10. Then I would be comforted,knowing that in all my painI have never disobeyed God.
11. Why should I patiently hopewhen my strength is gone?
12. I am not strong as stoneor bronze,
13. and I have finally reachedthe end of my rope.
14. My friends, I am desperate,and you should help me,even if I no longer respectGod All-Powerful.
15-16. But you are treacherousas streams that swellwith melting snow,
17. then suddenly disappearin the summer heat.
18. I am like a caravan,lost in the desertwhile searching for water.
19. Caravans from Tema and Sheba
20. thought they would find water.But they were disappointed,
21. just as I am with you.Only one look at my suffering,and you run away scared.
22. Have I ever asked any of youto give me a gift
23. or to purchase my freedomfrom brutal enemies?
24. What have I done wrong?Show me,and I will keep quiet.
25. The truth is always painful,but your argumentsprove nothing.
26. Here I am desperate,and you consider my wordsas worthless as wind.
27. Why, you would sell an orphanor your own neighbour!
28. Look me straight in the eye;I won't lie to you.