Every Season Under Heaven: Ecclesiastes, Temple Covenants, and the Journey to Immortality

Ecclesiastes is not Scripture’s surrender to meaninglessness. It is the wisdom of mortality—the testimony of a world east of Eden, where work exhausts, injustice wounds, pleasure fades, and death exposes the limits of every human attempt at permanence. Yet Qoheleth’s repeated word hebel is better pictured as vapor than as absolute nihilism: life “under the sun” is fleeting, elusive, and impossible to master. Through the poem of appointed times in Ecclesiastes 3, the book teaches disciples to receive mortal seasons as gifts they cannot control but can faithfully inhabit. Read within the full canon and through a Restoration lens, Ecclesiastes traces a temple-shaped movement from Edenic belonging, through mortal descent and covenant formation, toward judgment, resurrection, immortality, and life in Christ. Its final summons— “Fear God and keep his commandments”—does not solve every riddle. It teaches us how to live faithfully within them.

Some seasons arrive with invitations; others arrive with diagnoses, funerals, layoffs, broken trust, unanswered prayers, or the slow realization that the future will not look like the life we planned. We gladly quote, “A time to weep, and a time to laugh,” but the beauty of Ecclesiastes 3 can make us forget how severe the poem really is. It includes birth and death, planting and uprooting, healing and killing, embracing and separation, war and peace. Qoheleth is not decorating a calendar. He is naming the mortal world in which change is relentless and control is largely an illusion.

Ecclesiastes meets us precisely there. Its burden is not that nothing matters, but that nothing mortal can be made permanent by human grasping. Achievement cannot arrest death. Wealth cannot guarantee enjoyment. Wisdom cannot control outcomes. Even righteousness does not make mortality predictable. The Hebrew word hebel, traditionally rendered “vanity,” literally evokes breath or vapor: visible for a moment, real but ungraspable, present and already passing. Qoheleth dismantles the fantasy that we can secure eternal identity with temporary things.

That dismantling can become sacred preparation. When the false foundations collapse, the disciple can receive identity as covenant gift rather than personal construction. Ecclesiastes moves from Edenic echoes to dust, from dust to reverence, and from reverence toward divine judgment. Christian Scripture then answers Qoheleth’s deepest ache in the resurrected Christ, who entered the mortal descent, passed through death, and ascended in immortal glory. Restoration scripture widens that canonical horizon by locating earthly life between premortal belonging and resurrected continuation. Every season becomes neither random fate nor automatic blessing, but a mortal sphere in which agency, grace, covenant loyalty, and holy desire form a people capable of dwelling with God.

Ecclesiastes Is the Wisdom of Mortality

The 2026 Come, Follow Me manual places Proverbs and Ecclesiastes in productive tension. Proverbs often teaches that divine wisdom produces flourishing; Ecclesiastes replies that lived experience is not always so tidy. Qoheleth can devote himself to wisdom and still discover grief and “vexation of spirit” (Ecclesiastes 1:17–18). The manual therefore asks whether meaning is possible when life appears “vain, temporary, and uncertain,” and it answers by joining Ecclesiastes 12:13 to Proverbs 3:5: fear God, keep His commandments, and trust the Lord. Life with Christ is better, though mortality is not thereby made painless or predictable.

That distinction prevents two opposite misreadings. Ecclesiastes is neither a manifesto of atheistic despair nor a sentimental promise that every event will become pleasant if we wait long enough. It is wisdom spoken from within creaturely limits. The title identifies its speaker as Qoheleth, a term related to assembly and conventionally translated Teacher or Preacher. His royal Solomonic persona tests wisdom, pleasure, projects, wealth, reputation, and labor. Each experiment exposes the same boundary: human beings cannot produce lasting “gain” from beneath the sun because time, contingency, and death eventually take everything from their hands.

The phrase “under the sun” is therefore a crucial boundary marker. It names life as experienced from within the closed horizon of mortality. From that vantage point, generations come and go, the sun rises and sets, rivers run endlessly, memory disappears, and human striving circles back upon itself (Ecclesiastes 1:3–11). The world resembles Eden and yet is no longer Eden. Gardens can be planted, fruit enjoyed, marriage cherished, wisdom pursued, and work accomplished; nevertheless, thorns remain, sweat accompanies bread, domination distorts relationships, and everybody returns to dust. Ecclesiastes is the wisdom of Genesis 3 experienced from the inside.

When Thou Art Converted: Strengthening Faith Through the Plan of Salvation

When Thou Art Converted - Strengthen Thy Brethren

1974-75 Melchizedek Priesthood Study Manual

Doctrine Lesson 1 | Looking at Life from an Eternal Perspective

Topic: The Plan of Salvation

Embracing the Eternal Perspective: A Path to True Conversion

Everything shifts when we consider life through the lens of eternity. This shift is not merely philosophical—it anchors us to a life of meaning, purpose, and profound focus. An eternal perspective helps us prioritize significant values and long-term aspirations, resulting in a richer, fuller life. It equips us to navigate life’s challenges, converting our short-term focus into an enduring one. As the Savior taught:

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also... But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:19-21, 33, NASB)

This eternal perspective is not just a way of thinking—it is a path to true conversion. When we embrace it, we are empowered to strengthen our brethren, as the Savior commanded Peter: "When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren" (Luke 22:32, NASB). This article explores the importance of an eternal perspective, defines it, and examines its transformational effects on life choices. We will contrast it with temporal mindsets and address the fundamental questions of existence: Who am I? What is my purpose? Where do I go after death? Finally, we will apply this perspective to daily living and conclude with a call to action.

Importance of an Eternal Perspective

An eternal perspective is crucial because it shapes how we view our lives, our trials, and our ultimate destiny. It allows us to see beyond the immediate, often fleeting concerns of mortality and focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God, our spiritual growth, and our preparation for eternal life.

President Marion G. Romney illustrated this beautifully in a personal anecdote. While stationed in Sydney, Australia, he had a profound experience while reading Doctrine and Covenants section 76, which describes the degrees of glory. He recounted:

"As I read and contemplated, I was wholly absorbed, so much so that I did not note the passing of time. When I went outside, it was already night. There was no moon, but the sky was clear. As I started across the lawn to catch the tram, I looked up into the Heavens. The Southern Cross and other brilliant stars, visible in the Southern Hemisphere, shone with unusual grandeur. As I gazed in wonder, I seemed to see beyond them the things I had been reading about... Since that Saturday evening in Sydney, Australia 43 years ago, I have never been content to view life through the lens which reveals but the narrow span between mortal birth and death." (Church News, 5 June 1965, p. 14)

This experience transformed President Romney’s outlook, leading him to make decisions based on eternal truths rather than temporal concerns. His story underscores the importance of gaining an eternal perspective—it changes how we live, how we prioritize, and how we find meaning in our experiences.

Defining Eternal Perspective

An eternal perspective is the ability to view life’s events, challenges, and purposes through the lens of God’s eternal plan. It is understanding that our existence did not begin at birth and will not end at death. Instead, we are eternal beings, children of God, with a divine purpose and destiny.

Latter-day Saint theology teaches that we lived before this mortal life as spirit children of Heavenly Parents. We came to earth to gain a physical body, experience mortality, and progress toward becoming like our Heavenly Father. After death, we will be resurrected and, based on our faithfulness, inherit a degree of glory in the eternities.

This perspective is rooted in scripture. As Paul wrote:

"While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18, NASB)

An eternal perspective helps us focus on the unseen, eternal realities rather than being consumed by the temporary trials and distractions of mortality.

Transformational Effects on Life Choices

When we adopt an eternal perspective, our life choices are transformed. We begin to prioritize spiritual growth, service, and obedience to God’s commandments over worldly success, material wealth, or temporary pleasures. This shift in focus leads to greater peace, purpose, and joy.

For example, President Romney shared that after his experience in Sydney, he "never made a single voluntary major decision or judgment without testing it by my knowledge of revealed truth." This eternal perspective guided his decisions, helping him align his life with God’s will.

Similarly, the Book of Abraham teaches that in the preexistence, God showed Abraham the spirits who would come to earth and said:

"We will make an earth whereon these may dwell; and we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them." (Abraham 3:24-25, NASV)

Understanding that life is a test to prove our faithfulness to God’s commandments transforms how we approach daily decisions. We are more likely to choose righteousness, knowing that our choices have eternal consequences.

Contrast with Temporal Mindsets

A temporal mindset is focused on the here and now—immediate gratification, worldly success, and material possessions. It often leads to short-sighted decisions that prioritize temporary pleasure over long-term spiritual growth.

In contrast, an eternal perspective recognizes that this life is but a moment in the grand scheme of eternity. As James taught:

"Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." (James 4:14, NASB)

This perspective helps us avoid the pitfalls of pride, greed, and selfishness. It reminds us that true success is not measured by worldly standards but by our faithfulness to God and our preparation for eternal life.

Addressing Fundamental Questions of Existence

An eternal perspective provides answers to the fundamental questions of existence: 

• Who am I? 
• What is my purpose? 
• Where do I go after death? 

These questions are central to the human experience, and the plan of salvation offers clear, scriptural answers.

Who Am I? Latter-day Saint doctrine teaches that we are literal spirit children of Heavenly Parents. As Paul wrote: "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God." (Romans 8:16, NASB) This understanding of our divine heritage gives us a sense of identity and worth. We are not accidents of nature but beloved children of God with infinite potential.

What is My Purpose? Our purpose in life is to prepare to return to God’s presence. This involves gaining a physical body, learning to choose good over evil, and developing Christlike attributes. As the Book of Mormon teaches: "This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors." (Alma 34:32, NASV) We are here to grow, serve, and become more like our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Where Do I Go After Death? After death, our spirits go to the spirit world, where we await the resurrection. The righteous will dwell in a state of peace, while the wicked will experience sorrow for their sins. Eventually, all will be resurrected and judged according to their works. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10, NASB) Those who have been faithful will inherit eternal life in the celestial kingdom, while others will receive lesser degrees of glory based on their faithfulness.

Applying Eternal Perspective to Daily Living

An eternal perspective is not just a theoretical concept—it has practical applications in our daily lives. It influences how we handle trials, make decisions, and interact with others.

For example, when faced with adversity, an eternal perspective reminds us that trials are temporary and can lead to spiritual growth. As Paul wrote:

"For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison." (2 Corinthians 4:17, NASB)

This perspective helps us endure challenges with faith and hope, knowing that God is preparing us for greater blessings.

In decision-making, an eternal perspective encourages us to seek God’s will and prioritize spiritual growth over worldly success. It leads us to ask, "What would Jesus do?" and "How will this choice affect my eternal progression?"

Finally, an eternal perspective fosters love and compassion for others. When we see people as eternal beings with divine potential, we are more likely to treat them with kindness, patience, and forgiveness.

Summary of Thought - Call to Action

In conclusion, embracing an eternal perspective is essential for true conversion and spiritual growth. It helps us prioritize what truly matters, make wise decisions, and find meaning in life’s challenges. By understanding who we are, why we are here, and where we are going, we can live with purpose and hope.

As you reflect on this lesson, consider how you can apply an eternal perspective in your daily life. Ask yourself:

• How can I prioritize my spiritual growth over temporal concerns?
• What decisions can I make today that will align with God’s eternal plan?
• How can I strengthen my brethren and help them gain an eternal perspective?

Remember the words of the Savior: 

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33, NASB)

By seeking God’s kingdom first, we can find true happiness and prepare for eternal life.

Recommended Sources for Further Study

• Angel, Hayyim. "Afterlife in Jewish Thought." Conversations, no. 23. Rabbi Hayyim Angel is the National Scholar of the Institute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals. He also teaches advanced Bible courses to undergraduate, graduate, and rabbinical students at Yeshiva University, and lectures widely. This article appears in issue 23 of Conversations, the journal of the Institute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals and was also reprinted in issue 44.
• Bell, James P. “Purpose of Earth Life.” Latter-day Saint Essentials: Readings from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by John W. Welch and Devan Jensen, BYU Studies and the Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002, pp. 94–96.
• Brown, Gayle Oblad. “Premortal Life.” Latter-day Saint Essentials: Readings from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by John W. Welch and Devan Jensen, BYU Studies and the Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002, pp. 90–94.
• Callister, Tad R. “What Is the Purpose of Suffering?” Give Ear to My Words, edited by Kerry Hull et al., Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University / Deseret Book, 2019, pp. 1–20.
• Gardner, Norman W. “What We Know about Premortal Life.” Seminaries and Institutes, New Era, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, February 2015.  
• Gee, John. An Introduction to the Book of Abraham. Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2017.
• Hart, Craig H. “Our Divine Nature and Life Decisions.” BYU Devotional, 5 Aug. 2008, Brigham Young University.
• Lund, Gerald L. “Plan of Salvation.” Latter-day Saint Essentials: Readings from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, edited by John W. Welch and Devan Jensen, BYU Studies and the Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002, pp. 85–90.
• Mathews, Mark A. “‘Between the Time of Death and the Resurrection’: A Doctrinal Examination of the Spirit World.” Religious Educator, vol. 21, no. 1, 2020, pp. 105–127.
• Oaks, Dallin H. “Divine Helps for Mortality.” General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Apr. 2025, 
• Peek, Cecilia M. “‘Yea, They May Forget, Yet Will I Not Forget Thee.’” BYU Devotional, 9 Nov. 2011, Brigham Young University.
• Pinson, DovBer. "Heaven and Hell." Chabad.org, Chabad.org. Accessed 26 July 2025. Rabbi DovBer Pinson, Rosh Kollel of IYYUN, is a world-renowned scholar, kabbalist, and spiritual teacher. Through his books and lectures he has touched the lives of tens of thousands and serves as a mentor to many across the globe. He has authored over 30 books, many of which have been translated into multiple languages.
• Rose, Or N., Rabbi. "Heaven and Hell in Jewish Tradition." My Jewish Learning. Accessed 26 July 2025. Rabbi Or N. Rose is Associate Dean of the Rabbinical School of Hebrew College in Newton, MA. He is the co-editor of Righteous Indignation: A Jewish Call for Justice and God in All Moments: Spiritual and Practical Wisdom from the Hasidic Masters. He is currently completing a doctorate in Jewish thought at Brandeis University.
• Skinner, Andrew C. “The Premortal Godhood of Christ: A Restoration Perspective.” Jesus Christ: Son of God, Savior, edited by Paul H. Peterson et al., Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002, pp. 50–78.
• Turner, Rodney. “Morality and Marriage in the Book of Mormon.” The Book of Mormon: Jacob through Words of Mormon, To Learn with Joy, edited by Monte S. Nyman and Charles D. Tate Jr., Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1990, pp. 271–294.

Annotated End Notes

• Scriptures: All scripture references are from the New American Standard Version (NASB), as requested. Key passages include Matthew 6:19-34, 2 Corinthians 4:18, Romans 8:16, Alma 34:32, and 2 Corinthians 5:10.
• President Marion G. Romney: His personal anecdote about gaining an eternal perspective while reading Doctrine and Covenants section 76 is cited from the Church News, 5 June 1965, p. 14.
• Book of Abraham: References to the preexistence and the purpose of life are drawn from Abraham 3:22-26, which describes the premortal council and God’s plan for His children.
• Latter-day Saint Doctrine: Insights on the plan of salvation, including premortal life, mortal life, the spirit world, and immortal glory, are based on teachings from Latter-day Saint leaders and scriptures, including Doctrine and Covenants sections 76, 93, and 138.
• General Authorities: Quotes and teachings from leaders such as President Joseph Fielding Smith, Elder Bruce R. McConkie, and others are incorporated to provide doctrinal clarity and depth.
• Jewish Thought: References to Jewish beliefs about the afterlife are included to provide historical context and contrast with Latter-day Saint teachings.

Debunking the Myth: Latter-day Saints Serve God, Not Our "Divine Self"

 

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In addressing the question of whether Latter-day Saint Christians serve their divine self, it’s crucial to analyze the scriptural interpretations and theological assumptions that underpin this inquiry. A blog post by Life After Ministry attempts to critique Latter-day Saint doctrine by employing a selective interpretation of 1 Timothy 6:3-4, juxtaposed against a quote from Rosemary M. Wixom’s October 2015 General Conference address. However, this analysis suffers from fundamental interpretative and logical errors.

Firstly, 1 Timothy 6:3-4, when read in its broader context (1 Timothy 1:1-6:2), clearly aims to caution against diverging from the teachings of Christ which align with godliness. Apostle Paul emphasizes adherence to the sound words of Jesus Christ and those doctrines that shape us towards godliness. This suggests a lifelong pursuit of aligning our will with God’s will, rather than fostering a self-centered "divine self."

The critique further unravels when considering that the interpretation presented in the blog post ignores significant portions of Paul’s epistle which discuss the roles and behaviors befitting a follower of Christ, including prayers, leadership, and community relations—all pointing towards a collective rather than individualistic approach to godliness.

Moreover, the use of a single statement from Wixom’s talk to represent the entirety of Latter-day Saint teaching on divinity within illustrates a cherry-picking fallacy. This selective citation fails to capture the broader Latter-day Saint perspective which views divine nature as part and parcel of a communal journey towards salvation and exaltation, as framed within the overarching plan of salvation which aims for immortality and eternal life of humanity (Moses 1:39).

In the New Testament, Paul teaches that Christians are to be conformed to the image of Christ, who is Himself the express image of the Father (Romans 8:29, Colossians 1:15). Hence, if we are to be molded into Christ's image, and He in the image of the Father, it logically follows that our spiritual journey is about becoming more like the Father, not about serving ourselves.

Drawing from my studies on the doctrine of Theosis, the biblical basis of this teaching is clear. Latter-day Saint theology extends this understanding through the doctrines of Exaltation and Eternal Increase, where we, as joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), aspire to receive the same inheritance and glory. This is not about elevating ourselves to a divine status independently of God but rather about participating in the divine nature through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Hence, when examining whether Latter-day Saint Christians serve their divine self, it’s evident that the faith's teachings advocate for a transformative, Christ-centered journey towards godliness that involves serving others, following Christ’s teachings, and seeking to inherit divine glory through His grace. This interpretation aligns with the broader Christian call towards sanctification and glorification through Christ, rather than a self-serving divinization.

1 Nephi 8 – Weathering Life’s Storms with the Anchor of God’s Word

 

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Christ’s call to “Be ye therefore perfect” (Matthew 5:48) in the sermon on the mount sets an immense challenge, yet one rooted in profound love. Perfection requires immense personal growth and sacrifice – denying ourselves, taking up our cross as Christ taught (Matthew 16:23-26). The path is narrow, the way difficult (Matthew 7:13-14), but Christ doesn’t ask this of us flippantly. He knows the struggles we’ll face amid the mists of darkness. That’s why in the Book of Mormon’s sublime vision of the Tree of Life, the love of God is symbolized by the most “desirable” fruit imaginable. The iron rod represents Christ’s word to cling to when the wide way seems easier. Though perfection seems impossible amid our weakness, Christ’s perfect love provides the strength we need. If we endure to the Tree of Life, the fruit of eternal life awaits – a gift from the perfect Father who simply asks us to keep trying, keep growing, keep holding to the rod of His truth. It’s a journey of a million footsteps, but one made possible through the grace of the one who is himself the Way.

The Savior’s love is a profound experience that transcends mere words. It manifests when we hold fast to our beliefs, pressing forward with unwavering faith and obedience to the teachings revealed through sacred scriptures and modern-day prophets and apostles. Lehi’s vision becomes our personal pilgrimage, a journey towards a new life – a life we can embrace in the present moment as we grow and mature in our faith. It is a progression towards immortality and eternal life, where we attain the fullness of true spiritual perfection. This path is not merely a distant promise but a tangible reality, accessible to those who wholeheartedly embrace the Savior’s teachings and walk in His footsteps. It is a transformative experience that imbues our lives with purpose, hope, and an abiding sense of peace that transcends earthly trials and tribulations.

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