Locations & Times

What if everything you’re chasing still leaves you empty?

This message hits the tension we all feel but rarely admit. Success, money, status, even the dream life we imagine can’t carry the weight of our identity. Through stories of Tom Brady, Solomon, and real-life struggles with approval and achievement, we see a pattern. We chase more to prove we’re enough, but it never delivers. The truth is simple but hard. The things we build for ourselves will never satisfy the deeper need inside us.

Something shifts when we stop trying to prove ourselves and start surrendering. Jesus flips the script. Instead of building a life around taking, He shows us a life built on giving. Purpose isn’t something you create through success. It’s something you discover by serving something bigger than you. When you let go of control, approval, and identity tied to performance, you finally find freedom, meaning, and a life that actually matters.

Jesse DeYoung
May 3rd, 2026

// Bible References: Ecc 2:10-11; Matt 16:25; Mark 10:45; Phil 2:6-7; Eph 2:10; Prov 16:9; Rom 8:31;

// Community Question: What’s a ‘fake version’ of something (food, brand, trend, etc.) that just doesn’t compare to the real thing?

// Discussion Questions

1. Jesse shared Tom Brady's quote about having three Super Bowl rings but still feeling like 'there's gotta be more than this.' Why do you think achieving our biggest dreams sometimes leaves us feeling empty instead of fulfilled?
2. Read Ephesians 2:10. Jesse shared that “you don’t create purpose you discover it.” How does this verse shape the way you think about your purpose, and what might it look like to begin discovering the good works God has already placed in front of you right where you are today?
3. Solomon searched for meaning through accomplishments, wealth, status, power, and pleasure. Which of these do you see people chasing most in our culture today, and why do you think that is? As you reflect on your own life, which of these are you most tempted to look to for meaning or fulfillment?
4. Going Deeper: Read Mark 10:45. How does His (Jesus) example challenge our natural desire to be noticed, promoted, or recognized? As you think about your everyday life, relationships, work, or responsibilities; where do you find yourself focused more on what you can get, and what might it look like to shift toward serving others instead?

// Challenge: Jesse shared the image of monkeys getting trapped because they won’t let go of what they’re holding onto. Is there something in your life (an attitude, habit, or pursuit) that might be keeping you from the freedom and purpose God has for you? What would it look like to loosen your grip on that this week, and what’s one small step you can take toward that freedom?