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Key Bible Verse: People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at a person's thoughts and intentions 1 Samuel 16:7). Bonus Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-13

I got my first look at three fellows with whom I'd share the third floor of my freshman dorm. One was a big "moose" type, the second of average build, and the third was a head shorter than any of us, funny-looking, and talked a lot. This wasn't good; I wanted to be with guys who'd play pick-up basketball—not peewees.

Heading to my room that evening, after a mixer for incoming students, I cut through the chapel. One of my favorite hymn tunes, "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing," was being played with great dexterity on the Steinway grand. Sliding into the back row, I listened to one hymn after another played seamlessly and beautifully. When the music stopped, out of the darkness behind the ebony instrument stepped The Shrimp!

I was flabbergasted. How could someone so uncool play the piano like that? I'd assumed that Albin had little of worth to give. In fact, our student body's premiere accompanist became a world-class church musician.

Ten years later he traveled to play the organ at my wedding. Now, when I visit his home in Kentucky, I ask him to play "Come, Thou Fount," and remember my arrogant foolishness. Since that moment, I've tried never to let how one of God's children looks preempt my respect and goodwill.

—Peter Stine in College Faith

My Response: My first impressions of a person proved dead wrong when …

Thought to Apply: Every person you meet is better at something than you are.—ROBERT A. COOK (educator)

Adapted from College Faith (Andrews Univ. Press, 2002) by permission.

Copyright © 2007 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Teach me, Lord, to respond to the people you thrust into my life in ways that mature me, honor You, and build Your kingdom.

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