13Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain; In vain have I washed my hands in innocence.
14For every day have I been smitten; Every morn have I been chastened.
15If I should resolve to speak like them, Surely I should be treacherous to the family of thy children.
16So, when I studied to know this, It was painful to my eyes;
17Until I went into the sanctuaries of God, And considered what was their end.
18Behold! thou hast set them on slippery places; Thou castest them down into unseen pits.
19How are they brought to desolation in a moment, And utterly consumed with sudden destruction!
20As a dream when one awaketh, Thou, O Lord! when thou awakest, wilt make their vain show a derision.
21When my heart was vexed And I was pierced in my reins,
22Then was I stupid and without understanding; I was like one of the brutes before thee.
23Yet am I ever under thy care; By my right hand thou dost hold me up.
24Thou wilt guide me with thy counsel, And at last receive me in glory.