non-attached life, where one is not concerned with self-glory. The Dhammapada teaches that true wisdom and peace come when we cease striving for personal fame and wealth.
  • Taoism: The Tao Te Ching emphasizes that those who do not boast of themselves and who avoid the trap of self-exaltation are the ones who are truly distinguished. They let their actions speak for themselves, much like the humble sage in Taoism.

6. Simplicity and Harmony

  • Christianity: Jesus taught simplicity in life, focusing on the kingdom of God and not on material wealth (Matthew 6:19-21). He also spoke of peace and reconciliation as central to God’s kingdom (Matthew 5:9).
  • Buddhism: In Buddhism, simplicity is valued as a way to clear the mind and allow for spiritual growth. The Buddha taught that true wealth lies in contentment and simplicity, rather than in the accumulation of material things.
  • Taoism: The Tao Te Ching advocates for simplicity and harmony with nature, where the sage lives with few desires and in harmony with the Tao, which leads to a peaceful and fulfilled life.

The principles of humility, non-contention, yielding, oneness with the Divine, enduring without self-exaltation, and living in simplicity are universal truths that resonate across major religions. They reflect the shared wisdom that submission to a higher power, avoiding ego, and aligning with divine principles leads to true fulfillment and peace. Whether in Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Taoism, or Hinduism, these values offer pathways for individuals to transcend the self and align with the greater spiritual truth, leading to harmony with oneself, others, and the divine.

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