1. Then Job answered:
2. “Listen carefully to my words,and let this be the way you comfort me.
3. Be patient while I speak.After I have finished, you may continue to make fun of me.
4. “My complaint is not just against people;I have reason to be impatient.
5. Look at me and be shocked;put your hand over your mouth in shock.
6. When I think about this, I am terribly afraidand my body shakes.
7. Why do evil people live a long time?They grow old and become more powerful.
8. They see their children around them;they watch them grow up.
9. Their homes are safe and without fear;God does not punish them.
10. Their bulls never fail to mate;their cows have healthy calves.
11. They send out their children like a flock;their little ones dance about.
12. They sing to the music of tambourines and harps,and the sound of the flute makes them happy.