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Unbridled Faith: 100 Devotions from the Horse Farm - A Daily Devotional - The Perfect Christian Gift for Horse Lovers and Equestrian Enthusiasts
Explore the timeless wisdom of God's Word through this beautiful horse devotional. Horses nuzzle their way into our hearts and have a way of teaching us a lot about ourselves, about life, and even about God. Just ask horse enthusiast Cara Whitney, wife of comedian and actor Dan Whitney (aka Larry the Cable Guy). Through years spent working with these majestic animals, Cara Whitney has learned countless spiritual lessons that have brought her closer to God. She shares those stories in Unbridled Faith. In 100 heartfelt devotions with stunning photography, you' This devotional is perfect for anyone who adores horses and the simple farm life.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published June 5, 2018
167 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 24, 2021
This devotional has been my favorite out of all devotional books I have read. I read it every morning before I begin the day, as it sits on my living room table and I am attracted to it. When I finish it I will begin it again. It is a daily reminder that none of us are perfect and we need the Lord.
October 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this devotional! Of course I loved the horse aspect and pointing it back to Jesus and living life as a follower of Christ. I think this devotional is perfect for a new believer, especially if they love horses😉🐴 It was encouraging but also convicting. She doesn’t shy away from God’s word and His truth. That’s why I recommend this for new believers, because they are very quick chapters but full of truth and not fluff.
August 7, 2018
This is a fabulous devotional! I am a lifelong rider and horse owner, so needless to say this book caught my attention the moment I first heard about it and I immediately thought "Ooh, that's a perfect devotional for me!" I loved this book, Cara writes in such a friendly and conversational manner that each devotional feels like a chat with a friend! It was fantastic how each devotional presented almost a parable of our relationship with Jesus through an element of our relationships with our horses, followed by solid encouragement and inspiration to grow ever closer to Jesus through quiet time, prayer, spending time in God's Word, and more! This is an absolutely awesome devotional that I highly recommend, it is a beautiful hardcover book with hundreds of gorgeous photos of horses, and would make a perfect gift for the horse lover in your life!
I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read and review this book!
Overall, I adored Unbridled Faith! I plan to reread it many times in the future, and I look forward to reading anything else that Cara Whitney writes!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read and review this book!
Overall, I adored Unbridled Faith! I plan to reread it many times in the future, and I look forward to reading anything else that Cara Whitney writes!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
June 9, 2019
Being an equine enthusiast and horse owner, former boarding facility owner I connected with this Author. This book will be forever in my library to refresh myself back to God & my love for my horses. I'm so grateful for such a good read an awesome life and a new beginning back with my horse and my Faith in God.
April 20, 2019
This is such a great devotional! The thoughts are so encouraging. It has lovely pictures and well laid out. I highly recommend it.
May 28, 2020
I got this book as a valentine's day gift from my dressage coach, and I have spent the last 3 and a half months reading it. I haven't gotten to it every single day, but I haven't missed many days .. and now I'll start over again~
It's a great book for horse lovers.
It's a great book for horse lovers.
December 15, 2024
Very well written. Inspiring!
August 2, 2025
This horse crazy girl learned so many lessons from the horse farm. The Lord is good!
September 3, 2021
I received this book as a gift because it had a horse on the cover and so they thought I would like it. I have loved horses all my life and owned several through out the last forty plus years. The little essays and Bible scriptures or devotions are very nice.. Probably not a book I would have bought for myself but a nice change from what I usually read.
July 25, 2018
Cara Whitney, wife of comedian Dan Whitney (aka "Larry The Cable Guy") puts together a very beautifully designed, gift-worthy book to which Dan Whitney provides the foreword. "Larry The Cable Guy wrote the forward to a devotional?!" you might be asking with just a dash of skepticism, I imagine. Well, Dan Whitney is here to explain.
Though he might not be immediately known for his faith professionally, he is actually the son of a preacher and went on to have his own education provided primarily through Christian based primary schools and colleges. He also explains that wife Cara came to her faith via a straightforward, rather pragmatic, maybe even slightly agnostic approach. This devotional she has now crafted is the culmination of years of dedicated theological study and regular introspection while working on the Whitney horse farm.
Whitney writes very much in the vein of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, each devotion a quick 2 page read with a prayer prompt at the end of each one. One of my favorite prayer prompts in this book: "Lord, help me to amplify the good in my life and control my emotions." Certainly something that spoke to me!
Another line that struck me, "God will bring the right scriptures, worship songs, and people into our lives when He knows we need them most. When we are lonely or in deep grief, He will send us his love in creative, diverse ways --- through nature, an email, or a movie scene." This was the case for me last year, months after losing my mother unexpectedly to a heart attack. That, combined with additional hits before and after that day, (making late 2016-2017 one of the worst periods of my life) ... I was spiritually exhausted after trying to keep myself emotionally strong, pushing back my emotions, putting all my energy into blocking out anything but daily obligations and work. Over time I found myself feeling more and more separated from the core of my soul. I didn't know if I myself was going to make it to the end of the year. On one of the hardest days of all, the song "Just Be Held" by Casting Crows mysteriously found its way into my noggin. That and Hilary Scott's "Thy Will"... I didn't even know she had solo work out there (apart from her band Lady Antebellum, of whom I'm a big fan).. but again, this song somehow found me. With the help of these songs, I allowed myself to finally cry out all that was pent up and then began to rebuild from the inside out.
While the photography in Unbridled Faith is undeniably GOREGOUS, and the sentiments are comforting, the devotional pieces themselves, as far as topics covered, are pretty standard fare (for the devotional genre as a whole, that is). Whitney offers her own horse-themed spin on things of course, but doesn't really touch upon any new territory.
Some of the transitions felt a little clunky, such as the salt one, talking about how horses crave salt and then the next line talking about salt being currency in Christ's time. It just flowed oddly to me. But I did have a giggle (though I don't think it was intended humorously) at the line, "It's your salty side God loves most." LOL Well, I don't know about THAT, but I'll take it, I guess!
Much of what was offered here, while as sweet and feel-good as one would expect, struck me as rehashings of topics you've likely read in a number of other books of this style. Furthermore, at times her thoughts struck me as a tinge judgmental of "non-believers", though she claims to feel called to evangelism.
In Devotion 61, she writes, "It's sad to believe, but there are Christians out there who think that it is their job to evaluate the holiness of other people." In Devotion 63: "Horses aren't the only ones who suffer from unfair perceptions. Sometimes people's perceptions of us are hard to overcome."
You don't say.
But I have to admit, I did enjoy her sense of humor at times:
"The next time your horse creates manure, remind yourself your animal is keeping you humble."
"Although my patient neighbors may disagree with my musical tastes, in my opinion all donkeys have perfect pitch."
Note to readers: this book contains spoilers for the children's classic Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.
FTC Disclaimer: BookLookBloggers.com kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
Though he might not be immediately known for his faith professionally, he is actually the son of a preacher and went on to have his own education provided primarily through Christian based primary schools and colleges. He also explains that wife Cara came to her faith via a straightforward, rather pragmatic, maybe even slightly agnostic approach. This devotional she has now crafted is the culmination of years of dedicated theological study and regular introspection while working on the Whitney horse farm.
Whitney writes very much in the vein of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, each devotion a quick 2 page read with a prayer prompt at the end of each one. One of my favorite prayer prompts in this book: "Lord, help me to amplify the good in my life and control my emotions." Certainly something that spoke to me!
Another line that struck me, "God will bring the right scriptures, worship songs, and people into our lives when He knows we need them most. When we are lonely or in deep grief, He will send us his love in creative, diverse ways --- through nature, an email, or a movie scene." This was the case for me last year, months after losing my mother unexpectedly to a heart attack. That, combined with additional hits before and after that day, (making late 2016-2017 one of the worst periods of my life) ... I was spiritually exhausted after trying to keep myself emotionally strong, pushing back my emotions, putting all my energy into blocking out anything but daily obligations and work. Over time I found myself feeling more and more separated from the core of my soul. I didn't know if I myself was going to make it to the end of the year. On one of the hardest days of all, the song "Just Be Held" by Casting Crows mysteriously found its way into my noggin. That and Hilary Scott's "Thy Will"... I didn't even know she had solo work out there (apart from her band Lady Antebellum, of whom I'm a big fan).. but again, this song somehow found me. With the help of these songs, I allowed myself to finally cry out all that was pent up and then began to rebuild from the inside out.
While the photography in Unbridled Faith is undeniably GOREGOUS, and the sentiments are comforting, the devotional pieces themselves, as far as topics covered, are pretty standard fare (for the devotional genre as a whole, that is). Whitney offers her own horse-themed spin on things of course, but doesn't really touch upon any new territory.
Some of the transitions felt a little clunky, such as the salt one, talking about how horses crave salt and then the next line talking about salt being currency in Christ's time. It just flowed oddly to me. But I did have a giggle (though I don't think it was intended humorously) at the line, "It's your salty side God loves most." LOL Well, I don't know about THAT, but I'll take it, I guess!
Much of what was offered here, while as sweet and feel-good as one would expect, struck me as rehashings of topics you've likely read in a number of other books of this style. Furthermore, at times her thoughts struck me as a tinge judgmental of "non-believers", though she claims to feel called to evangelism.
In Devotion 61, she writes, "It's sad to believe, but there are Christians out there who think that it is their job to evaluate the holiness of other people." In Devotion 63: "Horses aren't the only ones who suffer from unfair perceptions. Sometimes people's perceptions of us are hard to overcome."
You don't say.
But I have to admit, I did enjoy her sense of humor at times:
"The next time your horse creates manure, remind yourself your animal is keeping you humble."
"Although my patient neighbors may disagree with my musical tastes, in my opinion all donkeys have perfect pitch."
Note to readers: this book contains spoilers for the children's classic Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.
FTC Disclaimer: BookLookBloggers.com kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are entirely my own.
September 4, 2018
If You Love Horses, This Devotional is for You
We have lived around horses for twenty years. They are not only gorgeous and loving, but they can teach you a lot about life and faith, if you’re willing to learn. Obviously Cara feels the same way.
There are many stories in the book that a horse lover can relate to. One of my favorites is Water Crossings. Some horses will go right into a stream, but others, as Cara describes, hesitate and dance around. They want to know it’s safe, and they have to trust their rider. As she points out, this is where many of us are in faith. We have to learn to trust God. It will make water crossings and other challenges easier.
The photographs in this book are special. Some are taken at the farm others at events. I can relate to all the pictures. They bring back memories of my own horses. This book is hard cover with good sized print. It would make a wonderful gift for anyone who loves horses or lives around them.
I received this book from Booklook Bloggers for this review.
We have lived around horses for twenty years. They are not only gorgeous and loving, but they can teach you a lot about life and faith, if you’re willing to learn. Obviously Cara feels the same way.
There are many stories in the book that a horse lover can relate to. One of my favorites is Water Crossings. Some horses will go right into a stream, but others, as Cara describes, hesitate and dance around. They want to know it’s safe, and they have to trust their rider. As she points out, this is where many of us are in faith. We have to learn to trust God. It will make water crossings and other challenges easier.
The photographs in this book are special. Some are taken at the farm others at events. I can relate to all the pictures. They bring back memories of my own horses. This book is hard cover with good sized print. It would make a wonderful gift for anyone who loves horses or lives around them.
I received this book from Booklook Bloggers for this review.
November 4, 2018
Fresh truth for an every day renewal. This devotional is a collection of peaceful encounters. Whether you are finding hope, joy, or just a step in the right direction... you will discover a quiet moment that re-energizes your spirit and your outlook.
Beautifully crafted with photos of horses, calming vistas, and truthful connections between ourselves and these loyal animals. Many of you will find a connection that you might have found the first time you read Black Beauty. That profound wisdom that spoke to your spirit will be discovered on a daily basis within these pages.
This is a devotional for those in love with ranches, horses, and our Lord. What I found within was a peace that I must share with a grand-daughter who is emerging into a teen. What is guaranteed is a daily journey that inspires, ignites a walk beyond your stumbling blocks, and wonderment in our Lord's creation.
Such a wonder-filled journey. Please gift this devotional to those who live with horses...
MrsK https://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
Beautifully crafted with photos of horses, calming vistas, and truthful connections between ourselves and these loyal animals. Many of you will find a connection that you might have found the first time you read Black Beauty. That profound wisdom that spoke to your spirit will be discovered on a daily basis within these pages.
This is a devotional for those in love with ranches, horses, and our Lord. What I found within was a peace that I must share with a grand-daughter who is emerging into a teen. What is guaranteed is a daily journey that inspires, ignites a walk beyond your stumbling blocks, and wonderment in our Lord's creation.
Such a wonder-filled journey. Please gift this devotional to those who live with horses...
MrsK https://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
July 2, 2018
Any horse lover or Christian will treasure this beautiful volume.
Even taking a moment or two to sit and get lost in the peaceful photographs adds value to ones life.
It is a comfortable size, fitting pleasantly into your hands. The print size is easy, even for older eyes, to read.
Each of the one hundred entries begins with a biblical passage and ends with a prayer or entreaty.
There is a brief reading between, containing observations and lessons.
I would enjoy reading an entry a day or just opening at random and finding a lesson that applies.
I received this book via Harper Collins BookLook program. The rating and review are my own. I will be buying additional copies as gifts.
Even taking a moment or two to sit and get lost in the peaceful photographs adds value to ones life.
It is a comfortable size, fitting pleasantly into your hands. The print size is easy, even for older eyes, to read.
Each of the one hundred entries begins with a biblical passage and ends with a prayer or entreaty.
There is a brief reading between, containing observations and lessons.
I would enjoy reading an entry a day or just opening at random and finding a lesson that applies.
I received this book via Harper Collins BookLook program. The rating and review are my own. I will be buying additional copies as gifts.
June 1, 2023
This is such a sweet devotion book. I was able to get a lot out of it as I read it after the birth of my baby, and I am excited to pass it on to a friend, next. This is a great, easy devotional to include with your daily quiet times. Unbridled Faith is an especially great devotional for animal lovers of all kinds. Its so great to see how God has used Cara's unique passion for horses to share His love with other people, both through her writings, and her horse farm.
August 15, 2018
I received a complimentary copy.
A blend of bible, faith, facts, knowledge and horses to tie it all together. The book will really stand out amongst horse lovers and people who enjoy reading into the chapters rather them taking them at face value. It is so much more than just an ordinary horse farm, it is a way to connect and feel good with God. Perfect for faith based believers.
A blend of bible, faith, facts, knowledge and horses to tie it all together. The book will really stand out amongst horse lovers and people who enjoy reading into the chapters rather them taking them at face value. It is so much more than just an ordinary horse farm, it is a way to connect and feel good with God. Perfect for faith based believers.
February 17, 2019
Quick and simple devotions that use horses to dig a little deeper into God's word but they did hit home for me with some things I've been struggling with lately so sweet and encouraging. The prayers at the end could have been a little longer but there were one or two that seemed just perfect. If you love horses and want quick moments with God, this is a good book.
August 14, 2020
Finished reading this lovely gift from my daughter. Wonderfully written and it seemed as if each verse and her interpretation spoke directly to me, to the struggles I face, the gifts I've received and helped to build up my faith in God. I really enjoyed reading it and will keep it handy for days that I need a little boost.
May 8, 2023
I absolutely LOVED this book. The photos are wonderful, varied and beautiful. The text always starts with a horse paragraph or two, followed by lessons about out spiritual walk. We used this as a bedtime devotional. What a great way to end the day. I looked forward to it every night and will now miss it since the book is done. Saving it to read over and over again.
June 15, 2019
Some good wisdom in every page. She loves her horses and spends a lot of time with them. She knows and has learned from her horses to share the wisdom with us that was learned throughout her life with her horses. Plus there are beautiful pictures of horses throughout this devotional.
February 15, 2020
Beautiful photographs, but not to my taste. It was recommended by a friend, I didn't realize it was as intensely religious as it is. I had interpreted my friend's description as it being more horse stoeiea.
September 26, 2022
This is one of the best devotionals I've read. Whitney did an amazing job of pairing horse tibdits with God's will and leading as she encouraged me. The photos were exquisite too. I highly recommend this book for horse and non-horse lovers.
July 22, 2023
As far as devotionals go, this one was a bit superficial. There were definitely poignant moments, but for the most part it wasn’t an overly challenging or deep devotional journey. The aesthetic aspect was lovely, with beautiful photos … but overall the experience was underwhelming.
April 9, 2025
God & Horses
If you love horses like you love your Heavenly Father, you’ll love this devotional. You learn more about horses as much as you learn about God’s love every day you read. The pictures are pretty awesome too!
If you love horses like you love your Heavenly Father, you’ll love this devotional. You learn more about horses as much as you learn about God’s love every day you read. The pictures are pretty awesome too!
July 28, 2018
Gorgeous devotional!
September 11, 2018
Love this book. A friend gave me this as a gift. I use at a christian yoga class I teach
January 1, 2019
One of my favorite books, let alone devotionals, of all time.
March 22, 2019
I love this book so much, each devotional was different and took on different aspects of faith that each christian has faced in life. As a horse lover myself, I loved all the photos.
Read
March 19, 2020I really enjoyed it. It was inspiring, not preachy.
June 28, 2021
These short devotions were a great part of my day! They were easy to read and relate my daily life to. I’m sure I will pick this book up again to read in the future!
Read
July 6, 2021a simple read, for light, short moments of respite...so lovely if you love horses!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews