Bible Verse

Psalm 118:24

This psalm was likely sung during Jewish festivals, particularly Passover, celebrating God's deliverance and steadfast love.

"The LORD has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad."

— Psalm 118:24 (NIV)

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Other Translations

"This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

— ESV

"This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

— KJV

"This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Psalm 118 is the last of the Hallel psalms (113-118) sung at major Jewish feasts. It moves from distress to deliverance, calling God's people to praise Him for His enduring love.

Historical Background

Possibly written to celebrate God's deliverance of Israel from enemies or exile. The early church applied this psalm to Christ's resurrection, 'the day the Lord has made.'

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"This is the day"

'This' points to a specific day—in context, a day of God's deliverance. Christians often apply this to each new day as God's gift, or specifically to Sunday as resurrection day. Each day is God's creation and gift.

"that the LORD has made"

God is sovereign over time. He creates each day with purpose. The covenant name 'LORD' (Yahweh) emphasizes His personal involvement in our days. He doesn't just make the calendar but actively works in each day.

"let us rejoice and be glad in it"

This is both invitation and exhortation. 'Rejoice' (gil) and 'be glad' (samach) are active choices. We choose joy not because everything is perfect but because of WHO made the day and what He's doing in it.

""

The verse calls for present-tense joy. Not 'we will rejoice when circumstances improve' but 'let us rejoice TODAY.' This is intentional, God-focused gladness in the midst of life as it is.

Key Themes

Joy in GodGratitude for each dayGod's sovereignty over timeIntentional rejoicingPresent-tense praise

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Start each day recognizing it as God's creation and gift, regardless of what it contains.

  2. 2

    Choose joy and gratitude as acts of faith, not dependent on circumstances.

  3. 3

    Thank God specifically for today—this exact day with its opportunities and challenges.

  4. 4

    Reject negativity and complaining by intentionally rejoicing in what God is doing.

  5. 5

    Live fully present in today rather than dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties.

Questions for Reflection

  • How can you practice rejoicing in today, regardless of your circumstances?
  • What would change if you truly saw each day as made by the Lord for His purposes?
  • Are you living fully present in today, or are you mentally elsewhere?
  • What specific aspects of today can you thank God for right now?

Related Scripture

Lamentations 3:22-23

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:4

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"

James 4:14

"Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while."

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