Read Jeremiah 20 Prayer and Persecution of Jeremiah

Then I said, I will not make mention of Him, Nor speak anymore in His name. But His word was in my heart like a burning fire Shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, And I could not. (Jeremiah 20:9 NKJV)

Jeremiah was called to preach to Jerusalem just before Judah was taken into captive (30:31). He wept for what he saw about the people's attitude.

Jeremiah himself had to bear a painful price to remain a faithful messenger of God. He was mocked, beaten and imprisoned. On many occasions he contemplated either giving up or changing the message but he remained the firm and unyielding, conveying faithfully the divine will to his people. When alone with God, the tensions of his position were revealed.

Jeremiah couldnt quit because he was dealing with Gods word. Gods word lived in his heart is likened to the fire burning within him. It pressed against his very being, as if it were shut up in his bones, requiring great energy to hold in. It was impossible of denying his call. He learned that Gods word was irrepressible. When he attempted to find release from suffering in silence, it was impossible; for such silence became more intolerable than suffering.

We do get weary in Gods service; but it would be a greater weariness if we were dismissed from it. To speak is an awful responsibility and weight; but not to speak would be impossible and restlessness.

The early church was persecuted yet they rather obeyed God than men. Paul went preaching night and day with tears. For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! (I Corinthians 9:16 NKJV)

It's not seminar to seminar that stir our passion but the illumination of the word. Pray till fire and hot before ministry. Pray till I am hot before ministry. Is not My word like a fire? says the LORD, And like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces? (Jeremiah 23:29)

Prayer: Is Your word that changed me and caused me to be Your channel. Let me never quit but refresh me and empower me by Your Spirit through Your Word to persevere in life and ministry staying faithful to my calling.

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