Have you considered the true nature of divine blessings? As humans, we often fixate on our desires and needs, but what about what Allah knows is best for us? Allah's wisdom surpasses our understanding, and we must acknowledge that being granted an abundance of blessings despite our defiance and disobedience towards Allah is a really frightening prospect. The trial of abundance may lead to arrogance, making it essential to reflect on the nature of Allah's blessings and remain grounded in our faith, even when granted more than we imagined.

'As for those who deny Our signs, We will gradually draw them to destruction in ways they cannot comprehend. I ˹only˺ delay their end for a while, but My planning is flawless.' [7:182-183]

Life is a series of continuous tests that challenge our faith, patience and perseverance. These tests should not be seen as 'random' but rather they are opportunities for our growth and get closer to Allah.

كم من مستدرج بالإحسان إليه، ومغرور بالستر عليه، ومفتون بحسن القول فيه، وما ابتلى الله أحدا بمثل الإملاء له

'How many are gradually drawn ˹to their destruction˺ and given good treatment, and how many are arrogant despite Allah’s concealment ˹of their sins˺, and how many are trailed by flattery ˹by the beauty of the speech about them˺! And what a difficult test it is when Allah tests an individual by granting him delay or extension of time.'

Below are three forms of testing that may not be immediately apparent but require our attention to recognise and respond appropriately:

🚩 A subtle but dangerous form of testing is when we are drawn towards sin whilst we are in the midst of the abundance of blessings we receive from Allah. Becoming complacent in our blessing can sometimes make us forget (or not even consider) our need to seek forgiveness from the sins we commit. This is a test of our faith, and we must express gratitude for our blessings and repent for our sins.

🚩 The concealment of our sins is another form of testing that Allah may subject us to - we may think that we are getting away with our wrongdoings, but in reality, we are only digging ourselves deeper into a hole of disobedience. If we become comfortable in our sins, we may become arrogant and dismissive of Allah's mercy and forgiveness. It is crucial to recognise that this is a test of our faith and to seek forgiveness before it is too late.

🚩 Moreover, Allah may test us through the praise and admiration of others. If we become overly attached to our reputation and the adoration of our peers, we risk forgetting the true purpose of our actions. Due to the praise of others, self admiration and pride may begin to creep into our heart. Again, this is another test of our faith that requires us to remain humble and seek Allah's approval above all else.

The trial of abundance is an extremely scary thought - especially as individuals who live in the West. Allah tells us 'And never should those who have denied think that We respite them for their own good. In fact, We only respite them so that they may increase in sin, for them is a demeaning punishment.' [3:178] Taking Allah's blessings for granted and becoming complacent in our faith is dangerous. Instead of becoming grateful and humble, we may develop a sense of entitlement and attribute our success solely to our own efforts. Unfortunately, this is a trap that is so easy to fall into. It is only through the mercy of Allah that we are blessed with abundance. Failing to recognise this is a form of disobedience and Allah's punishment for such arrogance is severe. May Allah protect us all!