Study Desk

"Of course, I know that this is true. But how can a human being win an argument with God?

I am innocent, but I cannot give him an answer. All I can do is beg my Judge for mercy.

I am innocent, but anything I say makes me seem guilty. I am innocent, but if I speak, my mouth proves me wrong.

I am innocent, but I don't know what to think. I hate my own life.

But the suffering still frightens me. I know that God will not see me as innocent.

Then I could say what I want without being afraid of him. But I cannot do that now.

You know I am innocent, but no one can save me from your power!

Your hands made me and shaped my body. But now they are closing around me and squeezing me to death!

But this is what you hid in your heart. Now I know what you were planning for me.

If I sin, I am guilty and should be cursed. But even when I am innocent, I cannot lift up my head. I am so ashamed because of all the troubles I have.

Evil people might look for help, but they will not escape their troubles. Their hope leads only to death."

But my mind is as good as yours. You aren't any smarter than I am. You haven't said anything that people don't already know.

"My friends laugh at me now. They say, ‘He prayed to God and got his answer.' I am a good, innocent man, but still they laugh at me.

But robbers' tents are not bothered. Those who make God angry live in peace, even though God has them in his power.

"But ask the animals, and they will teach you. Or ask the birds of the air, and they will tell you.

But just as the tongue tastes food, the ears test the words they hear.

But wisdom and power belong to God. Good advice and understanding are his.

But I don't want to argue with you. I want to speak to God All-Powerful. I want to argue with God about my troubles.

But you men try to cover up your ignorance with lies. You are like worthless doctors who cannot heal anyone.

I will continue to trust God even if he kills me. But I will defend myself to his face.