Job’s final speech (part b): Job 29–31

As part of his final speech, Job looked back longingly on more prosperous days, when:

^{Job 29:5-6} The Almighty was still with me,
and my children were around me.
My steps were awash in cream,
and the rocks gushed olive oil for me.

He had enjoyed the respect he’d had at the time:

^{Job 29:7-10} Those were the days when I went to the city gate
and took my place among the honored leaders.
The young stepped aside when they saw me,
and even the aged rose in respect at my coming.
The princes stood in silence
and put their hands over their mouths.
The highest officials of the city stood quietly,
holding their tongues in respect.

Job followed this with a plea for mercy.