Harmony in Unity: BFG Handbook Chapter 42 (Eastern Philosophy Meets Gospel Truth)

Built For Greatness

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42:14

Episode Description: Jessica B. Harris may have been born and raised in New York City, but she has Tennessee roots through her father and has spent much of her life split between homes in the Northeast and the South – specifically New Orleans. For more than fifty years, she has been a college professor, a writer, and a lecturer, and her many books have earned her a reputation as an authority on food of the African Diaspora, as well as a lifetime achievement award from the James Beard Foundation. A few years back, Netflix adapted her book, High on the Hog: A Culinary Journey from Africa to America , into a 4 part docuseries. And I’m very proud to say that she’s a longtime contributor to Southern Living with a regular column called The Welcome Table. This episode was recorded in the Southern Living Birmingham studios, and Sid and Jessica talked about her mother’s signature mac and cheese, the cast-iron skillet she’d be sure to save if ever her house were on fire, and her dear friend, the late New Orleans chef Leah Chase. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Biscuits & Jam is produced by : Sid Evans - Editor-in-Chief, Southern Living Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Jeremiah McVay - Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 23:43

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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-42-harmony-in-unity/

What happens when ancient Eastern wisdom meets Christian truth? In this fascinating exploration of Chapter 42 from the Built for God Movement's "Harmony in Unity" (described as the Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching), we unpack a spiritual treasure trove where East meets West in surprising and illuminating ways.
The cosmic progression from "God gives birth to one, one gives birth to two, two gives birth to three, three gives birth to the myriad of things" sets the stage for understanding how everything in creation flows from a single divine source. Rather than presenting a world of irreconcilable opposites, this perspective shows how darkness and light achieve harmony by remaining as one - a powerful metaphor for navigating life's challenges while staying connected to God's purpose.
We dive deep into paradoxical wisdom that challenges conventional thinking: Why do wise leaders embrace labels like "helpless, small, and worthless"? How does one truly gain by losing? These seeming contradictions echo Jesus' teachings and offer a radical alternative to our culture's pursuit of power, status, and material wealth. The chapter's clear stance on nonviolence - "all who draw the sword will die by the sword" - provides a timely reminder of Christ's call to be peacemakers in a world often defined by conflict.
The practical MAP framework (Mindset, Aim, Practice) offers a structured pathway to spiritual renewal. Each component includes five elements that transform abstract concepts into concrete actions you can implement daily. Perhaps most fascinating is the chapter's exploration of how these principles resonate across major world religions, revealing common threads that connect diverse spiritual traditions.
Whether you're intrigued by comparative religion, seeking fresh perspectives on familiar Christian teachings, or simply drawn to paradoxical wisdom that makes you think differently about life, this episode offers rich insights that will expand your spiritual horizons. Join us as we discover how "truth cannot contradict truth" - and how ancient wisdom from different cultures can illuminate our shared human journey toward meaning, purpose, and connection with the divine.
Subscribe to our podcast for more thought-provoking explorations that bridge spiritual traditions and bring ancient wisdom to life in our modern world!

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Chapters

1. Introduction to BFG Movement (00:00:00)

2. Harmony in Unity: Creation and Interconnection (00:03:43)

3. The Power of Humility in Leadership (00:08:15)

4. MAP: Mindset, Aim, Practice Framework (00:12:18)

5. Common Truths Across Religious Traditions (00:18:39)

6. Conclusion and Final Reflections (00:22:07)

78 episodes

Harmony in Unity: BFG Handbook Chapter 42 (Eastern Philosophy Meets Gospel Truth)

Built For Greatness

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-42-harmony-in-unity/

Support the show

Chapters

1. Introduction to BFG Movement (00:00:00)

2. Harmony in Unity: Creation and Interconnection (00:03:43)

3. The Power of Humility in Leadership (00:08:15)

4. MAP: Mindset, Aim, Practice Framework (00:12:18)

5. Common Truths Across Religious Traditions (00:18:39)

6. Conclusion and Final Reflections (00:22:07)

78 episodes

All episodes

Built For Greatness

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Compassion: BFG Handbook Chapter 69 (The Power of Yielding) 17:54

3 days ago17:54

17:54

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-69-compassion/ What happens when ancient Eastern wisdom meets Christian scripture? The answer might revolutionize how you handle every conflict in your life. Our deep dive into Chapter 69 of the BFG handbook—a Christian interpretation of the Tao Te Ching—reveals counterintuitive principles that flip conventional wisdom on its head. Imagine military advice suggesting stillness over attack and retreat over advancement. Picture being "fully armed without weapons" and "advancing without moving forward." These paradoxes aren't just philosophical abstractions; they offer practical wisdom for navigating opposition in our everyday lives. The core revelation? "When evenly opposing forces meet, the victory will go to the compassionate side that yields." This teaching directly challenges our cultural programming that equates yielding with weakness. Drawing from biblical examples like Moses at the Red Sea instructing Israel to "be still" and Jesus's apparent defeat at the crucifixion that became the ultimate victory, we explore how compassion and yielding can actually be profound expressions of strength. We break down these principles through the Trinitarian MAP framework—Mindset, Aim, and Practice—giving you practical ways to cultivate stillness, humility, vigilance, and compassion in the face of conflict. What's truly fascinating is how these wisdom principles appear across major world traditions: Buddhism's teaching that "hatred doesn't cease by hatred," Hinduism's emphasis on humility, and Islam's instruction to "repel evil with good" all echo this universal truth. Whether you're facing workplace tension, relationship conflict, or spiritual battles, this episode offers a revolutionary alternative to the force-with-force approach that dominates our culture. Could your next conflict be transformed by having the courage to yield rather than the need to dominate? Listen now to discover a different kind of strength. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Humble Leadership: BFG Handbook Chopsticks 68 (Surrender Is Strength) 17:46

8 days ago17:46

17:46

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-68-humble-leadership/ What if the real secret to effective leadership has nothing to do with dominance, force, or always getting your way? In this thought-provoking exploration of humble leadership, we uncover a radical alternative to worldly power dynamics that might just transform how you approach challenges in your life. Drawing from Chapter 68 of the BFG Handbook—described as a Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching—we dive deep into counterintuitive wisdom that challenges everything modern culture teaches about strength. "Great generals are not warlike. Great warriors do not get angry. Those who are good defeat their opponent without engaging them." These statements fly in the face of conventional leadership advice, yet they point to a profound truth about human influence and spiritual power. We break down the practical MAP framework (Mindset, Aim, Practice) that transforms these ancient principles into actionable steps anyone can apply, whether you're managing a team, raising children, or simply trying to navigate difficult relationships. From emotional control to non-contention, from empowering others to aligning with divine guidance, each principle offers a pathway to more effective and peaceful engagement with life's challenges. Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles resonate across major world religions—we explore parallels in Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism that suggest these might be universal truths about human experience rather than isolated religious teachings. As St. Thomas Aquinas noted, "Truth cannot contradict truth." The next time you feel provoked to anger or drawn into unnecessary conflict, remember that the greatest power might come not from fighting back, but from the counterintuitive strength of humility, restraint, and love. Subscribe to continue exploring how ancient wisdom can transform modern living, and share your experiences with humble leadership in the comments below. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Leading From Behind: BFG Handbook Chapter 66 (Path to True Leadership) 28:11

16 days ago28:11

28:11

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-66-leading-from-behind/ What if the most powerful leadership position isn't at the front, but behind everyone else? Chapter 66 of the Build for God Movement Handbook challenges conventional wisdom by exploring a radical concept: leading from behind. Drawing inspiration from natural imagery, the text reveals how rivers and oceans become "kings of valleys" precisely by taking the lowest place – a perfect metaphor for leadership through humility rather than dominance. This episode unpacks Jesus's countercultural leadership model, where washing disciples' feet wasn't just symbolic but demonstrated the essence of divine influence. "Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all" (Mark 9:35) isn't just beautiful theology – it's a revolutionary framework that creates environments where people feel unburdened, supported, and inspired to follow without growing weary. We dive deep into the Trinitarian MAP (Mindset, Aim, Practice) that transforms these principles from theory to lived experience. From cultivating genuine humility to practicing selfless service and choosing cooperation over competition, these accessible daily practices reshape how we lead in families, workplaces, and communities. Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles transcend religious boundaries. The core tenets of servant leadership resonate across diverse spiritual traditions – Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism all contain teachings emphasizing humility and selfless service. As St. Thomas Aquinas noted, "Truth cannot contradict truth" – these shared values point to universal wisdom about effective leadership. Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company, a community organization, or simply wanting deeper influence in your relationships, this exploration of servant leadership offers a refreshing alternative to power-driven models. When we embrace the paradox that true greatness comes through service, we discover authentic influence that transforms both ourselves and those around us. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Power of Love: BFG Handbook Chapter 67 (Exploring God's Greatness Through the Power of Love) 19:25

16 days ago19:25

19:25

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-67-power-of-love/ What if the key to navigating life's greatest challenges isn't found in dominance, accumulation, or self-promotion, but in three ancient virtues that appear across spiritual traditions worldwide? This thought-provoking exploration of Chapter 67 "Power of Love" from the Built for God movement reveals a profound perspective on living meaningfully through love, moderation, and humility. At the foundation of this spiritual framework lies a radical concept: God's greatness is so vast it defies comparison entirely. This isn't merely theological abstraction—it's a perspective that transforms how we approach everything. Rather than seeking human validation, we orient ourselves toward acknowledging something transcendent. Through the practical Mindset-Aim-Practice framework, we discover how abstract virtues become concrete life practices. The heart of our conversation centers on three treasures that can transform your life: love as a strategic force that conquers where brute strength fails; moderation as the surprising foundation for genuine generosity; and humility as the counterintuitive path to true advancement. We unpack each treasure, examining how these virtues aren't isolated concepts but interconnected qualities supporting each other—and how neglecting them leads to what the text describes as a kind of spiritual death. What makes this perspective particularly fascinating is how it resonates with wisdom across religious traditions. Whether expressed in Christian scripture, Islamic teachings, Hindu philosophy, or Buddhist practice, these core virtues appear consistently throughout human spiritual history. This convergence suggests something profoundly true about human flourishing transcending cultural boundaries. Which of these treasures do you need most right now? How might cultivating love, moderation, or humility transform your approach to challenges? Join us for this deep dive into ancient wisdom with surprisingly relevant insights for modern living. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Simplicity of Life: BFG Handbook Chapter 65 (Embrace the Simple Life) 18:11

17 days ago18:11

18:11

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-65-simplicity-of-life/ What does true wisdom look like? Contrary to popular belief, it's not about being the smartest person in the room or mastering clever strategies to get ahead. In this thought-provoking exploration of chapter 65 from the Built for God handbook (described as a Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching), we uncover the transformative power of simplicity and humility. The ancient messengers of God didn't just talk about truth—they embodied it, becoming "the way, the truth, and the life." This fundamental distinction sets the stage for our deep dive into the stark contrast between leadership based on cleverness versus leadership grounded in simplicity. "Governing with cleverness brings thieves among the people," the text warns, while governing without cleverness brings blessings. It's a counterintuitive wisdom that challenges our cultural obsession with intellectual dominance and manipulation. At the heart of this wisdom lies two essential principles: leading without resorting to manipulation and embracing a simple life. Through these, we gain a profound understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in bringing harmony and restoration. We unpack the practical MAP framework—Mindset, Aim, and Practice—giving you concrete ways to implement these principles in your daily life. From practicing wisdom as a lifestyle to embracing humility in leadership, from simplifying decision-making to maintaining integrity in promises, these practices transform abstract concepts into lived reality. Perhaps most fascinating is the recognition that these principles aren't exclusive to Christianity. We explore how wisdom, humble leadership, simplicity in action, and detachment from material desires represent universal truths found across Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism. As St. Thomas Aquinas said, "Truth cannot contradict truth." These shared values create bridges of understanding across different belief systems while affirming timeless virtues that transcend cultural boundaries. Join us as we discover how letting go of clever schemes and embracing a simpler, more humble approach might be the true path to wisdom and fulfillment. How might your leadership, relationships, and spiritual life transform if you prioritized being over knowing, service over self-promotion, and integrity over manipulation? Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Journey of Faith: BFG Handbook Chapter 64 (The Wisdom of Small Beginnings) 18:21

19 days ago18:21

18:21

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-64-journey-of-faith/ Ancient wisdom comes alive in this fascinating exploration of Chapter 64 from the Built for God Movement's Christian adaptation of the Tao Te Ching. We dive deep into this unique blend of Eastern philosophy and Christian perspective, uncovering practical guidance for life's most pressing challenges. At the heart of our discussion is the powerful MAP framework—Mindset, Aim, Practice—that transforms philosophical concepts into actionable steps. We begin with mindset shifts that reorient our approach to challenges, including proactive preparation and embracing the power of small beginnings. Through vivid imagery of seedlings becoming mighty trees and journeys of a thousand miles starting with a single footstep, we discover how seemingly insignificant first steps contain the DNA of monumental achievements. The wisdom continues with insights on embracing simplicity, trusting divine timing, cultivating perseverance, and welcoming restoration. Each principle is illuminated through scriptural connections—from Proverbs' guidance on preparation to Zechariah's encouragement not to despise small beginnings, from Psalm 46's reminder to "be still" to Galatians' exhortation not to grow weary in doing good. Perhaps most fascinating is the revelation of how these core principles resonate across diverse spiritual traditions. The same fundamental truths about preparation, humility, trust, and compassion appear in Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—a powerful reminder that "truth cannot contradict truth." These aren't merely abstract concepts but practical guideposts for anyone seeking a more intentional, meaningful path forward. Whether you're facing difficult decisions, working toward ambitious goals, or simply seeking greater clarity and purpose, these ancient principles offer timeless guidance. Which principle speaks most directly to your current challenges? What small step might you take today to begin implementing these insights in your daily life? The journey of wisdom begins with that first intentional footprint. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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The Trinitarian M.A.P. Method: Aligning Mindset, Aim, and Practice for Spiritual Transformation 15:56

19 days ago15:56

15:56

Discover the highlights of the Trinitarian M.A.P. for Spiritual Renewal: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/trinitarian-method/ What happens when your beliefs, direction, and actions all align perfectly? The confusion that often clouds our daily lives begins to fade away. Welcome to our exploration of the Trinitarian MAP Method—a powerful framework designed to create spiritual harmony through the alignment of Mindset, Aim, and Practice. This episode unpacks a transformative approach to personal renewal that goes far deeper than typical self-improvement strategies. Rooted in Trinitarian theology, the MAP Method offers a comprehensive pathway to clarity and purpose by ensuring your thoughts support your direction, your direction guides your actions, and those actions reinforce your core beliefs. We dive deep into each component, examining how mindset forms your foundation—the lens through which you view yourself and the world. You'll discover how strengthening this foundation through self-reflection, positive influences, and continuous learning creates the stability needed for lasting change. We explore aim as your internal compass, providing the direction that helps you stay focused amid life's countless distractions. And perhaps most crucially, we examine practice as the vital bridge where spiritual intent meets physical effort—where your inner landscape takes tangible form. What makes this framework truly revolutionary is its assertion that "every little action, thought and habit is a form of practice." You're always practicing something, whether consciously or not. The question becomes: are your practices aligning with your deepest values and ultimate direction? Drawing inspiration from St. Therese of Lisieux's "little way," the MAP Method celebrates the transformative power of small, consistent habits over dramatic gestures. Ready to experience the profound clarity that comes when your entire being moves in the same direction? Join us as we explore this compass for spiritual renewal that promises to transform not just what you do, but who you become. Consider what area of your life might benefit from greater alignment today—your journey toward harmony begins with just one small, intentional step. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Achieving Greatness: BFG Handbook Chapter 63 (Finding Greatness in Stillness) 15:19

21 days ago15:19

15:19

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-63-achieving-greatness/ Stillness in action. Effortless work. Finding greatness in small things. These paradoxical concepts form the foundation of an extraordinary spiritual framework explored in our latest episode examining the Built for God movement's handbook - specifically their Christian interpretation of the Tao Te Ching. We journey through principles that challenge conventional thinking about achievement and success. From responding to hatred with kindness to approaching complex challenges with simplicity, these teachings offer practical wisdom for navigating our modern lives while remaining grounded in timeless truths. The episode unpacks the structured approach of mindset, aim, and practice that transforms abstract philosophical ideas into tangible life applications. Most fascinating is the exploration of how these core principles transcend religious boundaries. We discover striking parallels across Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism - highlighting a common foundation of wisdom that unites our shared human experience. As St. Thomas Aquinas observed, "Truth cannot contradict truth." Whether you're seeking to cultivate more inner peace, approach your work with renewed purpose, or find significance in everyday moments, this episode offers transformative insights. Consider which principle resonates most deeply with you and how incorporating it might shift your perspective on what truly matters. There's always more to discover when we delve a little deeper. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Gift of Salvation: BFG Handbook Chapter 62 (Exploring Universal Spiritual Truths) 14:06

21 days ago14:06

14:06

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-62-gift-of-salvation/ A treasure for the righteous and a refuge for the unrighteous. This profound understanding of God sets the tone for our exploration of salvation as presented in Chapter 62 of "Salvation, the Greatest Gift of God" - a Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching. What happens when Eastern wisdom meets Western faith? Our conversation uncovers the rich tapestry of spiritual truths that emerge from this unique intersection. We examine how the foundational concept that "God is the author of all creation" transforms our relationship with the world around us, fostering deeper respect and responsibility for everything from environmental stewardship to how we treat others. The heart of our discussion revolves around a practical three-part framework for spiritual living: mindset shapes your internal understanding, aim directs your intentions, and practice transforms these elements into daily habits. This progression creates a pathway from abstract belief to concrete action, preventing faith from remaining merely theoretical. For instance, recognizing God's faithfulness (mindset) leads to aiming for personal loyalty (aim), which manifests in reliable commitments to others (practice). Perhaps most fascinating are the parallels we discover between Chapter 62's teachings and similar concepts across Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism. These shared values—from divine creation to ethical speech, from spiritual refuge to prioritizing eternal values—suggest universal human longings that transcend specific religious boundaries. Not that all traditions are identical, but rather that common spiritual threads connect humanity's diverse expressions of faith. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a comparative religion enthusiast, or simply curious about practical approaches to living out faith, this episode offers valuable insights on how ancient wisdom continues to illuminate our modern spiritual journey. Join us as we explore salvation not just as a theological concept but as a transformative gift with practical implications for daily life. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Body of Light: BFG Handbook Chapter 60 (Overcoming Darkness) 16:46

23 days ago16:46

16:46

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-60-body-of-light/ Leadership is like cooking a small fish with care" begins Chapter 60 of the Built for God movement's Christian interpretation of the Tao Te Ching. This deceptively simple metaphor opens a profound exploration of gentle, mindful leadership that nurtures rather than controls. The chapter walks us through three interconnected principles: leading with delicate attention, cultivating inner light to overcome darkness, and promoting unity for healing and restoration. What makes this interpretation particularly powerful is how it bridges ancient Taoist wisdom with Christian scripture through the practical MAP framework—Mindset, Aim, and Practice—showing how spiritual principles can transform our daily interactions. When we approach leadership with patience and humility, we follow Christ's example that "the greatest among you will be your servant" (Matthew 23:11). This isn't weakness but a conscious choice to lead in ways that support growth and development. Similarly, by filling ourselves with divine wisdom—our "body of light"—negative forces lose their power to harm us. As Luke 11:34-36 teaches, when our inner self is healthy, our whole being becomes filled with light. The chapter's final section emphasizes unity and common purpose, showing how spiritual strength comes not just from individual practice but from connection to community. Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles resonate across faith traditions—Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism all emphasize similar approaches to ethical leadership, inner wisdom, and communal harmony. Whether you're managing a team, raising a family, or simply seeking to influence your community positively, these ancient principles offer practical guidance for leading with wisdom and love. How might your relationships transform if you approached them with the care of cooking a small fish? What inner darkness might lose its power if you cultivated your connection to divine light? Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

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Honoring the Lowly: BFG Handbook Chapter 61 (True Leaders Take the Lowest Place) 15:50

23 days ago15:50

15:50

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. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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The Power of Story in the Age of AI in Response to Pope Leo XIV Industrial Revolution 12:04

23 days ago12:04

12:04

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/story/ Ever feel like you're drowning in information but starving for meaning? You're not alone. The digital landscape today bombards us with endless streams of content while artificial intelligence weaves itself into every aspect of our lives – from work to entertainment to spirituality itself. The burning question becomes: how do we find wisdom when facts are cheap and discernment feels increasingly rare? This tension defines our modern experience – we're data rich but wisdom poor, connected to everything yet disconnected from what matters most. Enter the BFG Handbook concept – not as a rejection of technology, but as a spiritual ally designed to help navigate this new frontier with intentionality. This framework offers a "spiritual grammar" that helps parse the overwhelming volume of information we encounter daily, distinguishing between algorithmic output and authentic connection. It recognizes that while AI excels at processing information, it simply cannot provide what only comes from a divine source: genuine wisdom, unconditional love, and spiritual discernment. At the heart of this approach is recognizing the power of narrative. Stories fundamentally shape our reality, and in today's world, algorithms are increasingly sophisticated at crafting narratives without conscience. The framework helps you reclaim storytelling, anchoring your own story firmly in truth and scripture. It challenges you to see that your greatest power remains uniquely human – your God-given capacity for empathy, purpose, and authentic connection. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by digital noise or simply seeking deeper meaning in a tech-saturated world, this episode offers a thoughtful pathway forward. Consider how you might cultivate the spiritual discernment needed to recognize genuine truth, and reflect on how the story you're living brings light into the world around you. Subscribe now and join the conversation about faith in the age of AI. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

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Paradox: BFG Handbook Chapter 58 (When Opposites Reveal Truth) 13:05

27 days ago13:05

13:05

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-58-paradox/ Paradox has a way of cracking open our minds to deeper truths. When seemingly contradictory ideas sit side by side, they often reveal wisdom that straightforward thinking misses completely. We're taking you on a journey through Chapter 58 of the Built for God handbook, where Christian teachings and ancient Taoist wisdom from the Tao Te Ching create a fascinating dialogue about life's most profound paradoxes. What happens when East meets West in spiritual understanding? Something extraordinary. The paradox of governance challenges everything you might assume about leadership. Contrary to what seems logical, ruling with a "light hand" produces honesty and simplicity, while an "iron fist" breeds cunning and deception. We connect this ancient wisdom to Jesus washing His disciples' feet—the ultimate demonstration that true authority flows from service, not domination. Whether you're leading a team, raising children, or influencing your community, this paradox invites you to reconsider your approach to power. We also explore how fortune and misfortune are actually two sides of the same coin, constantly cycling and defining each other. This perspective offers profound comfort during difficult times and healthy grounding during success. The Biblical assurance that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him" (Romans 8:28) beautifully complements this Taoist understanding of life's rhythm. Perhaps most challenging is the paradox of righteousness itself. We examine how appearances can deceive, how self-righteousness blinds, and how true wisdom manifests as being "righteous without being condemning, pointed without being piercing." This isn't just philosophical musing—it's practical wisdom for navigating relationships and moral challenges with both conviction and compassion. What makes these insights particularly powerful is their universal resonance across spiritual traditions. The same core truths appear in Buddhism, Islam, and various Eastern philosophies, suggesting they reflect fundamental realities about human existence rather than culturally-specific viewpoints. Listen now to discover how embracing paradox might transform your understanding of leadership, suffering, righteousness, and wisdom. Your perspective might never be the same. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

1
Power of the Spirit: BFG Chapter 59 (Holding Back to Move Forward) 20:36

27 days ago20:36

20:36

Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-59-power-of-the-spirit/ What if real power comes not from asserting control but from holding back? Join us as we dive deep into Chapter 59 of the Built for God Movement Handbook—a fascinating Christian interpretation of the Taoist classic, the Tao Te Ching. This transformative discussion reveals the counterintuitive path to spiritual empowerment through restraint and surrender. "By surrendering early, one accumulates the power of the Spirit," the text declares, challenging our conventional understanding of strength. We unpack how this ancient wisdom offers a radical alternative to our culture's push for constant action and control. Through the lens of both Christian scripture and Taoist principles, we explore how choosing restraint creates space for deeper wisdom to emerge. The paradox becomes clear: in letting go, we gain something more powerful. From Psalm 37's call to "be still and wait patiently for the Lord" to the concept of wu-wei (non-action), we discover surprising parallels between seemingly different spiritual traditions. The conversation moves beyond theory into practical application, following the handbook's framework of mindset, aim, and practice. You'll learn how to cultivate humility, tap into spiritual strength, exercise true sovereignty through service, and build the endurance needed for lasting vision. Each concept comes with scriptural foundations and real-world applications you can implement immediately. Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles transcend religious boundaries—appearing in Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism. As Thomas Aquinas observed, "Truth cannot contradict truth." This universal resonance invites us to consider whether these converging insights point to fundamental truths about human nature and our relationship with the divine. Whether you're seeking greater spiritual depth, more authentic leadership, or the ability to make a lasting impact, this episode offers wisdom that challenges conventional thinking while providing practical pathways forward. Take a moment to pause, reflect, and discover how holding back might be your key to moving forward with greater purpose and power. Contact us at info@builtforgreatness.com Support the show…

Built For Greatness

1
Pope Leo XIV: The Age of AI for the New Evangelization to Restore the Truth 12:57

27 days ago12:57