As an author, I love to read books and watch biographic programs that detail the authors', musicians', and entertainers' personal and professional journeys, struggles with faith, and the determination and grit it takes to succeed in whatever field they may be in. I watch every biopic, television show (Behind the Music, UnSung, etc), and read books by Russell Simmons, Barack Obama and others who are at the top of their games. Such accounts truly give me perspective, energize and inspire me. Today, I will count Produced by Faith among the best of the lot.
In Produced by Faith, Mr. Franklin details his struggles to balance his Christian faith and ambition in an industry replete with immoral excesses--and the successes that he's achieved because he's steadfastly adhered to his religious beliefs. He masterfully integrates his lessons on faith while describing the entire movie creation process, from development to production, and includes a multitude of relevant and often inspiring anecdotes from his professional and personal lives to expand on his experiences and drive home his points without being even slightly preachy. At the end of each chapter, he includes a set of questions that allow each reader to reveal his/her own struggles and apply life lessons designed to help propel them forward in faith. His bottom line: You never have to compromise faith to achieve success, rather your faith will take you to heights you never believed you could reach as long as you stay true to yourself and submit to God's will for your life.
This was just what God ordered. The timing couldn't be more perfect as I endure many of the obstacles and tribulations Mr. Franklin faced in the past. This book truly spoke to me on so many different levels, the experience felt surreal. As an author myself, I am deep in the thick of Developmental Hell and endure daily struggles with patience and wanting everything to happen yesterday, wondering if writing is truly God's will for my life. Mr. Franklin's book helped me to realize that I'm not alone, that it's okay to have doubts and wonder, and it's okay to struggle. The key is to let your faith in God pull you through, persevere, and trust in Him to provide what you need when the timing is best for you to take the most advantage of every opportunity.
This is indeed one of the most inspiring books I've read in ages. Finished it in less than 24 hours. I highly recommend this book for authors, screenwriters, or anyone anyone in need of some inspiration and a reminder to stay in faith when you're going through professional and personal valleys. God is in control and every trial and struggle will work out for your greater good.