They knew the night sky well enough to notice a rogue star when no one else did.

They paid attention.

They were not Jewish but knew of the foretelling of the King of the Jews.

They were informed.

Even though they expected a King, they bowed at the feet of an infant.

They were humble enough to bow to an unexpected infant King.

When Herod told them a bold-faced lie, they went on their way.

They understood human nature.

When they had a dream telling them not to report back to Herod they listened.

They knew God well enough to know the dream came from him. They knew who was in charge.