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.
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Your Words Are Building Something!

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” -Proverbs 18:21 (KJV)

Every day, we build something with our words.

A kind word can lift a weary heart. A simple “I’m praying for you” can give someone hope to keep going. An encouraging conversation can change the direction of a person’s day—or even their life.

The opposite is true as well. Careless words can leave wounds that last much longer than we ever intended. That’s why Solomon reminds us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Think about Jesus. Wherever He went, His words brought life. He spoke peace to troubled hearts, hope to the discouraged, forgiveness to the broken, and truth to those searching for God. As His followers, our words should reflect His heart.

Before you speak today, ask yourself a simple question: Will these words bring life? Will they strengthen someone, encourage someone, or point someone closer to Christ?

You never know who is hanging on by a thread. Your next conversation may be the very thing God uses to remind someone they are loved, valued, and never alone.

So choose your words carefully. Speak with grace. Speak with kindness. Speak with truth. Because the words you plant today will produce a harvest tomorrow.

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Start the Day With the Shepherd!

“Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.” -Psalm 143:8 (KJV)

Friend, before you check your phone, answer an email, or make your first decision of the day, spend a few moments with the One who already knows how your day will unfold.

David prayed, “Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning.” He wasn’t asking for an easier day. He was asking for God’s presence before he faced the day.

Isn’t that what we all need? We don’t know what today holds, but we know Who holds today.

Notice David also prayed, “Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk.” God is not interested in leaving His children confused. As we spend time in His Word and seek Him in prayer, He faithfully gives us the wisdom we need for each step. He may not show us the entire journey, but He always provides enough light for the next step.

Maybe you’re facing an important decision today. Maybe you’re carrying a burden that seems too heavy. Or maybe today looks like just another ordinary day. Whatever is ahead, don’t walk into it alone.

The same God who guided David still guides His people today. Trust Him. Follow Him. Rest in Him.

Remember, the best way to begin your day is in the presence of the One who has already gone before you.

Have a blessed day, my friend. God is with you every step of the way.