Psalms 118:24 – “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 118:24 is a call to recognize the gift of each day as something God has created. The psalmist is expressing joy and gratitude for this specific day, acknowledging that it is God who brings about each new day. By saying, “let us rejoice and be glad in it,” the psalmist is encouraging everyone to respond with joy and thankfulness. This verse is a reminder that each day is a fresh opportunity to experience God’s goodness. It teaches us to embrace today, no matter our circumstances, because it is a day given by God for His purposes.
Historical Context
Psalm 118 is part of the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118) that were traditionally sung during Jewish festivals such as Passover. These psalms celebrated God’s deliverance and faithfulness, especially remembering how He saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Historically, this verse could be tied to a moment of national celebration, like a victory in battle or the dedication of the temple. The people of Israel would sing this psalm during significant times of worship, recognizing God’s hand in their history and giving thanks for His provision. The verse reflects the joy of a people who have seen God’s deliverance and are celebrating the blessings of a new day filled with His presence.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse teaches us about God’s sovereignty over time and events. It emphasizes that every day is a gift from God, not just in a general sense but as a specific, intentional creation by Him. By encouraging us to “rejoice and be glad,” the verse reminds believers that joy is not dependent on circumstances but on recognizing God’s presence and goodness. This verse invites Christians to have a posture of gratitude, trusting that God has a purpose for every day He gives us. It challenges us to live each day with an attitude of thankfulness, knowing that God is in control.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 118:24 uses simple yet powerful language to convey a sense of joy and celebration. The repetition of “the day” emphasizes that the focus is on today — not yesterday or tomorrow, but the present moment. The structure of the verse is an invitation, with the psalmist calling others to join in rejoicing. The use of “let us” makes it inclusive, encouraging a communal response of joy. This verse has a celebratory tone, inviting all who hear it to acknowledge the goodness of God in every moment.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 95:2 – “Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.”
- Philippians 4:4 – “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
- James 1:17 – “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
These verses highlight the theme of joy, gratitude, and the recognition that every good thing, including each day, is a gift from God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 118:24 is a powerful reminder to live with gratitude and joy. In a world filled with worries, stress, and uncertainty, this verse encourages believers to focus on the present day as a gift from God. It challenges us to shift our perspective from dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties to appreciating the blessings of today. This verse calls us to celebrate God’s goodness no matter our circumstances because each day is an opportunity to experience His love and faithfulness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He creates each day with intention and purpose for us to enjoy. God desires for His people to experience joy and to see His goodness in the ordinary moments of life. By inviting us to “rejoice and be glad,” God is encouraging us to focus on the blessings He provides, which are often found in the simple gift of a new day. It shows that God cares about our well-being and wants us to live with hearts full of gratitude and joy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ embodies the fulfillment of this verse. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus brought a new day of salvation and hope to the world. Because of Jesus, every day is filled with the potential for new life, forgiveness, and joy. John 10:10 says that Jesus came so that we might have life and have it abundantly. In Christ, each day becomes a chance to live in the fullness of God’s love and grace. The joy that Psalm 118:24 calls us to is fully realized in the hope we have because of Jesus. His resurrection on the first day of the week is the ultimate “day the Lord has made,” transforming every day into a celebration of His victory over sin and death.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you intentionally rejoice in the day God has given you, even when circumstances are difficult?
- What are some practical ways to remind yourself to be thankful each morning?
- How does recognizing each day as a gift from God change your perspective on life?
- In what ways can you encourage others to see the blessings in today rather than worrying about the future?
- How does the joy that comes from knowing Jesus influence the way you approach each new day?
This verse challenges us to embrace today as a gift from God, celebrating His goodness and faithfulness with joy and gratitude. It invites us to live fully in the present, trusting that God has given us this day for a purpose and that He is with us in every moment.