19The caravans of Tema look for water,

the traveling merchants of Sheba look in hope.

20They are distressed, because they had been confident;

they arrive there, only to be disappointed.

21Now you too have proved to be of no help;

you see something dreadful and are afraid.

22Have I ever said, ‘Give something on my behalf,

pay a ransom for me from your wealth,

23deliver me from the hand of the enemy,

ransom me from the clutches of the ruthless’?

24“Teach me, and I will be quiet;

show me where I have been wrong.

25How painful are honest words!

But what do your arguments prove?

26Do you mean to correct what I say,

and treat the words of a despairing man as wind?

27You would even cast lots for the fatherless

and barter away your friend.

28“But now be so kind as to look at me.

Would I lie to your face?

29Relent, do not be unjust;

reconsider, for my integrity is at stake.^b

30Is there any wickedness on my lips?

Can my mouth not discern malice?