First Baptist Church of Herndon

When Life Gets Hard

Linda Soller | Mar 20, 2017

There are times these days when I can hardly stand to watch the news or read it. And it has nothing to do with if the news is fake or real. It seems harder and harder to find good news in our stressful world. Is it any wonder so many people in the world feel disenfranchised? Let’s face it, everybody must deal with challenges and strife in their life, but in my mind, there are certainly some who appear to get more than their fair share. I can understand how these people who face such struggles are poor in spirit. Have you ever thought “wow” when you hear or see someone rising against tragic circumstances with strength and faith? I often wonder if I could do the same. Could I ever be so strong in my faith?

Stories and parables in the Bible reinforce the life lessons Jesus shared. When I envision a group of people struggling for no real reason, and see the arrogance of other humans who feel superior, I instantly think of the Samaritan woman at the well. She was from a group of people who were looked down upon, she had a history with the institution of marriage that left her on the outskirts of society, and she was simply working the best she could to survive.  Going to the well when others did not was standard operating procedure for her. When Jesus asked for a drink I feel like she must have glanced around to see who He was talking to, surely not her. At the end of their conversation, this woman who had every right to be of poor spirit, did what many of us fear to do. She told people about her encounter. She shared the message she had gotten from Jesus. She took her faith to others, even those who looked down on her.

Maybe you are feeling low today. Maybe it’s a daily thing for you. Do you have times when you think, what did I do to deserve this life, the harsh treatment I get from others, or the problems I am facing? Truth be known, we have all probably been there at one point. Jesus offered the Samaritan woman living water. He offered solutions and support, He did not offer a magic trick, or accuse her of anything. He reached out to her and He reaches out to you. Having a bad day, a bad week, month or year? When life gets hard just remember, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5: 3)

Make this a great week!  :o)  Linda

Want to know more? Open a Bible. The Samaritan woman’s story can be found in John 4: 3-30, and the Beatitudes are found in Matthew 5:1-12.