In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Words: F. P. Luther, in Songs of Gratitude, edited by James H. Fillmore, Sr. (Cincinnati, Ohio: Fillmore Brothers, 1877), page 8.
Music: Fiumicino James H. Rosecrans, 1877 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Luther’s full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Fellow voyager, cease complaining,
Look beyond this vale of tears;
See the haven you are nearing,
Quiet all your rising fears;
Should this world prove dark and dreary,
And you here no pleasure find,
Look beyond the clouds that near thee,
Look to God, who is so kind.
Refrain
Cheer up, then, oh, fellow mortal,
Never utter one complaint;
Never will you pass the heav’nly portals,
If you weary or grow faint.
Let not earthly care and sorrow
Darken all life’s pathway o’er;
There will dawn a brighter morrow,
As you near the heav’nly shore;
Hear ye not those angel voices,
Calling you to follow on?
See the happy throng rejoicing,
As you tread the path alone.
Refrain