[1] Then Zophar the Naamathite answered: [2] "Should these words go unanswered? Is this talker in the right? [3] Your lies do not make people quiet; people should correct you when you make fun of God. [4] You say, 'My teachings are right, and I am clean in God's sight.' [5] I wish God would speak and open his lips against you [6] and tell you the secrets of wisdom, because wisdom has two sides. Know this: God has even forgotten some of your sin. [7] "Can you understand the secrets of God? Can you search the limits of the Almighty? [8] His limits are higher than the heavens; you cannot reach them! They are deeper than the grave; you cannot understand them! [9] His limits are longer than the earth and wider than the sea. [10] "If God comes along and puts you in prison or calls you into court, no one can stop him. [11] God knows who is evil, and when he sees evil, he takes note of it. [12] A fool cannot become wise any more than a wild donkey can be born tame. [13] "You must give your whole heart to him and hold out your hands to him for help. [14] Put away the sin that is in your hand; let no evil remain in your tent. [15] Then you can lift up your face without shame, and you can stand strong without fear. [16] You will forget your trouble and remember it only as water gone by. [17] Your life will be as bright as the noonday sun, and darkness will seem like morning. [18] You will feel safe because there is hope; you will look around and rest in safety. [19] You will lie down, and no one will scare you. Many people will want favors from you. [20] But the wicked will not be able to see, so they will not escape. Their only hope will be to die."
