This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
English Standard Version (ESV)
It's easy to read this as simply a happy exclamation, but notice the emphasis: "This is the day that the LORD has made." It's not just a good day; it's a divinely appointed and crafted occasion. Therefore, our rejoicing isn't just a spontaneous feeling, but a purposeful response to God's specific work.
This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse bursts forth at the climax of Psalm 118, which celebrates a great victory and deliverance, likely the triumphant return of a king or the dedication of a temple. Following verses of praise and recounting God's powerful intervention, this declaration exclaims that the very day of this victory is a divinely appointed occasion for joy and gladness, not just by chance but by God's deliberate design.
Ever feel like some days are just... more? Psalm 118:24 reminds us that certain days aren't random – they're divinely crafted.
The verse declares, "This is the day that the LORD has made." This isn't just about a 24-hour period; it's a recognition that God actively intervenes in history and ordains specific moments. Think of it like a masterful artist setting aside a particular canvas for a masterpiece.
These divinely appointed days are marked by His powerful acts, often moments of deliverance, salvation, or significant spiritual advancement. Whether it's a personal breakthrough or a foundational event in salvation history, God has a purpose for the time He sets apart.
When God makes a special day, how are we supposed to react? The psalm gives us a clear directive.
The call is immediate and profound: "let us rejoice and be glad in it." This isn't a passive suggestion but an active command rooted in the recognition of God's work.
Rejoicing is an outward expression of inner joy, while being glad suggests a deep contentment and settled happiness. Together, they paint a picture of a vibrant, thankful heart that recognizes God's goodness. This joy isn't dependent on our circumstances but on the faithfulness of the One who ordains the day.
Understand the original words
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gil / samach · Hebrew Verb
To experience deep-seated, spiritual joy and exultation, typically as a communal response to God's presence, deliverance, or redemptive work.
While Psalm 118 celebrates triumphant entries and national victories, its powerful declaration, 'This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it,' finds its ultimate fulfillment in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event marks the definitive victory of God's salvation, making every day, and especially the Lord's Day, a cause for profound rejoicing.
c. 1000 BC
David Conquers Jerusalem
King David captures the Jebusite city of Jerusalem, establishing it as the capital of Israel and bringing the Ark of the Covenant to the city.
c. 960 BC
Solomon's Temple Completed
King Solomon completes the First Temple in Jerusalem, a monumental structure for worship and a symbol of God's presence with His people.
586 BC
Fall of Jerusalem and Temple Destruction
The Babylonians conquer Jerusalem, destroy the First Temple, and deport many Israelites into exile, a devastating blow to national and religious life.
c. 516 BC
Second Temple Dedicated
Following the return from Babylonian exile, the Second Temple is dedicated, marking a restoration of worship and a symbol of hope for the Jewish people.
c. 4 BC - 30 AD— this verse
Jesus' Ministry and Resurrection
Jesus Christ's life, ministry, death, and resurrection fulfill messianic prophecies. His resurrection is seen as the ultimate triumph over death and sin.
c. 30-60 AD
Spread of the Gospel
The apostles and early followers of Jesus begin to preach the message of salvation and the good news of the resurrected Christ throughout the Roman Empire.
This passage describes the crowds shouting 'Hosanna!' as Jesus entered Jerusalem, directly echoing the triumphant and celebratory spirit of Psalm 118, applying the 'day the LORD has made' to a Messianic moment.
Acts 4:11-12Peter declares that Jesus is the 'stone that was rejected by you, builders, which has become the cornerstone,' linking the rejection and exaltation theme of Psalm 118 to Christ's redemptive work and offering salvation in Him.
1 Corinthians 15:20Paul states that Christ has been raised as the 'firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep,' highlighting His resurrection as the foundational event that makes future rejoicing and hope possible, a fulfillment of the 'day the LORD has made.'
Romans 8:28This verse assures believers that 'all things work together for good' for those who love God, connecting the idea that God ordains specific days for His purposes with the ultimate good that stems from His sovereign plan, even through hardship.
clarkePsalms 118:24: "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
This is the day which the Lord hath made - As the Lord hath called me to triumph, this is the day which he hath appointed for that purpose. This is a gracious opportunity; I will improve it to his glory.
gillPsalms 118:24: "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
This is the day which the Lord hath made,.... Famous and remarkable for the above events. Meaning either the day of Christ's entrance into Jerusalem, in order to be delivered up to the Jews, and suffer and die in the place of his people; to which the following words agree: or the day of his resurrection (g) from the dead; when God gave him glory, and was matter of joy to those for whose justification h…
It's easy to read this as simply a happy exclamation, but notice the emphasis: "This is the day that the LORD has made." It's not just a good day; it's a divinely appointed and crafted occasion. Therefore, our rejoicing isn't just a spontaneous feeling, but a purposeful response to God's specific work.
This verse bursts forth at the climax of Psalm 118, which celebrates a great victory and deliverance, likely the triumphant return of a king or the dedication of a temple. Following verses of praise and recounting God's powerful intervention, this declaration exclaims that the very day of this victory is a divinely appointed occasion for joy and gladness, not just by chance but by God's deliberate design.
This verse bursts forth at the climax of Psalm 118, which celebrates a great victory and deliverance, likely the triumphant return of a king or the dedication of a temple. Following verses of praise and recounting God's powerful intervention, this declaration exclaims that the very day of this victory is a divinely appointed occasion for joy and gladness, not just by chance but by God's deliberate design.
"This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." — It's easy to read this as simply a happy exclamation, but notice the emphasis: "This is the day that the LORD has made." It's not just a good day; it's a divinely appointed and crafted occasion.…
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Last reviewed October 2026