Kela N.

Today, Kela speaks to us about leaving our mark on our community by being good listeners, God as the source of all, and a book we should all add to our lists.

Kela N.

Tell us a bit about how you grew up and your childhood: I’m a Southern girl, through and through. I grew up in Florida Panhandle in the town of Pensacola. My childhood was filled with the love of my parents; who were (and still are) my biggest cheerleaders! I’m the oldest of four children. I grew up in a home with parents that were both pastors in a small home church where Friday night, Saturday morning (Sabbath School), and Sunday mornings were church days.

I was so shy that I would easily be accused of being “stuck up” because speaking to others terrified me! But the moment I opened my mouth to sing, the world didn’t exist; it was just me and my talent in a world of my own.

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “And we are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him. And since we know He hears us when we make our requests, we also know that He will give us what we ask for.” 1 John 5:14-15

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Intentionally seeking God’s best for me; primarily through sitting still long enough, shutting out outside noise, and listening for His voice; through His word or Holy Spirit speaking to my heart.

Profession: Stay-at-home mom, home educator, entrepreneur (currently own three businesses with my husband), virtual assistant, and writer.

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? This is always a favorite type of question to answer! I did most of the “good girl” stuff growing up. I was told that Jesus lived in my heart and was even baptized as a kid, but it wasn’t until I was 22 years old; married, with 3 children, that I came face to face with the knowledge that I didn’t belong to Christ at all! It was during a revival at our church that I heard a message from Evangelist Bailey Smith about “the wheat and the tares” that I gave my heart, my life to Christ. I’ve been following Him ever since!

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Consistently being in the Word and asking God to reveal Himself to me through it. He’s been faithful in doing so!

Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): Own Your Life by Sally Clarkson. It has taught me that there’s so much more to living a sold out to Christ life in my everyday life than I could ever imagine. I totally HIGHLY recommend this book!

Top three essentials: Bible, coffee, love of family.

How did God speak to you recently? God reminds me that HE is my source for all that I need. Seek first His kingdom.

Hobby: Creating graphic quotes/memes, singing, reading (lots of reading!!).

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong:

*Keep your eyes on your race (stay in your lane);
*Find and fellowship with others that are running their race well;
*Learn God’s Word for yourself.

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? God is the God of love, grace, and peace, and presence. I’ve been told by many that the thing that attracts them to me is the peaceful spirit that I bring with me. That is such a precious gift that I want to extend to others.

How do you leave your mark on your community? By being a server, showing compassion and lending a listening ear. I feel that it’s important to slow down and really hear what others have to say when they trust you enough to share their heart.
I may not always have anything to say, and that’s sometimes okay.

“I feel that it’s important to slow down and really hear what others have to say when they trust you enough to share their heart.”

Favorite holiday? Christmas! I love the joy in my children and grandchildren’s eyes when they delight in the day.

A goal you have? To live an impactful and influential life; whether that’s through singing, writing, listening, or speaking. So, I guess to more accurately answer, my goal is to continue in enhancing those crafts.

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? At what age did you create Adam and Eve (did they look like teens or adults)?

What does your morning routine consist of? Coffee (with hazelnut creamer, a little half/half), Bible study with study tools – journals, pens, highlighters, daily reading plan, and conversation with my husband before he heads out to work.

Define Christianity in a sentence: Christianity is following Christ; knowing what God’s Word says and doing as it says.

For more Kela:

Blog: www.KelaNellums.com
IG: (personal) @Kela_Nellums (blog) @PursuingWhatIsExcellent
FB: @PursuingWhatIsExcellent
Twitter: @Kela__Nellums

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XOXO