It Takes Courage

“It's not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It's because we dare not venture that they are difficult.”

~ Seneca quotes (Roman philosopher, mid-1st century AD)

The long arduous journey to God is indeed filled with ups and downs. It's been assembled that way, paradise is very high, and ascending to lofty places takes a great deal of effort. The way to Paradise is filled with things that go against human wishes and inclinations. This needs strong determination and willpower. In a hadith narrated by Bukhari and Muslim from Abu Hurayrah, the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu alaihi wa sallam, said: "Hell has been veiled with desires, and Paradise has been veiled with hardships."

Even the prophets prayed to God and asked "Where are you God?" when they are in their deepest sorrow. But, if we take a look at them closer, their attitude revealed a firm and unshaken faith. In an abyss of difficulty they called to The Lord, the only One who is able to safe them. And that, what makes them survive.

How many times in our life have we called upon our Lord when we are facing difficulties, instead of whining to people and complain how miserable life we have?
And do we realize that by doing the later we are actually mocking God by expressing how terrible is His scenario in our life?

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)

Next time we face difficulty in life, just ask God for courage. He knows that we often feel inadequate just to handle the problems of everyday life. He knows that we need to be brave to stand up for ourself. It is never the problem that makes us sorrow, but the lack of trust and hope towards God.[]