TeaTime Devotional September 5th, 2025

Written By: Shanece Jordan

Let It Burn

Scripture:  Jeremiah 20:9 NLT

“But if I say I’ll never mention the Lord or speak in his name, his word burns in my heart like a fire. It’s like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! I can’t do it!” 

Testify:

I remember a time when God placed a clear word on my heart to share. I knew it was from Him—there was no doubt—but fear crept in. I started to question myself: What if I’m wrong? What if I mess it up? I nearly walked away from the moment. But the urge inside me was too strong to ignore. It burned within me like fire in my bones. I had to speak; I couldn’t hold it in.

When I finally stepped out in obedience and shared what God had given me, I realized something that changed my perspective: when God puts something in your heart, it’s not meant to stay there. He entrusts you with it so it can be released—to bless, to encourage, or to bring light to someone else. That’s why I speak. I praise. I testify. Because staying silent doesn’t glorify God—but obedience does.

Edify:

Jeremiah describes the intense inner conflict he experiences as a prophet. Worn down by rejection, mockery, and persecution, he seriously considers staying silent—but the message God placed within him was too powerful, too alive, to keep in. It demanded to be spoken. The emotional and spiritual weight of holding it in became unbearable.

Jeremiah came to realize that not speaking was more painful than facing rejection. He states that it’s just like fire, shut up in his bones. He knew that God saw everything and that faithfulness still mattered—even when no one else noticed, accepted, or listened. If you’ve ever felt that deep, unshakable urge to speak up for truth, for justice, or for God Himself, then Jeremiah 20:9 will likely resonate with you. It speaks to the reality that obedience to God’s calling isn’t always easy; silence becomes unbearable. This verse captures the inner tension we often face when silence feels safer, but our spirit knows that speaking up is the right thing—even when it costs us something.

Apply:

Jeremiah stayed grounded by constantly engaging with God's voice. You can’t stand strong if you're not anchored in truth. Speak the truth—kindly but firmly—whether at work, school, or home, even when it's uncomfortable.