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Hear now my reasoning.
    Listen to the pleadings of my lips.
Will you speak unrighteously for God,
    and talk deceitfully for him?
Will you show partiality to him?
    Will you contend for God?
Is it good that he should search you out?
    Or as one deceives a man, will you deceive him?
10 He will surely reprove you
    if you secretly show partiality.
11 Shall not his majesty make you afraid,
    and his dread fall on you?
12 Your memorable sayings are proverbs of ashes.
    Your defenses are defenses of clay.

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Listen to my charge;
    pay attention to my arguments.

“Are you defending God with lies?
    Do you make your dishonest arguments for his sake?
Will you slant your testimony in his favor?
    Will you argue God’s case for him?
What will happen when he finds out what you are doing?
    Can you fool him as easily as you fool people?
10 No, you will be in trouble with him
    if you secretly slant your testimony in his favor.
11 Doesn’t his majesty terrify you?
    Doesn’t your fear of him overwhelm you?
12 Your platitudes are as valuable as ashes.
    Your defense is as fragile as a clay pot.

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