Steadfastness in Times of Economic Hardship

The ability to hold on to one’s faith during troubled times is of immense benefit to a Muslim. The period of economic hardship is a trial for humanity. This is often characterized by loss of jobs and lack of purchasing power to mention a few. When this happens, people engage in illegal acts in a quest for survival and sustainability. As Muslims, we have to patiently persevere and not indulge in that which is unlawful.

This trial period is one in which we continuously seek the forgiveness of Allah. It is also a time to have sober reflections and seek the mercy of Allah for ease. Troubled time calls for closeness to Allah. Steadfastness is to be resolute, dutiful, and unwavering in your submission to Allah. This is why we all need to be steadfast during periods of trial.

Allah [SWT] says in the Holy Qur’an:

‘Or do you think that you will enter paradise while such [trial] has not yet come to you as came to those who passed on before you? They were touched by poverty and hardship and were shaken until [even their] messenger and those who believed with him said, “When is the help of Allah?’ Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near.’ [Al-Baqarah 2:214]

The earliest generation of Muslims was tested in all realms of life, yet they patiently endured with hope in Allah. It is important to note that our health, wealth, and offspring are all a source of blessing and trial in disguise for us. This will sometimes lead to both gains and pains. When we gain, we should be thankful and when it pains, we should be patient. This is from the ways of the believers knowing that Allah does as He wills, so why worry?

Oh, Believer! Know that Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala Who provided for you in bountiful times will surely suffice you during difficult times as well. Always bear in mind that tough times don’t last but tough people do. It’s a period for you to reflect, have a mindset change, and build a sublime character like the earlier Muslims did. It is a good time to renew our strength and hope in Almighty Allah by doing what he loves and not what he forbids.

Allah The Almighty, The Most Wise says:

‘And those who are patient, seeking the face [i.e., acceptance] of their Lord, and establish prayer and spend from what We have provided for them secretly and publicly and prevent evil with good – those will have the good consequence of [this] home.’ [Ar-Ra’d 13:22]

Steadfastness only comes through unconditional worship. We do not worship Allah only during times of ease and need. We worship Him at all times because He’s deserving of praise, thanks, and adoration. This is the essence of faith and leads to steadfastness in worship as well. Do not be like those who worship Allah only when things are in order for them. And when Allah chooses to put them to trial, they fall into grief and ask; Why me? Allah gives us a glimpse about them below:

And there are some who worship Allah on the verge of faith˺: if they are blessed with something good, they are content with it; but if they are afflicted with a trial, they relapse into disbelief˺, losing this world and the Hereafter. That is truly the clearest loss. [Al-Hajj 22:11]

In sum, embracing Allah is the most rewarding solution in a period of economic turmoil, any other solution is temporary and unfulfilling. As Muslims, we should seek forgiveness of our sins, express gratitude for Allah’s blessings, and be patient in all our endeavors. We must continuously seek our sustenance to be devoid of unlawful means – haram. We should equally continue to pray that Allah guides our leaders right and grant them the ability to do what is right in the public interest.