This past weekend, I saw the new Mel Gibson movie Hacksaw Ridge. It was a tough movie to watch (lots of blood and guts), but it was also one of the most powerful and positive movies I’ve seen in a long time. No one walks away from this movie unmoved.

This morning, I decided to make a list of a few of the many lessons that can be derived from the true story of Desmond T. Doss at the Battle of Okinawa.

• Stay True to What You Believe
• Be Willing to Be Different
• Be Strong and Courageous
• Live a Selfless Life
• Don’t Give Up – Persevere
• Always Look for Ways You Can Help (or Save) Others in Need
• Take Risks
• Be Humble and Kind
• Don’t Repay Evil for Evil
• Seek God’s Help in Everything You Do
• Read Your Bible for Direction and Strength

The List could go on and on – I’d love to hear what you would add.

One scene in the movie stands out to me, and it’s one that I think each believer can apply to his or her own life. In this particular scene, the Americans retreated off the ridge, but Desmond chose to remain on top of “Hacksaw Ridge” in order to save as many soldiers as possible. Tired and hungry, he worked through the night and all the next day risking his life to help his fallen friends (and enemies). He continued to pray, “Please Lord, help me get one more.” God gave him the energy and protection to save over 70 lives.

We may never see physical combat as Desmond Doss did, but the Bible says as believers we are in a spiritual battle.  Are we willing to pray as Desmond did – Lord allow me to help save one more life? Are we willing to go the extra mile to share the gospel and serve others? Desmond Doss offers an example to us all to be strong and courageous, to love the Bible and to ask God for wisdom and strength in all we do.