Today marks the release of a deeply personal and faith-affirming book co-authored by Bart Millard and his wife Shannon Millard, offering readers the heartfelt truth behind one of contemporary Christian music's most beloved songs. Even If: Trusting God Through the Fire - available everywhere now - tells the real story that inspired the hit MercyMe song "Even If" and serves as the foundation for the upcoming faith-based film I Can Only Imagine 2.
The Millards' book invites readers into their journey of faith, struggle, endurance, and hope. Drawing from their own experiences - including Bart's time walking through deep challenges with his son's health - Even If champions the biblical truth that God remains faithful even in life's hardest seasons. The story behind the song "Even If" has resonated powerfully with audiences worldwide for its honest portrayal of trusting God when life doesn't go as hoped.
"I wrote this story because I wanted people to know it's okay to wrestle with God," Bart Millard said in recent social media posts announcing the book. "What God did in our lives through 'Even If' is a testament to His goodness in the fire."
Even If arrives at a pivotal moment, paralleling the release of I Can Only Imagine 2 - the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 box-office hit I Can Only Imagine, which grossed more than $80 million and became one of the most beloved films in faith-based cinema. The new film, premiering in theaters nationwide on February 20, 2026, continues Bart's real-life story with a focus on the true events that led to the creation of "Even If" and the spiritual journey behind it.
Directed by Andrew Erwin and Brent McCorkle and produced by Kingdom Story Company in partnership with Lionsgate, I Can Only Imagine 2 weaves together themes of faith, family, redemption, and gratitude. Featuring performances by John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Trace Adkins, and Dennis Quaid, the film brings to life a powerful message of finding God's peace amid unimaginable hardship.
The Millard family's story has long been defined by courage and faith. Bart Millard, lead singer of the multi-platinum Christian band MercyMe, has touched millions with his music, including the crossover hit "I Can Only Imagine," which inspired the original film and became one of the most iconic songs in Christian music history. Even If extends that legacy, offering a fresh perspective on what it looks like to trust God when life doesn't make sense.
Even If: Trusting God Through the Fire is available now in bookstores and online retailers worldwide. For more information, visit the official I Can Only Imagine 2 website and follow MercyMe on social media.
