Job 6:14-30

14When a man has no hope, his friends should be kind to him. They should help him, even if he no longer respects God Almighty.

15But you, my friends, have not helped me when I need you. You are like streams that quickly become dry. There is no water when you need it.

16In the spring, ice and deep snow covers them.

17But in the hot summer time, all the water disappears. Those streams become completely dry.

18Travellers leave the road to look for water. They find no water to drink and they die in the desert.

19Travellers from Tema look everywhere for these streams. Traders from Sheba hope to find water.

20They are very upset, because they expected to find water. But when they arrive, they are disappointed.

21My friends, you have become like those streams. You see my great problem, and you are afraid.

22I have never said to you, “Give me something to help me. Please use some of your money to rescue me.”

23I have not asked you to save me from the power of my enemy. Or to pay cruel people to let me go free.

24Teach me the truth, and I will listen carefully. Explain to me the mistakes that I have made.

25True words may give pain to the person who listens to them. But the things that you say against me mean nothing.

26You are warning me because of what I say. I have no hope and you think that my words are empty.

27You would play a game to win a child who has no family. You would even sell your friends to become rich yourselves.

28But now, please look at me. I will not tell you any lies.

29Change what you are saying about me. Do not say that I am guilty. Think again, for I am truly a good person.

30I have not spoken any lies. I know what is right and what is wrong.