Ben Sira 16:11

11 Even if there had been only one stubborn person, it would have been a miracle if he had escaped punishment. The Lord is merciful, but he can also become angry. He can be overwhelming in his forgiveness or in his anger.

Ben Sira 16:11 In-Context

9 He showed no mercy on that nation which he doomed to destruction for its sins,
10 nor on those 600,000 people on the march through the wilderness who gathered together in stubborn rebellion.
11 Even if there had been only one stubborn person, it would have been a miracle if he had escaped punishment. The Lord is merciful, but he can also become angry. He can be overwhelming in his forgiveness or in his anger.
12 His punishment is as severe as his mercy is great. He judges people by what they have done.
13 No sinner can escape with what he has stolen. The Lord will reward the patience of devout people.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.