Author Archives: Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

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About Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

Photographer of Light and Life, Writer of Life as it finds me

Learning to Trust the Quiet

Posted on February 15, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

After returning to God, we often expect clarity, reassurance, or emotional confirmation. But what if the quiet that follows isn’t distance—it’s stability? In this reflection, I explore how learning to trust God’s steady, silent presence deepens our faith and shifts our focus from chasing signals to resting in relationship. Continue reading →

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Returning to God Without Shame

Posted on February 8, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

Walking with God doesn’t mean we never drift—it means we know how to return. When we notice distance, shame often tells us to wait or fix ourselves before coming back. But grace invites us to turn immediately, just as we are. In this reflection, we explore why returning is not failure, how God meets us with open arms, and how learning to return without shame deepens our relationship with Him. Continue reading →

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Our Hurry vs. the Slowness of God

Posted on February 1, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

When God feels quiet, our instinct is often to hurry—to push for clarity, progress, or reassurance. This reflection explores how Scripture invites us to slow down, trust God’s pace, and discover that His slowness is not absence, but an invitation to deeper closeness. Continue reading →

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Walking with God When It Feels Like Nothing Is Happening

Posted on January 25, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

What do we do when we’re praying, reading Scripture, and trying to walk faithfully—yet it feels like nothing is happening? This reflection explores seasons of spiritual waiting, the quiet work God often does beneath the surface, and why God’s silence may actually be a sign of deeper presence rather than absence. Walking with God, even when it feels ordinary, may be one of the most faithful things we ever do. Continue reading →

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God’s Abiding Presence—and Our Sin

Posted on January 18, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

God’s concern with sin isn’t about rule-keeping or behavior modification—it’s about closeness. In this reflection, I explore how God’s holiness protects relationship, why obedience flows from intimacy rather than fear, and how Jesus makes nearness possible even in our brokenness. A meditation on holiness, grace, and the kind of closeness that heals. Continue reading →

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Walking with God

Posted on January 11, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

Enoch didn’t leave a résumé. Noah didn’t avoid the storm. Yet both are remembered for one thing: they walked with God. This reflection explores how faithfulness is measured not by impact or recognition, but by closeness—and how God repeatedly provides a “container” of preservation for His people, culminating in Jesus Himself. Continue reading →

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In the Beginning…God With Us

Posted on January 4, 2026 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

Beginning with Genesis and ending with Jesus’ promise to be with us always, this post traces God’s unwavering desire to dwell with humanity. Even when sin tempts us to hide, Scripture reminds us that God’s presence restores rather than condemns—and invites us to abide instead of run. Continue reading →

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A Prayer for the Year Ahead

Posted on December 31, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

A simple prayer for the year ahead—inviting God’s presence, guidance, and peace as we step into the unknown with trust and hope. Continue reading →

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Carrying God’s Comfort into the New Year

Posted on December 28, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

As the final Sunday of the year arrives, I reflect on a difficult season marked by loss, remembrance, and renewed clarity about what truly matters. Though much remains unresolved, I step into the new year with hope—anchored not in certainty, but in God’s faithful presence. This post looks back with gratitude, forward with trust, and invites us to journey into the year ahead grounded in faith, family, and love. Continue reading →

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God With Us

Posted on December 24, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

A simple Christmas blessing celebrating the mystery of the Incarnation—God stepping into the world not with force or spectacle, but with humility and love. This short reflection reminds readers that Emmanuel has come, that God is present in both joy and grief, and that the Light has entered the darkness once and for all. A prayerful invitation to receive Christ’s peace and remember that we are deeply loved. Continue reading →

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