Job 23 - New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition 2021

Job 23 Job Replies: My Complaint Is Bitter

¹ Then Job answered:

² “Today also my complaint is bitter; his hand is heavy despite my groaning.

³ Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his dwelling!

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, but he would give heed to me.

⁷ There the upright could reason with him, and I should be acquitted forever by my judge.

⁸ “If I go forward, he is not there; or backward, I cannot perceive him;

⁹ on the left he hides, and I cannot behold him; I turn to the right, but I cannot see him.

¹⁰ But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I shall come out like 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 his words in my bosom.

¹³ But he stands alone, and who can dissuade 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 If only I could vanish in darkness, and thick darkness would cover my face!