C R I S I S - ??
Everyone has problems, some - more than others, for sure.
The difference between Muslims and others is - -
"We know HOW, WHY and the WHO -- to solve our problems,
- - or at least deal with it in the right way.
CRISIS is all about being upset with what is happening around us. But we don’t need to run around in circles, or take tranquilizers,or sign up for psychiatric help (in most cases, anyway).
How do we deal with the problems is something successful people do everyday. Islam solves problems for believers, from the simple things to serious crises. Providing you with a sense of purpose, emotional support, and practical wisdom.
Here are some of the key principles Muslims may follow when dealing with a crisis:
There is really a Creator of this entire universe. He is One God. We know Almighty Allah is ONE, not thousands of gods, or praying to statues, disclosing personal things to a priest, anyone, or everyone - except Allah.
He will tell us what do to, if we ASK.
The best part, we know for sure there is God, and He is ready to help us — all we have to do is “ASK”.
We have the answers - if we stop to think for a moment.
How do we know there really is Allah?
Quran - in Arabic - is proof for Muslims!
Those who reject the words of the Creator, only hurt themselves.
Most languages have translations, but it's better to know some Arabic.
1. Faith
(Trusting Allah)
We Muslims approach a crisis in a direct way, guided by Almighty God.
Reliance on Allah - This is where it starts, our connection” for communications with the Creator of the universe is at the heart of every Muslims.
We believe Allah has control over all aspects of our life, and crises are seen as a test or trial. We’re all taught to put our trust in Allah.
We start by praising Him, then confirm He is the only One we worship.
Then we ask Him to Guide us to the straight path. The path of those who have Almighty God’s favor, not the path of those who go astray.
Then we ask Him to help us. He might direct us to a person, a place, or something we need.
Next, we have patience. We can recite in Arabic some of the key words from the Recitation (Quran means recitation).
Everything Happens For A Reason —
Sometimes He will test us with failure, sometimes success, and sometimes He tests us with poverty, or much money, other times he tests us with marriage or lack of it, education is another area of testing, grades, papers, tests, results —
Sometimes: Not What We Want - Right?
Allah’s plan is for the best. We must take practical steps in dealing with crises, by relying on Allah for our guidance and support.
Now we know about trusting or reliance on Allah (God) during difficult times. What's next?
2. Patience
(Sabr)
Patience is a big deal for Muslims, especially when it gets real difficult. The Reception (Quran in Arabic) encourages us to be patient especially in hardships.
If we have patience the inner peace will come and the strength to face our challenges.
Patience is not about tolerating hardship — it’s about faith in Allah — and His answers come sooner or later — in this life or the Hereafter.
What's next?
3. Communitcation
(Salat)
There’s a word many Muslims translate as prayer. We do offer prayers many times throughout every day.
The word, technically is not really prayers. It means a “connection” with Almighty God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Sounds exciting, right? Well, Muslims get to offer our prayers to Almighty God - 5 times a day (at least), but more if you can.
During any crisis, we want our prayers answered - it’s a great comfort to know we have a connection, and the guidance. We can do our du'as, to ask for help, strength, and patience in hard times.
4. Ask Others
True believers like to stick together. Sometimes we don’t know all the cultures of every Muslim (I’m the least - ‘cause I’m from Texas LOL).
We can ask the local “Imam” (prayer leader) or a ‘Alim (a scholar), or just someone with knowledge of Islam.
When a crisis hits, we rely on family, friends, and our local community for emotional, practical, and even financial support.
This sense of belonging to a group that is helping us - and really feeling like a part of something - not so isolated - when a CRISIS hits us.
Share this with, "New Muslims" & "Not-Yet-Muslims" they'll see how we Muslims REALLY deal with our disapointments, frustrations, and CRISIS.
(No need to mention - Muslims loosing their kids, & loved ones. Right?)
