For some reason, the Bereans were ready to go to the “next level” in their love of the scriptures. What motivated their receptivity? Was it that they had just been through the wars that ravaged northern Greece? Had they suffered under Roman prejudice and persecution? One thing we know for sure, we go to the “next level” in our love for God’s Word when we become dissatisfied with the level, we’re on now.

We experience this dissatisfaction when the way we used to read the Bible no longer suffices and we find ourselves with questions about what we are reading. Often these questions arise when we come into a new chapter in our lives. Perhaps we are in crisis or have new responsibilities that feel overwhelming. Maybe we are staring at the prospect of “retirement” and life in the “third third.” It may be that someone asks a question prodding us to search deeper into the scriptures. A single experience can shove us out of our comfort zone where our assumptions about “the way it was,” are no longer “the way it is.” How would you rate your “receptivity” to taking your love and curiosity about God’s word to the next level? What questions are prodding you?

Notice that the root of the word “question” is “quest.” Doubts are flags signaling where we need to dig. By the time Paul and Silas showed up, the Bereans were ready, waiting, and aching to hear the good news – the true King had come. Sin, death, and Satan had been defeated. Now a new day had dawned. Some important questions were answered. But now they will have new questions. And so do we.

Wondrous and Almighty God,

            Help us cherish our questions the way the Bereans did. You have so much You want to show us! Thank you for the Pauls and Silases who help me dig deeper into Your Word and love it more.