NIV Job 13 Chapter
13:1
"My eyes have seen all this, my ears have heard and understood it.
13:2
What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you.
13:3
But I desire to speak to the Almighty and to argue my case with God.
13:4
You, however, smear me with lies; you are worthless physicians, all of you!
13:5
If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.
13:6
Hear now my argument; listen to the plea of my lips.
13:7
Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for him?
13:8
Will you show him partiality? Will you argue the case for God?
13:9
Would it turn out well if he examined you? Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?
13:10
He would surely rebuke you if you secretly showed partiality.
13:11
Would not his splendor terrify you? Would not the dread of him fall on you?
13:12
Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay.
13:13
"Keep silent and let me speak; then let come to me what may.
13:14
Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?
13:15
Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face.
13:16
Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless man would dare come before him!
13:17
Listen carefully to my words; let your ears take in what I say.
13:18
Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated.
13:19
Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die.
13:20
"Only grant me these two things, O God, and then I will not hide from you:
13:21
Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.
13:22
Then summon me and I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply.
13:23
How many wrongs and sins have I committed? Show me my offense and my sin.
13:24
Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy?
13:25
Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after dry chaff?
13:26
For you write down bitter things against me and make me inherit the sins of my youth.
13:27
You fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet.
13:28
"So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.