New Living Translation

1 Then Zophar the Naamathite replied to Job: 2 “Shouldn’t someone answer this torrent of words?<br>Is a person proved innocent just by a lot of talking?<br> 3 Should I remain silent while you babble on?<br>When you mock God (Elohim), shouldn’t someone make you ashamed?<br> 4 You claim, ‘My beliefs are pure,’<br>and ‘I am clean in the sight of God (Elohim).’<br> 5 If only God (Elohim) would speak;<br>if only he would tell you what he thinks!<br> 6 If only he would tell you the secrets of wisdom,<br>for true wisdom is not a simple matter.<br>Listen! God (Elohim) is doubtless punishing you<br>far less than you deserve!<br> 7 “Can you solve the mysteries of God (Elohim)?<br>Can you discover everything about the Almighty?<br> 8 Such knowledge is higher than the heavens —<br>and who are you?<br>It is deeper than the underworld —<br>what do you know?<br> 9 It is broader than the earth<br>and wider than the sea.<br> 10 If God (Elohim) comes and puts a person in prison<br>or calls the court to order, who can stop him?<br> 11 For he knows those who are false,<br>and he takes note of all their sins.<br> 12 An empty-headed person won’t become wise<br>any more than a wild donkey can bear a human child.<br> 13 “If only you would prepare your heart<br>and lift up your hands to him in prayer!<br> 14 Get rid of your sins,<br>and leave all iniquity behind you.<br> 15 Then your face will brighten with innocence.<br>You will be strong and free of fear.<br> 16 You will forget your misery;<br>it will be like water flowing away.<br> 17 Your life will be brighter than the noonday.<br>Even darkness will be as bright as morning.<br> 18 Having hope will give you courage.<br>You will be protected and will rest in safety.<br> 19 You will lie down unafraid,<br>and many will look to you for help.<br> 20 But the wicked will be blinded.<br>They will have no escape.<br>Their only hope is death.”<br>