Going forward in striving for success through change

Be yourself and don’t be influenced by others. Allah the Almighty is with those who remain strong and steadfast in faith.

“The foolish among the people will say, “What has turned them away from their Qibla, which they used to face?” Say, “To Allah belongs the east and the west. He guides whom He wills to a straight path.” (Qur’an, 2:142)

This is a lesson of particular interest to Muslims living in the West, where, as a minority group, they may face discrimination due to their faith.

In embracing change, we can be sure that Allah the Almighty is always with us, whatever adversities may arise, provided we remain on the straight path under His guidance.

How to Prepare Your Body for Fasting?

Focus on the values you have learned as a Muslim through Islamic teachings.

It can become easy to discard and hide them—especially for those in the West who may fear being mocked—but beware of falling into a false sense of security if choosing that path.

Instead, remember how Allah the Almighty protected the Muslims in all times and types of hardship.

Ask yourself, “What can you control?”

Manage what you can—no matter how great or small—accept what is not within your means to manage, and take comfort in knowing that Allah the Almighty is in ultimate control. Don’t become fixated on what may seem impossible or improbable; leave these things to Allah, the Almighty.

Identify your priorities and the positives. In the incident of the Qibla, because the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) prioritized his deen and the Ummah, despite being mocked, he still prevailed until this day.

Shift perspectives by asking how you might benefit from an impending change. In the instance of the Qibla change, it was a chance for Muslims to be united as one and has continued to be so.

On reflect, we realize that it is normal to experience anxiety with change. Ask yourself, “What’s the worst that can happen?”

Reflect back to times you have experienced change in the past, and how Allah the Almighty guided you through it successfully.

Be proactive, not reactive. Don’t complain about change; rather, view it as a learning opportunity and a chance to grow.

Manage the stress of change by always remembering Allah the Almighty and His mercy. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) suffered at the hands of his oppressors while turning to the original Ka’bah, yet with patience, Allah, the Almighty answered his call and changed the Ka’bah for the benefit of himself and the Ummah.

Final thoughts

Seek support in times of change from your Muslim brothers and sisters, or family, when necessary. It’s okay to be overwhelmed sometimes. As Muslims, we are united as one and should help each other in times of difficulty.

However, should you despair of finding solace or support in humanity in times of change, despair or calamity; always remember that a true believer who faces difficulties with a positive state of mind – hoping for reward that comes only from Allah the Almighty; not mankind – can find solace in knowing that Allah the Almighty says in the Qu’ran:

 “… and give glad tidings to As-Sabirun (the patient).” Who, when afflicted with calamity, say: “Truly! To Allah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return.” They are those on whom are the Salawat (i.e., who are blessed and will be forgiven) from their Lord, and (they are those who) receive His Mercy, and it is they who are the guided ones. (Surah Al-Baqara: 155-157)

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The article is from our archives.