Psalms 118:24

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

Psalms 118:24 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 118 is the last of the Hallel psalms, Psalms 113 through 118, which Jewish families sang at Passover and other festivals. The psalmist gives thanks for God’s deliverance, and the surrounding verses show that this deliverance was unexpected and wonderful. Verse 22 speaks of the stone the builders refused becoming the head stone of the corner, and verse 23 declares that this is the Lord’s doing. So the day in verse 24 is not just any day; it is the day when God acted to save His people.

Meaning

The psalmist calls this day “the day which the Lord hath made.” This means God is the Creator and Ruler of time, and He has ordained this particular day for His purpose. The response is a deliberate choice: “we will rejoice and be glad in it.” The word “will” shows determination. Joy here is not based on easy circumstances but on trust in God’s goodness and His saving work. It is an act of faith and worship.

Biblical connections

The New Testament connects this psalm to Jesus Christ. In Matthew 21:42, Jesus quotes verse 22 about the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone, applying it to Himself. The day of God’s deliverance in the psalm points forward to the greater deliverance through Christ. Believers can rejoice because God has acted decisively in Jesus, and this gives a firm foundation for gladness.

Application

This verse invites us to see each day as a gift from God, given for a purpose. We can start each morning with gratitude, acknowledging His hand in our lives. When we face trials, we can still choose joy because we trust that God is in control. This is not positive thinking; it is a response of faith to the God who saves. Practically, we can thank God for specific blessings and look for ways to serve Him today.

• Recognize each day as created by the Lord for His purpose.

• Choose to rejoice and be glad, even when circumstances are hard.

• Let gratitude shape your attitude and actions throughout the day.

Reflection

Consider how you view each new day. Do you see it as a random stretch of hours, or as a day the Lord has made? The psalmist’s joy is rooted in God’s past deliverance and His faithful character. When we remember what God has done, we can face today with hope. Let this verse shape your morning prayer, and let the gladness of the Lord be your strength.