Study Desk

The one who is at ease holds calamity in contemptand thinks it is prepared for those whose feet are slipping.

Would you testify unjustly on God’s behalfor speak deceitfully for him?

Yes, this will result in my deliverance,for no godless person can appear before him.

For you record bitter accusations against meand make me inherit the iniquities of my youth.

You put my feet in the stocksand stand watch over all my paths,setting a limit for the soles of my feet.

There is hope for a tree:If it is cut down, it will sprout again,and its shoots will not die.

If only you would hide me in Sheoland conceal me until your anger passes.If only you would appoint a time for meand then remember me.

You would call, and I would answer you.You would long for the work of your hands.

For then you would count my stepsbut would not take note of my sin.

He feels only the pain of his own bodyand mourns only for himself.

Are God’s consolations not enough for you,even the words that deal gently with you?

A wicked person writhes in pain all his days,throughout the number of years reserved for the ruthless.

He doesn’t believe he will return from darkness;he is destined for the sword.

He wanders about for food, asking, “Where is it?”He knows the day of darkness is at hand.

Trouble and distress terrify him,overwhelming him like a king prepared for battle.

For he has stretched out his hand against Godand has arrogantly opposed the Almighty.

Let him not put trust in worthless things, being led astray,for what he gets in exchange will prove worthless.

For the company of the godless will have no children,and fire will consume the tents of those who offer bribes.

Earth, do not cover my blood;may my cry for help find no resting place.

I wish that someone might argue for a man with Godjust as anyone would for a friend.