“The Woman at the Well: Never Thirst Again”

As I was preparing for this upcoming Sunday School lesson, a certain phrase stood out to me, "All that I ever did". I'm referring to the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus at verse 29 in John chapter 4. If you are not familiar with this passage of scripture, take a moment to pause, pull out your bible, and turn to the Gospel of John (New Testament), Chapter 4 and read versus 1-42. (John 4:1-42). I want you to understand what I will discuss in this entry.

We have a Samaritan woman at a well talking to Jesus. This is odd due to the 700 years long animosity and feuds between the Jews and Samaritans. Some will refer to her as a prostitute or a woman of promiscuity. It's not a secret. During Jesus’ discussion with her on the "living water" and "never thirsting again", Jesus sends a strong message. Though Jesus is giving her a firsthand glimpse as Messiah, He sends a significant message. This message is not just on salvation in receiving Him, but loving everyone, as Christ sees us. As Christ sees you. As Christ sees me.

In verse 18, Jesus gives this woman insight. He does this by telling her He is aware of her "five husbands". By that, she understands that He is who was predicted to come. I believe she understands this is her saving Grace. I believe she knew, by meeting Jesus, she was redeemed. This Samaritan woman recognized she could have a clean slate. This Samaritan woman is each of us. Well, why do you say that, Lady Monica? I say this because we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).

My point is simple. Stop holding others prisoner by reminding them of their past. What if Jesus held you captive? If God denied us His unconditional love, based off of our pasts or daily sins, then it would have been no point for Jesus.

I’m so grateful and thankful to God for sending His Son. With Jesus, there is liberty and freedom. The Word says, “He who the Son sets free is free indeed” (John 8:36). Once we receive Christ, we’re still sinners, but we should sin less. We don’t suddenly become perfect at the point of salvation; but, we should work diligently to become who God called us to be.

Question: How can we improve our relationship with God after receiving Christ as our personal Lord and Savior?

1. We must read the Bible daily (Psalm 119:105). Scripture corrects us, teaches us, and trains us (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Reading multiple chapters at a time may be overwhelming to start. So, start with 1-2 versus of scripture daily. If you don’t understand a word, look up the definition and start over. One tip that helps me when I’m studying is that if I can’t teach it back (out loud) then I’m not ready to move on. Remember, study at your own pace. This is not a race.

2. We must pray (not just daily), but often (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Remember, there isn’t a format to prayer, just allow your heart to be authentic when speaking to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you. Ask the Spirit of God to make intercession on your behalf when you can’t find the words to say. God knows you and He hears your heart.

3. We must incorporate fasting into our lives (Ezra 8:23). Fasting takes self-discipline and focus. But if you want to hear a word from God, praying, fasting, and reading His word moves mountains. Fasting is sacrificing something temporarily to send your 911 call up a little faster to Heaven. That’s how I like to think of it. I feel like when I’m fasting and petitioning God for something, the Angels tell God, “Hey Boss. You got a 911 call from Monica”. And I can hear God say, “Okay. Clear my schedule”. That’s how I view fasting. Some people may fast from fried foods 8 am – 6 pm, for example. Find what works for you.

4. Lastly, we must fellowship with other believers. Ask the Holy Spirit of God to lead you to a bible teaching (sound doctrine) church. It takes believers standing together to see better results. We can’t do it alone.

Here’s my prayer for you. Father God in the name of Jesus, help us to forgive ourselves. Father God move on the hearts of others to no longer hold others captive because of their pasts. Father God heal what’s broken. Father God mend what’s paining us. Father God make us whole and healthy as You created us to be. Father God, allow us to love others and view others as Jesus saw the woman at the well. Father God, we thank you for the redeeming actions of Christ Jesus. Because of His sacrifice on the cross, over 2,000 years ago, we no longer have to walk in shame. We love You Father. It’s in Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Love,

Lady Monica