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Built For Greatness
Honoring the Lowly: BFG Handbook Chapter 61 (True Leaders Take the Lowest Place)
Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-61-honoring-the-lowly/
What if the secret to true influence isn't climbing to the mountaintop, but flowing like water to the lowlands? The wisdom from "Honoring the Lowly" in the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching offers a radical reframing of power, leadership, and service that challenges everything we think we know about greatness.
This deep dive explores a compelling metaphor that compares great kingdoms to lowlands where rivers naturally flow – places of convergence, nourishment, and life-giving power. Through this lens, we discover how leadership transforms from domination to cultivation, from commanding to nurturing. The image of the "female reservoir" invites us to see the profound strength in receptivity and stillness, challenging our action-biased culture that often mistakes yielding for weakness.
We unpack the revolutionary idea that when the great kingdom "takes the low place" of the smaller, both benefit. The greater grows its influence, while the smaller finds connection and purpose – a win-win dynamic that contradicts competitive, scarcity-based thinking. This principle directly echoes Christ's teaching that "whoever humbles himself will be exalted" and draws fascinating parallels to the Taoist concept of non-action.
The practical Trinitarian MAP framework (Mindset, Aim, Practice) provides concrete steps for applying these principles in daily life. From actively listening to those you lead to creating regular moments for stillness and reflection, these practices transform abstract concepts into tangible actions. Most illuminating is how these teachings transcend any single faith tradition, with striking parallels in Islamic hadith, Buddhist sutras, and Hindu scriptures – revealing universal wisdom about human flourishing.
As we navigate an increasingly divided world, could these shared values of humility, stillness, and service offer a foundation for building bridges across different beliefs? Challenge your understanding of power dynamics and discover how taking the lowest place might be the surest path to meaningful impact and lasting honor.
pretty intriguing excerpts from chapter 61, honoring the Lowly of the BFG Handbook. Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching.
Speaker 2:It's really fascinating, isn't it? You know, to look at the Tao Te Ching through a Christian lens makes you think how do those two come together? The authors actually described this as a way to restore the truth. Those are their words, through a fresh expression of God's love. So you know, when we're approaching this chapter Honoring the Lowly, it makes you think about these themes of you know, humility and service, in a very different light, potentially.
Speaker 1:Yeah, exactly, and that's kind of our mission in this deep dive get to the core of you, know its teachings on humility, leadership and service, and how all this applies to you in your daily life. Like, what can you actually take away from this and apply to your life? And to start off right away, they use this really interesting image right off the bat, this central metaphor that runs throughout the chapter.
Speaker 2:Yeah, absolutely. They start with this really compelling image. The great kingdom is like the lowlands, where rivers flow, it is the central meeting ground of the world, it is the female reservoir of the world, and I think you know what's so interesting right from the beginning is that they're positioning greatness not in, you know, being elevated or on a mountaintop, but in being this place of convergence, this, this point where everything comes together, like the lowlands right and it's the source of nourishment, the female reservoir.
Speaker 1:It's not insignificant, it's essential for life and connection yeah, and it's so interesting how that connects to the biblical idea of stewardship as well.
Speaker 1:Right If you think about Genesis 2 with Adam tending the Garden of Eden. You know, it kind of reframes that whole idea of leadership away from control and dominance to nurturing and cultivating, like you were saying, and it's like the female reservoir that receives and then gives sustenance, you know. So what does that mean for how we think about leadership today? You know how do we apply that idea that's a huge question, right?
Speaker 2:I mean it challenges our typical, you know, top-down command and control understanding of what leadership is, and it suggests that real leadership maybe is more about fostering that capacity in others, helping them grow from the ground up. And this image of the female reservoir is not about being passive. It suggests a power in receiving, like. Think about fertile ground. It seems very still, but it has the potential for immense growth.
Speaker 1:Right, right, yeah, that's so true.
Speaker 2:And it's so counter to how we typically think about power in our culture, which is so action oriented right.
Speaker 1:Exactly. And this leads us to the next idea that the chapter puts forward, which is the masculine honors the feminine for her stillness and she uses stillness to keep the lower position. The lower position, of course, could be interpreted in many different ways, but the chapter offers a very specific understanding of what that means.
Speaker 2:Exactly. They interpret this through that Christian lens. Stillness is a kind of meekness or trust in God. When we think about what Jesus says in Luke 14.10, 11, whoever humbles himself will be exalted. That lower position isn't inferiority, it's a posture of humility that leads to honor. And what's interesting is how that connects with that Taoist idea of non action. They're not identical, but they both point to this power in yielding Right and not forcing things.
Speaker 1:Right, wow, that's a really fascinating parallel because it really challenges that worldly notion that strength always equals, you know, outward power and force, you know, but here it's quiet strength. That is the honored position. So how does that translate then, when we talk about not individuals but kingdoms?
Speaker 2:Yeah, well, they say, a great kingdom that takes the low place of a small kingdom gains the honor of the smaller, and the reverse as well. It's this reciprocal thing where you gain honor by taking a humble stance. It suggests that influence isn't about size or might, but about the posture you take in relation to others.
Speaker 1:And that connection to Christ taking the nature of a servant in Philippians 2.7 is so central here. I mean that's the ultimate example of gaining honor through embracing what the world would consider a lower status. For sure, but it was not a position of weakness, but a position of immense power and love.
Speaker 2:Absolutely. Yeah, it flips our typical understanding of power dynamics on its head. The chapter is not just be passive, be taken advantage of, you know, but that real influence, lasting honor. They come from that foundation of humility and a focus on serving others.
Speaker 1:And then it moves into this idea of growth right, how the great kingdom desires to grow the population it nourishes and the small kingdom desires to join by serving the greater. So it seems like a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Speaker 2:Yeah, it's mutually beneficial, absolutely. And it shifts the focus of leadership away from acquisition to cultivation. They bring in Proverbs 14.28, here a large population, isa king's glory, emphasizing that the well-being of those served is the true measure of success and leadership. So growth happens not through dominance but through providing what others need.
Speaker 1:Right, that makes sense. And then the reciprocal aspect right, that's so key here. Both kingdoms achieve their aims through serving. The larger grows by nurturing, and the smaller finds connection and purpose by contributing. A very fascinating model of interdependence. So, ultimately, what's the core message here? What's the main takeaway?
Speaker 2:I think they bring it all together with this very clear statement whoever takes the lowest place will be honored. It directly echoes Luke 14 and reinforces that core principle that we were talking about finding exaltation through humility.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it really drives home the point that in this framework and maybe in a bigger sense, true greatness isn't about climbing a ladder, it's about stepping into a posture of humility and service. It's like Jesus washing the disciples' feet right. What a powerful act to redefine leadership. And then the chapter moves into this section on renewal, where they use this Trinitarian method, map. Why those three elements? Mindset, aim and practice.
Speaker 2:Why are those so significant in the context of renewal? Do you think that's a great question? The Trinitarian aspect I mean it's likely referencing the Trinity the Christian concept Approaching transformation holistically, these three things working together. Mindset is the foundation, how you think, how you see things. Aim is the direction, what you're striving for, and practice is the implementation, the actual steps that you take. So true renewal requires all three of these to be in alignment.
Speaker 1:Makes total sense. Yeah, a very comprehensive approach. So let's look at the mindset part first. The first one they talk about is humility and leadership and influence, which goes back to that lowlands metaphor.
Speaker 2:Exactly so this mindset. It really emphasizes that leadership isn't about wielding power, but about creating that environment where others can flourish. They reference Matthew 20.26 and 23.11, where Jesus says the greatest among you should be a servant. A key takeaway for you, the listener, is to consider how you can shift from that command and control approach to one of empowerment and support.
Speaker 1:And then the mindset of patience and reflection. So that links back to that idea of stillness, and Psalm 46.10, be still and know that I am God really anchors that idea In our busy lives. You know why is it so important to cultivate patience and reflection?
Speaker 2:That's such a great point In our world, which is so go, go, go. Taking time for stillness and reflection can seem counterproductive, almost right Totally. But this mindset, it highlights how important it is for clear thinking, for making wise decisions. It's about moving beyond that knee-jerk reaction to a thoughtful response, like in Isaiah 32.17, where it says the work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever Right. So for you that might mean building in those little moments of pause throughout the day, centering yourself, gaining perspective before acting.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that's great advice, okay. And the next one is the mindset of service over dominance, and that draws on the idea of the great kingdom taking the low place. So how does this mindset really challenge our natural tendencies? You know our ego.
Speaker 2:Well, it really does. It confronts that desire to control, to be recognized, you know, and it emphasizes that true greatness comes not from lording over others but from prioritizing their needs. And this is echoing what we see in Matthew 20.26. And that idea of the last shall be first from Matthew 20.16. Think about how just shifting your focus from what can I gain to how can I help can completely transform your interactions and build stronger relationships.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that's powerful, Okay. Fourth mindset is growth through humble service, explaining how both kingdoms achieve their desires, and the connection to Acts 20.35,. You know it is more blessed to give than to receive. It's so fitting, but it is kind of counterintuitive, isn't it? We grow by giving.
Speaker 2:It really is. It challenges that scarcity mindset that there's only so much to go around. This mindset suggests that by focusing on how we can contribute to others, we create more opportunities for growth for ourselves and those around us. So it's about recognizing that our well-being is often interconnected, you know? Think about how solving a problem for someone else can actually expand your own skills and understanding.
Speaker 1:That's a good point. And finally, the mindset of honor through humility. They quote directly here whoever takes the lowest place will be honored, linking this to Luke 14.11 and 22.26. I mean, it really changes the whole way we think about seeking recognition, doesn't it?
Speaker 2:Absolutely. It suggests that the pursuit of honor shouldn't be the primary goal. When we focus on selfless service and genuine humility, then honor will follow as a natural consequence. It's not something you have to chase after. It's about trusting that true value will be recognized in due time.
Speaker 1:Okay, so that was the mindset aspect of MAP. So how does the chapter then translate these mindsets into action, into those aims?
Speaker 2:Yeah, the aim section takes those internal shifts and directs them outwards as conscious intentions. So the first aim, reflecting humility and leadership and influence, is about actively creating space for others to contribute and grow, Again referencing Matthew 20.26. So it's the intention behind empowering your team or valuing diverse perspectives. That's what the aim is about.
Speaker 1:And then the second aim is, you know, really cultivating that calmness and discernment before taking action, which goes along with that patience and reflection mindset, like setting the intention to pause and reflect, especially in those moments when you're stressed out or you need to make a decision.
Speaker 2:Exactly, yeah. And the third aim service over domination. It's about consciously putting the needs of others first in all of your interactions. You know understanding that true influence comes from that place of humility and selflessness, and this is highlighted throughout Matthew's gospel. So it's about setting the intention to lead with a servant's heart.
Speaker 1:And the aim of growth through humble service. This one involves seeking out opportunities to help others to contribute to their well-being, Recognizing that reciprocal nature of growth that's highlighted in Acts 20.35 and Matthew 23.11,. It's about making a goal to add value to the lives of those around you.
Speaker 2:Yeah, for sure. And the last aim honor through humility. It's about consciously focusing on placing the needs and recognition of others before your own, trusting that true honor comes from God, and we see this in Luke 14.1 and 22.26. So it's that deliberate choice to step back and let others shine.
Speaker 1:Okay. So mindset shapes our thinking, aim directs our intentions, and then the final part of the MAP framework is practice, right? So how do we put all of this into concrete action? How do we live these principles out?
Speaker 2:Well, the practice section lays out very specific actionable steps. So for humility and leadership, it's about actively listening to those you lead, creating those opportunities for their growth and development, reinforcing what we see in Matthew.
Speaker 1:This might look like seeking feedback regularly or delegating meaningful tasks. Okay, and the practice for patience and stillness? It suggests making those moments of reflection a regular part of your routine, whether that's through prayer or meditation or just quiet contemplation, aligning with Psalm 46.0 and Isaiah 32.17. You know, just making time for that stillness every day.
Speaker 2:And for service over self-interest. The practice is looking for those small, tangible ways to serve others in your daily life, as encouraged in Matthew's gospel. It could be as simple as offering help or showing kindness in your everyday interactions.
Speaker 1:Right and the practice of growth through serving others. This one involves actively mentoring and supporting the development of those around you, echoing those principles in Acts 20.35 and Matthew 23.11. It's about investing your time and energy in helping others grow.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and the last practice for honor through humility is actively acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of others instead of seeking recognition for yourself, and this is highlighted in Luke's gospel. So it's about shifting that focus outwards, giving credit where credit's due.
Speaker 1:So we've talked about mindset, aim and practice, and now the chapter moves into that final section, respond, which is so interesting because it looks at how these ideas resonate with different traditions and faiths.
Speaker 2:Right. It's about finding common ground, recognizing that these principles are not unique to one belief system. So for humility in leadership and service. Alongside the Christian scripture, they point to a hadith in Islam about the best person being the most beneficial to others, and there's a Buddhist verse from the Dhammapada on how humility leads to awakening, and then a verse from the Bhagavad Gita in Hinduism about serving the truth. It shows how this idea of humility as a foundation for positive influence really unites us across traditions.
Speaker 1:Wow, yeah, and for stillness and reflection. There are parallels on the Quran, which emphasizes patience and prayer, the Dhammapada talks about the importance of letting go of those distracting thoughts to find inner peace, and the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the discipline needed to control a restless mind. So it really underscores the universal need for inner calm and clarity, for wise action.
Speaker 2:Absolutely when it comes to serving others over self-interest. The chapter highlights the Quran encouraging that humility born out of mercy. The Dhammapada has that powerful image of a lamp illuminating its surroundings by lighting another. It shows the shared understanding of service as a deeply meaningful act.
Speaker 1:And then the principle of growth through mutual support and service. This one finds resonance in 1 Peter, which encourages the use of spiritual gifts to serve others, and the Quran urges believers to help one another in righteousness. The Dhammapada highlights that strength found in selfless service, and the Bhagavad Gita talks about how actions performed for the welfare of the world lead to liberation. So again, a common thread of community and mutual support being vital for progress.
Speaker 2:Yeah, and lastly, for honor through humility. There's a hadith that states that Allah elevates the status of those who are humble. The Dhammapada suggests that the humble see no fundamental difference between themselves and others, and the Bhagavad Gita indicates that serving others with devotion leads to the highest status. So we see that convergence on the idea that true honor comes from humility and service, not self-promotion.
Speaker 1:Wow, it's really amazing to see these themes repeated across so many different spiritual traditions, and the chapter ends by emphasizing that these principles humility, stillness, service they're not just limited to one belief system. They're universal truths that can help us understand each other better and create more unity. So, as we wrap up this deep dive into honoring the lowly, what are your final thoughts?
Speaker 2:You know, I think the core takeaway is that humility and service. They're powerful and often overlooked.
Speaker 1:Yeah, for sure.
Speaker 2:That MAP framework gives us a practical way to take those concepts and put them into action in our lives. And the response section it really highlights that universal nature of these values you know, suggesting that they're fundamental to human flourishing across cultures and beliefs.
Speaker 1:Absolutely. It makes you think about how choosing to embrace humility and service regardless of your background could lead to deeper connections with other people and have a more meaningful impact on the world. Maybe that path of personal fulfillment and collective well-being really does lie in consistently choosing to honor the lowly. So thank you for sharing this material. Yeah, it's been a really, really enriching deep dive and we look forward to exploring more of these fascinating sources that you guys send our way.