All posts by mjharvell

Welcome, friend—I’m glad you’ve pulled up a chair on the front porch of my little corner of the internet. My name is Michael Joe Harvell, and I live my life with one simple mission: to glorify God, encourage people, and leave this world a little better than I found it. I’m a husband, father, pastor, writer, Jeep enthusiast, and front-porch thinker who believes that life is best lived on purpose. I serve as pastor of Eureka Baptist Church in Anderson, South Carolina, where I get the joy of preaching, teaching, and walking with people through the ups and downs of everyday life. Over the years, I’ve discovered that faith isn’t just about Sunday mornings—it’s about living every single day in the presence and power of God. I’m also an author. My books—including The Grace Exchange: How Forgiven People Forgive People and The Word Works—grow out of the sermons, stories, and lessons I’ve learned on this journey. I write in a style that’s conversational, a little front-porch-rocking-chair, and full of stories, quotes, and Scripture that point us back to the goodness of God’s Word. When I’m not writing or preaching, you might find me sitting outside with my Bible and journal, cruising the backroads in my Jeep Gladiator, or sharing a meal and some laughs with the good folks God has put in my life. I love helping people find peace in their spirit, strength in their body, and encouragement in their soul. This blog is simply an extension of that mission. Here you’ll find devotions, encouragement, reflections, and practical insights for living a life of purpose, peace, and joy. So grab a cup of coffee, pull up a rocking chair, and stay awhile—I’d be honored to walk this road of faith with you.

You Are God’s House!

Now, I don’t claim to know everything, but I do know this—when Paul said, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?”—he wasn’t talking about some fancy cathedral with stained glass windows and polished pews. No sir, he was talking about you. That’s right. You, me, and anybody else who’s ever trusted Jesus and tried their best to walk with Him, even if we stumble along the way.

See, God don’t live in buildings made by men—He moved in right next door to your heart the moment you said yes to Him. That means everywhere you go, God goes too. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on the front porch or stuck in traffic behind a tractor, the Spirit of God is riding shotgun.

And let me tell you something else—if you really believe God lives in you, you’ll start treating yourself and others a whole lot better. You don’t trash the place when you know it’s sacred. You don’t talk ugly to people when you know the Spirit’s listening.

So today, walk like you’re carrying the presence of the King—because you are. And remember: you’re not just somebody, you’re somebody God chose to move into.


Holy Confidence!

Isaiah 54:17 says: “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn.”

Now, friend, I don’t know what kinda mess you’re wading through today, but let me tell you — life has a way of throwing everything but the kitchen sink at us. And sometimes it throws the sink too.

The devil’s like a bad chili dog — he shows up when you least expect him and stays longer than he’s welcome. But I want to  remind you today that God’s promises don’t come with expiration dates. And this one? This one’s a keeper.

Isaiah didn’t say weapons wouldn’t be formed. Oh, they’ll be formed alright — betrayal, sickness, hard days, harsh words from folks who don’t know your heart. But here’s the sweet tea truth — they won’t win.

God’s already been to your tomorrow. He knows the battles. And He’s already declared the victory. You may walk with a limp, but you ain’t walking alone.

So hold your head up, breathe deep, and remember — you are covered by the promise of a God who doesn’t lose. And no matter what today holds, the weapons may form, but they won’t prosper.

That’s not just hope — that’s holy confidence.

Now go on and live like you’re loved… ’cause you are.

Vegas 5 Series A – Black Label Cigar Review

Here’s my take on the Vegas 5 Series A – Black Label—a cigar that rolls up a bit of adventure, grit, and smooth relaxation all in one.

You can tell a lot about a cigar by just holding it in your hand. The Vegas 5 Series A – Black Label feels hefty and ready to offer something bold. It’s wrapped in this deep, oily Maduro leaf that just looks like it’s about to tell you something worth listening to. You can almost picture an outdoorsman leaning back and enjoying this smoke while marveling at a grand mountain vista.

From the first draw, this cigar lets you know it’s got stories. You’re hit with a rich, earthy taste with hints of espresso and dark chocolate swirling around—a bit like dipping into one of Aunt Judy’s brownies but with a touch of spice. There’s something grounding about it, the kind of taste that puts you in the moment, reminding you of life’s simple pleasures. It’s a cigar that’s not afraid to show its strength, but it’s never overbearing—it knows how to smooth things out, much like your favorite Uncle’s story telling

As you puff along, you get some complex notes—leather, a hint of black pepper, and even a touch of sweetness that catches you off guard, like a punchline you didn’t see coming. By this point, you’re committed, and l would say, this is where you kick back and let the world slow down a bit. Each puff becomes a moment, a reminder to savor what’s in front of you.

When you get down to the nub, this cigar doesn’t lose its charm. The flavor holds steady, like an old friend walking with you to the end of a long road. It’s strong enough to make an impression, but it fades out smooth, without any bitterness—just the right blend of boldness and respect, as you tip you hat and get ready to head off into the sunset.

The Vegas 5 Series A Black Label is for those who appreciate life’s unfiltered moments—it’s robust, it’s genuine, and it’s got that hint of wildness that’ll make you want to light up and take your time. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a curious soul, this cigar’s got something to say. So grab a match, find a quiet spot, and give it a listen—it’s worth every puff.

-MJHarvell