

3. Grace
the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and bestowal of blessings
~ Oxford Dictionary
In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
Ephesians 2:7-8

Ponder a moment:
God's Grace to Me
How does God show me, the musician, grace?
Think of times when you were aware of the Lord's grace.
Ask the Lord to show you many other times when he poured his grace into you.
These times of grace are countless and constant.

Scripture Reading:
Read: I Samuel 22
Read this chapter twice. First, read as a historical narrative. Try to get into the scene. Second, read with an open heart to hear God speaking to you personally.

For Discussion

1. David was in a heap of trouble, yet he saw the needs of others and took action.
What are examples of David's grace to others?
“All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader.” 1 Samuel 22:2
2. David showed grace to his family (v. 3) and to Abiathar
(v. 23). Who else?
3. God has a plan for each of us. We are not all called, like David (or Robin Hood), to lead a band (musical pun intended) of malcontents. We are called, however, to show grace to others.
Look around you, see a need for grace and take action.
"I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people."
~ Vincent Van Gogh

Mind-flash
You are by yourself with your instrument. You are swept away into the most beautiful, magical place you can imagine. The Lord floods you with his compassion and grace. He invites you to play chamber music with him. What would you play? How would you play?

Ponder a moment:
God's Grace through Me
Freely you have received, freely give.
Matthew 10:8b
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Colossians 4:6
Jesus said, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
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Matthew 5:16
Grace Etudes
Grace Exercises
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Say 'Grace' before and after you play.
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Practice breathing in his grace
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Choose one of the above 3 verses (God's Grace through Me).
Pray and seek how to live that verse more fully.
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Write Grazioso on a note and stick it in your case.
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To whom should you show grace?
Colleague? Teacher? Student? Conductor? Stand partner? …

