12. It isn't possible for God to do wrong. The Mighty One would never treat people unfairly.
13. Who appointed him to rule over the earth? Who put him in charge of the whole world?
14. If he really wanted to, he could hold back his spirit and breath.
15. Then everyone would die together. They would return to the dust.
16. "Job, if you have understanding, listen to me. Pay attention to what I'm saying.
17. Can someone who hates to be fair govern? Will you bring charges against the holy and mighty One?
18. He says to kings, 'You are worthless.' He says to nobles, 'You are evil.'
19. He doesn't favor princes. He treats rich people and poor people the same. His hands created all of them.
20. They die suddenly in the middle of the night. God strikes them down, and they pass away. Those who are mighty are removed, but not by human hands.
21. "His eyes see how people live. He watches every step they take.
22. There isn't a dark place or deep shadow where those who do what is evil can hide.
23. God doesn't need to bring charges against men. He knows they are guilty. So he doesn't need to have them appear in his court to be judged.
24. He destroys the mighty without asking them questions in court. Then he sets others up in their places.
25. He knows what they do. So he crushes them during the night.
26. He punishes them for the sins they commit. He does it where everyone can see them.
27. That's because they turned away from following him. They didn't have respect for anything he does.
28. They caused poor people to cry out to him. He heard the cries of those who were in need.
29. But if he remains silent, who can judge him? If he turns his face away, who can see him? He rules over people and nations alike.
30. He keeps those who are ungodly from ruling. He keeps them from laying traps for others.