We’ve been there: Sitting in a church service, Bible study, Sunday school class, women’s conference, men’s conference or work when someone spouts off about their new adventure in life. In a church setting, some may even attribute the blessing of opportunity to God’s faithfulness and calling in their lives. And there you sit. Wondering. With every word of her wonderful news, you know you should genuinely feel happy for her, but you wonder about your own opportunities instead. Why hasn’t God opened those doors for me? Am I living out my purpose? Does God even have a plan for my life?
Objectively, we know God does have a plan for each of us but if you’ve ever wondered what that plan was, you’re not alone. Satan would like you to think you are the only one in a crowd of the “blessed” who isn’t living up to what you’re supposed to be. Ignore those lies and cling to Truth.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. Jeremiah 29:11
God has a plan for each of us.
The woman at the well thought her life’s path was in place until she had an encounter with God. We never learn her name, only that she is a Samaritan. Samaritans have appeared in several places in the bible and this mixed race of people was hated among other groups. No respectable Jewish man would dare talk to a woman of this race in public, let alone ask her for a drink. But He did.
The Samaritan woman said to him, “you are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" John 4:9
I’ve often wondered what motivation was behind her question. The scripture concludes with a clarifying statement. “For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.” Perhaps years of enduring a scowling eye from the Jewish people gave her the fortitude to say how can you ask me to serve you? Maybe she was protecting Him. Don’t you know you’re not supposed to talk to me? I’m not worthy to talk to you. Or did she have her own reputation in mind? What will my family say if they see me talking to a Jew?
No matter what her internal dialogue or motivation, Jesus met her at the well.
Many of us can relate to this woman. Maybe you feel looked down on by the “good Christians” in town because you don’t quite fit in. Perhaps you don’t feel worthy because you’ve done things you’re not proud of in your life. Or maybe your feel God calling you closer to His side but you aren’t sure what your family or friends will think if you turn into a “goodie two shoes Christian”.
No matter what the motivation, only thirsty people come to wells. If you have felt a tug on your heart and dryness in your soul, Jesus is ready to meet you at your well with Living Water. He has a plan and you’re in it.
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