16:22. But snow and ice endured the force of fire, and melted not: that they might know that the fire, burning in the hail, and flashing in the rain, destroyed the fruits of the enemies.
16:23. But this same again, that the just might be nourished, did even forget its own strength.
16:24. For the creature serving thee, the Creator, is made fierce against the unjust for their punishment: and abateth its strength for the benefit of them that trust in thee.
16:25. Therefore even then it was transformed into all things, and was obedient to thy grace, that nourisheth all, according to the will of them that desired it of thee:
16:26. That thy children, O Lord, whom thou lovedst, might know that it is not the growing of fruits that nourisheth men, but thy word preserveth them that believe in thee.
16:27. For that which could not be destroyed by fire, being warmed with a little sunbeam, presently melted away:
16:28. That it might be known to all, that we ought to prevent the sun to bless thee, and adore thee at the dawning of the light.
16:29. For the hope of the unthankful shall melt away as the winter's ice, and shall run off as unprofitable water.
Wisdom Chapter 17
The Egyptian darkness.