Study Desk

"Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is. Hear it, and know for yourself."

"For then it would be heavier than the sand of the seas; For that reason my words have been rash.

"For the arrows of the Almighty are within me, My spirit drinks their poison; The terrors of God line up against me.

"For the despairing man there should be kindness from his friend; So that he does not abandon the fear of the Almighty.

"The caravans of Tema looked, The travelers of Sheba hoped for them.

"They were put to shame, for they had trusted, They came there and were humiliated.

"Have I said, 'Give me something,' Or, 'Offer a bribe for me from your wealth,'

"You would even cast lots for the orphans, And barter over your friend.

"As a slave pants for the shade, And as a hired worker who eagerly waits for his wages,

"I waste away; I will not live forever. Leave me alone, for my days are only a breath.

"Why then do You not forgive my wrongdoing And take away my guilt? For now I will lie down in the dust; And You will search for me, but I will no longer exist."

"If you will search for God And implore the compassion of the Almighty,

If you are pure and upright, Surely now He will stir Himself for you And restore your righteous estate.

"For we are only of yesterday and know nothing, Because our days on earth are as a shadow.

"For though I were right, I could not answer; I would have to implore the mercy of my Judge.

"For He bruises me with a storm And multiplies my wounds without cause.

"For He is not a man, as I am, that I may answer Him— That we may go to court together!

'Is it right for You indeed to oppress, To reject the work of Your hands, And to look favorably on the plan of the wicked?

That You should search for my guilt And carefully seek my sin?

"For you have said, 'My teaching is pure, And I am innocent in your eyes.'