Job 34:1-37 CEV

[1] Elihu Continues Elihu said: [2] You men think you are wise, but just listen to me! [3] Think about my words, as you would taste food. [4] Then we can decide the case and give a just verdict. [5] Job claims he is innocent and God is guilty of mistreating him. [6] Job also argues that God considers him a liar and that he is suffering severely in spite of his innocence. [7] But to tell the truth, Job is shameless! [8] He spends his time with sinners, [9] because he has said, "It doesn't pay to please God." [10] If any of you are smart, you will listen and learn that God All-Powerful does what is right. [11] God always treats everyone the way they deserve, [12] and he is never unfair. [13] From the very beginning, God has been in control of all the world. [14] If God took back the breath that he breathed into us, [15] we humans would die and return to the soil. [16] So be smart and listen! [17] The mighty God is the one who brings about justice, and you are condemning him. [18] Indeed, God is the one who condemns unfair rulers. [19] And God created us all; he has no favorites, whether rich or poor. [20] Even powerful rulers die in the darkness of night when they least expect it, just like the rest of us. [21] God watches everything we do. [22] No evil person can hide in the deepest darkness. [23] And so, God doesn't need to set a time for judgment. [24] Without asking for advice, God removes mighty leaders and puts others in their place. [25] He knows what they are like, and he wipes them out in the middle of the night. [26] And while others look on, he punishes them because they were evil [27] and refused to obey him. [28] The persons they mistreated had prayed for help, until God answered their prayers. [29] When God does nothing, can any person or nation find fault with him? [30] But still, he punishes rulers who abuse their people. [31] Job, you should tell God that you are guilty and promise to do better. [32] Then ask him to point out what you did wrong, so you won't do it again. [33] Do you make the rules, or does God? You have to decide- I can't do it for you; now make up your mind. [34] Job, anyone with good sense can easily see [35] that you are speaking nonsense and lack good judgment. [36] So I pray for you to suffer as much as possible for talking like a sinner. [37] You have rebelled against God, time after time, and have even insulted us.