Advice from Allah for Problems in Life

According to our religion, life itself is a series of tests and trials. Every one of us-no matter who we are, where we come from, or what we possess-will face hardship in one form or another.

But Allah, in His infinite mercy, has not left us without guidance. He has given us the means to face these trials with strength and serenity. And among the greatest tools He has given us are patience (ṣabr) and prayer (ṣalāh).

The Divine Prescription for Hardship

Allah says in the Qur'an:

"Seek help through patience and prayer; indeed, it is difficult except for those who are humbly submissive [to Allah]."
- Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45

When life becomes heavy, when we are burdened by pain, uncertainty, or loss-Allah tells us exactly where to turn: to Him, through patience and through prayer.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrated this truth through his actions. Whenever he was troubled, our mother ʿĀʾishah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated, he would immediately rush to prayer. In the calm of prayer, he found peace. In the presence of Allah, he found strength.

The Beauty of Patience

Allah commands us in another verse:

"So be patient with beautiful patience."
- Surah Al-Maʿārij, 70:5

This phrase-ṣabr jamīl (beautiful patience)-teaches us that patience is not mere endurance. It is not bitterness or silent suffering. True patience is serene, dignified, and hidden from the eyes of others.

A beautiful patience is one that only Allah sees. It is when your heart is breaking, yet your lips utter gratitude. When you are hurt, yet you do not complain. When you trust Allah so deeply that you no longer question His decree.

That is the highest form of patience-the patience of prophets, the patience of those who know that Allah is the best of planners.

How to Attain Patience

Patience is not something we are born with-it is something we seek. It is a gift that Allah gives to those who sincerely desire it.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Whoever desires to be patient, Allah will grant him patience."
- Sahih al-Bukhari

What a profound promise! There is no secret formula, no magic technique. The key lies in our intention and our prayer. When a calamity strikes, and we turn to Allah saying, "O Allah, help me to be patient,"-that very plea opens the door to divine strength.

To want patience is the first step to having it.

Patience: A Lifelong Command

In one of the earliest revelations, Allah commanded the Prophet ﷺ directly:

"And for the sake of your Lord, be patient."
- Surah Al-Muddaththir, 74:7

This command was not just for the Prophet-it was for all of us. Patience is not a one-time act; it is a lifelong discipline. It is the backbone of faith, the proof of trust, and the mark of spiritual maturity.

The Link Between Faith and Patience

Faith (īmān) and patience (ṣabr) are inseparable. The one who truly believes in Allah learns to be patient with His decree. And the one who lacks patience has not yet perfected their faith.

Everything that happens-good or bad-happens by Allah's will. He loves us, cares for us, and knows what is best for us, even when we do not understand it. The Prophet ﷺ reminded us that Allah loves His servants more than a mother loves her child. If we truly internalize that love, our hearts will find peace even in hardship.

My dear brothers and sisters, life will test us again and again. But every test is an opportunity-to draw nearer to Allah, to strengthen our hearts, and to perfect our patience.

So, when calamity strikes, do not despair. Turn to Allah in ṣalāh. Seek His help through ṣabr. Ask Him sincerely to grant you patience, and He will.

For in every hardship, there is hidden mercy. In every struggle, there is a path to paradise.
And in every moment of patience, there is the love of Allah.

"Indeed, Allah is with those who are patient."
- Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:153