Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Many of them therefore believed, with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men. But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was proclaimed by Paul at Berea also, they came there too, agitating and stirring up the crowds.
Acts 17:11-13
Lord, there is a saying, “haters gonna hate.” As I look at these verses, multiple things jump out at me. What made the Bereans more noble? It was not that they received the word with all eagerness. That was the result of their noble character. It was that they were not the kind to be driven by money or to ask the question, “What’s in it for me?” Instead, because they were a people of character they listened attentively and searched the Scriptures to confirm what they heard. They gave the believers a hearing. They would not be moved by money. For them it was a matter of conscious. The Thessalonians heard that the word was being proclaimed there and decided to be haters. They came and disrupted the peace in the moment. I pray that You would not only protect me from haters but protect me from being a hater. Help me to find joy when others are being blessed. Help me not to be the one to put the proverbial “stick in the spokes” and stop the vehicle from moving forward. Instead, help me to, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15. It is my desire to reflect Your love in a tangible way. Help me to do so, demonstrating a godly nobility that reflects You. Amen.