Scripture: John 4:8 (ESV) – “(For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.)”
This verse may seem like a simple side note, but it sets the stage for an intimate and life-changing conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman. With His disciples away in the city, Jesus is alone at the well, creating the perfect moment for this divine appointment.
The document highlights how Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman was no accident. In God’s sovereign plan, the disciples were sent away, allowing Jesus to engage with her one-on-one. This moment was significant because it broke multiple cultural and social barriers—Jews did not associate with Samaritans, men did not typically speak to women in public, and rabbis certainly did not engage in conversation with a woman of questionable reputation. Yet, Jesus remains intentional in His mission to seek and save the lost.
James Montgomery Boice, in his Expositional Commentary on the Gospel of John, notes that Jesus’ disciples were often a distraction in moments like these. Their presence may have prevented the woman from feeling comfortable enough to engage in the conversation that would soon unfold. Boice points out that God often removes distractions from our lives so that He can speak to us clearly. Jesus had an important truth to share, and this moment of solitude was divinely arranged.
For us, this verse reminds us that God is always at work behind the scenes. He orchestrates the timing of events in our lives to draw us closer to Him. Sometimes, He removes distractions or shifts circumstances so that we can encounter Him in a deeper way. Like the Samaritan woman, we may not always recognize these divine appointments at first, but Jesus meets us in unexpected moments, offering us the living water of His grace.
Reflection Questions:
- How does this verse demonstrate God’s sovereignty in arranging divine appointments?
- Have you ever experienced a moment where God removed distractions so you could focus on Him? How did that impact your faith?
- In what ways can you be more aware of and open to God’s work in your daily interactions?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for orchestrating every detail of our lives, even the moments we don’t fully understand. Help us to recognize Your divine appointments and to be open to hearing Your voice. Remove any distractions that keep us from focusing on You, and teach us to trust in Your perfect timing. May we be ready and willing to share Your truth whenever You place someone in our path. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 