BREAKING THE YOKE OF PREMATURE DEATH

TITLE: BREAKING THE YOKE OF PREMATURE DEATH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Isaiah 38:1-5 (NKJV) – "In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death, and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, 'Thus says the Lord: “Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live.”’ Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall and prayed to the Lord, and said, 'Remember now, O Lord, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what is good in Your sight.' And Hezekiah wept bitterly. And the word of the Lord came to Isaiah, saying, 'Go and tell Hezekiah, “Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: 'I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will add to your days fifteen years.'"

Supporting Texts:
Psalm 118:17 (NKJV) – "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord."
Romans 9:27 (NKJV) – "Isaiah also cries out concerning Israel: 'Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, the remnant will be saved.'"

INTRODUCTION:
Premature death is an assault on the divine purpose and plan for our lives. The scriptures reveal that God desires us to live long, fulfilling lives that glorify Him. In Isaiah 38, we see Hezekiah's story, where he confronts the prophecy of his impending death. Through prayer and genuine repentance, he breaks the yoke of premature death. This sermon will explore how we can also break the yoke of premature death in our lives, relying on God's promises and power.

1. THE REALITY OF PREMATURE DEATH
Understanding the nature and impact of premature death is crucial.

a) Definition of Premature Death: It refers to dying before one's divinely appointed time (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

b) Consequences of Premature Death: It robs individuals and families of God’s intended purpose and joy (John 10:10).

c) Biblical Examples: Numerous characters in the Bible faced premature death, illustrating its reality (e.g., Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6:6-7).

d) Spiritual Implications: Premature death can be a result of spiritual attacks, generational curses, or disobedience (Proverbs 18:21).

Biblical Example:
Hezekiah's illness is a direct confrontation with the threat of premature death and his plea to God reveals the power of prayer.

2. THE POWER OF PRAYER IN REVERSING DEATH
Prayer is a powerful tool to confront the threat of premature death.

a) Hezekiah's Example: He turned to God in prayer and reminded Him of his faithfulness (Isaiah 38:2-3).

b) Persistent Prayer: Like Hezekiah, we must pray earnestly and consistently (James 5:16).

c) The Authority of Jesus' Name: We have the right to invoke the name of Jesus in our prayers (John 14:13-14).

d) Corporate Prayer: Joining together in prayer with others can amplify our spiritual warfare (Matthew 18:19-20).

Biblical Example:
The early church prayed fervently for Peter's release from prison (Acts 12:5), demonstrating the power of collective prayer.

3. DECLARING LIFE OVER DEATH
We must declare God’s promises to overcome the threat of death.

a) Confessing Life: Our words have power; we should declare life over ourselves (Proverbs 18:21).

b) Holding on to God’s Promises: Psalm 118:17 reassures us of God’s intention for us to live and not die.

c) The Role of Faith: Our faith in God’s ability to protect us is crucial (Hebrews 11:1).

d) Living Righteously: Walking in obedience to God’s word can shield us from premature death (Proverbs 3:1-2).

Biblical Example:
Job’s declarations of faith amidst his trials (Job 13:15) reveal the importance of speaking life even in dire circumstances.

4. BREAKING CURSES AND YOKES OF DEATH
Identifying and addressing spiritual influences that lead to premature death is essential.

a) Understanding Curses: Premature death can be a curse in a family line (Exodus 20:5).

b) Breaking Generational Curses: We have the authority to break such curses through prayer and declaration (Galatians 3:13).

c) Anointing for Deliverance: Anointing with oil and prayer can bring healing and deliverance (James 5:14).

d) Rejection of Fear: Fear often precedes death; we must reject fear and embrace faith (2 Timothy 1:7).

Biblical Example:
In the story of the widow of Zarephath, God provided for her and her son, breaking the yoke of death through the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 17:8-16).

CONCLUSION:
Breaking the yoke of premature death requires understanding its nature, the power of prayer, declaring God’s promises, and addressing any spiritual influences. Just as God added fifteen years to Hezekiah's life, He desires to intervene in our circumstances. Let us boldly approach God, seeking His intervention and proclaiming life over ourselves and our loved ones.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I reject the yoke of premature death in my life!

2. I declare that I shall not die, but live to declare Your works!

3. Every generational curse of premature death, I break you now in Jesus’ name!

4. I receive the anointing for healing and deliverance over my life!

5. Lord, give me the faith to believe in Your promises!

6. I bind the spirit of fear that seeks to hinder my life!

7. May my declarations bring forth life and not death!

8. I pray for divine protection over my family and loved ones!

9. Lord, strengthen my prayer life to confront every challenge!

10. Thank You, Lord, for adding life to my days and fulfilling Your promises!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You are breaking free from every yoke of premature death!

2. You shall live long to fulfil your divine purpose!

3. God’s promises of life will manifest in your life!

4. Every curse of death is reversed in your family line!

5. You will experience the fullness of God’s protection!

6. Your faith will produce miraculous results!

7. You shall declare the works of the Lord throughout your life!

8. Divine health and longevity are your portion!

9. You are free from the bondage of fear and death!

10. You will walk in the light of God’s promises daily!