1 Then Job answered and said,
2 Today I will also speak with bitterness; my stroke is heavier than my groaning. 3 Oh, that I knew where I might find him! That I might come even to his seat! 4 I would order judgment before him and fill my mouth with arguments. 5 I would know the words which he would answer me and understand what he would say unto me. 6 Will he plead against me with his great power? No, but rather he would put it in me. 7 There the righteous might dispute with him; and should I escape for ever from the one who condemns me.
8 Behold, I shall go to the east and not find him; and to the west, but I cannot perceive him; 9 if he is working to the north, I shall not see him; to the south, he hides himself, that I shall not see him. 10 But he has known the way that I take; he has tried me, and I have come forth as gold. 11 My feet have held to his steps, I have kept his way, and have not departed. 12 Neither have I separated myself from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. 13 But if he determines something, who can turn him? His soul desired it, and he did it. 14 Therefore, he will finish that which is necessary for me; and there are many such things in him. 15 Therefore, I shall fear before his face; I shall consider, and I shall fear him. 16 For God has made my heart tender, and the Almighty has frightened me. 17 Why was I not cut off before the darkness, neither has he covered my face with the darkness.