.png)
.png)
“The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”
–Psalm 118:24
​
Annotation: A call to rejoice in the Lord’s daily blessings. This verse emphasizes living in the moment and recognizing God's active role in our lives.​​
​
Here’s what this verse means:
Context of Psalm 118:
Psalm 118 is a psalm of thanksgiving. It celebrates God’s deliverance and His enduring faithfulness. This psalm was likely sung during the Jewish festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles, and was a reminder to the people of Israel of God’s past acts of salvation, as well as His present help and protection.
​
In the context of Psalm 118:24, the psalmist is reflecting on God’s recent deliverance and acts of salvation. The verse is a call to respond to God’s actions with joy and gratitude.
​
Breaking Down the Verse:
-
“The Lord has done it this very day”
-
This phrase acknowledges that the Lord has acted in the present moment, bringing about something significant. The “it” likely refers to a specific act of salvation, deliverance, or victory. In the context of the psalm, it may be referring to God’s intervention in a battle or His protection during a time of distress.
-
It can also be understood as a recognition that God's work is ongoing—He is constantly at work in our lives, and His actions are always relevant to the present day.
-
For believers today, this reminds us that God is active in our lives right now—His work is not confined to the past or future, but is present and continuing.
-
-
“Let us rejoice today and be glad”
-
This is a call to action. The psalmist is encouraging the people to respond to God’s work with joy and thanksgiving. Rejoicing is not just an emotion but a deliberate act of celebrating God's goodness and faithfulness.
-
Rejoicing today emphasizes the present—the psalmist is not simply looking back on past deliverances but is encouraging people to celebrate God today. No matter what circumstances they might be facing, they are called to find joy in what God is doing in their lives right now.
-
The call to be glad is a recognition that joy is both a command and a privilege for those who belong to God. In light of God’s goodness, His people are invited to be glad and find delight in His presence.
-
Key Themes:
-
God’s Present Work: The verse emphasizes that God’s work is ongoing, and He continues to act in the lives of His people.
-
Gratitude and Rejoicing: The proper response to God’s work, whether past, present, or future, is joyful gratitude. The psalmist encourages rejoicing in the present—today.
-
Celebration of God’s Salvation: Whether referring to deliverance from enemies, protection, or spiritual salvation, the verse calls the people to recognize and celebrate God’s salvation.
Broader Biblical Connection:
-
Rejoicing in the Lord is a consistent theme throughout the Bible. In the New Testament, Paul writes in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (NIV). Just as Psalm 118 calls for joy in God’s presence and actions, so too do believers in Christ find joy in the salvation and work of God.
-
Today in Psalm 118:24 also serves as a reminder that God is active in the present, not just in the past or future. The call to rejoice today is a call to be present with God and aware of His current work.
Application:
-
Gratitude for God’s Present Blessings: This verse encourages us to acknowledge and give thanks for what God is doing today in our lives. Even in the midst of challenges, we are called to rejoice in God's goodness.
-
Live in the Moment: The psalm emphasizes the importance of celebrating God's work today, rather than focusing only on past victories or future hopes. It encourages living with a sense of present gratitude and joy.
-
Recognize God’s Deliverance: Whether we are experiencing God's deliverance in a specific situation or reflecting on His overall faithfulness, Psalm 118:24 calls us to rejoice in His continuous work of salvation and grace.
In summary, Psalm 118:24 is a reminder to celebrate God’s active presence in our lives, recognize His ongoing work, and respond with joy and gratitude today, knowing that God’s faithfulness is not just a past reality but a living and ongoing experience for those who trust in Him.
​
Additional information:
Read the full chapter and find more resources at biblegateway.com (external site)>>
​
