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

Comfort God

Posted on October 12, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

As autumn settles in, our hearts often reach for comfort—warm foods, cozy routines, or familiar scents. But these sources of comfort are temporary. True and lasting comfort comes only from God, the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” In this reflection on loss, memory, and faith, we explore how God offers not just physical comfort but deep solace—peace that abides even in sorrow. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Faith and Comfort, Grief and Healing, Seasons of Life, Spiritual Growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Hope as Supreme Confidence

Posted on October 5, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

Much of what we call hope is really just wishful thinking—preferences and desires that have little bearing on eternity. But biblical hope is far deeper: it’s supreme confidence in God’s promises, an anchor for the soul that holds steady in every storm. This post explores the difference between wishful thinking and true hope, why we sometimes struggle to place our hope fully in God, and how fixing our eyes on eternity allows us to go “all in” with Him. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Encouragement, Eternal Perspective, Faith in Action, Hope in Christ | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Joy of the Lord Is My Strength

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

Nehemiah’s words, “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10), remind us that our deepest resilience doesn’t come from grit or determination but from God’s presence and promises. Joy is not the same as happiness—it is the steady confidence that Christ is with us, loves us, and strengthens us. This post explores what that means, how Paul echoed it in Philippians 4:4 and Philippians 4:13, and offers practical ways we can live it out today, even in times of trial or spiritual battle. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Encouragement, Faith in Action, Joy, Strength in Christ | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Overcoming Darkness

Posted on September 21, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

When evil seems rampant, it’s tempting to fight darkness with more darkness. But Scripture reminds us that our real battle is spiritual—and the only way to overcome darkness is with light. This post reflects on the tension between righteous anger and Christ’s call to forgiveness, love, and good works, offering seven biblical ways we can shine His light into a dark world. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Encouragement, Faith in Action, Overcoming Darkness, spiritual warfare | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fighting Back Like Jesus

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

In the wake of political violence and growing anger in our world, it’s easy to feel consumed by bitterness and the desire for revenge. This post reflects on my own struggle with those chains and how God reminded me of a better way—the way of Jesus. Instead of retaliation, Christ calls us to love our enemies, pray for those who persecute us, and trust God with justice. Though it’s never easy, only forgiveness and love can break the cycle of hate and set us free. Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Faith in Action, Forgiveness, Overcoming Hate, Spiritual Growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Pictures of God from Job

Posted on September 7, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

The book of Job is one of the most difficult books in the Bible, but it reveals timeless truths about who God is. In this post, I explore Job as wisdom literature and highlight four “pictures of God” that emerge: sovereign, patient, beyond our comprehension, and restorer. While Job doesn’t answer every question about suffering, it points us to the deeper truth that God Himself is the ultimate answer. Continue reading →

Posted in Bible Reflections, Biblical Characters, Faith & Spiritual Growth, Suffering & Hope, Trusting God in Hard Times | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Really? Light and Momentary Troubles?

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

Even when troubles feel unbearably heavy and endless, Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians that they are “light and momentary” compared to the eternal glory God has prepared for us. By shifting our focus from what is temporary to what is eternal, we find strength to endure. A family travel story illustrates how overwhelming struggles can fade into perspective when seen against the backdrop of joy. Continue reading →

Posted in Bible Reflections, Christian Living, Eternal Perspective, Faith & Encouragement, Hope in Hardship | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Blessed Be the Name of the Lord

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

A heartfelt reflection on loss, drawn from Job’s response to unimaginable suffering. Even in grief and uncertainty, we are called to trust the God who gives and takes away—and to cherish every moment with those we love. Continue reading →

Posted in Faith & Spiritual Growth, Grief & Loss, Scripture Reflections, Suffering & Hope, Trusting God in Hard Times | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

I’ll Carry a Part of You

Posted on August 17, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

A heartfelt poem written in memory of my dad, honoring the love he showed through sacrifice, hard work, and quiet devotion — and the part of him I’ll always carry with me. Continue reading →

Posted in Faith & Family, Legacy & Gratitude, Poetry & Reflections | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Truth Will Set You Free

Posted on August 10, 2025 by Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter

In a world where “truth” often feels subjective, this post reminds us that there is only one real truth—God’s truth. Drawing from John 1:14, Matthew 22:37–39, and John 8:32, we explore why God gave us His commands, how they are rooted in love, and how Jesus distilled them into two life-giving principles. God’s truth isn’t about control—it’s about protection, blessing, and freedom. Grace welcomes us home; truth keeps us free once we’re there. Continue reading →

Posted in Biblical Truth, Christian Living, Grace and Truth, Spiritual Growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment