16. If I had called, and he had answered me; yet would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.
17. For he breaketh me with a tempest, and multiplieth my wounds without cause.
18. He will not suffer me to take my breath, but filleth me with bitterness.
19. If I speak of strength, lo, he is strong: and if of judgment, who shall set me a time to plead?
20. If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me perverse.
21. Though I were perfect, yet would I not know my soul: I would despise my life.
22. This is one thing, therefore I said it, He destroyeth the perfect and the wicked.
23. If the scourge slay suddenly, he will laugh at the trial of the innocent.