Greatness: BFG Handbook Chapter 45 (When Perfect Seems Imperfect)

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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-45-greatness/

The paradoxical nature of true greatness turns our conventional thinking upside down. What if perfection actually seems imperfect? What if real eloquence is sometimes silence? Chapter 45 of the Built for God handbook (described as "the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching") presents these challenging paradoxes through a powerful framework called "renewal."
We start with mindset shifts that redefine excellence. Perfection isn't about flawless appearances but humble, enduring usefulness – reflecting the biblical truth that divine power "is made perfect in weakness." True fulfillment comes not from accumulating possessions but cultivating inner richness, echoing Psalm 23's "I lack nothing." Divine guidance might seem illogical from our limited perspective, requiring us to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Real skill expresses itself through humble service rather than self-promotion, and profound communication often happens through presence and listening rather than constant talking.
The renewal framework brilliantly translates these counterintuitive concepts into practical application through intentional aims, daily practices, and transformative responses. It provides a comprehensive pathway from merely understanding these principles to actively weaving them into your thoughts, intentions, and interactions. The chapter also thoughtfully connects Christian wisdom to universal truths found across different faith traditions, citing Buddhist concepts of imperfection, Islamic teachings on inner intention, and Hindu perspectives on surrender – affirming St. Thomas Aquinas' insight that "truth cannot contradict truth."
Which paradoxical idea about greatness speaks most to your current journey? How might embracing "imperfect perfection" or "eloquent silence" shift your perspective or next steps? Consider exploring these transformative concepts further in the Built for God handbook and discover a more authentic form of greatness rooted in humility, contentment, trust, and mindful presence.

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Chapter 45 Greatness (00:00:00)

2. Mindset: Humble Perfection and Inner Fullness (00:03:22)

3. Trusting God's Mysterious Path (00:06:40)

4. Valuing Silence and Balancing Action (00:10:14)

5. Aims: Focusing on Lasting Impact (00:13:25)

6. Practices: Humility and Contentment (00:16:46)

7. Response: Universal Wisdom Across Traditions (00:18:21)