17 I hate life. As far as I can see, what happens on earth is a bad business. It’s smoke—and spitting into the wind.

18-19 And I hated everything I’d accomplished and accumulated on this earth. I can’t take it with me—no, I have to leave it to whoever comes after me. Whether they’re worthy or worthless—and who’s to tell?—they’ll take over the earthly results of my intense thinking and hard work. Smoke.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message, Numbered Edition
The Message, Numbered Edition
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $25.98
Save: $14.01 (35%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message for Graduates
The Message for Graduates
Retail: $12.99
Our Price: $1.80
Save: $11.19 (86%)
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible--soft leather-look, brown
The Message Large-Print Devotional Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $36.98
Save: $13.01 (26%)
5.0 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 Bible--soft leather-look, sky blue
The Message Bible--soft leather-look, sky blue
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $49.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Psalms
The Message The Book of Psalms
Retail: $8.99
Our Price: $8.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)