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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Do Your Part – It Matters!

Together We Make A Real Difference!

I like to watch people!  I have gotten pretty good at watching people and they are often not even aware that I am watching.  I can practice my observation even when I am engaged in other activity.  I enjoy observation – really seeing what is going on in and around me.  There is so much to learn from the actions, reactions and inaction of ourselves and others.

You can learn from both positive and negative actions!  I want to share one of the things that I have been reminded of this week, as I have been practicing my observation even while serving!

This week, I was reminded that there is always something to do and always an opportunity to help!  We are having Vacation Bible School at Northwood this week and it always amazes me that there are two groups of people:  Those that are looking for something to do and those that are totally oblivious to the fact that there are plenty of “somethings” to do!  I watched as many men, women, boys and girls stepped up and stepped in to help in any and every way that they could.  (Thank you so much for your hard work, dedication and sacrifice – you inspire me!  REALLY!)

And then I observed a small handful that continues to sit back and do nothing.  I guess that they have convinced themselves that it is their job to just be here and critique or maybe ask dumb questions!  (Thanks for the help!  NOT REALLY!)

There is something for everyone to do.  It may be taking the time to get down on your knees and have a conversation with a four-year old.  It may be to take out the garbage that is overflowing.  It may be to serve someone who is serving.  If you observe – God will show you a way to serve Him by serving others!

Thanks for the reminders – gang!

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Pretty Cool – T Shirt Wars!

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I love t shirts and thought this was pretty cool.  I thought you might enjoy a little fun on this hot Wednesday – so get you a cool glass of ice tea, sit back and enjoy the show!

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Tuesday Wisdom – Great Expectations!

This is a new feature to my blog!  On Tuesdays I am going to try to share one tiny bit of wisdom that I have been given to try to encourage us all to think about how we can be better and live better!

So here is todays wisdom – are you ready for it? “Give People More Than They Expect And Do It With A Good Attitude!” Most people in our world today are not expecting to get more than they expect and when they do – it totally blows them away!

When I go out to eat, I expect to get a good meal and good service.  But, when I go out and get an exceptional meal and great service, then I can’t wait to tell everyone about my experience.

As Christians, it should always be our goal to bring glory to God.  One of the greatest ways that we can bring glory to God is by developing a reputation that we as Christians are the type of people who always give more than is expected and with a good attitude!

If you stop and think about it, this is exactly what Jesus did for you and for me.  He gave us more than was expected and with a good attitude.  He has not given us anything because we deserved or earned it, but because He loves us and has an amazing plan for our lives.

Let’s follow the wisdom of Jesus and give more than expected with a good attitude and then we will truly enjoy life as we get to watch God get the glory!