He never asks, "Where is God, my Creator, who gives me songs in the night,

who teaches us more than the earth's wild animals, and makes us wiser than the birds of the sky?'

In response, Elihu said:

If you are righteous, what will you add to him? What can God receive from your efforts?

"They cry out because they have many oppressors; they cry for help because the powerful are abusing them.

"Are you saying that it's just for you to claim, "I'm more righteous than God?'

"Observe the heavens! Take a look around! Look! The clouds are higher than you, aren't they?

If you sin, what will that do to harm him? If you add transgression to transgression what will it do to him?

"They cry out there, but he doesn't answer because of the arrogance of those who practice evil.

When he began speaking, he communicated only worthlessness; he added words upon words without knowing anything."

Your wickedness affects only yourself; and your righteousness, only human beings.

Even though you complain that you can't perceive him, your case is already pending for judgment in his presence so keep on placing your hope in him.

Theirs is a useless plea God won't listen; the Almighty won't pay any attention.

"So now, if he doesn't inflict punishment in his anger, then he doesn't keep track of your many transgressions.

After all, you've asked what your benefit will be: "What will I profit from refraining from sin?'

I'm going to respond to that statement, and to your friends with you."