Job 23:9
On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him:
Job cannot perceive God or see His work even where God is actively working. On the left hand where He works He cannot be beheld, and on the right hand where He hides Himself He cannot be seen. Turning in every direction still fails to find or perceive Him. This is Job's experience of seeking God during suffering without being able to see Him.
Such hiddenness does not mean God is unaware of Job or has abandoned the sufferer. He knows the way that Job takes even when Job cannot perceive His presence. His dealings may be beyond present understanding. Trust in affliction must therefore rest on His wisdom and goodness, with confidence that He will bring Job through his trial.