[1] Then Job spoke again: [2] "My complaint today is still a bitter one, and I try hard not to groan aloud. [3] If only I knew where to find God, I would go to his court. [4] I would lay out my case and present my arguments. [5] Then I would listen to his reply and understand what he says to me. [6] Would he use his great power to argue with me? No, he would give me a fair hearing. [7] Honest people can reason with him, so I would be forever acquitted by my judge. [8] I go east, but he is not there. I go west, but I cannot find him. [9] I do not see him in the north, for he is hidden. I look to the south, but he is concealed. [10] "But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. [11] For I have stayed on God's paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside. [12] I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. [13] But once he has made his decision, who can change his mind? Whatever he wants to do, he does. [14] So he will do to me whatever he has planned. He controls my destiny. [15] No wonder I am so terrified in his presence. When I think of it, terror grips me. [16] God has made me sick at heart; the Almighty has terrified me. [17] Darkness is all around me; thick, impenetrable darkness is everywhere.
