Book - Job - Chapter = 13 --> NLT
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"Look, I have seen many instances such as you describe. I understand what you are saying.
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I know as much as you do. You are no better than I am.
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Oh, how I long to speak directly to the Almighty. I want to argue my case with God himself.
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For you are smearing me with lies. As doctors, you are worthless quacks.
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Please be quiet! That's the smartest thing you could do.
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Listen to my charge; pay attention to my arguments.
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"Are you defending God by means of lies and dishonest arguments?
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You should be impartial witnesses, but will you slant your testimony in his favor? Will you argue God's case for him?
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Be careful that he doesn't find out what you are doing! Or do you think you can fool him as easily as you fool people?
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No, you will be in serious trouble with him if even in your hearts you slant your testimony in his favor.
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Doesn't his majesty strike terror into your heart? Does not your fear of him seize you?
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Your statements have about as much value as ashes. Your defense is as fragile as a clay pot.
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"Be silent now and leave me alone. Let me speak--and I will face the consequences.
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Yes, I will take my life in my hands and say what I really think.
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God might kill me, but I cannot wait. I am going to argue my case with him.
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But this is what will save me: that I am not godless. If I were, I would be thrown from his presence.
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"Listen closely to what I am about to say. Hear me out.
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I have prepared my case; I will be proved innocent.
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Who can argue with me over this? If you could prove me wrong, I would remain silent until I die.
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"O God, there are two things I beg of you, and I will be able to face you.
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Remove your hand from me, and don't terrify me with your awesome presence.
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Now summon me, and I will answer! Or let me speak to you, and you reply.
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Tell me, what have I done wrong? Show me my rebellion and my sin.
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Why do you turn away from me? Why do you consider me your enemy?
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Would you terrify a leaf that is blown by the wind? Would you chase a dry stalk of grass?
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"You write bitter accusations against me and bring up all the sins of my youth.
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You put my feet in stocks. You watch all my paths. You trace all my footprints.
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I waste away like rotting wood, like a moth-eaten coat.