Psalm 118 verse 24 states, “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” And yes, the Christian song “This is the day” is precisely based on this beautiful Psalm that King David possibly wrote, since it was sung during the founding of the second temple.
This verse reminds us of a profound spiritual truth: every day is a gift from God, intentionally created by Him and filled with purpose. Rejoicing is not merely an emotional reaction to favorable circumstances, but a deliberate act of faith and gratitude. The psalm invites believers to recognize God’s sovereignty over time, history, and personal life, acknowledging that each sunrise is an opportunity to glorify His name.
Psalm 118 holds a significant place in Jewish and Christian tradition. It was commonly sung during major celebrations and pilgrimages, particularly during the Feast of Tabernacles. Its themes of thanksgiving, deliverance, and trust in the Lord resonated deeply with the people of Israel, especially during moments of restoration and hope. These same themes continue to inspire believers today, reminding us that God remains faithful across generations.
This Christian hymn has been sung for many years, and it conveys that feeling that we should rejoice and rejoice to praise our Lord, and this regardless of the situation we are going through. So, on this day, may the words of this song help us to consider our position of always being joyful to praise God.
The song “This Is the Day” is often introduced early in Christian worship settings, especially among children and congregational gatherings, because of its simple melody and powerful message. Its repetitive and joyful structure makes it easy to remember, allowing worshipers to internalize the biblical truth it proclaims. Over time, the song becomes more than a melody; it becomes a declaration of faith spoken aloud in both joyful and challenging seasons.
What makes this hymn particularly meaningful is its emphasis on rejoicing as a spiritual discipline. Life often presents difficulties, uncertainties, and moments of sorrow. Yet Scripture consistently calls believers to praise God not only when circumstances are favorable, but also when faith is tested. Singing “This Is the Day” becomes an act of surrender, acknowledging that God’s goodness is not dependent on our present situation.
Today we share the song “This is the day” in the English, Hebrew and Arabic languages with the accompaniment of an ancient and biblical instrument that is the harp. We hope that it is a great blessing to you and that you share this article with more people. You can listen to the song by clicking this link.
The use of multiple languages beautifully reflects the universal nature of worship. English, Hebrew, and Arabic represent cultures and histories deeply connected to the biblical narrative. Hearing the same message expressed in different tongues reminds us that praise transcends borders, nations, and traditions. God’s invitation to rejoice is extended to all people, regardless of language or background.
The harp, one of the oldest instruments mentioned in the Bible, adds a rich layer of symbolism to this rendition. Frequently associated with King David and temple worship, the harp evokes reverence, peace, and devotion. Its gentle sound creates an atmosphere conducive to reflection and prayer, allowing listeners to focus their hearts on God’s presence.
As you listen to this song, take a moment to meditate on the meaning of each word. Let it remind you that today—no matter what it holds—is a day made by the Lord. May your heart be filled with gratitude, your spirit strengthened by faith, and your lips moved to praise Him continually.
If this hymn blesses you, consider sharing it with others. Music rooted in Scripture has the power to uplift, encourage, and draw hearts closer to God. Let this simple yet profound song be a reminder that rejoicing in the Lord is always a choice worth making.
The Theological Depth of Psalm 118:24
When we analyze the context of this specific verse, we discover that it is part of a Hallel, a series of psalms used for praise and thanksgiving. The statement that God “made” the day refers to His creative power and His ongoing providence. It is not just about the creation of the world in a historical sense, but about the specific provision of the current moment. This divine orchestration ensures that every believer has a reason to find joy, even in the midst of trials.
A Call to Conscious Rejoicing
The phrase “we will rejoice” is written in the future tense in many translations, indicating a vow of the will. It is a decision made by the soul to align itself with the truth of God’s character rather than the fluctuating nature of human emotions. This spiritual commitment transforms the way we perceive time. Instead of seeing days as mere chronological sequences, we begin to see them as “kairos” moments—divine opportunities where God’s grace is actively at work.
Breaking the Cycle of Negativity
In a world often dominated by bad news and anxiety, making the choice to be glad is a revolutionary act. By stating “This is the day,” the psalmist anchors us in the present. We are encouraged not to dwell on the failures of yesterday or the worries of tomorrow. This present-moment focus allows the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds. The biblical mandate for joy serves as a powerful antidote to the weight of modern stress.
The History and Composition of the Song
The song “This Is the Day” has roots in various liturgical traditions, but its most recognized version gained popularity during the 20th-century worship renewals. Its melodic simplicity is intentional, designed to be sung by people of all ages and musical abilities. This accessibility has allowed the message of Psalm 118 to spread across denominations and continents, becoming a universal anthem of the global Church.
The Role of Music in Scriptural Memorization
One of the most effective ways to hide God’s word in our hearts is through song. “This Is the Day” functions as a mnemotechnic tool, helping children and adults alike to memorize a key verse of the Bible effortlessly. When we sing these words, we are not just performing a musical piece; we are engaging in audible meditation. This process ensures that the theology of the Psalm stays with us throughout the day, popping into our thoughts when we need encouragement the most.
The Biblical Significance of the Harp
Integrating the harp into this worship experience is not a random choice. In the Old Testament, the harp (or kinnor) was an instrument associated with prophetic ministry and the relief of spiritual distress. We see this most clearly in the life of David, who played the harp to bring peace to King Saul. The soothing resonance of the strings is meant to quiet the noise of the world, preparing the human heart to receive the message of the Gospel.
Temple Worship and Musical Instruments
During the times of the First and Second Temples, music was an integral part of the sacrificial system. The Levites were trained musicians who used harps, lyres, and cymbals to accompany the singing of the Psalms. By using a harp today, we connect with that ancient heritage of worship. It reminds us that our praise is part of a long continuum of believers who have sought to honor God with the best of their artistic talents. The sacred atmosphere created by the harp helps to elevate our thoughts from the mundane to the eternal.
Worship in Multiple Languages: English, Hebrew, and Arabic
Presenting this song in three distinct languages serves as a powerful visual and auditory representation of Christian unity. Although these languages come from different cultural and religious contexts, they find a common ground in the praise of the Creator. English serves as a global lingua franca, Hebrew connects us to the original text of the Psalms, and Arabic represents the vibrant and often persecuted Middle Eastern Church.
The Power of the Original Hebrew Text
The Hebrew words for this verse, “Zeh hayom asah Adonai, nagila v’nis’mecha vo,” carry a rhythmic weight that is lost in translation. The word Adonai emphasizes the personal name of God, the one who keeps His covenants. The word nagila implies a physical expression of joy—leaping or spinning with gladness. When we hear the song in Hebrew, we are touching the linguistic roots of our faith, acknowledging that our spiritual journey began with the people of Israel.
Arabic Worship and Global Solidarity
For many Arabic-speaking Christians, singing “This Is the Day” is an act of incredible courage. In regions where faith can be met with opposition, the declaration that “This is the day the Lord has made” is a statement of defiance against fear. It asserts that God is still in control, regardless of the political or social climate. Including Arabic in this rendition invites the global community to pray for and stand with our brothers and sisters in the Arab world.
Practical Application: How to Rejoice Daily
To truly live out the message of Psalm 118:24, we must move beyond the song and into practical action. Rejoicing is a habit that can be cultivated through intentional practices. One way is to start every morning with the declaration of this verse. Before checking your phone or thinking about your to-do list, speak the words: “This is the day the Lord has made.” This morning ritual sets a spiritual tone for everything that follows.
Finding Joy in Small Mercies
Often, we wait for “big” miracles to rejoice, but the psalmist suggests that the mere existence of the day is reason enough. We can find God’s hand in the simple things: a cup of coffee, the breath in our lungs, or a kind word from a friend. These micro-blessings are evidence of God’s ongoing creative work. When we train our eyes to see these details, our capacity for gratitude grows, and the spirit of “This Is the Day” becomes a 24/7 reality.
Overcoming Circumstantial Sadness
It is important to clarify that biblical rejoicing does not mean ignoring pain. Jesus was a “man of sorrows,” yet He possessed a deep, unshakable joy. We can weep and rejoice simultaneously. The Christian paradox is that we can be “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” This is possible because our joy is anchored in the finished work of Christ on the cross, which no earthly trouble can take away. The song serves as a reminder that our ultimate victory is already secured.
The Prophetic Connection to the Messianic Entry
Interestingly, Psalm 118 is the same psalm from which the crowds drew their “Hosanna” cries during Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. When the people shouted, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” they were quoting this very context. Therefore, “the day” mentioned in verse 24 has a prophetic dimension, pointing toward the day of salvation accomplished by the Messiah. Every time we sing this song, we are subtly celebrating the victory of Christ over sin and death.
The Cornerstone and our Joy
Just a few verses before verse 24, the psalmist speaks of the “stone which the builders refused” becoming the “head stone of the corner.” As Christians, we know this cornerstone is Jesus. Our ability to rejoice in “this day” is built upon the solid foundation of His grace. Without the cornerstone, our joy would be hollow. With Him, every day becomes a part of the eternal kingdom that is being built in and through us.
Sharing the Message in a Digital Age
In our current era, we have the unique opportunity to spread the Gospel message through digital platforms. Sharing a song like “This Is the Day” in multiple languages is more than just sharing music; it is sharing a lifeline of hope. A simple link can reach someone in a moment of despair, providing the exact words they need to hear to turn their heart back to God. We are called to be digital ambassadors of Christ’s joy.
The Impact of Visual and Auditory Worship
The combination of the harp’s imagery and the multi-lingual singing creates a multi-sensory experience that can deeply affect the soul. Modern psychology recognizes the power of music to lower cortisol levels and improve mood, but the spiritual impact goes much deeper. It aligns the human spirit with the rhythm of heaven. By participating in this type of worship, we are practicing for the day when people from every tribe, tongue, and nation will gather around the throne to sing praises to the Lamb.
Conclusion: A Life Defined by Praise
Ultimately, the message of Psalm 118:24 and the song it inspired is a call to a transformed identity. We are not defined by our problems, our past, or our anxieties. We are defined by the fact that we belong to the Lord of the Day. This divine ownership gives us the freedom to be glad. As you go about your week, keep the melody of “This Is the Day” in your mind. Let it be the soundtrack of your life, a constant reminder that God is good, His mercy endures forever, and His presence is with you in every moment.
May this biblical truth take deep root in your soul. May you find strength in the joy of the Lord, and may your life be a testament to the beauty of a heart that chooses to rejoice. Remember, tomorrow is also a day the Lord will make, and His new mercies will be waiting for you there as well. Continue to praise, continue to sing, and continue to share the light of His love with a world that so desperately needs to see the reason for our hope.