Psalm 118

“This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24, NKJV)

What is a day? It is a present waiting to be unwrapped. So full of possibilities.

In Psalm 118, the psalmist begins by giving thanks to the LORD for He is good, and His mercy endures forever. That is just a great way to start the day! After all, God has given us today as a gift of His love. If you know Christ, then you are His workmanship and have been created for good works, which God has prepared beforehand for you to walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).

What good works does He have in store for you today? If He has made this day, then what is His purpose for it? What is His purpose for you?

Many people have discovered God’s higher purpose by rejoicing in the Lord. Nehemiah said, “The joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). The apostle Paul said, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4) Joy in the heart leads to new creative possibilities. It helps you say kinder things. It makes you more fun to be around!

Not every day is pleasurable. Some days are downright evil. But God is still sovereign, and He still loves us. We may not be able to rejoice in the circumstances, but we can always rejoice in the LORD.

Ask God to help you see today, as He wants you to see it. Then pray that He helps you to live it for His purpose and glory. And guess what? You will find even more joy, as you serve God and others.