“We Achieve The Impossible by Loving More” (Summer At The Movies #5)

“We Achieve The Impossible by Loving More” (Summer At The Movies #5) | July 14, 2024 | Dr. Troy Doucet

In the fifth teaching of our enlightening series, Summer at the Movies, Dr. Troy Doucet employs the iconic Mission Impossible movies and the story of David’s accent to the throne of Israel to inspire us to love our way to impossible feats of faith!

Point #1: God Sees Into Our Hearts

1 Samuel 16:1, 6-7 reveals God’s perspective on true worth, emphasizing that He looks into the heart rather than outward appearances. Samuel initially judged Jesse’s oldest son, Eliab, by his appearance, but God corrected him, stating that He appraises people differently. This highlights the importance of understanding someone’s true self, which is often unseen.

We often judge people superficially, based on their behavior or words in specific situations. However, these observations are incomplete. Our actions and words vary depending on context, making it challenging to grasp someone’s true heart. Like Samuel, we must ask for God’s wisdom to see beyond external appearances and recognize the core of a person’s being.

Point #2: If You Can See the Invisible, You Can Achieve the Impossible

1 Samuel 17:41-49 describes David’s confrontation with Goliath. Despite being underestimated due to his youth and inexperience, David had faith in God’s power. He saw beyond the visible, recognizing God’s ability to deliver victory. David’s vision enabled him to achieve what seemed impossible, defeating Goliath with a sling and stone.

We all face “Goliaths” in our lives—seemingly insurmountable challenges. Whether it’s addiction, financial burdens, health issues, relationship struggles, or spiritual battles, seeing the invisible—God’s potential in us—empowers us to overcome these obstacles. David’s example teaches us to trust in God’s vision and step out in faith, despite our limitations.

Point #3: We Achieve the Impossible by Loving More and Litigating Less

1 Samuel 24:8-13, 16-20 illustrates David’s mercy towards Saul. Despite having the opportunity to kill Saul, who was hunting him, David chose to show mercy. This act of love and forgiveness, rather than retribution, exemplifies the power of grace.

After defeating Goliath, David’s popularity grew, and Saul’s jealousy led him to attempt to kill David multiple times. However, David’s decision to spare Saul in the cave of En Gedi demonstrated his commitment to God’s principles over personal revenge. By showing love instead of hatred, David embodied the transformative power of mercy.

This point emphasizes that true strength lies in forgiveness and love. While it may seem impossible, showing kindness to those who have wronged us aligns us with God’s mission to transform hearts. Being a hospital, rather than a courtroom, Suncoast can make God’s love and mercy tangible in our lives and the lives of others.