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A Faith Unleashed: Living in the Hope of God's Rescue
Daily trials challenge our faith as our souls beg for renewal, but rescue is coming.
Abused and neglected, Franklin spent his first Christmas huddled in a lonely puppy mill. In this true story, his path from isolated brokenness to joyful belonging mirrors our own journey toward the promise of Christ. Each chapter of Franklin's story serves as the backdrop for a biblical approach to exploring questions of faith, encouraging individual growth, and deepening our relationship with God. Franklin's humorous and heartwarming tale will lead you to the ultimate source of life.
Abused and neglected, Franklin spent his first Christmas huddled in a lonely puppy mill. In this true story, his path from isolated brokenness to joyful belonging mirrors our own journey toward the promise of Christ. Each chapter of Franklin's story serves as the backdrop for a biblical approach to exploring questions of faith, encouraging individual growth, and deepening our relationship with God. Franklin's humorous and heartwarming tale will lead you to the ultimate source of life.
206 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2021
5 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Joshua J. Masters
10 books30 followersJoshua J. Masters is a pastor, author, and speaker. He has been featured on CBN, HIS Radio, and the Light Radio Network. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), Josh has also worked both in front of and behind the camera in the film industry. He lives with his wife, Gina, and their dog, Franklin, in South Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 22, 2021
An absolutely precious and powerful book that will give readers all the feels and bring you closer to God with each new chapter.
Franklin is an abused and neglected little pup before coming to live in his forever home. He spent his youngest days in a puppy mill and was severely neglected which left him afraid of most everything life had to offer. His journey from brokenness to a life of joy and belonging is a lot like our own. Each chapter gives us a cute story of Franklin’s life and then connects it to a biblical application for our own lives. With the passing of each chapter, readers see the similarities of Franklin’s journey of being rescued and our own as we allow Christ to rescue us from our lives and give us new life in him.
I was amazed as I read each new chapter and saw the way Masters wove together how we ourselves are like a rescued pup when we allow Jesus to come into our lives and make things so much better than we ever knew possible. At the start of each chapter we get a cute little Franklin story and then see how that can apply to our lives, which made me look at things in an entirely new light. All the comparisons are down to earth, easy to relate to with nothing too crazy that the readers will have trouble believing. One of the nicest things about this book is I could hand it over to my pre-teen son and feel like he would get a closer connection to the Lord through the pages. It is a great book for new believers and especially animal lovers.
Franklin is an abused and neglected little pup before coming to live in his forever home. He spent his youngest days in a puppy mill and was severely neglected which left him afraid of most everything life had to offer. His journey from brokenness to a life of joy and belonging is a lot like our own. Each chapter gives us a cute story of Franklin’s life and then connects it to a biblical application for our own lives. With the passing of each chapter, readers see the similarities of Franklin’s journey of being rescued and our own as we allow Christ to rescue us from our lives and give us new life in him.
I was amazed as I read each new chapter and saw the way Masters wove together how we ourselves are like a rescued pup when we allow Jesus to come into our lives and make things so much better than we ever knew possible. At the start of each chapter we get a cute little Franklin story and then see how that can apply to our lives, which made me look at things in an entirely new light. All the comparisons are down to earth, easy to relate to with nothing too crazy that the readers will have trouble believing. One of the nicest things about this book is I could hand it over to my pre-teen son and feel like he would get a closer connection to the Lord through the pages. It is a great book for new believers and especially animal lovers.
June 22, 2021
A Faith Unleashed is excellent! My family has experienced a lot of difficulty lately—a child with some major mental illness issues rooted in self-esteem trouble, and then we just adopted a brand-new puppy on Saturday. So this book was perfect timing for me. Not only was I able to see the real miracle—that God loved me, ME!, enough to offer me grace and salvation—but that extending it to others it a way I can pay that precious gift forward. Franklin's (and Joshua's!) story was relatable and a really original way to understand important biblical truths. Thank you!!
September 4, 2021
A Guide to Growing in Faith
Haven’t we all felt neglected and abandoned at one time or another? I wonder if that isn’t the result of the longing for relationship with our Creator embedded into our DNA? In “A Faith Unleased”, Joshua Masters shows us how our pets can teach us important spiritual lessons like: trust, obedience, loyalty, compassion, living joyfully, and finding peace and rest. The “Chew on This” questions with each chapter helps solidify and deepen our learning. The words that moved me most were ones that stayed with me from the beginning; “God didn’t want to shackle me, He wanted to save me.”
The gentleness, love, and compassion we give, and receive from, our pets are wonderful examples of what awaits us when we surrender ourselves to God. I can’t recommend this book enough.
Haven’t we all felt neglected and abandoned at one time or another? I wonder if that isn’t the result of the longing for relationship with our Creator embedded into our DNA? In “A Faith Unleased”, Joshua Masters shows us how our pets can teach us important spiritual lessons like: trust, obedience, loyalty, compassion, living joyfully, and finding peace and rest. The “Chew on This” questions with each chapter helps solidify and deepen our learning. The words that moved me most were ones that stayed with me from the beginning; “God didn’t want to shackle me, He wanted to save me.”
The gentleness, love, and compassion we give, and receive from, our pets are wonderful examples of what awaits us when we surrender ourselves to God. I can’t recommend this book enough.
June 14, 2021
Author Joshua Masters pens a book about one’s relationship with God using the story of his rescue dog, Franklin, as a framework.
In A Faith Unleashed, Franklin is rescued from a puppy mill and given a new life in Joshua Masters’ family. Masters uses Franklin’s story to draw spiritual truths for our lives - we were in need of rescue, and our past does not define us. We receive new identities in Christ. The book also traces Masters’ spiritual journey from a chained faith to a faith unleashed, a life of joy.
The chapters follow Franklin’s journey from abused puppy to a well-loved family member. The change takes time and lessons must be learned. Masters explores what it means to grow in one’s faith, to deepen one’s relationship with God, and to find hope for the future. The author gives snippets of Franklin’s story with scripture and reflections to consider. Each chapter includes a few discussion questions, in addition to a final chapter with actionable steps, and an index of key themes.
Masters presents Franklin’s story, making comparisons with a spiritual journey in this short book (208 pages). One wishes that photos of Franklin were included throughout the text as well as deeper questions. Still the book makes a good choice for individuals and small groups.
In addition to authoring this book, Masters is an author of several other books, and speaker, with a heart for encouraging others.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
In A Faith Unleashed, Franklin is rescued from a puppy mill and given a new life in Joshua Masters’ family. Masters uses Franklin’s story to draw spiritual truths for our lives - we were in need of rescue, and our past does not define us. We receive new identities in Christ. The book also traces Masters’ spiritual journey from a chained faith to a faith unleashed, a life of joy.
The chapters follow Franklin’s journey from abused puppy to a well-loved family member. The change takes time and lessons must be learned. Masters explores what it means to grow in one’s faith, to deepen one’s relationship with God, and to find hope for the future. The author gives snippets of Franklin’s story with scripture and reflections to consider. Each chapter includes a few discussion questions, in addition to a final chapter with actionable steps, and an index of key themes.
Masters presents Franklin’s story, making comparisons with a spiritual journey in this short book (208 pages). One wishes that photos of Franklin were included throughout the text as well as deeper questions. Still the book makes a good choice for individuals and small groups.
In addition to authoring this book, Masters is an author of several other books, and speaker, with a heart for encouraging others.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
June 16, 2021
Filled with faith, inspiration and hope, the story of how Franklin came to live with author Joshua Masters and his wife Gina, touches the heart and soul of the reader. Reminding us of the different paths we take in life, Franklin had a unique journey to his loving home. A wonderful book. I received a complimentary copy and was under no obligation to post a review.
June 21, 2021
Joshua Masters weaves truth, humor, and healing throughout the story of Franklin's rescue and recovery in a home filled with love. The author seamlessly uncovers the parallels of God's ability to redeem the stories of His own children.
If you are an animal lover or someone who struggles with the wounds of a challenging past, this book will gently guide you to a place of reflection and hope.
If you are an animal lover or someone who struggles with the wounds of a challenging past, this book will gently guide you to a place of reflection and hope.
July 1, 2021
Love this one. We are all Franklin.
September 12, 2021
Joshua Masters and Franklin tell their story as a parable to the Gospel, in a stunning comparison to mankind’s needed salvation. Without someone to reach out for us, help us to grow, and give us a place to belong, we all falter like feral animals. Masters has built an intimate portrayal of acceptance and home as we all long for, and strive to provide for those in our care. Whether you are longing to belong or wanting to provide that security for someone else, what Masters and Franklin share can lead you to be the fulfilled person you’re designed to be, wholly accepted into the Family.
September 6, 2021
A delightful series of devotional entries with charming and witty analogies with the inspiration of the author’s small pup called Franklin. While reflection and journaling entires and questions are found in each chapter, the clever comparisons of an abused puppy reminds us of our struggles and puts them in the light of our Savior and Lord. Each chapter is organized in a lesson about Franklin the rescue dog, and relates that to a need in our lives. Scripture and questions to “chew on” are well-written. Find hope and healing through the whispers of grace.
June 22, 2021
If you love dogs – and who doesn’t? – you’re going to adore this book! Joshua Masters’ compelling prose digs deep (see what I did there? haha) to help the reader examine his or her relationship with the Lord and connects that faith journey with Masters’ sweet pup, Franklin’s journey from brokenness to belonging. You’ll love Masters’ humor, Franklin’s antics, Scripture incorporated in each chapter in a personal, yet non-preachy way, and revelations about God’s rescue for His human creations. Here’s one of my favorite quotes from the book: “A life tethered to the world will bring oppression and self-doubt, but embracing the restrictions and guidance offered by God will give us security and peace. That’s true freedom.”
-Julie Lavender, author of 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories, published by Revell/Baker Publishing Group
-Julie Lavender, author of 365 Ways to Love Your Child: Turning Little Moments into Lasting Memories, published by Revell/Baker Publishing Group
January 13, 2022
This book impacted me from the very first chapter to the very last. The comparison of Franklin the Pup's life to that of ours was well done and gave a lot to think on. At the end of each chapter, the section "Chew on This" was quite helpful. As I've been seeking to grow closer to God, this book has been more than a normal devotional I've read in the past. There was a depth in here that challenged me and made me choose to stay still or grow and move forward.
And while I don't have a "gumdrop nose and button eyes," I was reminded that Jesus loves me just how he created me and rescued me into his family. And reading this book, I smiled as I realized that on that day that I can jump up and down when I see my "Father" as I reach HOME, I know he'll be as excited to see me as I will be of him.
I highly recommend this book if your desire is to grow closer to God.
And while I don't have a "gumdrop nose and button eyes," I was reminded that Jesus loves me just how he created me and rescued me into his family. And reading this book, I smiled as I realized that on that day that I can jump up and down when I see my "Father" as I reach HOME, I know he'll be as excited to see me as I will be of him.
I highly recommend this book if your desire is to grow closer to God.
June 25, 2021
I fell in love with Franklin the Pup while reading the first page. Joshua Masters brilliantly weaves truths from God’s Word into charming and humorous anecdotes about adopting the miniature poodle. The author paints a beautiful picture of our relationship with God and makes me more grateful for His rescue and love. The questions to "chew on" at the end of each chapter are thought-provoking and lead to application. "The Howl of Anxiety," "Old Dog, New Tricks," and "The Master's Voice" are my favorite chapters.
June 21, 2021
If you love dogs, especially rescue dogs, this is a delightful, light-hearted devotional perfect for you.
It's a short read that draws parallels to our spiritual growth from Franklin the poodle's difficult journey.
Unique, humorous, and encouraging.
I received a preview copy of A Faith Unleashed from the author.
It's a short read that draws parallels to our spiritual growth from Franklin the poodle's difficult journey.
Unique, humorous, and encouraging.
I received a preview copy of A Faith Unleashed from the author.
July 2, 2021
Fun and Encouraging Read
If you are a dog lover and looking for some spiritual encouragement, this is the perfect book for you. Joshua Masters offers some great analogies comparing the Christian walk to the experiences of his rescue pup, Franklin. There are some thought-provoking insights offered in these pages, and it is well worth the read.
If you are a dog lover and looking for some spiritual encouragement, this is the perfect book for you. Joshua Masters offers some great analogies comparing the Christian walk to the experiences of his rescue pup, Franklin. There are some thought-provoking insights offered in these pages, and it is well worth the read.
June 17, 2021
Loved this book. So well written to tell both the story of Franklin and how Franklins life was compared to our walk with God. I cried, I laughed, and I just sat smiling as I read. Each chapter ended with things to ponder and chew on.
June 22, 2021
This book is a treat for dog lovers
If you’ve ever been smitten by a canine friend, this book is for you. The spiritual lessons learned from Franklin the rescue pup will encourage your own relationship with God and challenge you to trust Him more.
If you’ve ever been smitten by a canine friend, this book is for you. The spiritual lessons learned from Franklin the rescue pup will encourage your own relationship with God and challenge you to trust Him more.
June 27, 2021
If my beloved pets could communicate their appreciation for being rescued, loved, kept, and cared for, the sentiments would echo in my own soul and heart for what Jesus Christ completed in my life. You won't regret reading this riveting story of redemption and rescue.
June 21, 2021
A Faith Unleashed reminds us that regardless what we might go through, God is always with us. Loved the story and how the author tied in rescuing Franklin and how God rescues us.
Highly recommend.
Highly recommend.
June 21, 2021
I wondered how far I would get before crying... Chapter 1, page 20 - waterworks. This is such a touching story. Highly recommend it for all dog lovers!
June 24, 2021
Who knew an adorable pup could be used to reveal deep spiritual truths? Josh Masters brilliantly uses the painful and the beautiful to paint a picture of our personal rescue journeys by a loving God. I stopped at points in the chapter before I got to the “thoughts to chew on”, and pondered questions such as “whether we’re wearing the world’s choke collar or the guiding harness of God’s plan for our lives”, “Does the uncertainty of our lives make us look to God or pull away from Him?” and looking at the grief process as a gift. The Scriptures and thoughts for further reflection give the reader opportunities to personally assess the issues presented. The writing was excellent, the visuals memorable, and the message to any who struggle with a need for God’s rescue non-threatening and life-giving.
June 21, 2021
This book immediately grabbed my heart. Franklin’s journey and the way that love and tender care brought Franklin from being a fearful, unwanted rescue pup to a much-beloved member of the Masters family is a heart-warming and inspiring one. Any really good book has both tears and laughter, and Franklin’s story certainly includes both of these.
But it’s the themes of faith, hope, and love that set this book above most animal rescue stories. The author has skillfully and loving compared our needs to Franklin’s. We need God’s grace and redemption each day in our own lives, and the author does a wonderful job of showing us through scripture how God’s greatest goal is to not only redeem us, but to help us live our lives secure and happy in His love.
This would be a good book to give to someone who’s struggling and needs encouragement. Mature believers and new believers can both find help in these short devotional chapters. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from him in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
#afaithunleashed
But it’s the themes of faith, hope, and love that set this book above most animal rescue stories. The author has skillfully and loving compared our needs to Franklin’s. We need God’s grace and redemption each day in our own lives, and the author does a wonderful job of showing us through scripture how God’s greatest goal is to not only redeem us, but to help us live our lives secure and happy in His love.
This would be a good book to give to someone who’s struggling and needs encouragement. Mature believers and new believers can both find help in these short devotional chapters. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I’ll be looking forward to reading more from him in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
#afaithunleashed
June 24, 2021
It’s a book about faith with a cute doggo on the cover. What’s not to love, right? But this book goes deep into the beauty that comes with God’s rescue. Much like Franklin’s start in life, our past may be filled with ugly scars, loneliness, and fear. We don’t have to live there. In A Faith Unleashed Joshua J. Masters correlates stories from Franklin’s horrible start in life to our lives before God. His easy writing style makes this book a joy to read and even as someone who has known God for many decades, I found comfort and peace in this book.
June 21, 2021
A wonderfully written book with lots of laughs, some tears and insights. Although the story focuses on a family taking in an abused dog, there is a comparison to our relationship with God. Each chapter provides questions for deeper insights. This would be a wonderful book for new believers as well as though who are more confident. It will get you insights to share with everyone.
January 8, 2025
God watched Franklin
God saved this puppy from the shelter to finding loving. God had a hand in bring faith into the home of this family. Franklin's journey shined a light throughout this entire book. Great job.
God saved this puppy from the shelter to finding loving. God had a hand in bring faith into the home of this family. Franklin's journey shined a light throughout this entire book. Great job.
July 7, 2021
Written from the heart. Filled with encouragement and hope I highly recommend this devotional book. Mine is highlighted in many places as it spoke to my life.
Fall in love with Franklin and grow in God's love.
Fall in love with Franklin and grow in God's love.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews