When you’re struggling with something in your life, it makes all the difference to surround yourself with stories of how others have made it through. On average, films run around 2 hours, so it’s not even that big of a time commitment! Sometimes moving forward is easier than we think when we are reminded that other people have been down the same road.

Have you experienced this before? Maybe you’ve seen a movie that reminded you after a breakup that love is worth fighting for, or watched an inspirational movie that reminded you to go for your dreams after a setback. We all need encouragement sometimes, and films can offer us hope in a unique way, since you can get so invested in the characters, the story, and can see yourself in them.

Of course, classics like Forrest Gump are great, but if you’re a Christian, Christian-made movies are wonderful because they’re more than just “feel good” experiences, they also point back to Jesus and the hope He brings. Over the years, Christian movies have improved in production quality as more and more people have become interested and invested in them.

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9 Inspirational Movies

1. The Chronicles of Narnia Series

The Chronicles of Narnia films are favorites for a reason. The cinematography is stunning. They’re beautifully written and produced, and there are so many encouraging/breathtaking/meaningful moments. There are themes of bravery, loyalty, obedience, hope, friendship, and good vs. evil. It’s a sweeping story to remind you that mistakes can be redeemed, and in the end God’s side wins.

2. Courageous

(2 hours, 9 minutes)

If you’re a parent, or plan to become one, this movie would be especially encouraging for you. It’s a powerful story that celebrates the beauty and difficulty of being a parent, and challenges you to go beyond thinking, “I want the best for my kids,” but actually living it out. It’s a great reminder that being a parent is an honor, and our children are not ours, they belong to God. You’ll see themes of friendship, integrity, faith, and sacrifice played out in a very authentic way.

3. Fireproof

(2 hours, 2 minutes)

This film is about two people who feel stuck in a rocky marriage. It shows those struggles in a very honest way, while also reminding us of the power of prayer and seeking God’s help. It’s a great movie to watch with your spouse, or even with a small group of married friends in your community to be able to discuss and explore the themes of pain, betrayal, forgiveness, faith, and unconditional love.

4.Green Book

(2 hours, 10 minutes)

Green Book is the story of the unlikely friendship between two men. One is an African-American concert pianist with a drinking problem who gets a bar bouncer to serve as his chauffeur on a tour through the deep South. What was supposed to be a 2 week tour becomes a difficult ordeal full of challenges, but also surprisingly tender moments. This is an inspirational film that showcases the beauty of authentic friendship, racial reconciliation, and how two people from different backgrounds can grow together in unexpected ways.

5. Mom’s Night Out

(1 hour, 38 minutes)

This movie is about a mom who just needs a little time to herself! Moms are so busy, that sometimes they need a little push to remember that it’s ok to take some time away from the little humans. This film deals with themes of overwhelm, guilt, friendship, faith, joy, and trust. As an added bonus to a really good message, this movie is absolutely hysterical. Trace Adkins’ character is a treat.

6. War Room

(2 hours)

War Room reminds us that prayer is POWERFUL! If you’re going through a difficult time, this movies shows what it looks like to stand strong in faith against the enemy’s schemes. It’s an encouraging story because it reminds us that we’re not alone on our journey. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, but prayer is something we can always rely on as Christians to help us get through the challenges we face, because God hears us. This movie deals with themes of prayer, pain, mentorship, and spiritual warfare.

7. I Still Believe

(1 hour, 55 minutes)

This movie is based on Jeremy Camp’s real life story, and is a beautiful picture of faith and trust in the face of trials. It tells the story of how he fell in love with Melissa, who was diagnosed with cancer while they were dating. They decided to get married anyhow, and Jeremy walks with her through the pain, the effects of treatment, and the darkest days of her life. I Still Believe is an emotional, heart-wrenching experience, but one that leaves you inspired and strengthened in your faith.

8. I Can Only Imagine

(1 hour, 50 minutes)

If you love the song “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe, you’ll love the movie too! It tells the story of Bart Millard and how he dealt with his abusive father, and became a Christian despite his painful childhood and adolescence. The movie is about forgiveness, family relationships, struggles with anger, redemption through God’s love, and the power of music to help us through difficult times.

9. Heaven Is For Real

(1 hour, 40 minutes)

This movie is about the true story of a little boy who visits Heaven during an emergency surgery, and comes back with remarkable stories. This movies deals with themes of loss, God’s love for us, faith, and His desire to help us overcome our pain and suffering through His strength.

Have you seen any of these movies, or have one to add to the list? Tell us which movies have helped you change your perspective for the better!

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God bless you. Stay hopeful!

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“Do you realize God lavishes gifts in every scenario- I don’t care how miserable it is- and if you’ve been sick lately (me too! I had pneumonia) and was presented a very sweet gift when it was all over. I learned this the last couple days- that being sick is an intense gift. Crazy, right?! With my coffee table piled high with Kleenexes and coughing fits, it got me thinking about people who are stuck in chronic illness or emotional pain and I just wondered “how do they do it every day?” They’re like superhuman to live with this level of discomfort all the time. Does anybody recognize that kind of an award? It’s like we all show up to track and field day at school and there’s this oval track and some have a perfectly manicured lane with nothing on it and others have hurdles in their lanes. Obviously, somebody jumping hurdles can’t go as fast as somebody with none. They’ll never win! It’s unfair! Where are those people? People for whom life is such a daily effort- I just want to congratulate them. Is that you? I want to congratulate you; I want to throw you a party and put your picture up on a hero wall. I didn’t really understand exactly how you felt until I was feeling the same way. Isn’t God masterful at turning worthless things like illness into a classroom?” ~Lisa Barry

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When You Think About Gifts From God

When you think about God giving you a gift, what comes to mind first? Money? A house? A job? A child? Do you ever think of God giving you a gift through suffering? Surprisingly, sometimes that’s exactly how it happens! Have you experienced a tragedy, a failure, or something similar that caused you to have compassion for others who have dealt with the same thing? So many times, we can’t imagine how painful something is until we’ve dealt with it ourselves, especially when something is considered “common”, like divorce or miscarriage. It’s easy to underestimate the magnitude of the fallout in someone else’s life…but once we’ve experienced it for ourselves, it changes how we feel when someone else has to go through it. Your purpose and ministry will spring from the ways the Lord has healed and restored you. What are some ways you can reach out and be a blessing to the next person in your life who has to face a trial you’ve already been through?

If you’re in the middle of your crisis now, know that He is for you and be comforted by these God-breathed words:

“Jesus replied, ‘You don’t understand now what I am doing but someday you will.’”

John 13.7 NLT

“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

2 Corinthians 1.4 NLT

 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to HIs purpose for them.”

Romans 8.28

Romans 8.28 is an anchor in times of chaos, struggle, and despair. If we can allow our eyes to be turned to Jesus in our darkest times, we can learn many lessons…about Him, about ourselves, and about others. 

For more thought-provoking topics, tune in to Hope 100.7. 
God bless you. Stay hopeful!

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