[1]Then Job answered and said:[2]Even to-day is my complaint bitter; my hand is become heavy because of my groaning.[3]Oh that I knew where I might find Him, that I might come even to His seat![4]I would order my cause before Him, and fill my mouth with arguments.[5]I would know the words which He would answer me, and understand what He would say unto me.[6]Would He contend with me in His great power? Nay; but He would give heed unto me.[7]There the upright might reason with Him; so should I be delivered for ever from my Judge.[8]Behold, I go forward, but He is not there, and backward, but I cannot perceive Him;[9]On the left hand, when He doth work, but I cannot behold Him, He turneth Himself to the right hand, but I cannot see Him.[10]For He knoweth the way that I take; when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.[11]My foot hath held fast to His steps, His way have I kept, and turned not aside.[12]I have not gone back from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured up the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.[13]But He is at one with Himself, and who can turn Him? And what His soul desireth, even that He doeth.[14]For He will perform that which is appointed for me; and many such things are with Him.[15]Therefore am I affrighted at His presence; when I consider, I am afraid of Him.[16]Yea, God hath made my heart faint, and the Almighty hath affrighted me;[17]Because I was not cut off before the darkness, neither did He cover the thick darkness from my face.