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