Seeking Guidance in Every Matter

“Bismillah (In the name of God)”

What do you think belong to you?  This is a serious question that we rarely ask ourselves or think about.  Although we put ownership on many things, unfortunately, nothing belongs to us and that includes our life.  

Since we own nothing, we need to recognize the owner of everything and ask Him for help, guidance and how to use the things that we are temporarily entrusted with. Every choice, big or small, shapes our path. Allah (God) teach us to ask for directions:

“Guide us to the straight path, the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or gone astray.” (1:5–7)

Why this prayer?

People in general are showoffs. When Allah (God) grant us a big favor such as fame, recognition, fortune, talent and so on, we begin to think that “I deserve this.” “It’s because of my talent.” “I am better than the others.” Our heads get big with pride instead of being humble and grateful.  These types of behavior can lead you to the path of no return and cause you to forget Allah (God).

What is the best gift you can receive?

The best gift that anyone can receive is to be mindful of Allah (God). Keep yourself in check and make sure that you are incorporating Allah’s (God’s) guidance in your life and also in the way you deal with people.

I used to think that prayers equal faith. As I look back on my life, I realize that prayer can also mean habit.

What do I mean by that?

Imagine, you grow up in a house where everyone prays. You are taken to Masjid or Church on the appointed days.  You participate by learning the prayers, the songs, the movements but, none of it touch your heart. You do these things out of habit and since you have done these rituals so much, then you become a conditioned person to the act of prayer or worship.

What is the best way to save yourself from this?

Ask to owner of everything to open your chest to His way of life.  To keep you on the straight path. The path that leads to Him and not to let you go astray or leave the path that leads to Him under any circumstance.

Ramadan is a perfect time to renew this prayer daily. Every decision can become an act of worship when guided by Allah (God). Asking for guidance is not a sign of weakness, it is trust in Allah’s (God’s) infinite wisdom.

Ask yourself

1. What decisions do I need guidance for today?
2. How often do I sincerely ask Allah (God) to show me the straight path?
3. How can I align my actions with divine guidance?

Prayer

O Allah, guide me to the straight path and protect me from going astray. Ameen