7
For the one who turned toward it was saved, not by the thing that was beheld, but by you, the Savior of all.
8
And by this also you convinced our enemies that it is you who deliver from every evil.
9
For they were killed by the bites of locusts and flies, and no healing was found for them, because they deserved to be punished by such things.
10
But your children were not conquered even by the fangs of venomous serpents, for your mercy came to their help and healed them.
11
To remind them of your oracles they were bitten, and then were quickly delivered, so that they would not fall into deep forgetfulness and become unresponsive to your kindness.
12
For neither herb nor poultice cured them, but it was your word, O Lord, that heals all people.
13
For you have power over life and death; you lead mortals down to the gates of Hades and back again.
14
A person in wickedness kills another, but cannot bring back the departed spirit, or set free the imprisoned soul.
15
To escape from your hand is impossible;
16
for the ungodly, refusing to know you, were flogged by the strength of your arm, pursued by unusual rains and hail and relentless storms, and utterly consumed by fire.
17
For—most incredible of all—in water, which quenches all things, the fire had still greater effect, for the universe defends the righteous.