Instant Gratification (03/01/2020)

The rapid advances in technology have, over the years, allowed us to yield results quickly with only minimal effort. Items can be purchased with the swipe of a button, relatives can be contacted within seconds, and “fast food” can be ordered and consumed without moving from our couch. However, progress in deen takes time and is not hastened by human advancements. Achieving our goals of attaining Allah’s ﷻ pleasure and emulating the lifestyle of Rasulullah ﷺ requires a consistent effort, even if the effort is minimal, and its results are only seen over time. Hence, one key to succeed in this endeavor is to create opportunities for ourselves that maximize on small deeds that may be performed consistently. One example includes placing a miswak next to our toothbrush, so that we reflexively cleanse our teeth with the tool that is most beloved to the Prophet ﷺ. As the Prophet ﷺ has informed us: “The most beloved actions to Allah ﷻ are those that are performed consistently, even if they are few.” The benefits of such actions may take months, years, or even a lifetime to see.