While suffering in this life is inevitable, Christians have a special advantage. Inspired by the life of Jesus Christ, we can use our suffering as a tool to help ourselves and others grow closer to God. The Christian movie, “New Life,” elegantly demonstrates this beauty in suffering and how to remain faithful to God in the hardest times.
Starring Erin Bethea (“Fireproof,” “Altar Egos”) and Jonathan Patrick Moore (“Christian Mingle”), “New Life” follows the romance of Ben and Ava. When Ava is diagnosed with cancer, the couple must learn to adjust their expectations for their once perfect life. Their love for one another and their constant hope in hardship call to mind five Bible verses that encourage us to never give up, even when times are hardest.
The Lord is Patient With Us (2 Peter)
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9, NIV)
The hardships created by her illness force Ava and Ben to rely on the virtue of patience, trusting that while God’s timing may not be our timing, it is always perfect.
The Lord Holds Us in His Hands (Psalms)
“Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.” (Psalm 37:24, NIV)
While Ava and Ben struggle with being patient, there are times of suffering that cause them both to break down. Ben battles with moments of denial, yet he always musters up the strength to be a rock for Ava when she needs him.
There’s a Harvest for Those Who Don’t Give Up (Galatians)
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NIV)
Ava and Ben want to have a child, but due to Ava’s illness, they are not able to have one of their own. Nevertheless, their needs are fulfilled, demonstrating that God can reap something good out of even the most dire situations.
God Gives Us Strength (Isaiah)
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:29-31, NIV)
“New Life” demonstrates some incredible moments of joy, even in the midst of suffering. At one point, Ben shaves his head in solidarity with his wife. Ava then goes out and buys funky wigs, which lighten the mood, restore their strength to go on, and remind them of how rich they are in love for one another.
God Is With You (Isaiah)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)
This verse reminds us that ultimately God’s plans for us are good, no matter what emotions they make us feel in the moment. Just as Ava and Ben never lost hope throughout their hardships, God calls us to continue to have hope in His perfect plans for us.
For more inspiration, check out “New Life,” now streaming at PureFlix.com. Curious to learn more about the story behind the making of the film? Watch the exclusive interviews and behind the scenes shots. If you don’t have a membership, sign up for a one-month free trial of PureFlix.com to watch “New Life,” plus thousands of other Christian movies that your whole family will enjoy.
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