[1] Job Continues Job said: [2] I long for the past, when God took care of me, [3] and the light from his lamp showed me the way through the dark. [4] I was in the prime of life, God All-Powerful was my closest friend, [5] and all of my children were nearby. [6] My herds gave enough milk to bathe my feet, and from my olive harvest flowed rivers of oil. [7] When I sat down at the meeting of the city council, [8] the young leaders stepped aside, [9] while the older ones stood [10] and remained silent. [11] Everyone was pleased with what I said and did. [12] When poor people or orphans cried out for help, I came to their rescue. [13] And I was highly praised for my generosity to widows and others in poverty. [14] Kindness and justice were my coat and hat; [15] I was good to the blind and to the lame. [16] I was a father to the needy, and I defended them in court, even if they were strangers. [17] When criminals attacked, I broke their teeth and set their victims free. [18] I felt certain that I would live a long and happy life, then die in my own bed. [19] In those days I was strong like a tree with deep roots and with plenty of water, [20] or like an archer's new bow. [21] Everyone listened in silence to my welcome advice, [22] and when I finished speaking, nothing needed to be said. [23] My words were eagerly accepted like the showers of spring, [24] and the smile on my face renewed everyone's hopes. [25] My advice was followed as though I were a king leading my troops, or someone comforting those in sorrow.
