Day 142 Open the Gates: Enter with Praise

Open the Gates: Enter with Praise

by Torrie Slaughter

Psalm 118:19–29

“Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord.” – Psalm 118:19

Today’s psalm isn’t just a song—it’s a welcome.
It’s a call to step into something holy. Something prepared. Something eternal.
And it begins with a decision: Will you enter the gates of righteousness?

This passage, like a spiritual crescendo, builds from gratitude to triumph and ends in unshakable praise.

🔑 The Gates of Righteousness (Verses 19–21)

“Open to me the gates of righteousness…”
Here, the psalmist gives us an image of entering sacred space—not physically, but spiritually. These gates are wide open for the one who says, “Lord, I give you thanks. I recognize You as my salvation.”

Have you paused recently to thank God not just for what He’s done for you, but for who He is to you?
Salvation is more than rescue—it’s relationship. And it begins at the gate of surrender.

🪨 The Rejected Stone (Verses 22–24)

“The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone…”
This is where the psalm turns prophetic. It points directly to Jesus—rejected by many, but chosen by God.
And here’s the good news: What the world casts aside, God calls essential.
Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, and that alone is reason to rejoice and be glad.

Have you ever been rejected? Look to Jesus. He knows that pain—and He also shows us how God can use rejection as redirection into divine purpose.

🙏 A Plea and a Blessing (Verses 25–26)

“Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!”
This plea is bold. It’s urgent. It’s a recognition that only God can give what truly matters.
And then comes the blessing: “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”
When we show up with God's heart, we carry heaven's authority. Whether in your home, workplace, or community—you are His ambassador. Walk in that.

🕊 Give Thanks for His Enduring Love (Verses 28–29)

“You are my God, and I will exalt You…”
The psalm closes with what it began: unshakable thanksgiving.
Even in uncertainty. Even after discipline. Even when the path ahead is unknown—God’s love endures. And that’s why we praise.

📖 Reflection Question:

What “gate” are you being invited to walk through today—and how might thanksgiving be the key that opens it?

🙏 Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we step into Your presence today with hearts full of gratitude. Thank You for the cornerstone—Jesus—our unshakable foundation. Help us to rejoice in Your marvelous works and carry Your name with humility and power. Let every gate we walk through be one of praise, purpose, and faith. Amen.