The word "tribulation" comes from an old Latin word about a farm tool with spikes that was pulled over wheat to separate the good parts from the rest. Ouch! It's the perfect word to describe how we feel when life gets super hard!

Jesus talked about two different kinds of tough times. In Matthew 24:21, He warned about an incredibly difficult time that will happen in the future, called "the Great Tribulation." This will be the hardest time the world has ever seen, and it will happen before Jesus comes back to earth.

But Jesus also talked about the normal tough times that everyone faces. He said, "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). That's Jesus saying, "Yes, life will sometimes be really hard, but don't worry – I've already won the final victory!"

Even when things seem super dark and scary—like when you're afraid of that monster under your bed or worried about a big test at school—God is still with you! His promises are like a flashlight in the dark, giving us courage when we're afraid. Even when we feel sad or scared, God's words stay true!

Think About It: What's the hardest thing you've gone through? Maybe it was moving to a new school, or when someone you loved got sick, or when your best friend was mean to you. How did God help you during that time? Remember Jesus said, "I have overcome the world"—that means Jesus is bigger than ANY problem we face! How does that make you feel about your tough times?