What if today isn’t just another ordinary day, but a unique gift from God? In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach, is joined by Braden Pedersen, who shares his powerful story of loss, leadership, and choosing joy in the face of heartbreak. When Braden’s mentor and co-pastor suddenly passed away, he was thrust into a challenging leadership role, struggling to find hope and purpose. Together, Arnie and Braden explore Psalm 118:24—“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it”—and discuss how to live out this truth, even when life is hard. This episode will help you see each day as a handcrafted gift from God, no matter your circumstances. You’ll learn practical ways to cultivate gratitude, choose joy, and encourage others, even in seasons of loss or uncertainty. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Open your Bible and read Psalm 118:24. Let the words sink in—this is the day the Lord has made. Reflect: Pause and consider—how are you feeling today? What is one reason you can be thankful to God for this day? Start a gratitude journal and write it down. Respond: Pray, “God, thank You for this day You have made. Help me to rejoice and be glad in it, no matter what I face. Give me strength to choose joy and share it with others.” Reveal: Text a friend or accountability partner and say, “I’m choosing joy today. Will you help remind me to be joyful each day?” Ask how you can pray for their joy, too. Don’t forget to answer our quiz question: Where in the Bible does it say, “Encourage one another daily, as long as it’s called today”? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. Remember, what you do today matters. Whether you pray, encourage a friend, or open God’s Word, every small act shapes your soul for eternity. Subscribe for more encouragement and join us next time on Spiritually Fit Today!   Keywords: Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Spiritually Fit Today, Psalm 118:24, daily encouragement, Christian podcast, choosing joy, gratitude, spiritual growth, Bible study, Christian leadership, overcoming loss, faith, prayer, accountability, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible