The first time you did not carry it; that is why the Lord God attacked us, because we did not ask him about the proper way to carry it.”

However, the high places were not eliminated; the people were still not devoted to the God of their ancestors.

“We will not give our daughters in marriage to the neighboring peoples, and we will not take their daughters in marriage for our sons.

Or why was I not buried like a stillborn infant, like infants who have never seen the light?

For evil does not come up from the dust, nor does trouble spring up from the ground,

Then I would yet have my comfort, then I would rejoice, in spite of pitiless pain, for I have not concealed the words of the Holy One.

Will you never look away from me, will you not let me alone long enough to swallow my spittle?

“Why are times not appointed by the Almighty? Why do those who know him not see his days?

if the members of my household have never said, ‘If only there were someone who has not been satisfied from Job’s meat!’ –

And I have waited. But because they do not speak, because they stand there and answer no more,

Indeed, in truth, God does not act wickedly, and the Almighty does not pervert justice.

As for the Almighty, we cannot attain to him! He is great in power, but justice and abundant righteousness he does not oppress.

to cause it to rain on an uninhabited land, a desert where there are no human beings,

Certainly you are not a God who approves of evil; evil people cannot dwell with you.

You will not abandon me to Sheol; you will not allow your faithful follower to see the Pit.

I do not associate with deceitful men, or consort with those who are dishonest.

But I am like a deaf man – I hear nothing; I am like a mute who cannot speak.

Receiving sacrifices and offerings are not your primary concern. You make that quite clear to me! You do not ask for burnt sacrifices and sin offerings.

Certainly a man cannot rescue his brother; he cannot pay God an adequate ransom price

For he will take nothing with him when he dies; his wealth will not follow him down into the grave.