The Berean Jews were noted as "more fair minded" than the Jews in Thessalonica "in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" (Acts 17:11). The key detail is that they received with all readiness the word preached by Paul. The word "readiness" (Gk. prothumia) has the meaning of eagerness, willingness. This describes an attitude of mind that each of us should want to imitate.

Many will receive the word of God today in a much different manner. They receive the word, not with eagerness, but with skepticism. Unlike the Thessalonian Christians, they receive it as man's wisdom instead of the word of God (1 Thess. 2:13). Sadly, they end up casting it aside and not giving heed to the truth therein.

Others receive the word with weariness. They have lost their interest in gaining spiritual knowledge and are more interested in worldly learning and fleshly recreation. Personal Bible study is avoided and Bible class time is spent daydreaming. Similarly, others receive the word with apathy. They listen and learn, but no significant change is observed in their lives. Bible lessons are quickly forgotten because no thought is given to personal application. Thus, no preparation is made for eternity.

"Readiness of mind" is an attitude that pleases God and bears fruit in our lives, because we will search and apply the Scriptures. Do you have a ready mind?

- Lakeland Hills Leader, 5/1/11