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.

God Is In Control!

Folks, let me tell ya, 1 Chronicles 29:11 packs a punch that’s worth every ounce of our attention. It says, “Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours.”

Now, if that doesn’t make you stop and think, I don’t know what will. You see, we often get caught up in our own little worlds, thinking we’ve got it all figured out. We hustle, we plan, we strive for control. But here’s the truth, plain and simple: it all belongs to God. The greatness? His. The power? His. The glory and the majesty? All His.

It’s like thinking you own the barbecue joint when all you did was order the ribs. We need to remember we’re just stewards of this life, here to honor the true Owner.

So, let’s take a step back and remember who’s really in charge. God’s got the whole world in His hands, and that includes you and me. Trust in His greatness, lean into His power, and give Him the glory. Because when we do, we find peace, purpose, and a life that’s richer than we ever imagined.

That, my friends, is the kind of truth that changes everything.

Never Ever Alone!

You know, there’s something downright comforting about knowing you’re never alone. Matthew 18:20 says, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Now, that’s a promise worth holding onto.

Life has a way of tossing us around, like a boat in a storm. There are days when the waves seem bigger than we can handle, and the wind just won’t let up. But Jesus reminds us that when we come together in His name—whether it’s a couple of friends praying, a small group gathering, or even a family meal—He’s right there with us.

Think about that for a second. The Creator of the universe, the one who calmed the seas and healed the sick, promises to be present whenever we gather in His name. We don’t need a crowd, just a few faithful hearts.

So, next time you feel like you’re facing the world alone, remember this: grab a friend, say a prayer, and know that Jesus is right there with you. There’s power in numbers, even if it’s just two or three, because with Jesus in the mix, you’re never really outnumbered. And that’s the kind of assurance that can calm any storm.

Keep At It!

Now, let me tell you something about life, folks. Life ain’t always a smooth ride. There are ups, downs, twists, and turns that make you want to throw up your hands and holler. But here’s the thing: 1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds us to be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Why? Because what we do for Him ain’t ever in vain.

Imagine a farmer plowing his field. He’s out there, day after day, sun beating down, rain soaking through, but he keeps going because he knows the harvest is coming. That’s us. We’re planting seeds of faith, kindness, and love. It may feel like nobody notices, but trust me, God does.

So, keep at it. When the world knocks you down, stand firm. When it tries to sway you, stay unmovable. And when it seems like your efforts don’t matter, remember—nothing you do for the Lord is wasted. The harvest is coming, y’all. Keep plowing, keep planting, and watch how God brings the increase.

Stay strong, keep the faith, and know that every step you take in His name is a step toward eternal glory. You got this.