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23:1 Then Job answered: 23:2 "Today also my complaint is bitter; his hand is heavy despite my groaning. 23:3 Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his dwelling! 23:4 I would lay my case before him, and fill my mouth with arguments. 23:5 I would learn what he would answer me, and understand what he would say to me. 23:6 Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? No; but he would give heed to me. 23:7 There an upright person could reason with him, and I should be acquitted forever by my judge. 23:8 "If I go forward, he is not there; or backward, I cannot perceive him; 23:9 on the left he hides, and I cannot behold him; I turn to the right, but I cannot see him. 23:10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I shall come out like gold. 23:11 My foot has held fast to his steps; I have kept his way and have not turned aside. 23:12 I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured in my bosom the words of his mouth. 23:13 But he stands alone and who can dissuade him? What he desires, that he does. 23:14 For he will complete what he appoints for me; and many such things are in his mind. 23:15 Therefore I am terrified at his presence; when I consider, I am in dread of him. 23:16 God has made my heart faint; the Almighty has terrified me; 23:17 If only I could vanish in darkness, and thick darkness would cover my face!