We have seen some crazy cold temperatures in Ottawa, the past few days. The other day I saw this evergreen tree that stood strong and ripe in stark contrast to the dry shrubs and flowers that had withered right next to it.
And I found myself wondering about the difference.
One was standing strong and thriving even in the most extreme weather and the other had dried and lost its foliage.
One was providing color and hope in an otherwise dull landscape while the other looked bleak and withered.
One was providing shelter and home to birds and wildlife in the snow and cold, while the other had lost its benefits and was not able to hold up to the cold temperatures.
One had a reserve to draw from, while the other did not.
I thought about the case of believers during difficult times. Trials and tests continue to afflict the believers but their faith remains strong. Standing. Unflinching.
The most difficult of trials can come to them. The most painful of tests can rain upon them. Everything around them can be frozen and desolate. The sunshine might even go into hiding. But even the most extreme of circumstances does not waver their faith. Their faith grows even in those times.
Sure, there are thoughts and there are doubts. Sure, the darkness and the gusty winds spark a ray of fear. Sure, there are tears that are shed.
But the faith is like a power inside of them that does not let them whither. It nourishes them when nothing outside can nourish. It’s like a reserve that can be drawn on when it is needed the most. And it is strengthened when it is used in those times.
Allah talks about the strengthening of Imaan or faith in the Quran in these words:
“He it is Who sent down As-Sakinah (calmness and tranquillity) into the hearts of the believers, that they may grow more in Faith along with their (present) Faith.” (Quran Al-Fath 48: 4)
And while the believers stand strong even as the trials rain upon them, they provide pockets of benefit to those around them. A beacon of hope. A model of courage. A shade for others fighting the same circumstances. A word shared that can benefit another during a difficult time.
And that is why it is so important to nourish our faith in our times of ease and prosperity so we can draw on it in our times of trials. Because if the faith is weak, we will be weak in the face of the storms but if the faith is strong, then it will get us through – it will provide nourishment and a means of survival even when the atmosphere is bleak and the supplies around us are frozen.
Abu Darda (رضى اللهُ عنه) is reported to have said:
“Whoever does not prepare their patience for severe times, filled with trials, will be incapable [of handling those trials].” (Musannaf Ibn Abu Shaibah)
Huthayfah (رضى اللهُ عنه) is reported to have said: “Get used to patience, because imminently, trials will befall you.” (Shu’ab Al Imaan)
What are some ways you work on strengthening your Imaan or faith? Please share in the comments below!
