⁹ Even though we speak like this, dear friends,^(A) we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. ¹⁰ God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.^{(B) 11} We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope^(C) for may be fully realized. ¹² We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate^(D) those who through faith and patience^(E) inherit what has been promised.^(F)

The Certainty of God’s Promise

¹³ When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself,^{(G) 14} saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.”^{[a](H) 15} And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.^(I)