Do all you can to achieve your goals in life and leave the rest to God, Friday's sermon advises.
"Trusting in Allah is an attribute of high religious status," says the sermon. "It also marks one's faith that there is no power but in Allah, the most High."
But people should not assume that trusting Allah means they no longer need to work at their goals. "Seeking help from Allah is an implication of faith, which does not run against taking actual actions," continues the sermon.
The Prophet Mohammed once told one of his companions: "Strive for that which will benefit you, seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless."
It was reported that a man left his mount untied and came to the Prophet. He said: "O Messenger of Allah! Shall I tie it and rely [on Allah], or leave it loose and rely [on Allah]?" The Prophet replied: "Tie it and rely [on Allah]."
The hadith shows that trust should be accompanied by actions to achieve one's goal.
In many Quranic verses, relying on Allah is described as a way to win His love. "And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [on Him]." Another verse says, "Our Lord, upon You we have relied, and to You we have returned, and to You is the destination."
[ hdajani@thenational.ae ]
