King James Version with Apocrypha
“If then they that live labour not to enter these strait and vain things, they can never receive those that are laid up for them.”
— 2 Esdras 7:14, King James Version with Apocrypha
Because for their sakes I made the world: and when Adam transgressed my statutes, then was decreed that now is done.
Then were the entrances of this world made narrow, full of sorrow and travail: they are but few and evil, full of perils,: and very painful.
For the entrances of the elder world were wide and sure, and brought immortal fruit.
If then they that live labour not to enter these strait and vain things, they can never receive those that are laid up for them.
Now therefore why disquietest thou thyself, seeing thou art but a corruptible man? and why art thou moved, whereas thou art but mortal?
Why hast thou not considered in thy mind this thing that is to come, rather than that which is present?
Then answered I and said, O Lord that bearest rule, thou hast ordained in thy law, that the righteous should inherit these things, but that the ungodly should perish.