When ‘Success’ Is A Warning

When ‘Success’ Is a Warning

فَذَرْنِىۡ وَمَنۡ يُّكَذِّبُ بِهَٰذَا الْحَدِيثِ ۖ سَنَسْتَدْرِجُهُمۡ مِّنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ. وَأُمْلِىۡ لَهُمْ ۚ إِنَّ كَيْدِىۡ مَتِيۡنٌ “So leave to Me (O Prophet) those who reject this message. We will gradually draw them to destruction in ways they cannot comprehend. And I give them respite. Indeed, My plan is firm.” (68:44-5)

• Many people are led on through blessings — praised by others, showered with comforts, their faults concealed — yet all of it may be nothing but a gradual path towards ruin. How many are deluded by their good fortune, unaware that it may be a test and not a sign of divine approval.

• Health, wealth, success, reputation, and long life are not always signs of being favoured. At times, they serve to establish proof against a person, increasing their heedlessness until punishment comes suddenly.

• Allah’s ‘plan’ is perfect not in deceit, but in certainty. He openly warns His servants, allowing every chance to turn back before it is too late, so that no one can claim ignorance on the Day when secrets are exposed.

• Let this āyah be a mirror for your heart: blessings are only good when they draw you nearer to Allah. But if they push you further from Him, they may be the very steps leading to your downfall.

Reflect: Are my blessings draw me closer to Allah or further from Him?

#Surah al-Qalam Reflections