16 If I had called, and he had answered me; yet would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my voice.
16 Even if I summoned him and he responded, I do not believe he would give me a hearing.
16 If I summoned him and he answered me, I would not believe that he was listening to my voice.
16 If I called on God and he himself answered me, then, and only then, would I believe that he'd heard me.
16 If I called and He answered me, I would not believe that He was listening to my voice.
16 And even if I summoned him and he responded, I'm not sure he would listen to me.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 9:16
Commentary on Job 9:14-21
(Read Job 9:14-21)
Job is still righteous in his own eyes, 1, and this answer, though it sets forth the power and majesty of God, implies that the question between the afflicted and the Lord of providence, is a question of might, and not of right; and we begin to discover the evil fruits of pride and of a self-righteous spirit. Job begins to manifest a disposition to condemn God, that he may justify himself, for which he is afterwards reproved. Still Job knew so much of himself, that he durst not stand a trial. If we say, We have no sin, we not only deceive ourselves, but we affront God; for we sin in saying so, and give the lie to the Scripture. But Job reflected on God's goodness and justice in saying his affliction was without cause.