If I be wicked, why then labor I in vain?
I will say unto God, Do not condemn me; show me wherefore thou contendest with me.
Thou knowest that I am not wicked; and there is none that can deliver out of thine hand.
Behold, I know your thoughts, and the devices which ye wrongfully imagine against me.
Behold, he findeth occasions against me, he counteth me for his enemy;
If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.
This is one thing, therefore I said it, He destroyeth the perfect and the wicked.
The Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.
Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
Yet thou sayest, Because I am innocent, surely his anger shall turn from me. Behold, I will plead with thee, because thou sayest, I have not sinned.
