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Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith
DISCOVER THE UNCHARTED PATH FULL OF MYSTERY & FULL OF FAITHEvery faith journey is unique―a beautiful and at times frightening mystery―fully known only to our Creator. Unfortunately, this journey can also be confusing. The struggles of life, the inability to hear God, and our desire for control can all complicate the abundant life and leave us unsure where we’re supposed to be heading. And when life runs into us headfirst, or the fog of uncertainty envelops us, we may find ourselves stumbling into―or even falling off the edge of―disorientation.
Pastor Inés Franklin offers her own courageous journey of faith and biblical insights―providing healing and hope for those still finding their way or doubting their path. Her careful analysis and scholarly approach to the Bible will encourage readers to discover the truth that at the very foundation of the Christian faith lies an invitation to active surrender––to offer and release all our circumstances to our perfectly loving God, giving him complete authority over our lives. Active surrender leads to a thriving faith that gives us the courage to take risks and be open to the unknown as we pursue our God-given purpose.
In the foreword, Dr. John Townsend says, “A book that is worth your time investment requires an answer to the question, How do I move forward with these truths? What are the steps? We need a path to guide us in transforming our everyday lives. Inés provides us with a framework of best practices for the faith journey.
In Uncharted, you will find a practical rhythm to grow in your faith, transforming your fears into trust and your hesitation into commitment.
1. Knowing God’s Desires
2. Overcoming Challenges
3. Blessing through Obedience
4. Thriving by Thirsting for God
In a world full of obstacles, comparison, and uncertainty, the most rewarding journey you will ever undertake is the uncharted walk with God.
Pastor Inés Franklin offers her own courageous journey of faith and biblical insights―providing healing and hope for those still finding their way or doubting their path. Her careful analysis and scholarly approach to the Bible will encourage readers to discover the truth that at the very foundation of the Christian faith lies an invitation to active surrender––to offer and release all our circumstances to our perfectly loving God, giving him complete authority over our lives. Active surrender leads to a thriving faith that gives us the courage to take risks and be open to the unknown as we pursue our God-given purpose.
In the foreword, Dr. John Townsend says, “A book that is worth your time investment requires an answer to the question, How do I move forward with these truths? What are the steps? We need a path to guide us in transforming our everyday lives. Inés provides us with a framework of best practices for the faith journey.
In Uncharted, you will find a practical rhythm to grow in your faith, transforming your fears into trust and your hesitation into commitment.
1. Knowing God’s Desires
2. Overcoming Challenges
3. Blessing through Obedience
4. Thriving by Thirsting for God
In a world full of obstacles, comparison, and uncertainty, the most rewarding journey you will ever undertake is the uncharted walk with God.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2023
29 people are currently reading
4434 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 26, 2023
Wowza do I feel like the Lord has just blessed me with this book in the season I'm currently walking through. I don't think a book in the last 3 years of reading has ever hit me so deeply in my soul. I was pausing page after page just to process the truth that was being "spoken." I've also never written down so many highlights with my own comments; this is probably why it took me longer than I expected to get through. Overall, this was such a refreshing change of pace from the other Christian books I've read. I imagine part of that is my current heart posture and vulnerability to truly let God's word puncture my aching heart and provide me with healing.
I have so many highlights that I'm going to include the ones that spoke to me the most. This is because I have three pages of them, and that may just be too many for a review.
Pg. 45 'The answer is not to replace one faith formula for another, but to realize that faith is a formula at all-it's a relationship with our creator.'
pg. 86 'To struggle with one's faith is the often the surest sign we actually have one.' -A.J. Swoboda
pg. 98 '...asking thoughtful questions to and about God is a function of faith and not a sign of doubt.'
pg. 192 Focus on community as a Christian and staying it. This part hit home. I've felt the devil constantly pulling me away from the women's group I'm a part of. I came to realize from reading this section that it was a tactic of isolation in what I'm walking through and not per se saving oneself. Oh, how the Lord is faithful if we listen and hear his voice above the rest.
pg. 198 'Community is necessary because it is how God designed us to grow.'
pg. 235 'God does not waste anything.' and 'Depending on God is the only source of certainty we can truly count on.'
I am truly an Inés fan through and through after this book. My final comment is that, for this being her first book and her not being a native English speaker, the writing was absolute perfection. I feel as though I was able to have an even greater appreciation because Spanish is my second language and I studied it for nine years just to become "mostly" fluent. Her surrender posture with God is so evident, and it's obvious the Lord is using her as a vessel to do GREAT things! Keep listening to God's calling for your life, because he is faithful through it all.
Thank you Inès for sending me a copy of your book, it was truly a joy to read your work!
I have so many highlights that I'm going to include the ones that spoke to me the most. This is because I have three pages of them, and that may just be too many for a review.
Pg. 45 'The answer is not to replace one faith formula for another, but to realize that faith is a formula at all-it's a relationship with our creator.'
pg. 86 'To struggle with one's faith is the often the surest sign we actually have one.' -A.J. Swoboda
pg. 98 '...asking thoughtful questions to and about God is a function of faith and not a sign of doubt.'
pg. 192 Focus on community as a Christian and staying it. This part hit home. I've felt the devil constantly pulling me away from the women's group I'm a part of. I came to realize from reading this section that it was a tactic of isolation in what I'm walking through and not per se saving oneself. Oh, how the Lord is faithful if we listen and hear his voice above the rest.
pg. 198 'Community is necessary because it is how God designed us to grow.'
pg. 235 'God does not waste anything.' and 'Depending on God is the only source of certainty we can truly count on.'
I am truly an Inés fan through and through after this book. My final comment is that, for this being her first book and her not being a native English speaker, the writing was absolute perfection. I feel as though I was able to have an even greater appreciation because Spanish is my second language and I studied it for nine years just to become "mostly" fluent. Her surrender posture with God is so evident, and it's obvious the Lord is using her as a vessel to do GREAT things! Keep listening to God's calling for your life, because he is faithful through it all.
Thank you Inès for sending me a copy of your book, it was truly a joy to read your work!
March 21, 2023
Really wonderful book with lots of vulnerable storytelling, biblical wisdom, and practical help for those looking to grow spiritually!
May 7, 2023
Unchartered was the exact book I was looking for! Ines Franklin is a woman of God who keeps it honest. She doesn’t sugar coat her journey and doesn’t make you feel like you’re the only one who has made mistakes. Her book explains that even in the good, bad and ugly, God will use it all. The journey of Christian faith is not an easy road, but it is so worth it! This book reminded me that through all the ups and downs and scary roads we can be guided by God, but we just have to be willing to let go of trying to control and let him take the wheel. Great read to strengthen your faith!
April 12, 2023
As a Spiritual Director, I've read many books on faith journeys, but not all integrate the "real" life, the true human experience of the walking with Christ on THIS earth in 2023 and all the setbacks, obstacles, and distractions that get in the way of what we truly want to pursue. Through her own story, Ines Franklin unpacks her unspiritual, turned spiritual journey in an honest, fully transparent and vulnerable way. But she is always pointing up to God's Grace in her life - as messy as it is, but as beautifully redeemed by God's Grace. I especially appreciate how she points readers to centuries-old spiritual practices/disciplines not often referred to in the evangelical church world. Highly recommend this book - no matter where you are in your spiritual life!
April 25, 2023
I received this book as a ARC. I must mention that it was a signed copy. It was my first Ines Franklin book. She is a very intelligent woman and I appreciate the fact that she has a masters of divinity and she has many years of experience in ministry. This book Uncharted was a guidebook with illustrations from her life. She does correlate her life experiences with scripture and biblical characters.
The book is broken down into four separate sections:
1) Knowing God’s Desires
2) Overcoming Challenges
3) Blessing through Obedience
4) Thriving by Thirsting for God
Her personal story was pretty dramatic. It broke my heart to see all the things that she went through. There’s a lot of trauma and drama and unfortunately, she made a few mistakes along the way. I appreciate her honesty. She truly changed and transformed her life. God really has used her experiences. I feel like I need to read this book at least three more times , there’s so much information. I really did enjoy the book.
The book is broken down into four separate sections:
1) Knowing God’s Desires
2) Overcoming Challenges
3) Blessing through Obedience
4) Thriving by Thirsting for God
Her personal story was pretty dramatic. It broke my heart to see all the things that she went through. There’s a lot of trauma and drama and unfortunately, she made a few mistakes along the way. I appreciate her honesty. She truly changed and transformed her life. God really has used her experiences. I feel like I need to read this book at least three more times , there’s so much information. I really did enjoy the book.
April 3, 2023
Here’s what I loved about Uncharted…the author explains that getting to know God isn’t about checking off a laundry list of ‘to do’s’. So many influences tell people to join a bible study, go to church every Sunday, get in a small group- and the list goes on. These are all useful and relevant activities to growing in knowledge about God, but they are just that- activities. Growing deeper is about about walking with God, which is about relationship and all of the INTERACTIONS that you have with God. Uncharted does a great job of explaining this and equipping the reader with ways to interact with God that are based on relating to Him instead of performing a list of duties.
Because the author shares so many of her personal struggles, mistakes and ultimate redemption, the book is very relatable. This is not a perfect person preaching the way to be a perfect Christian. This is a battle tested woman who’s sharing the ups and downs of her life decisions with and without God. I highly recommend Uncharted to someone who wants a real relationship with Jesus.
Because the author shares so many of her personal struggles, mistakes and ultimate redemption, the book is very relatable. This is not a perfect person preaching the way to be a perfect Christian. This is a battle tested woman who’s sharing the ups and downs of her life decisions with and without God. I highly recommend Uncharted to someone who wants a real relationship with Jesus.
March 9, 2023
Inés FranklinUnchartered is a book for Christians who want to grow in their relationship with Christ. It is written in an authentic, vulnerable, and honest style that addresses us, everyday fallible Christians, right where we live. Ines Franklin, the author, acknowledges the difficulty of our calling, our struggles, and our tendency toward failure. She enables us to see, often using her poignant personal history, that we need to let go of much of our control and many of our expectations. She helps us understand that God’s expectations are frequently different from our own. This is addressed within full view and understanding that when we fail, Christ does not condemn us. Rather He lovingly and forgivingly offers His divine help and insight.01
Ines also addresses overcoming life’s challenges and the subsequent blessings experienced as we learn to be obedient to Jesus’ call. She describes choosing between good and better. As she does this, it seems as if Ines is right there with us, taking each step, looking at each of our choices alongside us. At the end of each of the book’s sections, Ines supports us with specific Spiritual Practices and Prompting Scriptures. These tangible tools help us to thrive and increase our thirst for God. As Ines says, “Thirsting for God is the wisest way to walk the journey of faith and finish well…” (Unchartered, Location 3329.)
In summary, this book offers practical help to committed Christians. The insights Ines offers are beneficial to all of us attempting to walk the narrow path.
Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith
Ines also addresses overcoming life’s challenges and the subsequent blessings experienced as we learn to be obedient to Jesus’ call. She describes choosing between good and better. As she does this, it seems as if Ines is right there with us, taking each step, looking at each of our choices alongside us. At the end of each of the book’s sections, Ines supports us with specific Spiritual Practices and Prompting Scriptures. These tangible tools help us to thrive and increase our thirst for God. As Ines says, “Thirsting for God is the wisest way to walk the journey of faith and finish well…” (Unchartered, Location 3329.)
In summary, this book offers practical help to committed Christians. The insights Ines offers are beneficial to all of us attempting to walk the narrow path.
Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith
March 25, 2023
Absolutely love the transparency of her story in this faith based book. There are practical and thoughtful tips for anyone new in their walk in faith or a seasoned believer feeling. From start to finish uncharted is a book filled with gems of wisdom. I had so many “a-ha” moments.
February 23, 2023
All too often we find ourselves struggling to figure out our next steps. Most of the time it is related to “faith”. As in, what should we do next based on what we have faith in. Our human nature is to follow a god. If we are searching, we are not sure where He is. Uncharted will help. Inés Franklin takes you on a journey in an effort to help you find your path. She uses her experiences and her biblical knowledge to help you determine next steps in your journey to find a solid relationship with God. Not a god, but the God. Well written to allow you to follow her while forging a path of your own. Highly recommended to anyone searching for the answers they need.
February 21, 2023
Ines shares vulnerably about her experiences and deeply from knowledge of scripture. It’s a powerful combo when she bridges both. When she shares her uncharted path of faith she is a guide and a fellow companion to help you unpack your own journey. Definitely read it and share it with your friends. Ines has a unique, loving, trusted, and compassionate voice that will encourage many.
March 2, 2023
I am so grateful for this book! It is hard to imagine suffering well along our journey of faith, but because of this book, I have been able to learn more. I also love the spiritual practices that are throughout the book, which have helped me lean in more to my relationship with God. It is a beautiful combination of personal stories and deep theological learning. What a gift!
March 2, 2023
Having heard Inés before I was hopeful that her book would offer some guidance on dealing with hard times and overcoming those moments when it seems like God is not near. I was not disappointed. She shares how her immigration story was sometimes a hinderance for her ability to succeed in a new American journey, as a fellow immigrant (2ndG) I found her story really helpful and encouraging. I'm happy to have felt like I have permission to not fear God when it comes to questions and trials, and she affirms chapter after chapter that our journey is unique and certainty is not the answer, but that faith (in its beauty and difficulties) guides us and grows us closer to God.
Uncharted reads like a memoir that also provides those evergreen faith stories we hope to read that we can return to from time to time when we feel like no one else is going through what we're experiencing. Highly recommend.
Uncharted reads like a memoir that also provides those evergreen faith stories we hope to read that we can return to from time to time when we feel like no one else is going through what we're experiencing. Highly recommend.
April 24, 2023
Incredible display of faith in this book. Having known Ines for a number of years, I was able to see much of the life she writes about and her faith acted out in community. Ines has an incredible heart to hear God and follow his direction in her life. This book is a great representation of someone who is sold out for His purpose.
I especially love the transparency she has when sharing the difficult parts of her story. It would have been easy to gloss over those but she went deep into the emotions it takes to follow God in the ways He was leading her and her family.
This book would be great for anyone looking to understand their faith journey or wrestling with God and how He shows up in their lives. Thanks Ines for writing such a compelling story of redemption and love.
I especially love the transparency she has when sharing the difficult parts of her story. It would have been easy to gloss over those but she went deep into the emotions it takes to follow God in the ways He was leading her and her family.
This book would be great for anyone looking to understand their faith journey or wrestling with God and how He shows up in their lives. Thanks Ines for writing such a compelling story of redemption and love.
October 15, 2024
I bought and read the book after going through a six week summer Bible study on it with Inez as the speaker. I knew she was a good speaker but wasn't sure how her book would be. I was not disappointed. She writes with an openness that makes you feel that she is talking to you. Inez quotes sources that show she has been to seminary but doesn't make the book feel like a textbook. I had read the handbook that went with the Bible study but still found more of interest in Uncharted. I found the sections on spiritual practices especially interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to grow in faith. It might be very helpful to someone trying to make a big life decision and seeking God's will.
March 21, 2023
In "Uncharted," Ines Franklin honestly deals with important life paths, comments on practical questions, and lays bare the universal relevance of the Christian journey. Together with spiritual practices and Scripture included, this book will inspire your faith to grow.
By her personal examination, Ines pays the struggle to navigate life as a believer a sincere compliment. She wrestles with cliches and easy solutions so often keeping seekers out of the church, weighing in on topics such as: closeness to God, endurance through adversity, trust in suffering, honor among shame, and control vs. commitment.
Seeker and saint alike will love "Uncharted"!
By her personal examination, Ines pays the struggle to navigate life as a believer a sincere compliment. She wrestles with cliches and easy solutions so often keeping seekers out of the church, weighing in on topics such as: closeness to God, endurance through adversity, trust in suffering, honor among shame, and control vs. commitment.
Seeker and saint alike will love "Uncharted"!
March 31, 2023
Although Ines and I may have grown up differently and made some different life choices, we also have many of the same thoughts and struggles. Ines is very transparent in this book. Her open and honest manner make you feel as if you are relating to a friend. When she speaks some harder truths (that made me think ‘Ouch!’… you know it is from her heart in love.
I also appreciate that she covered so many areas of life and areas of our spiritual walk that I felt like I was constantly examining myself and asking hard questions…. A refining of myself. I look forward to implementing the various spiritual practices provided at the end of each chapter. Thank you Ines (and Jim!).
I also appreciate that she covered so many areas of life and areas of our spiritual walk that I felt like I was constantly examining myself and asking hard questions…. A refining of myself. I look forward to implementing the various spiritual practices provided at the end of each chapter. Thank you Ines (and Jim!).
February 26, 2023
A beautiful, helpful, compassionate, and strongly Biblical look at the bumpy ride of the life of faith. You will feel pastored, loved as a fellow traveler, and challenged and encouraged both to accept where you are and to pursue God’s call “further up and further in”. Includes spiritual practices to consider for each chapter and extensive notes on all references. Caution! - you will be looked in the eye and asked to really LOOK at and think about your own journey! I highly recommend risking it!
March 10, 2023
If life has left you questioning if God is for you and could he possibly forgive you, this is a must read. Reading Uncharted, you will experience a God who lavishes his grace and mercy on us. Inés weaves together her own personal story and rich theology that will leave you desiring more of God. Don’t skip the spiritual disciplines at the end of each chapter, but do the work and return when you have time to reflect and absorb all that God has for you in this book. Great to read as a small group, a summer study, or to give to a friend who needs a reminder that God is for them.
March 17, 2023
This book tells the author Ines’ story, weaving together life events and dramatic, supernatural intervention. Ines does a great job throughout the book, enlightening the reader interested in a better life. For example, don’t settle for good, choose better. Let go of the good things in your life because God wants the best for you.
There are spiritual practices which invited me to contemplate my own approach to life, and be more available to God’s purposes. It’s time to make eternal changes now, don’t wait. Uncharted will inspire and encourage you in your journey.
There are spiritual practices which invited me to contemplate my own approach to life, and be more available to God’s purposes. It’s time to make eternal changes now, don’t wait. Uncharted will inspire and encourage you in your journey.
February 22, 2023
Having the privilege of spending many years under the teaching of Ines Ines and seeing her life on display, her hard earned spiritual lessons have informed my faith journey. Ines outlines what a Christian faith journey looks like and shared intimate details of her own journey. While the personal journey can feel uncharted, this book is a wonderful map with major landmarks to show the Christian that they are on the right journey and tools to engage with the journey.
March 14, 2023
I love how Ines Franklin stays grounded in Biblical truth while sharing her personal stories. Through reading Uncharted, I feel I’ve met a ‘kindred spirit’ in Ines. Her willingness to be an open book allows others to (1) realize they aren’t alone in their past choices nor their current struggles, and (2) see how the Lord has redeemed the various journeys she’s taken – as He most certainly will for you and me (Romans 8:28)
March 21, 2023
I highly recommend Uncharted by Inés Franklin! This book is an uplifting reminder that we each have a beautifully unique faith journey that doesn’t need to measure up to anyone else’s. Ines’ humility, compassion, and deep vulnerability are inspiring in a way that encourages the reader to let go of shame, embrace community, and trust in God’s love. This would be an excellent small group study book!
March 22, 2023
With vulnerable personal stories and powerful insights from God's Word, Uncharted is an incredible book that highlights how God uses each of our faith journeys for His glory. Ines offers so much wisdom within these pages, and hearing how God has used her own uncharted path was so encouraging. If you want to be inspired in your walk with God and your journey in trusting His plan, look no further than this amazing book.
April 12, 2023
This book provides insightful biblical wisdom & references for anyone; maybe you are unsure and curious about what it means to have relationship with God or you find yourself struggling to keep faith at times. Ines Franklin walks us through her spiritual journey revealing the power of surrender, vulnerability, and prayer. She keeps you engaged with helpful practices of how to live out the truth of the Word and follow our true north, Jesus Christ.
February 20, 2023
This book is an amazing work. I am so proud of my wife!
August 16, 2023
This book is inspiring and helped me navigate my journey. Everyone should read it!!
December 21, 2023
3.5 stars if It were an option
June 8, 2024
If I could give 0 starts I would. Compared what she said to Scripture and they conflicted.
February 20, 2023
Uncharted takes us on a wonderfully honest journey of faith. I love the way Ines Franklin weaves personal story, Bible stories, and spiritual practices all together. The combination creates an honest journey that is relatable for the reader!
October 14, 2023
I must admit, this is the first time I have written a book review prior to actually finishing reading the book. I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway, and I could not have received this book at a more suitable time in my life. After a long 2 1/2 year battle with colon cancer, my father passed away last week. As a believer in Christ, I have often accepted things that have happened in my life as part of God's plan and purpose for my life, but losing my father has left a big empty space within me, and reading this book has brought much assurance and peace that life is not always what we would expect or want. Sometimes it means loss and pain, but there is purpose to it all, even the bad stuff.
I am about halfway through the book, but I know that this is one that I will purchase for my mother, through her healing after the loss of my father, as well a gift to other relatives or friends. This is a keeper that I will hold on to. Thank you, Ines! Your book is a life saver for me!
I am about halfway through the book, but I know that this is one that I will purchase for my mother, through her healing after the loss of my father, as well a gift to other relatives or friends. This is a keeper that I will hold on to. Thank you, Ines! Your book is a life saver for me!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews