Hold up the spray bottle and say:
“Watch closely.”
Spray it into the air and ask:
“Did you see that mist? It was there for a moment, and now it’s gone. You couldn’t catch it, and you can’t get it back. That’s what the Bible says our life is like.”
Read James 4:14 (WEB):
“You don’t know what your life will be like tomorrow. For what is your life? For you are a vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.”
Explain:
“We plan our days, our future, our dreams—and there’s nothing wrong with making plans—but we forget that life is short. Just like that mist, we’re only here for a little while. We don’t know how long we have, so we need to live every day for God, with eternity in mind.”
Let kids or listeners take a turn spraying the bottle or watching the steam. Then say:
“Did you notice how fast it disappeared? That’s how quickly life passes. That’s why we need to be wise with the time God gives us.”
Scripture Tie-Ins
- James 4:14 – “You are a vapor that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.”
- Psalm 90:12 – “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
- Proverbs 27:1 – “Don’t boast about tomorrow; for you don’t know what a day may bring.”
- Luke 12:20 – “You fool! This night your soul will be required of you.”
Suggested Bible Stories
- The Rich Fool (Luke 12:16–21)
A man stored up earthly wealth but died that night. He wasn’t rich toward God. - Job’s Tragedy (Job 1–2; 7:6–7)
Job’s life changed instantly. He later reflected on how short and fragile life is. - King Hezekiah’s Illness (2 Kings 20:1–6)
God told Hezekiah he would die. After prayer, God extended his life—but the moment reminded him who holds our days. - Stephen’s Death (Acts 7)
Stephen’s faithful life was cut short—but his eternity with God was secure. - David’s Prayer (Psalm 39:4–6)
David acknowledged that life is brief and asked God to help him live wisely.
Reflection Questions
- Why do you think the Bible compares our lives to a vapor?
- Can you think of a time when someone’s plans suddenly changed?
- If life is short, how should that change the way you live today?
- What are some things you want to do that matter for eternity?
- Are you trusting in your own plans, or asking God to lead your life?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the time You’ve given me on earth. Help me to remember that life is short and uncertain, and to live each day for You. Teach me to number my days so that I may grow in wisdom and live in a way that honors You. Help me not to waste time on things that don’t last, but to keep my eyes on eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.