“This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
Psalm 118:24
My friend Paul recently shared with me that after he miraculously survived a massive heart attack, he held tightly to the prayer of praise from Psalm 118:24. It cultivated in him a spirit of joy and thanksgiving for the blessings God had given—from the opportunity to see his children grow up to participating in his daughter’s wedding.
I found my friend’s perspective encouraging and convicting. Convicting because sometimes the joy of miraculously surviving my stroke has been swallowed by my frustration with resulting limitations. But also encouraging because I realize I can change my perspective to one of trust and joy.
If you too have at times dwelt more on what you’ve lost rather than on what God has given, spend time reading Psalm 48. This prayer highlights praise to God and culminates in great joy: “Mount Zion rejoices, the villages of Judah are glad because of your judgments (v. 11).” Take great joy in what the Lord has done, “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end” (v. 14).
I found my friend’s perspective encouraging and convicting. Convicting because sometimes the joy of miraculously surviving my stroke has been swallowed by my frustration with resulting limitations. But also encouraging because I realize I can change my perspective to one of trust and joy.
If you too have at times dwelt more on what you’ve lost rather than on what God has given, spend time reading Psalm 48. This prayer highlights praise to God and culminates in great joy: “Mount Zion rejoices, the villages of Judah are glad because of your judgments (v. 11).” Take great joy in what the Lord has done, “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end” (v. 14).
Scripture Focus
Psalm 48:9-14
Insight
Lord, help us trust You and give thanks to You, no matter what the circumstances. Give us a deep joy in You. Amen
Bible In A Year
- Numbers 29-30
- Psalm 76
- John 18
