The Challenges of a Soul’s Burden and How to Overcome
Challenges and trials are parcels of life, although we dislike them, it’s the reality we all face at some points in time. The earlier we realize, accept and face it the easier it becomes to get over. Even if you’re the best of worshippers on earth, Allah will still test you. In fact, you may face one of the greatest of trials. Haven’t you seen good Muslims who are poor, the rich and depressed ones, young and sick? That is the Sunnah of Allah and there will be no change to it:
“Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: “We believe,” and will not be tested?” — Qur’an 29[Al-Ankabut]:2
So having this in mind doesn’t mean your challenges will dissolve with brisk in a roller coaster manner. We are humans with emotions, so sometimes we grieve or even fizzle out. But the question is: how do we reinvigorate our soul to come back with resilience? Will we be sorrowful and deny Allah’s decree? Or realize this is a test and you can get over it? These profound verses of the Qur’an serve as an epiphany and are most comforting in troubling times…
“Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear…” — Qur’an 2:[Al-Baqarah]:286
“Say: ‘Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allâh has ordained for us…’” — Qur’an 9[At-Taubah]:51
Realizing these conclusions, it’s easier to remain calm and propel yourself further by taking inspiration in the following verses that give reassurance.
- Have faith in Allah: Allah’s decree is bound to happen so we are meant to act in line with this by playing our part to fulfill our destiny. Believe Allah has the best of plans for you.
No calamity befalls, but with the Leave of Allah, and whosoever believes in Allah, He guides his heart, and Allah is the All-Knower of everything. — Qur’an 64[At-Taghabun]:11
2. Do not lose hope: Yes we will get sad, but we will be fine. That’s part of being human. But do not lose hope of Allah’s mercy, for victory lies ahead for the believers.
So do not lose hope nor be sad, and you will be victorious if you are indeed true believers. — Qur’an 3[Al-Imran]:139
3. Be patient and pray: Patience is a great virtue but it’s very hard and solves all life challenges. Prayer, on the other hand, relives your heart of hardship and sets in tranquility. Combining both in challenging time enlivens the soul.
O you who believe! Seek help in patience and As-Salat (the prayer). Truly! Allah is with As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.) — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:153
So remember these when life knocks you down and pick yourself up. May Allah keep us steadfast and guided upon the straight path.
Yaumul Thalatha 23rd Ramadan 1440H // Tuesday 28th May 2019
