What is my strength, that I should wait? and what is my end, that I should prolong my life?

Relent, let there be no falsehood; reconsider, for my righteousness is intact!

As a cloud is dispersed and then disappears, so the one who goes down to the grave does not come up again.

if you become pure and upright, even now he will rouse himself for you, and will restore your righteous abode.

He is wise in heart and mighty in strength – who has resisted him and remained safe?

If he passes by me, I cannot see him, if he goes by, I cannot perceive him.

“But these things you have concealed in your heart; I know that this is with you:

You bring new witnesses against me, and increase your anger against me; relief troops come against me.

Will your idle talk reduce people to silence, and will no one rebuke you when you mock?

For you have said, ‘My teaching is flawless, and I am pure in your sight.’

You will lie down with no one to make you afraid, and many will seek your favor.

If he tears down, it cannot be rebuilt; if he imprisons a person, there is no escape.

Why do I put myself in peril, and take my life in my hands?

Only in two things spare me, O God, and then I will not hide from your face:

Then call, and I will answer, or I will speak, and you respond to me.

He grows up like a flower and then withers away; he flees like a shadow, and does not remain.

Do you fix your eye on such a one? And do you bring me before you for judgment?

Look away from him and let him desist, until he fulfills his time like a hired man.

My offenses would be sealed up in a bag; you would cover over my sin.

You overpower him once for all, and he departs; you change his appearance and send him away.