Monthly Archives: July 2025

The List of Things That Can Keep You from God

Posted on July 27, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

In this week’s blog, Dave reflects on the liberating promise found in Romans 8—that nothing can separate us from the love of God. He opens with an honest inventory of failures and shortcomings that, if he were God, might seem disqualifying. But instead, Scripture reveals an unshakable love through Jesus Christ. Dave explores the tension between this promise and Jesus’ warning about the unforgivable sin—blasphemy against the Holy Spirit—clarifying that it’s not about stumbling, but about hardened, willful rejection. He closes with the hopeful message of the Prodigal Son: no matter how far we’ve wandered or how bitter we’ve grown, the Father is already running toward us. The list of things that can keep us from God? It’s empty. All we have to do is come home. Continue reading →

Posted in Bible Reflections, Faith & Doubt, Grace & Forgiveness, Spiritual Growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Slow Down

Posted on July 20, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

In “Slow Down,” Dave opens with a heartfelt confession: he’s addicted to hurry. Drawing inspiration from the book “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer and Scripture, he explores how our fast-paced culture undermines what matters most—faith, family, friendships, and health. Through honest reflection and vivid storytelling—from hurried walks in NYC to soul-nourishing moments with photography—Dave examines the tension between his values and the pace of his life. He challenges himself (and readers) to unplug, be fully present, and find intimacy with God not in the noise, but in the stillness. As he rediscovers the beauty of slowing down—especially in prayer and daily walks—he begins the journey of recovery from a life of relentless busyness. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Faith in Practice, Purposeful Living, Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Reflection | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

🧭 Does How You Spend Time Reflect What Matters Most?

Posted on July 13, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

A reflective look at how our time often reveals our true priorities—sometimes misaligned with what we say matters most. With a focus on faith, family, friends, and health, this blog encourages readers to recalibrate their calendars and live more intentionally. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian encouragement, Christian Living, Faith and Spiritual Growth, Life reflections, Time and Priorities | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Freedom From, Freedom To, and the Price Paid

Posted on July 6, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

This Independence Day reflection explores the dual dimensions of freedom: national and spiritual. It highlights both the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of the United States and the deeper, eternal freedoms given to us through Jesus Christ—and reminds us of the great price paid for both. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Faith Reflections, Freedom in Christ, Holidays & Special Days, Spiritual Growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment