WE MUST INVEST IN WHAT LASTS RATHER THAN IN WHAT’S TEMPORARY. 

SCRIPTURE | Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 

CENTRAL TRUTH 

What we experience here—the good and the bad—is temporary; we will only find perfect peace and joy in eternity with God. 

KEY QUESTION 

FROM THESE VERSES, WHAT SHOULD WE REALIZE ABOUT LIFE? 

KEEP IN MIND 

Many of our students struggle with a control issue. This issue usually stems from a feeling of uncertainty. It can even be the result of trauma they’ve experienced in which they had no control over experiences that happened to them—things like death, abuse, abandonment, or sickness. They may grasp for control in an effort to feel more secure or less anxious. We must help them see that the better way is to give control to the Lord. In reality, He already has it. In reality, they have none. Students can open their hands and surrender to the Lord. They can choose to remain in His good and perfect will and trust that surrendering to it is so much better than attempting to control their own lives or the lives of others. 

APPLICATION 

HOW SHOULD THE REALITY THAT TIME IS PASSING AFFECT THE WAY YOU LIVE THIS WEEK? 

THE WIN 

FOR THE STUDENT: When our student live intentionally, they focus on what matters: knowing Christ and sharing Him with others. Oddly enough, when they do this, they actually get more out of every season of life—even the difficult ones. Why? They find meaning in them because God is present in them all. 

FOR THE LEADER: It is often tempting to seek happiness in earthly things. We look for worth in our wealth, success, and material possessions. Our lives are only meaningful here if they’re spent loving God and pointing others to Him. Commit to using your time here wisely.