This is the Day (Live)

Song Meaning

The lyrics establish a core belief: "God is good / All the time." This simple, repeated phrase acts as an anchor, framing every experience, from the "start of day" to the "dark of night," and even through "death and life." The song doesn't shy away from hardship, acknowledging "valley low" and "mountain high," but consistently returns to this unwavering affirmation of divine goodness. It sets a tone of profound, almost defiant, gratitude. The central tension lies in the contrast between external circumstances and internal resolve. While the world presents "valley low" and "storms may rage," the narrator's response is fixed: "I will rejoice / And be glad in it." This isn't a denial of struggle, but an active choice to find joy and peace regardless of the situation. The phrase "It is well with me" becomes a powerful declaration of inner peace that transcends outward turmoil. The most striking aspect is the relentless repetition of "This is the day / That the Lord has made" and the bridge's "It is well within my soul." This isn't just a song of passive acceptance; it's an active, almost liturgical, affirmation. The repetition builds a sense of unwavering conviction, turning a simple statement of faith into a powerful mantra that reinforces the narrator's internal state against any external pressures. The repeated "Come what may" further emphasizes this proactive stance. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics comes from their directness and the powerful emotional resonance of their simple, yet profound, message. By grounding the listener in the constant presence of divine goodness and the choice to rejoice, the song offers a compelling vision of inner peace. The craft lies in its unadorned sincerity and the way repetition solidifies an unshakeable faith, making the declaration of joy feel earned and deeply felt, even amidst acknowledged hardship.