18
For sometimes the flame was mitigated, that it might not burn up the beasts that were sent against the ungodly, but themselves might see and perceive that they were persecuted by the judgment of God.
19
And at another time it burneth even in the midst of water above the power of fire, that it might destroy the fruits of an unjust land.
20
Instead thereof Thou feddest Thine own people with angels' food, and didst send them bread from heaven prepared without their labor, able to satisfy every man's delight, and agreeing to every taste.
21
For Thy sustenance declared Thy sweetness unto Thy children, and, serving the appetite of the eater, was tempered to every man's liking.
22
But snow and ice endured the fire and melted not, that they might know that fire, burning in the hail and sparkling in the rain, did destroy the fruits of their enemies.
23
But this again did even forget his own strength, that the righteous might be nourished.
24
For the creation that serveth Thee who art the Maker, increaseth his strength against the unrighteous for their punishment, and abateth his strength for the benefit of such as put their trust in Thee.
25
Therefore even then was it altered into all fashions, and was obedient to Thy grace, that nourisheth all things, according to the desire of them that had need,
26
that Thy children, O Lord, whom Thou lovest, might know that it is not the growing of fruits that nourisheth man, but that it is Thy word, which preserveth them that put their trust in Thee.
27
For that which was not destroyed by the fire, being warmed with a little sunbeam, soon melted away,
28
that it might be known that we must precede the sun to give Thee thanks, and at the dayspring pray unto Thee.