19-22 When people tell you, “Try out the fortunetellers.
    Consult the spiritualists.
Why not tap into the spirit-world,
    get in touch with the dead?”
Tell them, “No, we’re going to study the Scriptures.”
    People who try the other ways get nowhere—a dead end!
Frustrated and famished,
    they try one thing after another.
When nothing works out they get angry,
    cursing first this god and then that one,
Looking this way and that,
    up, down, and sideways—and seeing nothing,
A blank wall, an empty hole.
    They end up in the dark with nothing.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Outreach Edition, Large-Print, softcover
The Message Outreach Edition, Large-Print, softcover
Retail: $9.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $3.00 (30%)
4.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Gospel of John in Contemporary Language - eBook
The Message Gospel of John in Contemporary Language - eBook
Retail: $2.99
Our Price: $2.39
Save: $0.60 (20%)
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $1.00 (13%)
2.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message SOLO: An Uncommon Devotional - eBook
The Message SOLO: An Uncommon Devotional - eBook
Retail: $17.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $8.00 (44%)
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible: Luke & Acts
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $2.99
Save: $5.00 (63%)
The Message Bible: Large Print Edition
The Message Bible: Large Print Edition
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $32.49
Save: $17.50 (35%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars