When the earth drinks in the rain that falls upon it from time to time, and yields a useful crop to those for whom it is cultivated it is receiving its blessing from God; but if it bears thorns & thistles, it is worthless and Gods [sic] curse hangs over it; the end of that is burning. But although we speak as we do, we are convinced that you, my friends, are in the better case, and this makes for your salvation. For God would not be so unjust as to forget all that you did for love of his name - But we long for every one of you to show the same eager concern until your hope is finally realized. We want you not to become lazy, but to imitate those who, through faith and patience, are inheriting the promises.