The Book of Job

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Job 23:1–10 (Listen)

Job Replies: Where Is God?

23:1 Then Job answered and said:

  “Today also my complaint is bitter;
    my hand is heavy on account of my groaning.
  Oh, that I knew where I might find him,
    that I might come even to his seat!
  I would lay my case before him
    and fill my mouth with arguments.
  I would know what he would answer me
    and understand what he would say to me.
  Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power?
    No; he would pay attention to me.
  There an upright man could argue with him,
    and I would be acquitted forever by my judge.
  “Behold, I go forward, but he is not there,
    and backward, but I do not perceive him;
  on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him;
    he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him.
10   But he knows the way that I take;
    when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.

(ESV)