Daily Devotional | Samaritan Woman: Labels and Lies

We all wear labels—labels related to our relationships, our occupations, our hobbies, our virtues, even our flaws. Some are a source of pride; other we try to shed. What are some of your labels?

One afternoon, a Samaritan woman went to the well. She likely went during the heat of the day to avoid her community since she carried significant shame. She must have been startled to find a Jewish man there, and more surprised when He asked her for a drink.

“You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman,” she answered (v. 9). Notice that she led with their labels and believed the lie that came with them. But Jesus responded with truth and grace. He focused on His identity and His gift for her (v. 10). The woman’s interest was piqued, and her longing revealed. Yet she continued to question Him. “You have nothing to draw with,” she pointed out. “Are you greater than our father Jacob?” (vv. 11, 12). While she focused on physical things like the missing jug and deep well, Jesus wanted to satisfy her spiritual thirst and give her eternal life.

When the woman finally asked for this water, Jesus told her to get her husband. When she replied that she had none, Jesus demonstrated that He knew everything about her. He called her to truth and offered her grace all over again. When the woman declared that she knew that the Messiah would come, Jesus proclaimed, “I who speak to you am he” (v. 26).

Just one conversation with Jesus changed the Samaritan woman’s life. She left the well, sought out her community, relished being known by Jesus, and was used by Him to bring others to faith.

>> What are your labels? What lies do you believe? And what longings do you have that are never satisfied? Bring them all to Jesus and receive the Living Water He offers. Your life will never be the same again.