These things I (Jesus) have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace.  In this world you will have tribulation (anguish, trouble, pressure, affliction, persecution): but be of good cheer (have courage, be comforted); I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 (KJV and amplified by me)

Trials and tribulations are common to all people. No one, Christian or non-Christian, is exempt from the consequences sin has brought about in this world.  Babies suffer and die, little children go hungry, good people suffer with illnesses and terminal cancers, hearts are broken.  But though we as exiles struggle with the same daily hardships as those who belong to the world, we have hope.  Hope of a future that our imaginations can scarcely grasp.  And this hope gives us confidence, and confidence gives us courage, and courage gives us strength to face and overcome whatever this temporary life throws at us.  When we abide in Him and His Word abides in us, then we can be of good cheer because He has overcome the world and we can too because He lives in us and through us.

I often wonder how I can offer this hope to the hopeless, help to the helpless and courage to those in despair.  I have come to the conclusion that the best and possibly only way is to offer myself to LORD each morning and devote myself to letting Him live through me everyday.  A smile, a touch, a word spoken with compassion; a life lived out with courage and confidence.  Having peace when all around me is chaotic and joy which contradicts my circumstances. This is how we can gently lead a dying, hopeless people toward the true Hope Giver. 

If you are struggling, be of good cheer.  Take comfort in the hope of everlasting life…a life of joy unspeakable and full of glory.  No more sorrows or tears.  No more broken hearts, no more suffering. What a life to look forward to.