— By AbdurRaheem Shakirat
Life can truly be a roller coaster, filled with moments of joy and times of trial. One minute we might find ourselves in high spirits, and the next, we can feel the weight of challenging experiences bearing down on us. In these fluctuating moments, it’s essential to remember that as Muslims, our faith can be a source of comfort and strength. Our beloved prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that.” Sahih Bukhari 1431
Embracing Allah in both the joyful times and the difficult ones can help us navigate through life’s inevitable ups and downs. It’s okay to feel lost or overwhelmed, what matters is that we continue to reach out and hold on to our faith because if we don’t we will lose ourselves.
Staying Connected to Allah
So, how do we stay connected to Allah, when life gets tough and everything feels static?
- Never let go of Salat:
In those moments of weakness, we sometimes feel overwhelmed to stand up for prayers, we hear the adhan from nearby Masjid, sometimes on our phones but sit or lie down there wallowing in our trials. Even if you feel unmotivated, rise for prayer brethren! Rise and release your tears to Him.
Allah says in the Quran:
“Guard strictly the (five obligatory) prayers, especially the middle prayer. And stand before Allah with devotion” — Quran Chapter 2, verse 238.
“Guard strictly” is an emphasis on not abandoning prayers no matter the difficulty.
- Do not stop supplicating:
No matter the challenges of life, no matter how you feel about your unanswered prayers, don’t stop supplicating, don’t stop asking from Al-Mujeeb(the One who responds) . Talk to Him for He sees the chaos inside you and still loves you. Know that every dua made with sincerity is heard.
Trust in Ar-Rahman(the Most Merciful) even when you don’t see instant results, remember:
“And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me” — Quran Chapter 2, verse 186.
- Keep Repenting:
Never feel too proud, too far gone, or too late to return to Allah. Repentance (Tawbah) is a door that remains open until your final breath. Keep seeking Allah’s forgiveness, no matter how many times you fall. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“By Allah, I seek forgiveness from Allah and repent to Him more than seventy times a day.” — (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6307).
This was the Messenger of Allah, who had no sins, yet he constantly turned back to his Lord. So who are we not to? Always renew your intention, cleanse your heart, and never stop calling upon Ar-Rahman, the Most Merciful.
- Learn His Beautiful Names:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah has ninety-nine names. Whoever memorizes and embraces them will enter Paradise” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2736 & Muslim, 2677)
Learning his names and their meaning helps one feel connected to Allah. There is always this beautiful connection with Him when you learn His name by heart. Imagine a situation where you have a second thought of a certain prayer and you suddenly remember that Allah says He is As-Samee the One who hears. Hold on to Him through His beautiful names.
EXERCISE PATIENCE: “Indeed, Allah loves the patient ones”. Maintain maximum patience, truly, hardship can be overwhelming but patience is a powerful weapon, don’t let frustration lead you to disobedience. No matter what, do not disobey Allah, don’t curse, moisten your tongue with His remembrance instead. Be patience while also taking solace in this reminder from the Lord of you and I,
“O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” Quran 2 verse 153.
- Be Hopeful:
Pray for ease with the intention of reliance on Allah. Rely on Him, know that your present situation is a matter of time before it changes for the better. He promised us that. And Allah is true in His promise. Allah says:
“…So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in matters. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]” Quran Chapter 3, verse 159.
Closing Thoughts
Ultimately, the most beautiful gift we can offer ourselves is the unwavering connection to our Lord whether we’re standing in joy or wandering in loss, in the silence of the night, or in the tears we cry behind closed doors. He is there, waiting for us to call upon Him. This world will rise and fall, but hearts anchored to Allah never truly break. May we find ease and solace no matter the trials we face. Aameen.