28. Let him sit alone uncomplaining and keeping silent [in hope], because [God] has laid [the yoke] upon him [for his benefit]. [Rom. 8:28.]
29. Let him put his mouth in the dust [in abject recognition of his unworthiness]–there may yet be hope. [Mic. 7:17.]
30. Let him give his cheek to the One Who smites him [even through His human agents]; let him be filled [full] with [men's] reproach [in meekness].
31. For the Lord will not cast off forever! [Ps. 94:14.]
32. But though He causes grief, yet will He be moved to compassion according to the multitude of His loving-kindness and tender mercy.
33. For He does not willingly and from His heart afflict or grieve the children of men. [Ezek. 18:23, 32; Hos. 11:8; Heb. 12:5-10; II Pet. 3:9.]
34. To trample and crush underfoot all the prisoners of the earth,
35. To turn aside and deprive a man of his rights before the face of the Most High or a superior [acting as God's representative],
36. To subvert a man in his cause–[of these things] the Lord does not approve.
37. Who is he who speaks and it comes to pass, if the Lord has not authorized and commanded it?
38. Is it not out of the mouth of the Most High that evil and good both proceed [adversity and prosperity, physical evil or misfortune and physical good or happiness]?
39. Why does a living man sigh [one who is still in this life's school of discipline]? [And why does] a man complain for the punishment of his sins?