12.04.20

Trusting God in times of difficulty

  News

We’re often told to “trust God” when things don’t quite go our way – maybe you didn’t get that job you were relying on, a relationship didn’t work out the way you hoped or youre battling a bigger challenge that no one really knows about. As Muslims, tawakkul (having complete trust in and reliance on God) is a concept which we all theoretically understand but many of us actually struggle to practice – particularly when we’re going through difficulties or thinking about the unknown future. So, how do we conquer our fears and reduce our anxieties about things we can’t control? 

Well, below we look at some practical ways you can nurture your tawakkul on a daily basis.  Trusting God in all his teachings. 

1. Know Allah (SWT) through his many attributes 

Trusting in God; it is important that we first get to know Him as best we can. So, learn, study and reflect on the many names and attributes of Allah (SWT). The best way to do this is to set aside time regularly to read the Qur’an and learn more about the Sunnah.  

You’ll soon realise that the more you understand His names and attributes, the easier it will be to have complete trust in Him. For example, in the Qur’an Allah (SWT) beautifully reassures the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): 

(O Prophet), your Lord has neither forsaken you, nor is He displeased. Indeed what is to come will be better for you than what has gone by.”  (Qu’ran 93:3-4) 

This is an important reminder that no matter whatever befalls us, Allah (SWT) loves us and only wants the best for us – even if we do not immediately see the silver lining in a “bad” situation. After all, the Prophets,  who were so dear to Allah (SWT), were tested the most.   

2. Do your best 

Islam recognises that humans have limited capacity to comprehend everything – after all it is God who holds infinite knowledge and wisdom. So, while we don’t always have the knowledge or insight to make sense of a situation, e.g. a global pandemic, we are encouraged to “tie our camels” – that is to do our due diligence and then put our trust in Allah.  

3. Make dua’a 

“And your Lord says, ‘Call upon Me; I will respond to you.’ ” Qur’an 40:60 

You shouldn’t underestimate the power of dua’a; it is the greatest form of worship and an important part of tawakkul. If you want to be among those who wholeheartedly believe; trusting in Allah (SWT), then ask Him sincerely for whatever your heart desires – nothing is impossible for Him! Above all, have firm belief that your prayer will be answered in a way that is best for you. Remember, what you might want could be very different to what you actually need – He knows, while we do notOnce we submit to this reality, the road ahead doesn’t seem so daunting. 


STAY INFORMED