Built For Greatness
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In a rapidly changing and increasingly divided world, the need for a renewed focus on faith, truth, and unity has never been greater. The BFG Podcast offers a compelling and transformative path for those who feel called to participate in the New Evangelization, a mission to spread the Gospel with a new ardor, expression, and method.
Our commitment is to restore the truth, not just as a historical or doctrinal concept, but as a living and active force that shapes how we live, serve, and interact with others. The BFG Handbook we offer at www.builtforgreatness.com presents the Gospel in a fresh way, making it relevant to today’s challenges while staying true to the eternal truths of Christ. This is not a new gospel but a renewed and vibrant expression of the Good News that invites all to encounter Jesus in profound and meaningful ways.
Built For Greatness
Freedom: BFG Handbook Chapter 72 (Fear, Respect, and Humility)
Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-72-freedom/
What does freedom really mean to you? Most of us immediately think of freedom as the absence of restrictions—no rules, no limitations. But what if true freedom goes much deeper?
In this thought-provoking exploration, we dive into Chapter 72 of the Built for God movement's handbook, which offers a fascinating Christian perspective on freedom that parallels the ancient wisdom of the Tao Te Ching. We unpack a profound truth: genuine freedom begins when we conquer our fears. Drawing from the story of Moses confronting Pharaoh, we discover how releasing fear connects us to a greater power within—one that stems from our connection to the divine.
The conversation expands beyond personal liberation to examine how freedom intersects with our treatment of others. We explore the universal golden rule across Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, finding that all these traditions emphasize treating others with dignity and respect. "Do not confine people within narrow walls" becomes a powerful call to create space for others to flourish rather than restricting their potential.
Perhaps most challenging is the delicate balance between self-awareness and humility—knowing your worth without boasting about it. Jesus exemplifies this balance by acknowledging his connection to God while avoiding self-glorification. This spiritual paradox appears across faith traditions: true strength comes from recognizing something greater than ourselves while still valuing our unique gifts and contributions.
Whether you're struggling with fear, navigating difficult relationships, or seeking a more balanced sense of self, this episode offers practical wisdom for living with greater freedom, respect, and humility. Subscribe now and join our exploration of how ancient spiritual wisdom can transform your daily life.
Ever think about what freedom really means Like when you hear that word, what pops into your head? Is it no rules, or is it something deeper? You know more, like you're free inside.
Speaker 2:Could be a lot of different things to different people, right yeah?
Speaker 1:totally. And today we're going to look at freedom from a really unique perspective. We're diving into a chapter called freedom from this built for God movement, and this isn't your typical religious text, you know. It's been called like a Christian spin on the Tao Te Ching.
Speaker 2:For our listeners out there who are curious, this chapter chapter 72, is presented as an expression of God's love and it's all about restoring truth. And you know, like you said, it even references the Tao Te Ching itself. So we're going to see how these different wisdom traditions are connecting in the eyes of the BFG movement.
Speaker 1:It's like they're trying to find the common ground between these different philosophies Really cool. So today we're not just looking at freedom, but also humility, self-awareness and respect for others. You know like, how are all those things connected?
Speaker 2:They're definitely all woven together.
Speaker 1:Exactly, we're going to pull out the big ideas from this chapter and see how they might actually apply to you, like how can we use these ideas in our everyday lives?
Speaker 2:Practical stuff.
Speaker 1:Okay, let's jump right in that first line. When people have nothing to fear, a greater force will rise. What's the main point they're making here?
Speaker 2:Well, they go right to the story of Moses and Pharaoh, you know, for the Exodus, chapter seven, oh yeah, the Exodus story powerful stuff. So think about Moses. He was scared right, Like he didn't think he could stand up to Pharaoh. But God reassured him, empowered him, and that's when Moses became a force for change, for the liberation of his people.
Speaker 1:Right. He found that inner strength.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and the BFG folks? They're saying that when we're free from fear, any kind of fear, fear of failure, whatever it is, we tap into a deeper potential inside us a potential that comes from our connection to God, they say.
Speaker 1:I like that, unlocking our potential by letting go of fear, because, honestly, fear can be so paralyzing, can't it?
Speaker 2:Oh, absolutely. It keeps us playing it safe, staying small.
Speaker 1:They talk about a mindset for overcoming fear in their renewal framework. It says we should be courageous and trust in God's presence, because fear holds us back and can even interfere with the work of the Holy Spirit. What do they mean by that? Like, what are we capable of when we're not afraid?
Speaker 2:Good question. They seem to be saying that fear creates a wall between us and our true capabilities. It blocks us from recognizing our strength and the support that's always there from God. When we trust, that wall crumbles and we can access that inner strength, that divine guidance.
Speaker 1:It's like fear is a filter that distorts our perception.
Speaker 2:That's a good way to put it, and the BFG handbook gives us a very practical tip here. When you feel fear creeping in, remind yourself of God's promises and his power, like in Isaiah 41.10, where it says so do not fear, for I am with you.
Speaker 1:Right, remembering that we're not alone.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And in 2 Timothy 1.7, it says God hasn't given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love. So we're supposed to tap into that power and love, not let fear take over.
Speaker 1:So it's not just about changing your mindset.
Speaker 2:It's also about taking action right, Like what they call the aim for freedom from fear Totally.
Speaker 1:They emphasize constantly trusting in God's provision. Yeah, and they have this practice, living fearlessly idea, where you actively choose to replace fear with trust. They even quote Psalm 56.3, when I am afraid. I put my trust in you. It's a conscious choice, a daily effort. But how does that fit with the idea of God helping us or intervening in our lives?
Speaker 2:That's a good question. The BFG framework doesn't present it as passively waiting for God to do everything. They see it as a partnership, like we're working together with God. Our choice to trust and let go of fear opens the door for God's power to work in us.
Speaker 1:Makes sense Like we have to meet God halfway.
Speaker 2:Yeah, exactly. And what's really fascinating is that the response section of this chapter connects this idea to other faiths Quran, 9.40 from Islam, passages from the Buddhist Dhammapada and even the Bhagavad Gita, specifically 10.20.
Speaker 1:Oh wow, they're finding common threads across different religions.
Speaker 2:Right, and they all point to overcoming fear through faith or a deep connection to something bigger than ourselves.
Speaker 1:That's powerful. It's like a universal message that trusting in something greater can help us conquer fear.
Speaker 2:Exactly and you know they bring it back down to earth with some real world advice. Apply this trust in your daily life work problems, tough relationships, anxiety, whatever you're going through, remember to trust. They even referenced those scriptures again Isaiah 41.0 and Matthew 6.34 about not worrying about tomorrow.
Speaker 1:Be present. Trust in the moment. Okay, let's move on to the next line. Do not confine people within narrow walls. Do not burden their livelihood. What does this tell us about how we should treat others?
Speaker 2:It's about recognizing the freedom and dignity of everyone, isn't it?
Speaker 1:It is, and the chapter directly links this to the story of the Israelites in Exodus, where they were literally confined and their labor was exploited.
Speaker 2:Wow, that's heavy.
Speaker 1:Yeah, and then they bring in the golden rule from Luke 6.31. So, yeah, and then they bring in the golden rule from Luke 6.31. So the message seems to be that we, as Christians, shouldn't oppress anyone in any way physically, financially, or even by holding them back from living their full potential, what they call God's truth and abundance Right. Don't limit, uplift, empower and create space for others to thrive.
Speaker 2:It's like a call to action to actively support the people around us.
Speaker 1:It really is. It challenges us to think about how we might be maybe unintentionally putting limits on others. They even give an example from the workplace Don't micromanage, they say. Empower your team. They reference Matthew 11.2830, where Jesus talks about giving rest to those who are burdened, and Galatians 5.1, which talks about the freedom we have in Christ.
Speaker 2:So create an environment where people can flourish.
Speaker 1:That's it, and the aim here is, of course, empowerment, not restriction. Give people space to grow, and the practice they recommend is empowering others okay, I like that empowering others.
Speaker 2:How do we actually do that?
Speaker 1:you say it's about leading by example, offering guidance instead of control, supporting people on their journey, and they reference Galatians 6.2 about carrying each other's burdens supporting each other.
Speaker 2:I love that. It's about community and, speaking of community, the response section broadens this perspective. Again, just like with overcoming fear, this time they connected to Galatians, 5.13, about serving one another in love, a verse from the Quran, 17.24, about being kind and humble, the Metta Sutas from Buddhism, with its focus on universal love, and the Bhagavad Gita, 16.3, which talks about compassion for all beings.
Speaker 1:So again, similar ideas across different faiths. It's amazing. What's the common theme you see here?
Speaker 2:It seems like actively helping others through service, compassion, kindness is a universal value. It's not just about not hurting others, it's about actively doing good, lifting them up, empowering them.
Speaker 1:And they connect this back to our own lives. With some practical advice, look for ways to encourage people, support them, maybe offer resources. Be that positive force in your family, at work, in your community.
Speaker 2:It's about shifting our focus from ourselves to others. Okay, let's look at the next line. If you do not despise them, then they will not despise you. This feels like a mirror, doesn't it?
Speaker 1:Totally Like we're seeing ourselves reflected back. The chapter connects this back to the golden rule again Luke 6.31, and talks about how important humility and respect are in our relationships, especially for Christians. It's saying that how we treat people always comes back around and that love and respect are the foundation of a strong, united community.
Speaker 2:The Renewal Framework calls this the mindset for mutual respect and love. They say we need to remember that how we treat others reflects back on us. We should show love and kindness regardless of their treatment of us. You know that last part about being kind Even when someone's treating you badly that's hard it is hard, it's natural to want to fight back right.
Speaker 1:But the BFG framework is pushing for something higher, a way to break free from that negativity cycle. They say we should practice empathy, really try to understand the other person's perspective.
Speaker 2:See where they're coming from.
Speaker 1:Exactly and don't be so quick to judge. They mentioned Matthew 7.12 about judging others and Romans 12.10 about putting others first.
Speaker 2:That's humility, right.
Speaker 1:It is Okay. So the aim here is mutual respect and peace, and the practice they recommend is mutual respect and humility. Treat everyone with dignity. Be humble in your interactions.
Speaker 2:It all ties together. The response section does it again, bringing in different faith perspectives. They have Luke 6.31 from Christianity, of course, and a Hadith from Islam, a verse from the Buddhist Dhammapada, 129, and even a passage from the Hindu Maharatta. And you know what they all basically say the same thing Treat others how you want to be treated.
Speaker 1:The golden rule it's everywhere. It's amazing to see how this one principle appears in so many different spiritual traditions.
Speaker 2:It really is. It shows you how fundamental this idea is. It's about being a good person.
Speaker 1:Totally, and the practical takeaway here is to watch out for being judgmental and to treat everyone with respect. They even reference Matthew 7 and Quran 49.11, which talks about not making fun of mothers.
Speaker 2:It all comes back to that golden rule Put yourself in their shoes. Treat others how you want to be treated. All right, let's tackle this last part. Know themselves, but do not glorify. Value themselves, but do not boast Thus they disregard one and choose the other.
Speaker 1:It's about finding a balance, right yeah, between self-awareness and humility Knowing your worth but not getting a big head.
Speaker 2:And the chapter uses Jesus as an example here. In John 8, he says he doesn't see glory for himself, he gives the glory to God. And in Luke 14.11, it says those who humble themselves will be lifted up. So the idea is that real wisdom and strength come from recognizing something greater than ourselves, not from bragging about ourselves.
Speaker 1:And the renewal framework calls this the mindset for humility and self-value. It says cultivate a mindset of humility where you acknowledge your worth in Christ, without seeking to glorify yourself or boast in your achievements. It's a fine line to walk, isn't it? Knowing you're valuable but not becoming arrogant. How does the BFG framework help us find that balance?
Speaker 2:Well, they're saying that our value comes from our connection to God, not from what we achieve or what people say about us. So recognizing our worth should make us grateful and want to use our gifts to serve others, not to show off.
Speaker 1:It's about purpose, not ego.
Speaker 2:Exactly and for real world application. They say we should focus on honoring God with our actions and not take all the credit when good things happen. They reference 1 Corinthians 4.7, which asks what do you have that you did not receive, and Philippians 2.3, which is about putting others before ourselves. They also have a mindset for balanced self-value and selflessness.
Speaker 1:So it's okay to value ourselves.
Speaker 2:Yeah, it's about seeing your worth without being selfish.
Speaker 1:Got it, and they suggest putting this into practice by being humble, recognizing others' contributions and thinking about how your success can help others.
Speaker 2:That's it. They reference Romans 12.3 and Galatians 6.3. It's about seeing yourself as part of something bigger, a community working together for a greater purpose.
Speaker 1:I like that being part of something bigger.
Speaker 2:The aims here are aim for humility and self-value and aim for balanced self-value and selflessness. So know your worth without getting a big head, and find that sweet spot where you value yourself and prioritize others. The practices they suggest are practice humility and avoid self-glorification, and practice balanced self-value and selflessness. So use your gifts for God, not for your ego, and honor both yourself and others. And of course, the response section brings in those other perspectives again 1 Corinthians 4.7 from Christianity, quran 31.18 about not being arrogant, dhammapada 63 about recognizing your flaws, and Bhagavad Gita 13.8, which says humility leads to wisdom. What connects all these teachings?
Speaker 1:They all point to humility as the key. True strength and wisdom come from recognizing our place in the grand scheme of things. We need to acknowledge that our talents and successes are often gifts and avoid the kind of pride that isolates us and makes us selfish.
Speaker 2:Right on and practically speaking, it means recognizing others' hard work, remembering that our abilities are gifts and being thankful for what we have. They reference Philippians 2.3, again in a verse from the Quran 3.159, about being humble and gentle.
Speaker 1:So it's about connection, gratitude, recognizing that we're all in this together.
Speaker 2:Exactly. Wow, we covered a lot of ground today.
Speaker 1:We did so as we wrap up this deep dive into chapter 72 of the BFG handbook. What are some of the big takeaways that stand out to you?
Speaker 2:This chapter connects all these different ideas, like being free from fear empowers us to help others. Treating people with respect creates peace and a healthy sense of self-worth rooted in humility, helps us connect with ourselves and the world in a more genuine way. It's all interconnected.
Speaker 1:I agree it's all connected and, for those of you listening, think about how these ideas resonate with you. Maybe there's a relationship that's challenging you, or a situation at work, or even just your own thoughts and feelings. Pick one of these insights and try applying it today. See what happens.
Speaker 2:Yeah, experiment a little. And here's a final thought to chew on how connected is our inner freedom to how we treat others? Maybe true freedom isn't just about how we feel inside, but about how our actions impact the freedom of those around us. Maybe it's about serving others with humility and respect.
Speaker 1:It definitely makes you think. There's a lot to unpack here, a lot to explore. So check out the BFG handbook and keep diving deeper into these ideas. Thanks for joining us today.
Speaker 2:Thanks for listening.