Caeilen L.
Today, Caeilen speaks to us about identity.
Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “But he said to me, ‘my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Cor. 12:9
Right now, I am walking in a season of life where I have to constantly pursue His grace. When life becomes messy and chaotic, I look to Him for grace, to get through the day. No matter what the circumstance, no matter the reason, He will always meet me– right where I’m at- to give me exactly what I need to overcome! Through Him, I am a victorious daughter!
Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Like I said before, I am coming out of a season of major growth. The Lord has been challenging me to focus on my own heart, rather than trying to worry about everyone else around me. When we forget to sit and just be with Him, we lose sight of our identity. Now, I am striving to just be a daughter of the King, one who is fully herself, without trying to be anything else for anyone.
His opinions of me are the ONLY ones that matter! I am FREE! I am His daughter who is loved just as she is. There is nothing I can do or say, no certain way I can act or talk to earn His love. All I have to do is stay true to my identity which is found in Him!
“When we forget to sit and just be with Him, we lose sight of our identity.”
Profession: Style editor and fashion director for Pure Design Teen Magazine. I oversee color themes and every piece of fashion in our content! I also direct and oversee all of our fashion and social media photo shoots! Currently, I am a graduate of Columbus State College who just received my first Associate of Arts degree focusing on Business. I plan on transferring to The Ohio State University, to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and Publications!
A one sentence bio of yourself: I am a girl who simply loves food, fun, and everything fashion oriented, pursuing her identity as a daughter of Christ!
When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? I grew up as a Pastor’s daughter, from the moment I was born. I have always grown up in the church, and as I got older, I found that my relationship with the Lord does not rely or depend on my parents– this is something I have for myself. I first encountered God when I was about five years old. I woke up, after having a dream, and I ran to my mother to tell her what I saw. In my dream, I was in my little pink bedroom, lying on my bed, when I heard a still voice call out to me.
In the dream, I felt an impulse to go over to my closet. I got up without hesitation, placed my hand on the brass handle and opened the doors. At once, an angel appeared in front of me. He did not say anything, but hovered over my shoes and gazed at me. His hands were open, both arms out to his sides, holding two bowls. Each bowl was set on fire, the flames never wavered. Immediately, I awoke from the dream, I knew I had to tell my mom what I experienced. After telling her this we both prayed, and from that night on I had several dreams and encounters over the coming months.
What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? In my current walk with God, I really try to take time to sit and be and listen to His voice. I am always running around and sometimes forget that spending time has to be a priority if I want to see spiritual growth in my life. Yes spending time in the Word and worshipping are both wonderful things, but I also need to just sit and listen to what He wants to tell me.
Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): Currently re-reading Remembering the Roses by Lynette Lewis. I am learning how to wait on the promises He has for me, I don’t want to become impatient and settle, I only want the best He has.
Top three essentials: First, dry shampoo is a LIFE SAVER. A little bit goes a LONG way. Second, I never go anywhere without my Chapstick. Dry lips are a crime! Third, always have a business card on you. You never know who you’ll meet and when you can make new connections.
How did God speak to you recently?Going back to previous answers, God has been challenging me to live life trusting Him and His plans. I have to remove my emotions and let His love empower me.
Hobby: Current favorite hobby is to play the ukelele! I also sing and play piano.
Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Always be sure to make time for God. Even if it’s a few minutes before you go to work, or driving in your car– even right before you go to bed. Try to spend time with Him. Always pray. Even if it’s something small, nothing is insignificant to Him. I try to be in constant dialogue with God throughout my day. He cares about you and wants you to reach out to Him. Make sure to surround yourself with other believers who will speak life! It’s crucial to find sisters who will love you, support you and challenge you in your walk with God.
“I try to be in constant dialogue with God throughout my day.”
Favorite person in scripture? My favorite person is Esther. She was so strong and willing to give Her life in order to save her people. She didn’t waiver in her faith; she only relied on God to save her and her people. She is bold and does not fear any man but the Lord.
What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? I hope that through the magazine and talking to young women, they learn that their true identity is a daughter in Christ. There’s nothing more we can do or say- He loves us just as we are. As daughters, we have full access to Him and full authority over the enemy.
Favorite season? Favorite season is fall. I love the changing colored leaves, throwing on a cardigan or comfy sweater, and spending time with friends around a good bonfire.
Favorite holiday? Favorite holiday is Christmas! I am a freak when it comes to this holiday… I am ready to start decorating and listen to songs before Thanksgiving! I love giving gifts to family and friends– taking time to pick out or make something I know will bless them! And seeing their face when they receive it is so much fun for me!
A dream you have? I want to keep pushing Pure Design Magazine and Ministries to the potential God has for it. I want to do annual conferences and talk with girls around the world about their dreams and His love for them.
A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: My family and I always go back to my grandparents’ house in Cleveland for Christmas. All twelve of us piled in one house, singing songs and eating together after giving presents is the best. On Christmas eve, we get to open our first present– matching pajamas picked out by my grandmother.
Question you will ask when you get to heaven? One question I would ask is why He let us walk through so much pain and suffering. I understand that He gives us strength for when we go through trials- yet there are many hard things my family and I have had to walk through, and I know He could’ve changed the outcome or stopped it before it began.
Thing you want to raise awareness about: I want girls to be aware that they always have a choice to start again. Some go through terrible situations, some are abused and given up on, some lose their sense of identity and believe the lies of the enemy– but TODAY is a new day. There is always a choice to run back to Him, and He will never forsake you. His grace and mercy will follow you every day, and He will never abandon you! Choose to let His love in your life.
“TODAY is a new day.”
What do you usually do before 9 a.m.? Before 9 am, I try to get a workout in! Even if it’s just a small 20-30 minute routine of stretching, light core work and yoga. I always try to start off with something to get my body going. Then, a refreshing shower and listening to music as I make myself breakfast. NEVER start your day without something to eat… and coffee.
What is on your nightstand? Currently, I have a mason jar filled with mini carnations, a small candle and a nail file! I love having fresh flowers as the first thing I see when I roll over. There is so much beauty in all the little details of creation. I also love lighting my candle before I go to bed. Fresh scents are my go-to.
Define Christianity in a sentence: Christianity, to me, is having a personal relationship where you can always connect and communicate with the one true God.
For more Caeilen:
Instagram:
Website: www.puredesignteenmag.com
Until next time, keep witnessing!
XOXO
Gabriela Yareliz
Gabriela is a writer, editor and attorney. She loves the art of storytelling, and she is based in NYC.
MODERN WITNESSES 