He does not allow me to recover my breath, for he fills me with bitterness.

“My days are swifter than a runner, they speed by without seeing happiness.

that you must search out my iniquity, and inquire about my sin,

Does not the ear test words, as the tongue tastes food?

If only you would keep completely silent! For you, that would be wisdom.

Will you speak wickedly on God’s behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for him?

So I waste away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.

for he stretches out his hand against God, and vaunts himself against the Almighty,

They conceive trouble and bring forth evil; their belly prepares deception.”

Surely now he has worn me out, you have devastated my entire household.

He breaks through against me, time and time again; he rushes against me like a warrior.

although there is no violence in my hands and my prayer is pure.

My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God;

Below his roots dry up, and his branches wither above.

If indeed you would exalt yourselves above me and plead my disgrace against me,

My kinsmen have failed me; my friends have forgotten me.

“If evil is sweet in his mouth and he hides it under his tongue,

“Nothing is left for him to devour; that is why his prosperity does not last.

“Listen carefully to my words; let this be the consolation you offer me.

Bear with me and I will speak, and after I have spoken you may mock.