By Jamal Rahman
“And whoever puts all his trust in God, He will be enough for him.” (Qur’an 65:3)
One day the Prophet Muhammad noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel untethered. When the Prophet asked why the camel was untied, the Bedouin replied, “I have placed my trust in Allah.” Replied the Prophet, “Tie your camel to the post, then trust in Allah.”
In our yearning for relief, peace, joy or success, God is the best of Providers. Have faith and trust in Spirit. But let us do our part by making every possible exertion of our body, mind, heart and soul before surrendering to God. The holy book explains succinctly: “That man can have nothing but what he strives for.” (59:39)
Also, keep in mind that some of our fervent and desired outcomes, unknown to us, are not in our highest interest. Out of mercy and grace, they are withheld from us. At other times, help is delayed for reasons not understood by the human mind. We are not privy to the larger story.
With sincerity do your best, be conscious of Spirit and abide in faith. The holy book promises that in times of difficulties, “God provides for him from sources he never could imagine.” (65:2-3). Or, as Rumi did imagine: “In times of affliction, a stretcher will come from Grace.”
Thank you Jamal for your message today. It seems that all to often that when something happens people say “trust in God” but do not realize that is only part of the equation. We forget God has put his trust in us as well, we too have a part to play. My mother used to tell me “God fed the sparrows but they had to go out and pick it up.” God isn’t our servant there to do our bidding but our companion and strength on our journey. Blessings and stay safe. Ruth Jewell