[1] Then Job answered,
[2] “Even today my complaint is rebellious. His hand is heavy in spite of my groaning.
[3] Oh that I knew where I might find him! That I might come even to his seat!
[4] I would set my cause in order before him, and fill my mouth with arguments.
[5] I would know the words which he would answer me, and understand what he would tell me.
[6] Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? No, but he would listen to me.
[7] There the upright might reason with him, so I should be delivered forever from my judge.
[8] “If I go east, he is not there; if west, I can’t find him;
[9] He works to the north, but I can’t see him. He turns south, but I can’t catch a glimpse of him.
[10] But he knows the way that I take. When he has tried me, I shall come out like gold.
[11] My foot has held fast to his steps. I have kept his way, and not turned aside.
[12] I haven’t gone back from the commandment of his lips. I have treasured up the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.
[13] But he stands alone, and who can oppose him? What his soul desires, even that he does.
[14] For he performs that which is appointed for me. Many such things are with him.
[15] Therefore I am terrified at his presence. When I consider, I am afraid of him.
[16] For God has made my heart faint. The Almighty has terrified me.
[17] Because I was not cut off before the darkness, neither did he cover the thick darkness from my face.