There are moments in life when everything feels uncertain—times when fear, illness, despair, or loss whisper that there’s no way forward. But God’s Word speaks a louder truth: You shall live and not die.
This powerful promise comes from Psalm 118:17, and it’s echoed throughout Scripture as a message of hope, resilience, and faith in God’s purpose for our lives.
Whether you’re recovering from illness, walking through a tough season, or simply needing encouragement to keep going, these Bible verses remind us that God is a God of life.
He brings restoration, purpose, and strength where we thought we had none.
What Does “I Shall Live and Not Die” Mean?
It’s more than just survival. It’s about:
- Trusting in God’s plan even when things look bleak.
- Believing He still has work for you to do.
- Knowing that in Christ, death is never the final word.
15 Bible Verses That Echo “I Shall Live and Not Die”
1. Psalm 118:17
I will not die, but live, and tell of the works of the Lord.
Explanation:
This verse is a bold declaration of survival and purpose. The psalmist expresses trust in God to preserve his life so he can keep testifying of God’s faithfulness.
2. John 11:25-26
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?”
Explanation:
Jesus promises eternal life to those who believe in Him. Even physical death can’t separate us from the life He gives.
3. Isaiah 38:16
Lord, by these things people live, and in all these is the life of my spirit; restore me to health and let me live!
Explanation:
This is part of King Hezekiah’s prayer after he was healed. It shows us that even in sickness, we can cry out to God for healing and life.
4. Psalm 91:16
I will satisfy him with a long life, and show him My salvation.
Explanation:
This verse reflects God’s promise to those who love and trust Him. Long life and salvation are blessings He freely offers.
5. Romans 8:11
But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He… will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit…
Explanation:
God’s Spirit gives life—not just spiritually, but even strength to our physical bodies. His power is greater than death.
6. 2 Corinthians 4:10-11
…always carrying around in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed… we who live are constantly being handed over to death… so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal flesh.
Explanation:
Even when we feel weak or close to defeat, God is at work in us. His life is revealed through our trials.
7. Job 33:4
The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Explanation:
Every breath we take is a gift from God. Our existence is proof of His ongoing work and purpose for us.
8. Psalm 30:2-3
Lord my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. Lord, You have brought up my soul from Sheol; You have kept me alive…
Explanation:
This is a praise from David after being saved from the brink of death. It’s a reminder that healing and rescue come from God.
9. Proverbs 14:27
The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, by which one may avoid the snares of death.
Explanation:
When we live with reverence toward God, we walk a path that leads to life, not destruction.
10. Psalm 107:20
He sent His word and healed them, and saved them from their destruction.
Explanation:
God’s Word brings healing. His promises have power to restore and protect us from death.
11. John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.
Explanation:
Jesus didn’t just come to give us life—He came to give us abundant life. His desire is for us to live fully.
12. Deuteronomy 30:19
I have placed before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live…
Explanation:
God gives us the choice—and He encourages us to choose life, to choose Him, and to walk in His ways.
13. 2 Kings 20:5
I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; behold, I am going to heal you…
Explanation:
This was God’s response to Hezekiah’s cry for healing. God sees and responds to heartfelt prayers for life.
14. Luke 8:50
But when Jesus heard this, He responded to him, “Do not be afraid any longer; only believe, and she will be made well.”
Explanation:
Jesus spoke this to a grieving father. Faith in Jesus brings healing—even when it feels too late.
15. Revelation 1:18
…I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore… and I have the keys of death and of Hades.
Explanation:
Jesus holds authority over death itself. If He conquered it, then in Him, we truly live—now and forever.
Final Thoughts: A Declaration of Life
I shall live and not die isn’t just a hopeful phrase—it’s a truth rooted in God’s Word. These verses show us that God’s will is for life, restoration, and hope. He sees every fear and every cry, and He reminds us that as long as we’re breathing, He’s not done with us.
If you’re facing a tough diagnosis, a deep depression, or a spiritual valley—know this: you have purpose. You are not forgotten. You shall live and declare the works of the Lord.
Let’s Encourage Each Other
Has God brought you through a time when you thought you wouldn’t make it?
Do you have a favorite verse that reminds you of His promise of life?
Share your story or Scripture below in the comments. Your testimony may be exactly what someone else needs today.