17. Hear diligently my speech. Let my declaration be in your ears.
18. See now, I have set my cause in order. I know that I am righteous.
19. Who is he who will contend with me? For then would I hold my peace and give up the spirit.
20. “Only don’t do two things to me; then I will not hide myself from your face:
21. withdraw your hand far from me; and don’t let your terror make me afraid.
22. Then call, and I will answer; or let me speak, and you answer me.
23. How many are my iniquities and sins? Make me know my disobedience and my sin.
24. Why hide you your face, and hold me for your enemy?
25. Will you harass a driven leaf? Will you pursue the dry stubble?
26. For you write bitter things against me, and make me inherit the iniquities of my youth:
27. You also put my feet in the stocks, and mark all my paths. You set a bound to the soles of my feet,