Revised Common Lectionary (Complementary)

¹⁸ For I suppose that the afflictions of this life are not worthy of the glory that will be shown upon us.

¹⁹ Also, the fervent desire of the creatures endures, looking for when the sons of God will appear, ²⁰ because the creatures are subdued to vanity against their will, but for the will of him who subjects them in hope. ²¹ For the very creatures will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. ²² For we know that every creature groans with us also, and travails in pain, even to this time.

²³ Not only they, but we also who have the first fruits of the Spirit mourn in ourselves, and await the adoption, and look for the deliverance of our bodies. ²⁴ For we are saved by hope. But hope that is seen is no hope. For how can a person hope for that which he sees? ²⁵ But if we hope for that which we do not see, then with patience we await it.

²⁶ Furthermore, the Spirit also relieves our infirmities. For we know not what to pray as we ought, but the Spirit makes intercession mightily for us, with groanings which cannot be expressed by tongue. ²⁷ And he who searches the hearts knows what is the intent of the Spirit, for he makes intercession for the saints according to the pleasure of God. ²⁸ For we know that all things work for the best for those who love God, who also are called according to his purpose. ²⁹ For those whom he knew before, he also ordained before to be fashioned to the image of his Son, so that he may be the firstborn among many brethren. ³⁰ Moreover, those whom he appointed before, them he also called; and whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also glorified.