Do you ever feel sad, frustrated, like giving up? Everyone does once in a while. This book contains small doses of inspiration meant to uplift and enlighten. If you know someone who is struggling, or are struggling yourself, this is the book for you.

It's time you stepped into the light of God's role for you Actors aren't the only ones who play characters. Many of us do, much of the time. We walk into a room, figure out who we're supposed to be in this context, slip into character, and say the lines we know we should say. We become someone else. Maybe we tell ourselves it's some version of us, but deep down we know this inauthentic character is not what God wants for our lives--and it's not what we want either. With fascinating personal stories and sharp insight into human nature, former actor Allison Allen calls you to drop the brave act and step into the role of a lifetime--being your real self in Christ, no matter what the critics might say. She gives you permission to talk about, rather than around, the things you feel, freeing you to step out of the shadows and into the light of God's true calling. "The life-giving content on these pages has the power to fill your sails with holy wind and literally change the trajectory of your story!"--Lisa Harper, bestselling author and Bible teacher "In this book, Allison shares stories of conquering fear, pain, and rejection that uniquely paved the way toward growth, joy, and wisdom. She teaches us to rise above it all and experience God's beautiful light. You will most definitely be inspired."--Scott Hamilton, Olympic figure skating champion; sports commentator; inspirational speaker; cancer survivor "Through Allison's beautifully transparent story, you and I are encouraged to step out of the shadows of fear and self-doubt and, in Jesus's name, shine!"--Sheila Walsh, bestselling author of In the Middle of the Mess; co-host of LIFE Today

Made to Shine is based on Jesus' instructions in Matthew 5:16 to reflect the light of Jesus in all that we do. Focusing on key Scriptures that associate light with the character and person of Christ, the ninety devotions in this uplifting volume are meant to empower women of faith to creatively carry His light wherever they go. They might be working women striving for excellence with intense deadlines, college students standing firm in their faith on a secular campus, or stay-at-home moms, sleepdeprived and living off of tea and toast. Each situation offers numerous opportunities to take Christ's light, not just into their going-to-work/school/church life, but into their everyday, ordinary, sleeping-and-eating, groceryshopping, coffee drinking life . . . and let it shine.

This heartwarming picture book reassures children that a parent’s love never lets go—based on the poignant lyrics of JJ Heller’s beloved lullaby “Hand to Hold.” “May the living light inside you be the compass as you go / May you always know you have my hand to hold.” With delightful illustrations and an engaging rhyme scheme, this book offers the promise of security and love every child’s heart longs to know. From skipping stones and counting stars to climbing trees and telling stories, every moment is wrapped snugly in the certain warmth of a parent’s presence and God’s blessing. With poignancy and joy, this bedtime read captures the unconditional love parents want their children to know but so often fail to express amid the chaos of daily life.

An affirmative, empowering story about embracing your identity and finding your voice, inspired in part by debut author Korey Watari's experiences growing up Asian American, and illustrated by her husband, Mike Wu, Pixar artist and creator of the Ellie series. I am beautiful. I belong here. What I do matters. I am able to shine. Each night Keiko whispers to her crane, "I wish to change the world." She is kind, and she has big dreams. But at times she feels invisible; she knows some people misjudge her. Keiko is also loved, so she perseveres and stands strong. Over time, her confidence grows, she shares more of herself, and she helps lift up others--and eventually lead them. She understands that no matter what, she can shine.

Open any page of Designed to SHINE! for a rhyme with art for your heart. Topics lead you and your loved ones into fun, laughter and joy. You'll receive ideas to pay attention in new ways, reminders about kindness and more. It's a book, a guide and a teacher for you, your child and your inner child about loving who we are to shine in the world.