Time-Sensitive Deeds 

A very essential concept that will help us set our priorities is the actions that are most appropriate to the time. The best action when the call for prayer is made is to repeat after the caller.

The best deed during the time before dawn is to ask Allah for forgiveness. The best action when people are in famine is to provide food for them. The best action when the enemy attacks is to struggle against the enemy.

A Muslim who understands this concept will always be doing something very appropriate and more rewarding. Those who confine themselves in specific type of actions without being conscious of the time are missing a lot of reward.

There may be actions that are generally more important than others. Reciting the Qur’an generally is more rewarding than repeating the call for prayer. However, there is only one time appropriate to repeat the call for prayer; that is when it is called.

Balance and Moderation 

We should realize that balance and moderation are fundamental qualities of our religion and very important attributes of the tradition of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

The Prophet guided his companions to establish a balanced life. When he saw some of his companions become excessive in doing certain actions, he would bring them back to moderation even if these actions are righteous actions.

Salman Al-Farisi told Abu Al-Darda’ when he saw him focusing more on acts of worship and ignoring his family and his health,

“Your soul has a right upon you; your Lord has a right upon you; your guest has a right upon you and your wife has a right upon you; So, Give each one their rights.” (At-Tirmidhi, and Al-Bukhari narrated a close version)

We must use Salman’s advice, which was later on confirmed by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), to set our priorities and adjust our focus.