J. Oswald Sanders wrote: "What makes heaven heaven for the Christian is the perpetual presence of God as Sovereign Ruler of the universe, and yet at the same time as our loving heavenly Father, and the reality of enjoying forever the companionship of our Redeemer and Lord."
For Christians, there is hope and anticipation of experiencing heaven some day. There is no need to fear the afterlife. Yes, we may not want to experience the pain of dying; but, that pain will be temporary as there will not be any pain in heaven (Rev. 21:4). The pain experienced now and upon death stems from this fallen world; however, death means being with Christ (Phil. 1:21-23). Having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ means that someday we will see his face (Rev. 22:4) and be in awe of His glory!
Sanders, J. Oswald. Heaven: Better by Far. Discovery House Publishers. Grand Rapids: 1993, 1994. page 60.