Page 44 - The Secret Behind Our Trials

THE SECRET BEHIND OUR TRIALS
for they know that the pleasure derived from these acts of self-sacri-
fice cannot be compared with the pleasure of drinking the hot drink
themselves.
People can exhibit fine moral qualities if everything is going
well amid an abundance of blessings, if their health is good and
their needs are being met. But showing exemplary moral quality in
times of difficulty, or displaying good treatment toward others
while being shunned, slandered, or vilified by harsh words, is to re-
spond to evil with good. Another sign of good moral character is
when a person who is not hungry gives food to another and a per-
son who is warm gives clothing to someone who is cold. Both peo-
ple are very valuable in Allah's sight, but showing moral excellence
in the face of difficulty and bad treatment is very important and
valuable, for it displays the strength and sincerity of an individual's
faith, devoutness, and superior virtue.
In addition, those who live a virtuous life listening to their con-
science may hear their lower self constantly urging them toward
evil, suggesting that they will find it hard to be virtuous, and trying
everything to prevent them from being so. This voice makes people
fear that they will be cold if they give away a sweater or that they
will be hungry if they give away their food. This is one of Satan's
tactics, for he uses the fear of poverty in an attempt to prevent be-
lievers from helping the poor:
O you who believe. Give away some of the good things you
have earned and some of what the ground produces for you.
Do not have recourse to bad things when you give, things
you would only take with your eyes tight shut! Know that
Allah is Rich Beyond Need, Praiseworthy. Satan promises
you poverty and commands you to avarice. Allah promises
you forgiveness from Him and abundance. Allah is All-

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