Is it grace that someone survives an accident?
Question:
Good day, sir,
When the Bible talks about grace or mercy, does it only refer to salvation? Many people mention grace when someone survives an accident, but grace is used for everything.
Thanks.
Answer:
Grace is a gift given to you because the giver wanted to give it, not because you earned it or deserved it. You can't demand grace because the offer is not your decision.
Mercy is a judge deciding to release you from a punishment that you deserved because of your wrongful actions. You might request mercy from a judge, but you have to understand that it is not your decision as to whether mercy will be extended or not. It is solely the judge's decision.
The terms can be applied to many situations. Thus, surviving an accident can be viewed as a gift from God.
Question:
I appreciate your response.
I guess the actual question is what about the one in an accident who died, while the rest are scratch-free? The other day, my brother told a woman that it was God's grace that helped her. What do you tell the family of the other one who passed on?
Thanks.
Answer:
As with anyone who loses someone he or she loves, you express your sympathy, "I am very sorry about your loss. I know you are missing him." Often, encouraging them to talk about the good memories they have of the person who died helps them balance the pain. Don't minimize the grief they are going through.
In addition, be helpful in specific ways. Instead of broad offers of help, such as "Let me know if you need anything," offer concrete help like "Can I bring dinner tomorrow?" or "I'm going to the store, what can I pick up for you?"
