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.
Romans 10:13 says, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Now, isn’t that just the most comforting thing you’ve ever heard? It’s as if God himself put up a big neon sign on the highway of life, flashing, “Hey y’all, this way to salvation!”
Folks, life is like one of them unpredictable summer storms. One minute, the sun’s shining, and the next, you’re soaked to the bone without an umbrella in sight. But ain’t it grand to know there’s always shelter to be found? Calling on the Lord is like finding that perfect shade tree on a blistering hot summer day. It’s simple, it’s immediate, and it’s open to everyone, no exceptions.”
You know, it doesn’t matter where you come from, what you’ve done, or how lost you feel. The Lord’s name is the one you call when your car breaks down, when the Braves lose another heartbreaker, or when you’re just plain tired. You don’t need a fancy prayer or a preacher’s vocabulary. All you need is a sincere heart and the will to call out.
So remember, next time you find yourself in a bind, think of Romans 10:13. The message is clear and beautiful: salvation is just a call away. Y’all stay strong, and never forget to reach out to the One who’s always ready to answer.
I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. -Psalm 40:1-2
Alright folks, let’s take a minute to dive into Psalms 40:1-2. Now, imagine you’re in the middle of a sticky Southern summer day, stuck in traffic on I-85 with no air conditioning. You’re hot, you’re tired, and it feels like there’s no end in sight. That’s kinda what life throws at us sometimes, right? We’re knee-deep in problems, and it seems like we’re never gonna get out.
But then David steps in with a bit of wisdom. He says, “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” Now, if that ain’t somethin’ to hold onto, I don’t know what is.
David’s tellin’ us that even when we’re stuck in life’s muck, if we wait on the Lord, He’s gonna hear us. And He won’t just listen; He’ll pull us right outta that mess and set us on solid ground. It’s like finally hittin’ a stretch of open highway after bein’ stuck in traffic—what a relief!
Life’s got a way of boggin’ us down, but God’s got a way of liftin’ us up. So next time you find yourself in a jam, remember David’s words. Be patient, keep the faith, and know that help is on the way. The Lord’s got a tow truck ready to pull you out and put you back on the road. Keep believin’, y’all…
Everyone who makes a journey into the cigar world has a different experience. For me, it was a special occasion here or there, but never really a serious pursuit. This past year, the wife of a good friend passed away and the evening after her funeral, I went to his house to see how he was doing. He was a cigar smoker and offered me one and we enjoyed a good cigar and a great conversation. Over the next couple of weeks, we would visit and share a premium cigar and meaningful conversation. Our friendship grew into brotherhood fairly quickly and I had a new hobby that has opened up a world of connections, friendships and great conversations.
It was not long after that when I ran into a phrase that describes perfectly what I had been experiencing in my cigar journey – “BROTHERHOOD OF THE LEAF”. The term “Brotherhood of the Leaf” evokes images of camaraderie, tradition, and a shared passion for the art of cigar smoking. This brotherhood transcends geographical boundaries, social classes, and even generations, uniting aficionados in their love for one of the world’s oldest and most storied indulgences: the cigar.
With that phrase in mind, I got the idea to start a group called Brotherhood Of The Leaf F3 – Faith, Fellowship, Fine Cigars, which would sponsor opportunities to get together in various locations to grow together while enjoying this very special past time.
A Brief History of Cigars
To understand the Brotherhood of the Leaf, one must first appreciate the rich history of cigar smoking. Cigars have been enjoyed for centuries, with their origins traced back to indigenous peoples in the Caribbean and Mesoamerica. The introduction of cigars to Europe by explorers like Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century sparked a global appreciation that continues to this day.
The cigar became a symbol of sophistication and leisure, often associated with important historical figures, statesmen, and celebrities. This cultural significance laid the foundation for a community bound by a common appreciation for the craftsmanship and experience of cigar smoking.
The Essence of the Brotherhood
At its core, the Brotherhood of the Leaf is about more than just smoking cigars; it is about the experience and the connections forged over a shared ritual. Members of this fraternity often gather in cigar lounges, clubs, and at special events, where they exchange stories, knowledge, and, of course, cigars. The act of lighting up a cigar becomes a ceremonial event, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect.
The Rituals and Traditions
One of the hallmarks of the Brotherhood of the Leaf is its rich tapestry of rituals and traditions. These rituals might include:
– Cigar Selection: The process of choosing a cigar is almost sacred. Aficionados take into consideration the origin, blend, and age of the tobacco. This selection process is often accompanied by discussions about personal preferences and the nuances of different cigars.
– Lighting Ceremony: Lighting a cigar is done with care and precision. Members often use wooden matches or cedar spills to avoid imparting unwanted flavors from gas lighters. This act is slow and deliberate, reflecting the meditative nature of cigar smoking.
– Smoking Etiquette: The etiquette of cigar smoking is respected within the brotherhood. This includes the pace at which one smokes, the manner in which the ash is managed, and the shared understanding of the communal and solitary aspects of the experience.
The Social Fabric
The Brotherhood of the Leaf is inclusive, drawing members from all walks of life. Business executives, artists, laborers, and enthusiasts all find common ground in their love for cigars. This diversity enriches the community, fostering an environment where different perspectives are appreciated and celebrated.
The Global Community
While the term “Brotherhood of the Leaf” might suggest a primarily male fraternity, the community is increasingly inclusive, with women finding their place among the ranks of cigar aficionados. Organizations and social media groups dedicated to women who enjoy cigars are growing, adding to the diversity and richness of the community.
Cigar Culture in the Modern Age
In the modern era, the Brotherhood of the Leaf has adapted to contemporary lifestyles while maintaining its core values. The digital age has enabled cigar lovers to connect through online forums, social media, and on the fly opportunities to fire up a stick together. These platforms allow members to share reviews, tips, and personal experiences, keeping the spirit of the brotherhood alive and vibrant.
It’s So Much More Than Smoking!
The Brotherhood of the Leaf is more than just a group of people who enjoy cigars; it is a testament to the enduring appeal of tradition, craftsmanship, and fellowship. In a fast-paced world, the act of smoking a cigar offers a moment to slow down and enjoy a life of reflection and connection, linking the past with the present and bringing together individuals from all walks of life. As this fraternity continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon of camaraderie and a celebration of one of life’s fine pleasures…
As Mark Twain once said: Be sure and smoke in moderation – one cigar at a time…
Michael Joe Harvell 