14 Why should I put myself in mortal danger*

and take my life in my own hands?

15 God might kill me, but I have no other hope.*

I am going to argue my case with him.

16 But this is what will save me—I am not godless.

If I were, I could not stand before him.

17 “Listen closely to what I am about to say.

Hear me out.

18 I have prepared my case;

I will be proved innocent.

19 Who can argue with me over this?

And if you prove me wrong, I will remain silent and die.

Job Asks How He Has Sinned

20 “O God, grant me these two things,

and then I will be able to face you.

21 Remove your heavy hand from me,

and don’t terrify me with your awesome presence.

22 Now summon me, and I will answer!

Or let me speak to you, and you reply.

23 Tell me, what have I done wrong?

Show me my rebellion and my sin.

24 Why do you turn away from me?

Why do you treat me as your enemy?

25 Would you terrify a leaf blown by the wind?

Would you chase dry straw?

26 “You write bitter accusations against me

and bring up all the sins of my youth.

27 You put my feet in stocks.

You examine all my paths.

You trace all my footprints.

28 I waste away like rotting wood,

like a moth-eaten coat.