1 Then Job answered, 2 "Even today my complaint is rebellious. His hand is heavy in spite of my groaning. 3 Oh that I knew where I might find him! That I might come even to his seat! 4 I would set my cause in order before him, and fill my mouth with arguments. 5 I would know the words which he would answer me, and understand what he would tell me. 6 Would he contend with me in the greatness of his power? No, but he would listen to me. 7 There the upright might reason with him, so I should be delivered forever from my judge. 8 "If I go east, he is not there; if west, I can't find him; 9 He works to the north, but I can't see him. He turns south, but I can't catch a glimpse of him. 10 But he knows the way that I take. When he has tried me, I shall come forth like gold. 11 My foot has held fast to his steps. I have kept his way, and not turned aside. 12 I haven't gone back from the commandment of his lips. I have treasured up the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. 13 But he stands alone, and who can oppose him? What his soul desires, even that he does. 14 For he performs that which is appointed for me. Many such things are with him. 15 Therefore I am terrified at his presence. When I consider, I am afraid of him. 16 For God has made my heart faint. The Almighty has terrified me. 17 Because I was not cut off before the darkness, neither did he cover the thick darkness from my face.
Job answers; apologizes for his complaining; wishes to plead his cause in the presence of his Maker, from whom he knows he should receive justice; but regrets that he cannot find him, Job 23:1-9. He, however, gives himself and his cause up to God, with the conviction of his own innocence, and God's justice and goodness, Job 23:10-14. He is, nevertheless, afraid when he considers the majesty of his Maker, Job 23:15-17.
INTRODUCTION TO JOB 23
This and the following chapter contain Job's reply to the last oration of Eliphaz; in this he first declares his present sorrowful estate and condition, Job 23:1; wishes he knew where to find God, as a judge sitting on a throne, before whom he might lay his cause, and plead it, and have his judgment and final decision passed upon it; when he doubted not but he would deal favourably with him, and both admit him and strengthen him, to plead his own cause, and would acquit him for ever from the charges laid against him, Job 23:3; in order to which he sought for him everywhere, but could not find him, but contents himself with this, that God knew his way; and that, after trial of him, he should shine like pure gold, and appear to be no apostate from him, but one sincerely obedient to his commands, and a true lover of his word, Job 23:8; and as for his afflictions, they were the result of the unalterable purposes and appointments of God: but what gave him the greatest uneasiness was, that there were more of that sort yet to come, which filled him with fears and faintings, with trouble and darkness, Job 23:13.
*More commentary available by clicking individual verses.