Live and Not Die

Live and Not Die

“Let Reuben live, and not die; and let not his men be few.” Deuteronomy 33:6 (KJV)

Deuteronomy 33 records the final moments of Moses, the man of God, as he pronounced blessings over the twelve tribes of Israel. Just before ascending the mountain to die—having been told by God to “die on the mountain… and join your people” (Deut. 32:50)—Moses chose not to speak words of bitterness or regret, but words of blessing and life.

He called each tribe by name, and when he came to Reuben, his prayer was striking: “Let Reuben live, and not die.” This was no casual statement. Reuben had gravely sinned by defiling his father’s bed, and because of that, Jacob had earlier pronounced a severe judgement over him. Yet Moses introduces a powerful, permissive word: “Let.” In essence, Moses interceded—appealing for mercy to override judgement, for life to triumph over death.

This teaches us something profound: past failure does not have the final word when mercy is allowed to speak. Moses stood in the gap and pleaded for Reuben’s preservation. In the same way, what Christ accomplished at Calvary has the power to nullify the consequences that should have ended us. This is not a licence to do wrong, but a reminder that repentance always opens the door to mercy. Scripture consistently shows that whenever a person turns back to God, mercy prevails.

So today, this word is for you: live and not die. Let mercy answer for you where judgement was expected. Let mercy speak in these remaining days of the year. You will live, and not die, and declare the works of the Lord. Amen.

Brief Reflection

God’s mercy has the power to interrupt negative verdicts. No matter your past, when you return to God, life is restored. Mercy is stronger than judgement.

Prayer

Merciful Father, thank You for Your grace that speaks louder than my failures. Let Your mercy prevail over every judgement standing against me. In these remaining days, let life, restoration, and hope answer for me. I declare that I will live and not die, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Have a fruitful day,
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift) 

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