July 15, 2025 • 14 mins
Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-77-divine-balance/
Drawing a bow requires perfect balance—lowering the top and raising the bottom to create alignment. This powerful metaphor from an ancient text reveals a profound spiritual truth: the divine way reduces excess to meet deficiency, while human nature often does the opposite, taking from those with little to give to those with abundance.
We explore Chapter 77 of the "BFG Handbook," described as a Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching, which bridges ancient wisdom with spiritual practice. The striking contrast between divine balance and human imbalance resonates deeply with Christian teachings—from the Beatitudes blessing the overlooked, to Mary's Magnificat celebrating how God "has brought down rulers from their thrones but lifted up the humble." These aren't just philosophical concepts but represent divine intervention actively restoring equilibrium in our world.
What makes this episode uniquely practical is the Trinitarian MAP framework—Mindset, Aim, Practice—offering a comprehensive approach to personal renewal. We break down five mindset shifts including cultivating generosity and embracing humble service, six aims like balancing resources and attuning to divine timing, and five daily practices from ongoing reassessment to serving without recognition. These actionable steps transform ancient wisdom into contemporary guidance for finding balance in our often-chaotic lives.
Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles transcend religious boundaries, appearing with remarkable similarity across Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The universal nature of these truths—balance, generosity, humility, patience, selflessness—suggests they represent fundamental spiritual wisdom that resonates across all cultures and traditions.
How might your understanding of success change if you measured it not by accumulation but by distribution? Consider how these principles of divine balance might transform your approach to work, relationships, resources, and purpose.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Imagine finding a text that somehow bridges
ancient wisdom with a well, avery specific spiritual
perspective.
That's what we've got here withChapter 77 titled Divine
Balance.
It's from something called theBFG Handbook and it's described
as a Christian edition of theTao Te Ching.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
Yeah, it's a fascinating blend, isn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:18):
It really is.
What does it genuinely tell youabout finding balance,
practicing generosity, maybe,embracing, embracing humility
and living a life of servicethat feels well, divinely
aligned, kicks off with thisreally striking analogy compares
the way of heaven, the divineway to drawing a bow that image,
um, it immediately sets apowerful scene.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
When you think about drawing a bow, there's tension,
precision right bringing thingsinto alignment exactly and the
source describes the heavenlyway using this imagery the top
end bends down, the bottom endbends up, and then it adds
heaven will reduce the draw ifit is too much and to the draw.
Speaker 1 (00:55):
If it is too little, it's this active balancing act
it really is.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
What's absolutely fascinating right away is the
contrast the chapter drawsbetween the heavenly way and the
way of people.
Yeah, precisely while thedivine way reduces excess to add
to lack, the source says peopledo the complete opposite they
reduce from what is too littlein order to add to what is too
much the human tendency,according to this specific
source, is to take from thosewho have little and give it to
(01:21):
those who already have plenty.
It highlights this fundamentalhuman inclination towards
imbalance, maybe accumulation.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Possibly even exploitation at the expense of
others.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Could be seen that way, yeah, and the source makes
a really pointed observationhere.
Speaker 1 (01:34):
Which is.
Speaker 2 (01:35):
It notes that only those with the spirit of God, it
says, can genuinely offer theirexcess to serve the world.
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Implying.
Everyone else is kind of stuckin this self-serving loop.
That seems to be theimplication in Implying everyone
else is kind of stuck in thisself-serving loop.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
That seems to be the implication in the text.
Yeah, Okay.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
So, given this is presented as a Christian edition
, how does it actually connectthis ancient idea of divine
balance, the bow analogy, withcore Christian teachings?
Where does this reduce, excess,add to lack idea show up in
Christianity?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Well, that connection is, I think, one of the most
insightful parts of the source.
If you take the bow analogy Godbending the high down, lifting
the low up it resonates reallydeeply with Christian concepts
about God reversing earthlyvalues.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Okay, like what specifically?
Speaker 2 (02:17):
Think about the Beatitudes, for instance Matthew
5.3, where Jesus calls the poorin spirit, the meek, the
peacemakers blessed.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
The ones the world often overlook.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Or that famous line the last will be first and the
first will be last.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
A direct reversal.
Speaker 2 (02:29):
And it's even there in Mary's song, the Magnificat,
in Luke, verse 1.52, where shesings that God has brought down
rulers from their thrones buthas lifted up the humble.
So the source explicitly linksthese yes, it connects God's
actions actions reducing excess,adding to need with divine
attributes like justice, mercy,provision.
(02:49):
It's about God's grace flowingto those who lack and humbling
those who are perhaps proud oroverly self-sufficient.
And Jesus's life fits into thisA source presents his life as
the ultimate example feeding thehungry, healing the sick,
forgiving the marginalized.
The text suggests this divinebalance isn't just a philosophy.
It's God actively intervening,restoring, bringing fulfillment.
Speaker 1 (03:13):
That's a powerful image.
Not passive balance, but activerestoration.
Okay, so the source gives usthe concept, the theological
lengths, but it doesn't stopthere, does it?
It gives a practical framework.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Exactly it provides what it calls the Trinitarian
MAP for renewal.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
MAP, standing for Mindset, Aim and Practice.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
Right.
It's laid out as a practicalmethod derived directly from the
chapter the how-to part.
Speaker 1 (03:34):
Okay, let's break that down, starting with mindset
.
How should we think about thisdivine balance?
Speaker 2 (03:38):
The source gives five key mindset shifts.
The first is pretty fundamentalAdopt a mindset of balance and
moderation, just like the bowlowering the highs, raising the
low.
It links this to Proverbs 11.1about honest scales In real life
.
This is about balancingdifferent areas work, family,
self spirit.
Speaker 1 (03:59):
Makes sense.
What's another mindset point?
Speaker 2 (04:00):
A big one is cultivating a generous and
giving spirit, because God, inthis view, reduces excess to add
to lack.
The mindset should be one ofyou know, open-handedness.
Speaker 1 (04:11):
So seeing your abundance time, money, skills
not as something to just hold onto.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Exactly Seeing it as something to share with those
who need it.
The source actually links thisto 2 Corinthians 9.7, about,
about cheerful giving, which isa really stark contrast to that
way of people mentioned earlierright, the hoarding tendency
which leads to the next point,doesn't it?
yeah, rejecting that yes, rejectthe human tendency to hoard,
actively resist those selfishinclinations.
(04:37):
It's framed as focusing on thewell-being of others,
recognizing that true abundancemaybe comes from distribution,
not just just acquisition.
It mentions Luke 12.15, warningagainst greed.
So the mindset avoids excessiveself-promotion or just chasing
material gain over fairness.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
Okay, what else for mindset?
Speaker 2 (04:56):
Another fascinating one Embrace humble service
without seeking recognition.
Remember how it said only thosewith the Spirit can truly offer
their excess.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Yeah, that implies authentic service comes from a
different place than ego.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So the mindset here is serving humbly, finding the
reward in the act itself, not ingetting praise or credit.
It references Matthew 6.34about not letting your left hand
know what your right hand isdoing.
Speaker 1 (05:19):
Giving anonymously.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
And, finally, prioritize purpose over personal
glory, fulfilling your purposewithout needing recognition or
credit.
The source points to Colossians3.23,.
Working for the Lord, not forhuman masters.
So the focus is on integrity,trusting God sees your work.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
Wow, those mindsets really challenge the default way
of thinking, don't they?
So that's the foundation how weshould think.
What about aim?
What should we be striving for?
What are the goals here?
Speaker 2 (05:43):
The source then outlines six specific aims based
on the text.
First, aim for balance andinfluence and resources.
Just like the bow needs balance, the aim is to consciously
assess and adjust where youmight have too much or too
little in your own life.
Speaker 1 (05:56):
And this isn't just money, right.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
Not at all.
It could be work-life balance,emotional energy, how you use
your time.
The aim is a kind ofequilibrium.
It cites Ecclesiastes 3.1, atime for everything.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
Okay, aim number two.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Building on the mindset.
Aim for generosity and kindness.
This makes it action oriented.
Actively aim to use yourabundance time, money, knowledge
, simple kindness to supportothers Deliberately work towards
building a more compassionatecommunity.
It links to 2 Corinthians 8.14about equality through sharing.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
So it's about intentional action Very much so.
Speaker 2 (06:31):
Then there's aiming for humility and selflessness
over self-glorification.
Given that point about thespirit enabling service, the aim
is to contribute quietly, focuson the impact, not the applause
.
Again, Matthew 6.3-4 comes up.
It's an intentional aim tomaybe work behind the scenes
sometimes.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
What else should we be aiming for?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Aiming to be attuned to God's timing.
The chapter says heaven doesnot rush things and yet fulfills
.
This contrasts with that humanurge to control things, force
outcomes, maybe out of anxietyor ambition.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
So cultivate patience , trust the process.
Speaker 2 (07:05):
Exactly Trust in a divine timing.
Recognizing delays might evenbe part of preparation.
Ecclesiastes 3.11 about Godmaking everything beautiful in
its time, which leads directlyinto the next aim.
Rely on God's sovereigntyrather than just human effort or
control.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
Seeking guidance instead of just pushing your own
agenda.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
Precisely.
It references Proverbs 3.5 to6,.
Trust in the Lord.
Lean not on your ownunderstanding, seeking God's
guidance and decisions ratherthan acting purely out of
ambition or anxiety.
Speaker 1 (07:33):
Okay, one more aim.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
Yes.
Finally, aim for modesty inachievements.
Achieve things without needingto take all the credit.
It suggests redirecting creditto God, referencing 1
Corinthians 1.31,.
Let the one who boasts boast inthe Lord.
Speaker 1 (07:48):
These aims definitely challenge conventional ideas of
success.
Okay, mindset aim that bringsus to practice.
How do we actually do this dayto day?
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Right where the rubber meets the road.
The source gives five keypoints for practice turning aims
into tangible action.
First, simply practice balancein all things.
This isn't a one-off fix, it'songoing.
It means actively reevaluatinghow am I spending my time, how
are my resources really beingused, Striving constantly to
lower the excesses, uplift thedeficiencies, reflecting that
(08:18):
dynamic bow analogy.
Proverbs 16.11 about justbalance is belonging to the lord
, is cited here, so constantadjustment.
Speaker 1 (08:25):
What's next?
Speaker 2 (08:26):
central to it all practice generosity with a
willing heart, not just aimingfor it, but doing it.
The practice involvesidentifying where you have
excess skills, time, money andactively sharing it, making
generosity a habit.
It points to second corinthians, 9.6 to 7, again sowing
generously makes sense, practicethree cultivate selflessness
over self-preservation.
Actively resist that impulse tojust accumulate for yourself.
(08:49):
It means practicing fair,ethical behavior, even if it
costs you something personallyconsistently considering others.
Philippians 2.34 is thereference valuing others above
yourselves that's a tough one inpractice sometimes.
It can be, then serve withoutexpectation of reward.
This reinforces the mindset andaim.
Consistently, do acts ofkindness or service,
(09:10):
specifically without expectingpraise or recognition, find
fulfillment in the act itself.
Matthew 6.1-4 about practicingrighteousness privately.
Speaker 1 (09:19):
So anonymous good deeds essentially.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
That's a core part of the practice.
Yes, and finally, prioritizespiritual over material pursuits
, tying back to that idea aboutthe spirit enabling true service
.
The practice involves groundingyour life in spiritual
disciplines prayer, reflection,scripture.
The spiritual core helps ensureyour daily choices are guided
by these deeper values, not justtemporary success.
1 Timothy 6.1112, pursuingrighteousness, godliness, faith.
Speaker 1 (09:44):
Okay, that MAP framework, mindset, aim,
practice really does seem tobreak down divine balance into
something actionable for, as itsays, renewal.
But here's where, for me, itgets really interesting, for you
the listener.
The source doesn't just leavethese, as say, christian
principles, it has a respondsection, the universal truth
section.
Exactly, it identifies what itcalls universal truths reflected
(10:07):
in this chapter but also foundacross major religions.
It shows these ideas aren'tisolated.
Speaker 2 (10:13):
This part is quite powerful, I agree.
It really highlights the commonground between different
traditions.
Take balance and moderation.
The source points out thisisn't unique.
It finds echoes in Christianteachings on just weights,
proverbs 11.1.
Islamic calls for a justlybalanced community Surah 2.143.
Speaker 1 (10:31):
Buddhism too.
Speaker 2 (10:31):
Yes, the Buddhist middle way, avoiding extremes
and Hindu texts on balance andlifestyle, like in the Bhagavad
Gita 6.16 and 17.
The source emphasizes thatavoiding extremes is a uniting
principle, citing Ecclesiastes3.1.
Again in practical termsWork-life balance, fairness.
Speaker 1 (10:48):
Amazing.
What about generosity?
Speaker 2 (10:49):
point one again in practical terms work-life
balance, fairness, amazing.
What about generosity?
Generosity and selflessness?
God, reducing excess to add tolack?
That resonates everywhere too.
Christian teachings urgesharing.
Islam mandates zakat giving tothe needy, surah 2.177.
Buddhism has the practice ofdana, or generosity.
Hinduism values charitablegiving, bhagavad, gita 17.12.
The core idea of helping thosein need, like Matthew 6.34
(11:13):
advises, is fundamentallyuniversal supporting causes,
volunteering time.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
It transcends boundaries.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Humility and non-glorification.
This is mirrored in Christianwarnings against public piety
for show Matthew 6.1.
Islamic focus on pure motivesand giving Surah 76.9.
Buddhist emphasis onselflessness.
Speaker 1 (11:30):
And Hinduism.
Speaker 2 (11:30):
Hindu teaching on performing duties without
attachment to results BhagavadGita 3.19.
The shared core, as the sourcenotes, with Philippians 2.3, is
acting from pure intentions, notfor external validation.
Anonymous kindness fits rightin.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
What about timing?
Speaker 2 (11:44):
Yes, patience and trust in divine timing.
That line about heaven notrushing but fulfilling Parallels
in Christian calls for patiencelike a farmer waiting for rain,
james 5.7.
Islamic teachings onperseverance Surah 3.20.
Buddhist emphasis on patienceas a virtue, one of the
paramitas, and Hindu detachmentfrom the fruits of action,
bhagavad Gita, 2.47.
(12:05):
Trusting a greater plan overanxious urgency, that's a common
thread.
Like isaiah 40.31, points topracticing patience through
delays okay, is there one moreyes, selflessness in action, the
idea of achieving withouttaking all the credit.
Christian teaching says goodwork should point to god.
Matthew 5.16.
Islam speaks of multipliedrewards for spending wealth for
a lot.
(12:25):
Surah 2.261.
Buddhism emphasizes rightintention.
Hinduism speaks of Godpreserving what devotees have.
Bhagavad Gita 9.22.
Acting selflessly contributesto the well-being of everyone,
doing good deeds without needingapplause.
Speaker 1 (12:39):
It's truly remarkable , isn't it, how this single
chapter, framed within onespecific tradition, kind of
opens a window onto these deepprinciples Principles of balance
, generosity, humility, patience, selflessness that are
presented not just as core tothis source but as timeless
truths found across so manydifferent beliefs.
So, just to recap briefly,we've looked at this core idea
(13:02):
of divine balance using thatstriking bow analogy.
We explored the contrast thesource makes between this divine
way reducing excess to meetneed and the human tendency to
do the opposite.
Speaker 2 (13:12):
And then we unpacked that practical MAP framework for
personal renewal mindset, aimand practice how to think, what
to strive for, how to act.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
And maybe most surprisingly, we saw how these
principles are framed asuniversal truths showing up
across major world religions.
It reveals this incredibleshared ground.
Speaker 2 (13:29):
Values that really do seem to transcend cultural and
religious lines.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
So what does this deep dive mean for you listening
right now?
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Well, it suggests that this pursuit of balance,
generosity, humility, it isn'tconfined to just one path.
It seems to be a deeply humanquest, maybe even a divinely
intended one that resonatesacross different traditions.
It offers a really powerfulalternative to how the world
often tells us to operate.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
It certainly does.
Speaker 2 (13:53):
So here's a final thought.
We want to leave you withsomething to chew on.
If the source is right and theway of people is to continually
add to what they already have inexcess, while the heavenly way
is to reduce excess, to add towhat is needed, what does that
reveal about how we typicallymeasure success in the world
today?
And maybe, more personally,what alternative measures might
(14:15):
this chapter suggest forevaluating success or
fulfillment in your own life?
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Something you definitely reflect on.
Speaker 2 (14:21):
Indeed, that brings us to the end of this deep dive.
Imagine finding a text that somehow bridges
ancient wisdom with a well, avery specific spiritual
perspective.
That's what we've got here withChapter 77 titled Divine
Balance.
It's from something called theBFG Handbook and it's described
as a Christian edition of theTao Te Ching.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
Yeah, it's a fascinating blend, isn't it?
Speaker 1 (00:18):
It really is.
What does it genuinely tell youabout finding balance,
practicing generosity, maybe,embracing, embracing humility
and living a life of servicethat feels well, divinely
aligned, kicks off with thisreally striking analogy compares
the way of heaven, the divineway to drawing a bow that image,
um, it immediately sets apowerful scene.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
When you think about drawing a bow, there's tension,
precision right bringing thingsinto alignment exactly and the
source describes the heavenlyway using this imagery the top
end bends down, the bottom endbends up, and then it adds
heaven will reduce the draw ifit is too much and to the draw.
Speaker 1 (00:55):
If it is too little, it's this active balancing act
it really is.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
What's absolutely fascinating right away is the
contrast the chapter drawsbetween the heavenly way and the
way of people.
Yeah, precisely while thedivine way reduces excess to add
to lack, the source says peopledo the complete opposite they
reduce from what is too littlein order to add to what is too
much the human tendency,according to this specific
source, is to take from thosewho have little and give it to
(01:21):
those who already have plenty.
It highlights this fundamentalhuman inclination towards
imbalance, maybe accumulation.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Possibly even exploitation at the expense of
others.
Speaker 2 (01:30):
Could be seen that way, yeah, and the source makes
a really pointed observationhere.
Speaker 1 (01:34):
Which is.
Speaker 2 (01:35):
It notes that only those with the spirit of God, it
says, can genuinely offer theirexcess to serve the world.
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Implying.
Everyone else is kind of stuckin this self-serving loop.
That seems to be theimplication in Implying everyone
else is kind of stuck in thisself-serving loop.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
That seems to be the implication in the text.
Yeah, Okay.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
So, given this is presented as a Christian edition
, how does it actually connectthis ancient idea of divine
balance, the bow analogy, withcore Christian teachings?
Where does this reduce, excess,add to lack idea show up in
Christianity?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Well, that connection is, I think, one of the most
insightful parts of the source.
If you take the bow analogy Godbending the high down, lifting
the low up it resonates reallydeeply with Christian concepts
about God reversing earthlyvalues.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
Okay, like what specifically?
Speaker 2 (02:17):
Think about the Beatitudes, for instance Matthew
5.3, where Jesus calls the poorin spirit, the meek, the
peacemakers blessed.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
The ones the world often overlook.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Or that famous line the last will be first and the
first will be last.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
A direct reversal.
Speaker 2 (02:29):
And it's even there in Mary's song, the Magnificat,
in Luke, verse 1.52, where shesings that God has brought down
rulers from their thrones buthas lifted up the humble.
So the source explicitly linksthese yes, it connects God's
actions actions reducing excess,adding to need with divine
attributes like justice, mercy,provision.
(02:49):
It's about God's grace flowingto those who lack and humbling
those who are perhaps proud oroverly self-sufficient.
And Jesus's life fits into thisA source presents his life as
the ultimate example feeding thehungry, healing the sick,
forgiving the marginalized.
The text suggests this divinebalance isn't just a philosophy.
It's God actively intervening,restoring, bringing fulfillment.
Speaker 1 (03:13):
That's a powerful image.
Not passive balance, but activerestoration.
Okay, so the source gives usthe concept, the theological
lengths, but it doesn't stopthere, does it?
It gives a practical framework.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Exactly it provides what it calls the Trinitarian
MAP for renewal.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
MAP, standing for Mindset, Aim and Practice.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
Right.
It's laid out as a practicalmethod derived directly from the
chapter the how-to part.
Speaker 1 (03:34):
Okay, let's break that down, starting with mindset
.
How should we think about thisdivine balance?
Speaker 2 (03:38):
The source gives five key mindset shifts.
The first is pretty fundamentalAdopt a mindset of balance and
moderation, just like the bowlowering the highs, raising the
low.
It links this to Proverbs 11.1about honest scales In real life
.
This is about balancingdifferent areas work, family,
self spirit.
Speaker 1 (03:59):
Makes sense.
What's another mindset point?
Speaker 2 (04:00):
A big one is cultivating a generous and
giving spirit, because God, inthis view, reduces excess to add
to lack.
The mindset should be one ofyou know, open-handedness.
Speaker 1 (04:11):
So seeing your abundance time, money, skills
not as something to just hold onto.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Exactly Seeing it as something to share with those
who need it.
The source actually links thisto 2 Corinthians 9.7, about,
about cheerful giving, which isa really stark contrast to that
way of people mentioned earlierright, the hoarding tendency
which leads to the next point,doesn't it?
yeah, rejecting that yes, rejectthe human tendency to hoard,
actively resist those selfishinclinations.
(04:37):
It's framed as focusing on thewell-being of others,
recognizing that true abundancemaybe comes from distribution,
not just just acquisition.
It mentions Luke 12.15, warningagainst greed.
So the mindset avoids excessiveself-promotion or just chasing
material gain over fairness.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
Okay, what else for mindset?
Speaker 2 (04:56):
Another fascinating one Embrace humble service
without seeking recognition.
Remember how it said only thosewith the Spirit can truly offer
their excess.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Yeah, that implies authentic service comes from a
different place than ego.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So the mindset here is serving humbly, finding the
reward in the act itself, not ingetting praise or credit.
It references Matthew 6.34about not letting your left hand
know what your right hand isdoing.
Speaker 1 (05:19):
Giving anonymously.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
And, finally, prioritize purpose over personal
glory, fulfilling your purposewithout needing recognition or
credit.
The source points to Colossians3.23,.
Working for the Lord, not forhuman masters.
So the focus is on integrity,trusting God sees your work.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
Wow, those mindsets really challenge the default way
of thinking, don't they?
So that's the foundation how weshould think.
What about aim?
What should we be striving for?
What are the goals here?
Speaker 2 (05:43):
The source then outlines six specific aims based
on the text.
First, aim for balance andinfluence and resources.
Just like the bow needs balance, the aim is to consciously
assess and adjust where youmight have too much or too
little in your own life.
Speaker 1 (05:56):
And this isn't just money, right.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
Not at all.
It could be work-life balance,emotional energy, how you use
your time.
The aim is a kind ofequilibrium.
It cites Ecclesiastes 3.1, atime for everything.
Speaker 1 (06:09):
Okay, aim number two.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Building on the mindset.
Aim for generosity and kindness.
This makes it action oriented.
Actively aim to use yourabundance time, money, knowledge
, simple kindness to supportothers Deliberately work towards
building a more compassionatecommunity.
It links to 2 Corinthians 8.14about equality through sharing.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
So it's about intentional action Very much so.
Speaker 2 (06:31):
Then there's aiming for humility and selflessness
over self-glorification.
Given that point about thespirit enabling service, the aim
is to contribute quietly, focuson the impact, not the applause
.
Again, Matthew 6.3-4 comes up.
It's an intentional aim tomaybe work behind the scenes
sometimes.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
What else should we be aiming for?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Aiming to be attuned to God's timing.
The chapter says heaven doesnot rush things and yet fulfills
.
This contrasts with that humanurge to control things, force
outcomes, maybe out of anxietyor ambition.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
So cultivate patience , trust the process.
Speaker 2 (07:05):
Exactly Trust in a divine timing.
Recognizing delays might evenbe part of preparation.
Ecclesiastes 3.11 about Godmaking everything beautiful in
its time, which leads directlyinto the next aim.
Rely on God's sovereigntyrather than just human effort or
control.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
Seeking guidance instead of just pushing your own
agenda.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
Precisely.
It references Proverbs 3.5 to6,.
Trust in the Lord.
Lean not on your ownunderstanding, seeking God's
guidance and decisions ratherthan acting purely out of
ambition or anxiety.
Speaker 1 (07:33):
Okay, one more aim.
Speaker 2 (07:34):
Yes.
Finally, aim for modesty inachievements.
Achieve things without needingto take all the credit.
It suggests redirecting creditto God, referencing 1
Corinthians 1.31,.
Let the one who boasts boast inthe Lord.
Speaker 1 (07:48):
These aims definitely challenge conventional ideas of
success.
Okay, mindset aim that bringsus to practice.
How do we actually do this dayto day?
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Right where the rubber meets the road.
The source gives five keypoints for practice turning aims
into tangible action.
First, simply practice balancein all things.
This isn't a one-off fix, it'songoing.
It means actively reevaluatinghow am I spending my time, how
are my resources really beingused, Striving constantly to
lower the excesses, uplift thedeficiencies, reflecting that
(08:18):
dynamic bow analogy.
Proverbs 16.11 about justbalance is belonging to the lord
, is cited here, so constantadjustment.
Speaker 1 (08:25):
What's next?
Speaker 2 (08:26):
central to it all practice generosity with a
willing heart, not just aimingfor it, but doing it.
The practice involvesidentifying where you have
excess skills, time, money andactively sharing it, making
generosity a habit.
It points to second corinthians, 9.6 to 7, again sowing
generously makes sense, practicethree cultivate selflessness
over self-preservation.
Actively resist that impulse tojust accumulate for yourself.
(08:49):
It means practicing fair,ethical behavior, even if it
costs you something personallyconsistently considering others.
Philippians 2.34 is thereference valuing others above
yourselves that's a tough one inpractice sometimes.
It can be, then serve withoutexpectation of reward.
This reinforces the mindset andaim.
Consistently, do acts ofkindness or service,
(09:10):
specifically without expectingpraise or recognition, find
fulfillment in the act itself.
Matthew 6.1-4 about practicingrighteousness privately.
Speaker 1 (09:19):
So anonymous good deeds essentially.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
That's a core part of the practice.
Yes, and finally, prioritizespiritual over material pursuits
, tying back to that idea aboutthe spirit enabling true service
.
The practice involves groundingyour life in spiritual
disciplines prayer, reflection,scripture.
The spiritual core helps ensureyour daily choices are guided
by these deeper values, not justtemporary success.
1 Timothy 6.1112, pursuingrighteousness, godliness, faith.
Speaker 1 (09:44):
Okay, that MAP framework, mindset, aim,
practice really does seem tobreak down divine balance into
something actionable for, as itsays, renewal.
But here's where, for me, itgets really interesting, for you
the listener.
The source doesn't just leavethese, as say, christian
principles, it has a respondsection, the universal truth
section.
Exactly, it identifies what itcalls universal truths reflected
(10:07):
in this chapter but also foundacross major religions.
It shows these ideas aren'tisolated.
Speaker 2 (10:13):
This part is quite powerful, I agree.
It really highlights the commonground between different
traditions.
Take balance and moderation.
The source points out thisisn't unique.
It finds echoes in Christianteachings on just weights,
proverbs 11.1.
Islamic calls for a justlybalanced community Surah 2.143.
Speaker 1 (10:31):
Buddhism too.
Speaker 2 (10:31):
Yes, the Buddhist middle way, avoiding extremes
and Hindu texts on balance andlifestyle, like in the Bhagavad
Gita 6.16 and 17.
The source emphasizes thatavoiding extremes is a uniting
principle, citing Ecclesiastes3.1.
Again in practical termsWork-life balance, fairness.
Speaker 1 (10:48):
Amazing.
What about generosity?
Speaker 2 (10:49):
point one again in practical terms work-life
balance, fairness, amazing.
What about generosity?
Generosity and selflessness?
God, reducing excess to add tolack?
That resonates everywhere too.
Christian teachings urgesharing.
Islam mandates zakat giving tothe needy, surah 2.177.
Buddhism has the practice ofdana, or generosity.
Hinduism values charitablegiving, bhagavad, gita 17.12.
The core idea of helping thosein need, like Matthew 6.34
(11:13):
advises, is fundamentallyuniversal supporting causes,
volunteering time.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
It transcends boundaries.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Humility and non-glorification.
This is mirrored in Christianwarnings against public piety
for show Matthew 6.1.
Islamic focus on pure motivesand giving Surah 76.9.
Buddhist emphasis onselflessness.
Speaker 1 (11:30):
And Hinduism.
Speaker 2 (11:30):
Hindu teaching on performing duties without
attachment to results BhagavadGita 3.19.
The shared core, as the sourcenotes, with Philippians 2.3, is
acting from pure intentions, notfor external validation.
Anonymous kindness fits rightin.
Speaker 1 (11:43):
What about timing?
Speaker 2 (11:44):
Yes, patience and trust in divine timing.
That line about heaven notrushing but fulfilling Parallels
in Christian calls for patiencelike a farmer waiting for rain,
james 5.7.
Islamic teachings onperseverance Surah 3.20.
Buddhist emphasis on patienceas a virtue, one of the
paramitas, and Hindu detachmentfrom the fruits of action,
bhagavad Gita, 2.47.
(12:05):
Trusting a greater plan overanxious urgency, that's a common
thread.
Like isaiah 40.31, points topracticing patience through
delays okay, is there one moreyes, selflessness in action, the
idea of achieving withouttaking all the credit.
Christian teaching says goodwork should point to god.
Matthew 5.16.
Islam speaks of multipliedrewards for spending wealth for
a lot.
(12:25):
Surah 2.261.
Buddhism emphasizes rightintention.
Hinduism speaks of Godpreserving what devotees have.
Bhagavad Gita 9.22.
Acting selflessly contributesto the well-being of everyone,
doing good deeds without needingapplause.
Speaker 1 (12:39):
It's truly remarkable , isn't it, how this single
chapter, framed within onespecific tradition, kind of
opens a window onto these deepprinciples Principles of balance
, generosity, humility, patience, selflessness that are
presented not just as core tothis source but as timeless
truths found across so manydifferent beliefs.
So, just to recap briefly,we've looked at this core idea
(13:02):
of divine balance using thatstriking bow analogy.
We explored the contrast thesource makes between this divine
way reducing excess to meetneed and the human tendency to
do the opposite.
Speaker 2 (13:12):
And then we unpacked that practical MAP framework for
personal renewal mindset, aimand practice how to think, what
to strive for, how to act.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
And maybe most surprisingly, we saw how these
principles are framed asuniversal truths showing up
across major world religions.
It reveals this incredibleshared ground.
Speaker 2 (13:29):
Values that really do seem to transcend cultural and
religious lines.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
So what does this deep dive mean for you listening
right now?
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Well, it suggests that this pursuit of balance,
generosity, humility, it isn'tconfined to just one path.
It seems to be a deeply humanquest, maybe even a divinely
intended one that resonatesacross different traditions.
It offers a really powerfulalternative to how the world
often tells us to operate.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
It certainly does.
Speaker 2 (13:53):
So here's a final thought.
We want to leave you withsomething to chew on.
If the source is right and theway of people is to continually
add to what they already have inexcess, while the heavenly way
is to reduce excess, to add towhat is needed, what does that
reveal about how we typicallymeasure success in the world
today?
And maybe, more personally,what alternative measures might
(14:15):
this chapter suggest forevaluating success or
fulfillment in your own life?
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Something you definitely reflect on.
Speaker 2 (14:21):
Indeed, that brings us to the end of this deep dive.
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