PREMATURE DEATH IS NOT YOUR PORTION

TITLE: PREMATURE DEATH IS NOT YOUR PORTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Acts 23:12-22 (NKJV) – “And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy. They came to the chief priests and elders and said, ‘We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul.’...”

Supporting Texts:
Psalm 118:17 (NKJV) – “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord.”
Psalm 91:16 (NKJV) – “With long life I will satisfy him, and show him my salvation.”

INTRODUCTION:
In a world filled with uncertainties and threats, the declaration that "premature death is not your portion" stands as a powerful affirmation of God's promise for long life and purpose. The narrative in Acts 23 highlights the danger Paul faced but serves as a reminder that God’s plan for our lives cannot be thwarted by the enemy’s schemes. This sermon will explore how we can stand firm on God’s promises regarding our lives, confront any spirit of premature death, and declare life over our circumstances.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE THREAT OF PREMATURE DEATH
Premature death can manifest in various forms, and it is crucial to recognise its origins.

a) The Reality of Spiritual Conspiracies: Just as the Jews plotted against Paul, there are spiritual forces conspiring against our lives. These forces seek to cut short our destinies (Ephesians 6:12).

b) Curses and Declarations of Death: Words carry power, and curses pronounced over individuals can manifest in various ways (Proverbs 18:21).

c) Fear and Anxiety: Living in fear can attract negativity and even sickness, leading to untimely death (2 Timothy 1:7).

d) Generational Patterns: Many experience premature death due to inherited patterns that need breaking through prayer and spiritual warfare (Exodus 20:5).

Biblical Example:
In Acts 12, King Herod sought to kill Peter, but through prayer, the church intervened, and Peter was miraculously released (Acts 12:5-11).

2. DECLARING GOD’S PROMISES FOR LONG LIFE
It is essential to affirm our faith in God's promises, particularly regarding longevity.

a) Confession of Life: Like the psalmist, we can declare, “I shall not die, but live” (Psalm 118:17). This declaration must become part of our daily confession.

b) Understanding God's Plan for Us: God has a purpose for each of us, which includes a long life to fulfil His will (Jeremiah 29:11).

c) Prayer for Protection: Engaging in consistent prayer is vital for claiming God's protection over our lives (Philippians 4:6-7).

d) Faith in Divine Intervention: We must trust that God will intervene when death seems imminent (Isaiah 54:17).

Biblical Example:
Hezekiah received a word from the Lord promising him additional years after he prayed for healing (2 Kings 20:5).

3. ACTIVATING DIVINE PROTECTION
To ensure that premature death does not manifest, we must activate God's protective power.

a) The Power of the Blood of Jesus: The blood of Jesus offers protection against death and destruction (Exodus 12:13).

b) Angelic Assistance: God sends His angels to protect us and keep us from harm (Psalm 91:11-12).

c) Living in Obedience: Our obedience to God's commandments secures His favour and protection over our lives (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

d) Fellowship with Believers: Surrounding ourselves with a community of faith strengthens our position against premature death (Matthew 18:19-20).

Biblical Example:
Daniel was protected in the lion's den due to his unwavering faith in God (Daniel 6:22).

4. WALKING IN THE ASSURANCE OF LIFE
To counteract any threats of premature death, we must embrace a lifestyle that promotes life.

a) Living with Purpose: Understanding our purpose fuels our desire to live and fulfil God's calling (Philippians 1:21).

b) Healthy Living: Making wise choices regarding our health contributes to longevity (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

c) Joy and Gratitude: A joyful heart brings health to the body and prolongs life (Proverbs 17:22).

d) Praising God for Life: Regularly expressing gratitude for life reinforces our faith in God’s promises (Psalm 34:1).

Biblical Example:
Job, after enduring immense trials, was restored and lived a long life, experiencing the fullness of God’s blessings (Job 42:16-17).

CONCLUSION:
As believers, we must stand firm in the truth that premature death is not our portion. Through recognition of the threats, declaration of God’s promises, activation of divine protection, and living with purpose, we can confidently claim our right to a long and fulfilling life. Let us hold on to God’s assurance in Psalm 91:16, knowing that He will satisfy us with long life and show us His salvation.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. I declare that premature death is not my portion, in Jesus’ name!

2. Every spiritual conspiracy against my life is nullified by the blood of Jesus!

3. I break every curse of untimely death over my life and family!

4. Lord, protect me from every fear that may lead to premature death!

5. I claim the promise of long life according to Psalm 91:16!

6. May the blood of Jesus shield me from death and destruction!

7. I command every generational pattern of death to be broken in my life!

8. Surround me with Your angels for protection, O Lord!

9. Help me to live in obedience to Your Word and commandments!

10. I will live to declare the works of the Lord, and I rejoice in Your goodness!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will not die before your time; your days are prolonged by the Lord!

2. Every scheme of the enemy to cut your life short is thwarted now!

3. You are covered by the blood of Jesus, and no harm shall come near you!

4. Your purpose will be fulfilled, and you will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!

5. You will experience the joy of the Lord, which is your strength!

6. Divine protection surrounds you and your loved ones!

7. You will live a life filled with testimonies of God’s faithfulness!

8. Every spirit of fear is cast out; you shall walk in boldness and faith!

9. You are anointed for longevity and divine health!

10. Your life shall be a testament to God’s saving grace and power!