Shine (Book Review)

By Benjamin H. Liles

          Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. ~ Matthew 5:16, New King James; John 15:8, New Living Translation

          Have you ever been called out to do something far better and greater than you ever imagined before? Allison Allen hits and makes that point over and over again with her book Shine. Sometimes we lose ourselves thinking we can't do what it is we're called to do. For Allison she speaks a great deal about the stage fright she goes through. I've even experienced it myself, but I'm no actor.

          In my life, I have always enjoyed music, making music and playing it on guitar. I have given my utmost in recording my music as well as playing on a stage, even if I was the only one on it. Let me tell you this: it's scary business up there. You have those hot lights on you, your palms sweat, there's a chance you forget the lyrics (which has happened once before). All of that to say that you can beat it if you speak those fears down.

          I found out who I truly was when my late uncle passed away. A lot of people who loved him came and no one but myself and one of his friends spoke about him. I found out from everyone, in regards to my uncle, how much he meant to all of us. The kind of person he was and how he best lived his life. On that day, I had no fear whatsoever. What was the difference?

          For myself, I have to admit I felt more in my element speaking than I did singing and playing guitar. To me that was far scarier than speaking the truth about someone I loved and truly cared for. I felt set apart for something far greater since then. Having read Allison's book, Shine, I remember a great deal of what it felt like to speak up; to doing more than being on stage attempting something I cannot do in favor for something I can do.

          It reminds me of what Jesus said, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32, New Living Translation). And that's the reality of it. I trust and believe in Jesus far more than in my own strength on any given day. With Him I feel I can do anything. Without Him I can't do any thing.

          I received a free copy of this book from Revell in the hopes for my honest feedback.