23:1 Then Job answered: |
23:2 "Today also my complaint is bitter, his hand is heavy in spite of my groaning. |
23:3 Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his seat! |
23:4 I would lay my case before him and fill my mouth with arguments. |
23:5 I would learn what he would answer me, and understand what he would say to me. |
23:6 Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? No; he would give heed to me. |
23:7 There an upright man could reason with him, and I should be acquitted for ever by my judge. |
23:8 "Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him; |
23:9 on the left hand I seek him, but I cannot behold him; I turn to the right hand, but I cannot see him. |
23:10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come forth as gold. |
23:11 My foot has held fast to his steps; I have kept his way and have not turned aside. |
23:12 I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured in my bosom the words of his mouth. |
23:13 But he is unchangeable and who can turn him? What he desires, that he does. |
23:14 For he will complete what he appoints for me; and many such things are in his mind. |
23:15 Therefore I am terrified at his presence; when I consider, I am in dread of him. |
23:16 God has made my heart faint; the Almighty has terrified me; |
23:17 for I am hemmed in by darkness, and thick darkness covers my face. |