It is a lasting one--one that does not end.

So those who go into destruction suffer a punishment that is everlasting; therefore everlasting punishment.
[574]This punishment the Apostle plainly describes as destruction.
(2 Thessalonians 1:9) It is certain that they do not get life, because the Lord plainly says in this statement that the righteous, the obedient ones, go away into life eternal.

The final fate of the wicked, therefore, is an everlasting destruction; whereas the final state of the obedient and righteous ones is life everlasting in peace and in joy.
ALL MUST HAVE A "CHANCE" [575]The great ransom-sacrifice presented in heaven by the Lord Jesus is a guarantee that every man must have one full and fair opportunity for life.

Life is pictured as a gift.

In order for a gift to be effective there must be a giver or donor, and a receiver or donee.