I am having the best time learning more about godly young ladies through these interviews, and just knowing more about them makes me want to be a better example, a better Christian, a woman whose heart completely delights in God. Are you enjoying them too? I would love to hear your thoughts on this new endeavor in the comments below – tell me what you like, what you’d like to see, questions you’d like us to ask during the interview process. (If you haven’t read the previous two interviews, read about Jessica here and Kaleigh here.)

I first became acquainted with the adorable Nicole Arnold a couple months ago through Instagram. One of her pictures had popped up on the popular page so clicked on her username to see who she was. As a I scrolled through her photos, I was instantly impressed with her sense of style, as well as the poise and grace that came through from a simple picture. When I discovered she even had a blog, I was captivated! I was even more impressed then to read her musings and find out that she is a fantastic writer and pours herself emotionally and intellectually into what goes on a page. I hope you enjoy meeting Nicole as much as I did!

Interview with Nicole Arnold:

She’s Intentional: First of all, tell us a little bit about yourself. You and I obviously share the same great name, but beyond that, where are you from, what is your age, how do you spend your days?

Nicole Arnold: I am 18 years old and just graduated from high school – I will be starting classes at a university next month! I live in Michigan and my father pastors a church there. I lead praise and worship at my church and absolutely love it! I play the piano and also sing in a trio with my siblings. Like most teenagers, I am completely addicted to coffee. I love being outside and kayaking, biking, hiking. I enjoy shopping and am a huge Anthropologie fan! My favorite color is gold, and I guess you could say I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I love to travel and be as adventurous as possible.

SI: I came across your Instagram profile some time ago and was drawn to your feed because of all the “prettiness” that was in it. But even more than that, it was the way you formed sentences that were so heartfelt, so pure that really spoke to me. THEN I found you had a blog! How did you get into writing at such a young age?

NA: I got into writing at a very young age. I used to write little books as a child or make up these fantastic, unrealistic stories and then write them down. I have always loved words and the way that a sentence can make such a profound change in the minds of individuals. There’s just something about the power of the written word, it compels people to do incredible things. My dad has always encouraged me to write, be creative and accomplish more than what was expected. He really encouraged me to start my blog and just share my take on life. I knew I wanted to start one, and originally wanted to make it a fashion blog, but I really felt God speak to me and tell me that I could write about so much more. I’ve had the opportunity to share my heart, my walk with God, and really just connect with other young people because of the blog. It is because of the blog that I was given an opportunity to write for the Christian magazine Angelic Magazine. Starting my blog was so far one of the best decisions I have made.

SI: What is your passion in life and how does that affect what your life goals are?

[pullquote width=”300″ float=”right”]I think for something to be qualified as a passion it has to be something that keeps you up at night, thinking and dreaming and something that you feel is destined for you.[/pullquote]

NA: I have two passions in life. I think for something to be qualified as a passion it has to be something that keeps you up at night, thinking and dreaming and something that you feel is destined for you. My passions are music ministry and writing. I believe there is a significant different between having a passion for music and having a passion for music ministry. Ministering to people is my passion, music is just the avenue that allows me to do it. Writing has been a great love, however the past year I have really just let God speak through me and write what He wants me to share. Both of my passions affect my goals in a significant way. I want to better my vocals, piano playing and just become a better praise and worship leader. I also have goals for my writing and the type of material that I want to write each year.

SI: Do you have a mentor or someone you really look up to? Someone who inspires you to be a better person, someone who encourages you in your walk with God, someone who has made an impact on what your passions and life goals are?

NA: I have several people in my life who have truly invested in me and mentored me in some way. I look up to my parents because they do an incredible job pastoring and just giving of themselves to see the kingdom furthered. I look up to Angela Harwood, who is a friend of mine and a woman of God, she lets God rule and reign in her life and I really admire that. Renee Warman and the late Vicky Leinegar have both mentored me vocally and helped to push me out of my comfort zone. Sarah Holland was one of my English teachers and encouraged me to write; she was a positive voice and gave me my love for the written word. My parents and youth pastor have all encouraged my walk with God and have inspired me to be the best person that I possibly can be.

SI: Do you have any books to recommend that will encourage and strengthen faith and purpose?

NA: I am a huge reader and strongly believe that “readers are leaders.” Every girl should read Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. It will change your outlook on the love of Christ, and I cannot say enough about how wonderful it is. I also suggest reading Christian leadership books. Everyone is a leader in some way, and I think it is essential that we better ourselves as much as we possibly can.

SI: What is your favorite scripture? The one that always speaks to you and that you really connect with.

NA: My favorite scripture is II Corinthians 4:17-18. It speaks to me because it discusses temporal things versus the eternal. Whenever I start to think that life is too difficult or when I start focusing on matters that are temporary and trivial, I just remember, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us a glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. Since what is seen is temporary and what is unseen is eternal.” It always reminds me to be kingdom minded and to live my life focused on Jesus.

You can connect with Nicole via her blog at www.nikkimarie1.blogspot.com or on Instagram @nikkiarnold2091.

Note:

Since this interview, Nicole has joined She’s Intentional as a contributing author and we love having her as a part of our team!