There can be times in life when it seems that nothing good is happening around you. At times, it’s grimy and depressing even at home and personal life. The financial crisis, job loss, death of beloved, sickness- and the list goes on.
Though hardships are tests from Allah Subhana hu Wata’la, yet most of us crumble when going through turmoil and difficulties.
However, mayhems aren’t necessarily testing. A turmoil, on the contrary, could be a learning experience, purification from sins, reminder, the punishment of immoralities, a trial of patience and perseverance, or all together.
Lashing out all the stress and negativity to people around you would be easier. But life, in return, will be more miserable and dejected. So, we must know how to beat the negativity and bitterness in difficult times. Though it takes time to develop a habit, yet it’s up to you whether you see the glass half-filled or half-empty.
Nevertheless, once we have gone through the chaos, we would grow stronger, purified, and closer to Allah Subhana hu Wata’la. Let’s learn how we can implant our lives with satisfying Islamic teachings in times of turmoil.
Be Resolute in Faith
Everyone experiences, less or more, mayhems and hardships in life. At times it’s very hard to be resolute and persistent in faiths when calamities strike.
However, that would be the right time to reconnect to Allah Subhana hu Wata’la. Be steadfast in the faith because Allah Subhana hu Wata’la will test your creed if you are a believer, as He informs:
“Do people think they will be left alone after saying ‘We believe’ without being put to the test?”
Believe in Allah’s Planning
Remember, a turmoil is not always a test, rather a pathway toward the better alternative. With our limited visions, we aren’t able to judge upcoming alternatives.
Therefore, we must believe that Allah Subhana hu Wata’la has a good plan for us. So, never give in and continue the struggle with the hope of an improved tomorrow. As Allah Subhana hu Wata’la says:
“You may dislike something although it is good for you, or like something, although it is bad for you”
Have A Realistic Concept of Qadr (Fate)
Often, we over-think the situations instead of analyzing our behaviors and attitudes. Instead, we must consider our actions and improve them if needed.
Though it is the basic element of our belief that all the pros and cons are from Allah Subhana hu Wata’la, yet personal responsibility plays an important role. So, this real perspective of Qadr (fate) every Muslim must bear in mind, as Allah Almighty says:
“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.”
On the other hand, we do not have control over certain things: the birth and death, the weather, the gender of our children, the fate of our siblings, and the source of income -to name a few. In this case, believers must keep faith in fate by Allah Subhana hu Wata’la.
Have Positive People Around You
“Birds of a feather flock together”: a wise maxim sound. Verily, peer pressure can make or break the way to success. So, surround yourself with the people who are most likely to influence you virtuously.
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) has elaborated this fact with the metaphor of the blacksmith and perfume seller:
“The example of a good companion (friend) in comparison with a bad one is like that of one who sells musk and the blacksmith. From the first, you would either buy musk or enjoy its good smell, while from the blacksmith you would either get burned or smell a bad scent.”
Positive people will not only give you a helping hand in critical situations but also keep inspiring you living a healthier and positive life. So, keep negative people at arm’s length and join the pious company, somehow.
Remember That Things Will Get Better
Remember that there is always a light at the end of a dark tunnel. Also, stars twinkle in the nights. So, there is nothing to worry about. Just raise your head with hope and fill your heart with confidence as Allah Subhana hu Wata’la also says:
“Verily, with every hardship comes ease”
So, we should keep in mind that hardships are always followed by relief and all the patience will pay off one day. Allah Subhana hu Wata’la doesn’t fissure His promises. All you need is to have trust in your Almighty Creator. However, one must never forget to thank Allah when things get better.
Pray for His Mercy
First and foremost, the best way to deal with hardships is to seek His refuge. Indeed, Allah almighty listens to His men and relief their sorrows. So, believers must carry on offering prayers, fasting, and remembering Allah sitting or standing, in all situations.
All the Apostles and Prophets were used to make “Dua” whenever they found themselves in turmoil. For example; when in the belly of fish, the Prophet Yunus realized his mistake, he called out to Allah:
“… he cried through the depths of darkness (saying):
“There is no God but You, Glorified be You! Truly, I have been of the wrongdoers.”
However, the prolongation of turmoil doesn’t mean that the prays are wasted. Verily, all your good deeds are chronicled and rewarded, sooner or later. Remembering Allah Almighty will give you enough zeal to face the hardships manly.
Conclusion
Hardships and turmoil are an inevitable part of our life. So, we have to face them and try to overcome chaos gracefully.
Being a good believer, we must keep faith in Allah Subhana hu Wata’la no matter how worse the situation becomes. Also, remember, it’s our behavior, not the magnitude of hardship, that determines the fate. So, be hopeful and complement and go through the difficulties gracefully.
