"This is the day that the Lord has made;

let us rejoice and be glad in it." 

Psalm 118:24 (NIV)

I awoke this morning with this scripture and a new understanding of it in my heart. I love it when God does that!

Until now, every time I have ever read or recited these words I assumed it meant that I was to look for the good in the day and embrace it. Today I think that is just scratching the surface.

Look at the directive:  "Rejoice and be glad in it."  Period. No excuses or "yes but's". Just rejoice and be glad. Then I think of the day ahead of me and all its challenges - personal and professional, and yes, spiritual. I'm not sure I can do it. 

Then God nudges me again and takes me a little deeper.

If He designed a universe to work in perfect scientific order, intricately and with a precision that humans can never recreate...

If He carefully and perfectly knits together a baby in its mother's womb - a baby complete with all of the attributes she will need to fulfill God's purpose for her...

Would He not also create each day with beauty, challenges, fears, failures, successes, hopes, battles, struggles to: 

• sharpen us
• teach us
• encourage us
• provide opportunities to serve
• provide opportunities to trust
• create circumstances beyond our control and abilities

all to keep us moving toward Him?

What do you face today? Does it make a difference to you that God has perfectly orchestrated this day because it is the day you need? I think it does make a difference to me.

Today I will repeat this verse often and let it remind me that "rejoice and be glad" does not just relate to the good in the day. It recognizes the beauty and victory that the Master creates whenever He puts His hand to something. Read Romans 8:28.

Father put your hand to me today.

I need you.

Following the plan, 

Sherri 

What do you think? How do you interpret this verse?