7. For ground that has drunk the rain that has often fallen on it and that produces vegetation useful to those it is cultivated for receives a blessing from God.
8. But if it produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and about to be cursed, and will be burned at the end.
9. Even though we are speaking this way, dear friends, in your case we are confident of the better things connected with salvation.
10. For God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you showed for His name when you served the saints — and you continue to serve them.
11. Now we want each of you to demonstrate the same diligence for the final realization of your hope,
12. so that you won’t become lazy but will be imitators of those who inherit the promises through faith and perseverance.
13. For when God made a promise to Abraham, since He had no one greater to swear by, He swore by Himself:
14. I will indeed bless you,and I will greatly multiply you.