The overpowering effect of the spirit of the Lord has ample scriptural witness, including Paul and Alma the younger. In the case of Sherem, however, the smiting does not lead to an earthly turnaround and new mission, but rather in his death. For several days the people nourished Sherem as they were able. Sherem was clearly not dead, and may have been conscious but simply weak and unable to feed himself. but was not responding. This information is actually an important part of the story, because it shows that when Sherem dies it is due to the cursing of God, and not the inability to take nourishment in his smitten condition. He dies because God willed it, not because of starvation.