Psalm 90:15 states, "Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil." This poignant verse reflects a deep yearning for divine restoration and joy amidst seasons of suffering. It encapsulates a profound understanding of the human condition—timely reminders that our journey on Earth is mimicked by the interplay of joy and sorrow, blessing and affliction.

In the overarching narrative of our lives, there is no denying that challenges and hardships are inevitable. The psalmist, traditionally credited to Moses, captures an essential truth: our days of affliction are intertwined with our pursuit of joy. This juxtaposition speaks to a cosmic balance that reminds us that though trials may mold the contours of our days, they do not have the final say over our hearts.

To explore this verse of Psalm 90 further, we must first acknowledge the nature of affliction. Affliction does not come to us merely to break us down; it serves a greater purpose in God’s divine plan. Every moment of pain, whether it be illness, loss, or disappointments, is an opportunity to refine our faith. James 1:2-4 encourages us to "count it all joy" when we face trials, as they produce perseverance and maturity in our walk with Christ.

The desire to be made glad, as expressed in this verse, underscores our longing for a counterbalance to our suffering. How often do we find ourselves pleading for joy in moments of grief or despair? The psalmist's plea resonates with us all—an acknowledgment that while we may feel the heaviness of affliction, we also yearn for the lightness of joy. This duality within the human experience can sometimes lead to confusion, but it is pivotal in understanding our reliance on God.

When we consider God's character, we learn that He is, by nature, a redeemer. The whole narrative of Scripture is laced with themes of restoration and hope. When we ask Him to "make us glad", we are not just yearning for an escape from pain; we are seeking His presence in our brokenness. After all, it's in His presence that we find fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). Therefore, the acknowledgment of our affliction can lead us closer to the heart of God, illuminating the path toward healing.

Moreover, the psalmist's reflection on "the years wherein we have seen evil" confronts us with the concept of time. Often, we dread the thought of long stretches marked by suffering. Yet, time has a way of transforming pain into perspective. In Romans 8:28, we are reminded that "all things work together for good to them that love God". This reassurance invites us to look back at our own lives and evaluate the moments through God's lens—seeing how even the darkest seasons served to cultivate strength, empathy, and a deeper reliance on Him.

In contemplating how to find gladness amidst grief, we can embrace the practice of gratitude. Starting a gratitude journal or simply taking time each day to reflect on God’s goodness, even in the small things, can ignite joy in our hearts. It might be the kindness of a stranger, the beauty of nature, or even a shared laugh with a friend. Each of these moments can reconcile our painful experiences, turning them into a tapestry of God’s faithfulness.

Finally, let our prayer be that we do not just find joy as a fleeting emotion but rather as a lasting state of being deeply rooted in God’s love. When we see life through the lens of joyful expectation, we permit the Spirit to bring forth divine gladness—even when days are hard. May we become conduits of this joy, reflecting it to those around us who also battle affliction.

In closing, let us take the psalmist’s words to heart and fervently ask God to "make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil.” Trust that He will respond, filling our hearts with a joy that goes beyond our circumstances, one that anchors us firmly in His relentless love.