What is the Purpose of Life on Earth?

Elul is a time for reflection and repentance in the build up to the High Holidays. But even as the month draws to a close, the final moments before Rosh Hashanah provide ample opportunities to increase G-d’s blessings in the coming year.

But why does G-d need us to make any effort at all? Surely, He can give us whatever we need without any input from us. In truth, though, while God can give us anything, if it isn’t earned, it just isn’t the same.