Messengers of the GospelSample

The Samaritan Woman Shares Her Story

Today, we will continue to focus on the story of the Samaritan Woman at the well. You may remember that after her encounter with Jesus, the woman at the well dropped her water jug and ran into the town to tell others about Jesus. She said, “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” (John 4:29 NIV). Her encounter with Jesus sparked something inside her that could not be contained. It was like the living water of a mountain spring, bubbling up from inside of her and pouring out to those around her.

Something in this woman had clearly changed, and the townspeople noticed and were curious about what, or more precisely, who, could have caused such a transformation. They responded to her invitation to “come and see” by coming and seeing. Her story moved others to action that would lead them to Jesus.

A long time ago, I was invited to share my story at a local church. I immediately said, “Yes!” A friend came along for support, and as we pulled into the parking lot, she laughed and said, “There’s your audience.” I looked up and saw vanloads of men heading into the building, and I paused. What could I, a woman with deeply personal, woman-centered stories, say to a group of men?

Still, I stayed calm and obedient, and I shared my story. At the end, several of the men told me how much my words had impacted them. That day, I was reminded that my story isn’t mine—it’s God’s. When we surrender our story to Him, He uses it to reach hearts we never expected.

Your story is not your own. It’s God’s story. Here are four key takeaways to encourage you as you share your God story:

1. Curiosity leads to action.

Your story is curious because it is supernatural. Your real encounters with Jesus can spark curiosity in others. Let’s learn to tell our stories with joy and authenticity, which the Holy Spirit uses to draw people in.

2. There is power in your real story.

Your story is powerful because others can relate to it. Everyone can relate to the struggles of real life. The Bible reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 NIV). When you share your real story, there will be emotions and experiences others can relate to. When others relate, your story becomes a bridge leading them toward Jesus.

3. A personal encounter with Jesus is key.

Your story might be the first spark, but what each person really needs is to encounter Jesus. The Samaritan woman used her story to bring the town to Jesus. They were intrigued by her words, but then believed when they heard His words: “Many more believed because of His own word” (John 4:41 NIV). Make sure to point to the hero of the story—Jesus.

4. Transformation comes through faith.

True change does not happen from an abundance of information. Transformation takes place when a person repents of their sins and places their faith in Jesus. They have a decision to make. Be prepared to guide a person through that decision when the time comes. It will be helpful to remember the 4 A’s of salvation:

Jesus,

I ADMIT I have sinned.

I ASK for your forgiveness.

I ACCEPT You, Jesus, as my Savior.

I ACKNOWLEDGE you as the Lord of my life.

When you share what Jesus has done in your life, you become a vessel through which others are invited to “come and see” and encounter Him for themselves. So don’t hold back.

Your story matters.

Activity:

Memorize the four A’s of salvation. Write the 4 A’s down to lock them into your memory. Connect with a friend or someone from your group this week to practice walking them through the 4 A's.