COVID19, a test, an opportunity

God is running everything. This is something we try to remember. Especially when we think of the COVID19 pandemic that we’re in. Each day, the news paints a story that continues to change. And while we don’t know how this story will end, we do know there’s a good reason for everything (18:66-82). And to know this is a blessing. As it is a blessing to know that we can submit to God and put our trust in Him. So, we ask God’s protection and help, knowing only He can and does protect us.

[1:5] You alone we worship; You alone we ask for help.

[13:11] Shifts (of angels) take turns, staying with each one of you―they are in front of you and behind you. They stay with you, and guard you in accordance with GOD’s commands. Thus, GOD does not change the condition of any people unless they themselves make the decision to change. If GOD wills any hardship for any people, no force can stop it. For they have none beside Him as Lord and Master.

As a test, the pandemic brings out people’s faith or the lack thereof. What do we do? How do we think? Do we find solace in prayer?

Do we find solace in hand sanitizer or in buying things we think we need? Are we helplessly consumed with thoughts about what’s going on? Or do we ask God’s help and thank God for His continued grace and mercy upon us?

The Quran teaches us that some people remember God during tests but forget God when they are safe.

[17:67] If you are afflicted in the middle of the sea, you forget your idols and sincerely implore Him alone. But as soon as He saves you to the shore, you revert. Indeed, the human being is unappreciative.

We don’t want to do that. Neither do we want to be among those who become despondent when faced with adversity (17:83, 30:36, 41:49, 70:20).

[30:36] When we bestow mercy upon the people, they rejoice therein. But when adversity befalls them, as a consequence of their own works, they become despondent.

Instead, during tests we should implore God (6:42-43, 7:94), seek His forgiveness (38:24). And remember and commemorate God (8:45).

If we are doing our best to be righteous, then events we don’t understand may be a blessing in disguise (18:71-82). There is a good reason for everything.

[6:42] We have sent (messengers) to communities before you, and we put them to the test through adversity and hardship, that they may implore.  [6:43] If only they implored when our test afflicted them! …

[8:45] O you who believe, when you encounter an army, you shall hold fast and commemorate GOD frequently, that you may succeed.

We also learn that one “function” of adversity and disasters is to bring people back to God. So that we may recognize the errors of our ways and return to the right works (30:41).

[30:41] Disasters have spread throughout the land and sea, because of what the people have committed. He thus lets them taste the consequences of some of their works, that they may return (to the right works).

And many people will turn to God, which is good. For example, when I looked online, many people were sharing prayers of supplication to God.

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