This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

- Psalm 118:24

Some days are filled with joy, and others are just hard.

But, each one is a gift, and how we handle them can reflect on how we interact with God and how we serve Him and others.

The Psalms tell us to rejoice and be glad in each day.

Unfortunately, that isn't always easy. So how do we rejoice in the days that are difficult and heartbreaking?

We fix our eyes on Christ.

Everything is sifted through God's hands, and we take heart in the fact that this earth, with all its pain, is not our final destination.

So when you feel that fear, frustration, or anxiety mounting in your thoughts, be intentional with those feelings.

Ask God to remove them from your mind and replace them with something else. Maybe you recite a favorite verse, pray, call a friend, or listen to a favorite song. With Jesus, it is possible to take captive every thought so that you can find joy in Him each day.

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for blessing me with each new day. Please help me serve you with joy, replacing those thoughts that pull me away from you.

With Love,
Sarah Sherstad

It’s easy to rush through the day focused on what’s next, what’s missing, or what feels unresolved. But Psalm 118:24 gently calls us back to the present moment. This day—right here, right now—is one the Lord has made. As you journal, reflect on how God may be inviting you to notice His goodness today instead of waiting for “someday.”

Journal & Reflect

• What are three moments from today that reminded you of God’s goodness?
• Is there anything keeping you from fully embracing the day God has given you?
• What would it look like to choose joy and gratitude in your current season? 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “This is the day the Lord has made” mean?

Psalm 118:24 reminds believers that every day is a gift from God and an opportunity to trust Him, rejoice, and walk faithfully in His presence.

How can I choose joy when life feels difficult?

Biblical joy is rooted in God’s faithfulness, not perfect circumstances. Even small moments of gratitude can help shift your focus back to Him.

Why is journaling helpful during devotional time?

Journaling creates space to process emotions, remember God’s goodness, and document spiritual growth over time. 

Prayer 

Lord, thank You for the gift of today. Help me not to rush past the moments You’ve placed in front of me. Teach me to rejoice in Your goodness, trust You with what I cannot control, and walk through this day with peace and gratitude. Open my eyes to the blessings You are weaving into even the ordinary moments. Amen.

Message from Kara

Friend, I think Psalm 118:24 is such a beautiful reminder that we don’t have to wait for perfect circumstances to experience joy. Some days feel exciting, and others feel heavy—but every day still holds evidence of God’s presence and faithfulness. As you spend time journaling today, I hope you give yourself permission to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the beauty God has already placed around you. With love, Kara

P.S. Sometimes joy begins with simply thanking God for one small thing right in front of you.

Applying this to your Daily Routine

Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.

👉 Explore Personalized Scripture Products at www.papersunday.com

Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Wild Berry Blooms Personalized Scripture Journal

If you want to grow deeper in your daily life and reflection, these devotionals can help:

Daily Devotional • Colossians 3:16 • Let God’s Word Fill Your Heart

Daily Devotional • Philippians 1:3 • A Heart Full of Gratitude