16 I was like a father to needy people. I stood up for strangers in court.
17 Sinners are like animals that have powerful teeth. But I took from their mouths the people they had caught.
18 "I thought, 'I'll die in my own house. The days of my life will be as many as the grains of sand.
19 My roots will reach down to the water. The dew will lie all night on my branches.
20 I will remain healthy and strong. My bow will stay as good as new in my hand.'
21 "People wanted to hear what I had to say. They waited silently for the advice I gave them.
22 After I had spoken, they didn't speak anymore. My words fell gently on their ears.