Job 13:1-19

1I have seen all these things with my own eyes. I have heard everything that you have said. I have understood it.

2I know as much as you do. You are no better than I am.

3But I want to speak to the Almighty God. I need to show him that I am right.

4What you say about me is only lies. You would be useless as doctors.

5It would be better if you said nothing. That would be a wise thing for you to do.

6Listen now to what I have to say. Listen carefully to the words that I speak.

7You think that you can tell lies to speak on behalf of God! Your lies are not helping God.

8You are trying to win the argument for God. But you are not being honest when you do that.

9If God asks you questions, would he find that you speak the truth? Or would you try to deceive him, as you deceive other people?

10When you speak on God's behalf, you may think that your lies are a secret. But God will still punish you.

11His great power will frighten you. You will be very afraid of him.

12Your wise teaching is worth no more than ashes. Your arguments are weak and useless.

13So be quiet now and let me speak. Then we will see what happens to me.

14I am ready for my life to be in danger. I must take that risk.

15Even if God kills me, I will still trust him. I will tell him why I am not guilty.

16I am brave enough to stand in front of God. No wicked person would be able to do that. So it shows that I am not guilty.

17Listen carefully to my words. Hear what I have to say.

18I know what I want to say. I am ready to explain why I am not guilty.

19Nobody can show that I have done wrong things. If anyone can do that, I will be quiet. I will be ready to die.