What is the meaning of divine grace
The meaning of divine grace is interpreted in various ways at different levels. God, though formless, without attributes, and immutable, becomes possessed, with form, and possessed by the power of illusion. He is always ready to rescue those trapped in the web of illusion. While experiencing the consequences of the accumulated karma, destiny, and kriyamanas of many lifetimes, every living being yearns for happiness. Regarding this, the scriptures say, "Punyasya phalamicchanti punyaam necchanti manavaah." Meaning, humans desire the fruits of virtue but do not want to perform the necessary virtuous deeds.
Conversely, humans do not desire the fruits of sin but are determined to commit sin. For this, they seek God's mercy. To avoid the consequences of past karma, they plead before God, "Lord, I cannot bear this anymore." The merciful God listens to their prayers, reducing today's enjoyment and keeping it for tomorrow. When this happens, a person says, "God has blessed me."
In reality, this is not grace but a lack of grace. If the enjoyment is delayed, its intensity increases later. Devotees who worship Lakshmi ask her for luxuries like cars and bungalows. Lakshmi supports them as a prasad of their devotion and grants them their desired possessions. Then, the person says, "Lakshmi has blessed me." This grace is temporary.
Even if it exists, ultimately, it results in a lack of grace. Upon acquiring the possessions of Maya's realm, such as cars and bungalows, a person becomes even more entangled. As a result, the cycle of birth and death becomes even more entrenched.
Therefore, a true devotee should pray in his heart: "O God! Do not forgive me even for small transgressions. Grant me the strength to endure the hardships that I experience while enjoying the pleasures I have received according to my deeds. Be so kind to me that even when a mountain-like crisis confronts me, I do not forget your feet." Freedom from trouble, increased fame and honor, attainment of happiness and success, or the accomplishment of desired tasks are not divine grace. These are the consequences of actions. Always remembering the Name of God or remaining absorbed in contemplation is true divine grace. Saints also understand this divine grace.
