😀 Cheer Up!

Finding Joy When Life’s Challenges Get You Down

Ever had one of those days where everything seems to go wrong?

We’ve all been there—stuck in a rut, feeling like we’re just going through the motions, or battling a bad mood that we just can’t shake off. But here’s some good news: Jesus wants you to be of good cheer, even when life’s circumstances aren’t in your favor. He doesn’t just suggest it; He commands it!

In the Bible, Jesus told His followers to “be of good cheer” on multiple occasions, and these weren’t times when everything was going great. When a paralyzed man was lying on his mat, Jesus told him to be of good cheer (Matthew 9:2).

When the disciples were terrified out on the stormy sea, Jesus walked toward them and said, “Be of good cheer” (Matthew 14:27). Even when Paul was in a life-threatening shipwreck, he received a message from God to encourage everyone on board: “Be of good cheer, for I believe God” (Acts 27:22).

What’s the secret to having good cheer in bad times?

It’s not about pretending everything is fine. It’s about having tharseō—a Greek word¹ for cheer that implies having great courage because of God’s presence within you. When we have this cheer, it’s not fake happiness; it’s the strength that comes from knowing God is in control and He will see us through.

So, how do we get there?

It starts by making a choice to trust God, no matter what. Don’t let your circumstances dictate your mood. Instead, let God’s promises shape your outlook. Be intentional about bringing positive thoughts into your mind and rejecting negative ones. When you’re tempted to worry, speak words of faith: “I will be of good cheer because God is with me.”

Action Step:

• This week, write down three situations that are currently causing you stress or anxiety. Next to each one, write down a promise from God’s Word that counters your fears. Read those promises aloud every day, declaring that you choose to “be of good cheer” because you trust in God’s goodness and provision.

1. The Greek word for “cheer” often used in the New Testament is θαρσέω (tharseō), which means “take courage” or “be of good cheer.” It conveys a sense of inner strength, courage, and encouragement. Another related Greek word is θάρσος (tharsos), which also means “courage” or “confidence.”