18-21 That’s why I don’t think there’s any comparison between the present hard times and the coming good times. The created world itself can hardly wait for what’s coming next. Everything in creation is being more or less held back. God reins it in until both creation and all the creatures are ready and can be released at the same moment into the glorious times ahead. Meanwhile, the joyful anticipation deepens.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Bible, Black/Slate Leather-Look
The Message Bible, Black/Slate Leather-Look
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $39.99
Save: $10.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids - eBook
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids - eBook
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $9.00 (47%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Raspberry Blossom, Personal Size + Topical Concordance
The Message Raspberry Blossom, Personal Size + Topical Concordance
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $26.00 (65%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $14.71
Save: $10.28 (41%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message//REMIX 2.0, Purple Swirl
The Message//REMIX 2.0, Purple Swirl
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $19.99
Save: $20.00 (50%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message // REMIX 2.0, Soft Imitation Leather, Color Spectrum
The Message // REMIX 2.0, Soft Imitation Leather, Color Spectrum
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $15.99
Save: $24.00 (60%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars