This is today’s YouVersion Verse that goes out simultaneously to over one hundred million YouVersion App users around the world: 

This was one of the verses I encountered when I had the specific question of “Should I keep this blog open?” around this same time last year during our church fast (http://atomic-temporary-30301605.wpcomstaging.com/2015/01/08/why-reveal-sad-things/).

In the same chapter it comes with beatitudes that Jesus taught:

““You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. 

“You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

“You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.

“You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom.

 “Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:3-4, 6, 10-12‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Thank You Lord for today’s verse, an encouragement to share You, not for self-highlighting but to highlight You, the Hope Giver for all our hard situations that can help others in theirs. Through our weakness, imperfections, and darkness, You are the One who gives light. Thank You for the hard places that make us hunger for You.