The moment we detect a faint glimmer of interest in a non-Christian many of us want to rush right in and rattle off the whole gospel without coming up for air or waiting to sence audiance response. By relying on the power and presence of the Holy Spirit we can gain poise. In their conversation, our Lord did not condemn the Samaritan woman. As she answered Him about he husband, her sin itself condemned her. Most of us are quick to condemn.
Criticism is far more natural to our lips and to the lips of the world than praise.
When a non-Christian offers us a cigarette, invites us to join them for a drink, or suffests some other activity we consider out of bounds, our reply may have devastating effects. The key is to recognize the comliment and generosity implicit in his offer and to decline on a personal basis so the person doesn't feel condemned or rejected. One possibility is to suggest an alternae activity. Stick with the main issue. In his conversation with the Smaritan women, our Lord did not allow any secondary questions to sidetrack Him from the main Issue.