⁷ Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. ⁸ But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed.^(A) In the end it will be burned.

⁹ Even though we speak like this, dear friends,^(B) we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation.