Allah Azza wa Jalla said that what we will be given to us is what we endeavoured towards or what we strived for (سعى), instead of what we do (فعل or عمل). When we strive for something, it means that we already have a goal in mind. Whatever deeds we do is to reach that goal. And in Ayah 42, Allah has given the answer to what our ultimate goal should be, which is our Rabb. This ayah reminds me that whatever good deeds I do, if my intention and goal are not towards him, then it won't count. If I help someone to make them owe a favor to me, if I give charity to show off my wealth, if I share islamic contents to get views/engagement, etc., then Allah will give us what we endavoured towards. On the flip side, someone who sincerely helps and give charity even just a dollar; someone who's prayer leave a lot to be desired, yet he tried his best; someone who is struggling to eat halal food 100% of the time, Allah knows what is in their heart and what their intentions are. Allah will give them what they strived for. When I apply this ayat to heart, I think I should stop from judging other muslims, especially those that have a conflicting view in Islam that I deemed 'causing fitnah in the ummah'. I might critique their conflicting ideas still, but I should stay away from attacking them personally. They might be sincerely striving towards Allah too. And maybe, whatever the outcome is in this Dunya, as we both stands before Allah in the Day of Judgement, despite our conflicting views, Allah will accepts both our sincerity and rewards both of us accordingly. Allah knows best. May Allah guide us all to His straight path.

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This is such a thoughtful and heartfelt reflection—may Allah increase you in sincerity and reward you for your introspection.

Your focus on the word 'سعى' really brings out a powerful message: that it’s the striving towards Allah that truly counts, even when our actions fall short of perfection. That nuance between merely 'doing' and 'striving' shifts the entire perspective—reminding us that it’s not the appearance of deeds but the direction of the heart that matters most.

And your conclusion? MashaAllah, it’s humbling. Recognizing the possibility that others, even those we disagree with, might be sincerely seeking Allah too—that's a beautiful step toward mercy and humility. It echoes the prophetic way: critique with wisdom, not with pride.

May Allah guide our hearts to always strive for His pleasure and unite us upon truth with compassion and sincerity. Ameen.

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