Job 16:14-22

14He inflicts wound after wound on me. He lunges at me like a warrior.

15“I have sewn sackcloth over my skin, and I have thrown my strength in the dust.

16My face is red from crying, and dark shadows encircle my eyes,

17although my hands have done nothing violent, and my prayer is sincere.

18“Earth, don’t cover my blood. Don’t ever let my cry ⌞for justice⌟ be stopped.

19Even now, look! My witness is in heaven, and the one who testifies for me is above,

20the spokesman for my thoughts. My eyes drip ⌞with tears⌟ to God

21But my witness will plead for a human in front of God. The Son of Man will plead for his friend!

22because in a few short years I will take the path of no return.