1 Then Job answered and said,

2 Even to-day is my complaint rebellious: 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 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 say unto me.

6 Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? Nay; but he would give heed unto me.

7 There the upright might reason with him; So should I be delivered for ever from my judge.

8 Behold, I go forward, but he is not `there'; And backward, but I cannot perceive him;

9 On the left hand, when he doth work, but I cannot behold him; He hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him.

10 But he knoweth the way that I take; When he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

11 My foot hath held fast to his steps; His way have I kept, and turned not aside.

12 I have not 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 is in one `mind', and who can turn him? And what his soul desireth, even that he doeth.

14 For he performeth that which is appointed for me: And many such things are with him.

15 Therefore am I terrified at his presence; When I consider, I am afraid of him.

16 For God hath made my heart faint, And the Almighty hath terrified me;

17 Because I was not cut off before the darkness, Neither did he cover the thick darkness from my face.