In Romans 8, Paul calls creation itself an encouragement for the struggle, because it is a struggle. It is a fight. One that may require the shedding of our own blood (Hebrews 12:4). Creation, personified, is stretching its neck out in anticipation of the people of God becoming holy, becoming more like Jesus right here in our fallen bodies that walk in a fallen world. Why? Because, when we are more holy, creation gets better dominion keepers and as a result, creation is made more glorious. When creation is more glorious two things happen. 1. God is seen as more glorious. 2. We get more joy. The world as God created it is admirably arranged for holiness.

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” (Romans 8:18–25, ESV)