RIO BRAVO (1959)

Directed by: Howard Hawks
Written by: Jules Furthman
Studio: Warner Brothers
Starring: John Wayne, Dean Martin, Angie Dickinson
Rated: Not Rated

About the film:
A sheriff in a small town arrests a man for murder. The prisoner has a wealthy brother who doesn’t plan to wait for a trial. The sheriff and a small band of volunteers must hold off the brother and his hired gunmen until the US marshal arrives to take custody of the prisoner.

Movie Quote:
“You got no use for a man you can’t depend on.”
Dude (Dean Martin) in Rio Bravo (1959)

Bible Quote:
“Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble.”
Proverbs 25:19 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sometimes profound truths make the most impact when stated simply. Dude’s observation is nothing more than common sense. No wonder we can see the same sentiment expressed in the truth of God’s Word.

Much of the time, the Bible reflects what could be considered just good common sense. What is the value of someone who is unfaithful? What is someone worth if he cannot be counted on to perform a needed task at a crucial time?

Just as we wouldn’t put much confidence in our ability to move with quickness and agility when suffering from a broken foot, putting confidence in someone who has proven himself unworthy of trust is likewise foolish and will lead to defeat and disappointment.

The opposite holds true as well. A man who has proven himself to be faithful and worthy of trust adds strength, peace, and comfort to the lives of anyone he considers a friend. His value is beyond price and beyond words.

Of course, our dearest and truest friend is God who will never disappoint because He will always be there for us when we need Him. We can trust in Him with our whole heart knowing that He will be faithful.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Dude, who delivered the quote in Rio Bravo, is a drunkard and filled with self-pity. The sheriff places his trust in him anyway. How did that affect the Dude’s behavior?
2. What causes unfaithfulness? How can we build our integrity to resist temptation?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com