17
For -- most incredible of all -- in the water, which quenches all things, the fire had still greater effect, for the universe defends the righteous.
18
At one time the flame was restrained, so that it might not consume the creatures sent against the ungodly, but that seeing this they might know that they were being pursued by the judgment of God;
19
and at another time even in the midst of water it burned more intensely than fire, to destroy the crops of the unrighteous land.
20
Instead of these things thou didst give thy people food of angels, and without their toil thou didst supply them from heaven with bread ready to eat, providing every pleasure and suited to every taste.
21
For thy sustenance manifested thy sweetness toward thy children; and the bread, ministering to the desire of the one who took it, was changed to suit every one's liking.
22
Snow and ice withstood fire without melting, so that they might know that the crops of their enemies were being destroyed by the fire that blazed in the hail and flashed in the showers of rain;
23
whereas the fire, in order that the righteous might be fed, even forgot its native power.
24
For creation, serving thee who hast made it, exerts itself to punish the unrighteous, and in kindness relaxes on behalf of those who trust in thee.
25
Therefore at that time also, changed into all forms, it served thy all-nourishing bounty, according to the desire of those who had need,
26
so that thy sons, whom thou didst love, O Lord, might learn that it is not the production of crops that feeds man, but that thy word preserves those who trust in thee.
27
For what was not destroyed by fire was melted when simply warmed by a fleeting ray of the sun,