Inviting to God
Cont’d from page 1
This continual support is especially encouraged for members of
your own family as we read in 20:132: “You shall enjoin
your family to observe the contact prayers (Salat), and steadfastly
persevere in doing so…”
Of course, there are some common sense signs that tell you when
to stop. If the person starts to fight you verbally or threatens
you, it is time to walk away. Your job is complete. Even as you
part ways, you should remember not to use insults as mentioned in
73:10: “And remain steadfast in the face of their utterances,
and disregard them in a nice manner.” Chapter 109 gives
you the perfect words to use. What do you gain by labeling the person
or condemning them? God is the Ultimate Judge and is fully aware
of their destiny (6:62).
|
The best thing you can do is to continue
setting an example that will speak God’s message without having
to use words. You will set this example by following the same guidance
that you are sharing from the Quran. Pray to God for the guidance
of those you are inviting and remember that your only duty is to
provide information in the best manner possible. Even if the person
decides to turn away, you have done your job according to God’s
design. As mentioned in verse 41:33: “Who can utter better
words than one who invites to GOD, works righteousness, and says,
“I am one of the submitters?”
Finally, I will leave you with a beautiful example of how Noah
shared God’s message with his people.
|
He said, “My Lord,
I have invited my people night and day. But my invitation only increased
their aversion. Whenever I invited them to be forgiven by You, they
placed their fingers in their ears, covered themselves with their
clothes, insisted, and turned arrogant. Then I invited them publicly.
Then I proclaimed to them loudly, and I spoke to them privately.
I said, ‘Implore your Lord for forgiveness; He is Forgiving.
He will then shower you generously with rain. And provide you with
money and children, and orchards, and streams.’ ” (71:5-12)
Amir K
|