It is God who [at all times works wonders for you: thus, He] provides for you [all manner of] livestock, so that on some of them you may ride, and from some derive your food, 79 And there are advantages for you in them, and that you may attain thereon a want which is in your breasts, and upon them and upon the ships you are borne. 80 He shows you His signs; which then of the signs of God will you deny? 81 Have they never journeyed through the land and seen what was the end of those who have gone before them? They were stronger than themselves in might and left firmer traces upon the earth; yet, whatsoever they earned did not help them. 82 And when their messengers came to them with clear proofs, they [merely] rejoiced in what they had of knowledge, but they were enveloped by what they used to ridicule. 83 But when they saw Our punishment, they said: We believe in Allah alone and we deny what we used to associate with Him. 84 But their belief when they saw Our might did not profit them -- the wont of God, as in the past, touching His servants; then the unbelievers shall be lost. 85