In our everyday observation — spiritual nature, and the test of life as described in Qur’an — one truth becomes clear: when everything in life feels comfortable, our desires grow louder. But in tough times, we often gain control over them and turn sincerely to Allah. Why does this happen?
Ease Breeds Heedlessness (Ghaflah)
When life is comfortable, our nafs (inner self) tends to feel self-sufficient. The Qur’an describes this state:
“Indeed, man transgresses. Because he sees himself self-sufficient.”
(Surah Al-Alaq, 96:6-7)
In good times, people often forget their dependence on Allah. Comfort makes us chase more — more entertainment, luxury, and pleasures — and we become distracted from our purpose.
1. Hardship Breaks the Ego
When we experience pain or difficulty, we realize how powerless we truly are. This breaks our pride and opens our hearts.
“And when adversity touches man, he calls upon his Lord, turning to Him [in repentance]; then when He bestows on him a favor from Himself, he forgets Him.”
(Surah Az-Zumar, 39:8)
Dua becomes sincere. Our distractions fade. We return to what truly matters.
2. Desires Thrive in Comfort
In ease, Shaytan has more tools — laziness, jealousy, addiction, and pride. Our desires feel justified and even rewarded. But these are tests too:
“We test you with evil and with good as a trial; and to Us you will be returned.”
(Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:35)
Both ease and difficulty are trials — one tests patience, the other tests gratitude and restraint.
3. Spiritual Lessons from Difficulty
- You control desires better when you see your limits.
- You remember Allah more when you truly need Him.
- You grow inwardly when the world outside feels heavy.
🌟 What Can We Do?
- Make ease a time for gratitude, not heedlessness.
- Carry the humility of hardship into your days of comfort.
- Train yourself to pray, reflect, and restrain desires even when things are going well.
This is the journey we all go through — and the real success is remembering Allah in both states.
May Allah make us among those who remember Him in ease and difficulty, and keep our desires under control through taqwa and gratitude.
Ameen.
