How can I achieve success in good deeds?

Achieving divine success (Tawfiq) in good deeds is the heartfelt aspiration of every believer who yearns for divine proximity and satisfaction. Tawfiq, linguistically, means the provision of necessary means and conditions for accomplishing a task and succeeding in it. However, in Quranic and Islamic terminology, 'Tawfiq' transcends mere material conditions; it stems from the benevolence and assistance of Allah Almighty, Who places the servant on the path of good and aids them in performing righteous and commendable acts. The Holy Quran presents multiple keys for unlocking the doors of divine success for His servants. By contemplating its sacred verses, one can outline a comprehensive roadmap to attain this significant goal. This path is not merely a rigid formula but a way of life based on faith, action, and reliance on Allah. First, and perhaps the most fundamental step to achieving success in good deeds, is 'Ikhlas' (sincerity). The Holy Quran explicitly states that any deed gains value in the sight of Allah only when performed sincerely and solely for His pleasure. In Surah Al-Bayyinah, verse 5, Allah says: "And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakat. And that is the correct religion." Ikhlas purifies an act from any taint of showing off, hypocrisy, or seeking worldly gains, connecting it directly to the divine presence. A deed performed with sincerity, even if seemingly small, becomes great and blessed in the sight of Allah, paving the way for further divine successes. Without sincerity, even the grandest actions may lack spiritual validity and effectiveness. The second step is 'Taqwa' (God-consciousness or piety). Taqwa means observing Allah's boundaries, avoiding sins, and fulfilling obligations. For those who embrace Taqwa, Allah facilitates breakthroughs and opens avenues for good. In Surah At-Talaq, verses 2 and 3, Allah states: "...And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect..." This provision is not merely material; it encompasses spiritual provision and divine success in life's journey and in performing good deeds. Taqwa illuminates the heart, granting insight to discern right from wrong and to remain steadfast on the path of good deeds. It acts as a shield against evil and a magnet for divine blessings. The third key is 'Istianah' (seeking help from Allah). The Quran repeatedly invites believers to seek help through patience and prayer. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, it states: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient." Supplication (Du'a) and earnest prayers, sincere Salah, and patience in the face of challenges and obstacles are all tools that connect an individual to the inexhaustible source of power and Tawfiq. Whenever a servant turns to Allah with their whole being and seeks His aid, Allah will not abandon them and will provide the means for success. This seeking of help must be accompanied by genuine effort, for Allah never wastes the reward of those who do good. Fourth principle is 'Sa'y' and 'Jihad' (diligent effort and striving). Divine success does not mean passively waiting for a miracle. Rather, Allah grants success only to those who actively tread the path of good and spare no effort. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 69, Allah says: "And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good." This verse clearly indicates that divine guidance and success are rewards for effort and striving in His path. The more sincere and persistent our efforts, the more manifest Allah's aid will become. Tawfiq is the fruit of intertwining the servant's will with the divine will; humans must intend, act, and Allah will aid them. Fifth factor, 'Tawakkul' (true reliance on Allah). After fulfilling one's duty and exerting all possible effort, entrusting the outcome to Allah and relying on Him brings peace of mind and reassurance, freeing one from unnecessary worries. The Quran says: "...And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him." (At-Talaq: 3). Tawakkul is the driving force for persistence in good deeds, as one knows that the ultimate outcome is not in their hands but in the capable hands of Allah, who desires the best for His servants. This reliance does not imply inaction but rather faith in divine planning and management after maximum human effort. Finally, 'Shukr' (gratitude) and 'Istighfar' (seeking forgiveness) are also crucial factors in attracting Tawfiq. Gratitude for blessings, including the success of past good deeds, leads to an increase in blessings: "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]" (Ibrahim: 7). And seeking forgiveness for sins removes obstacles and purifies the heart, making it ready to receive divine bounties. Success in good deeds is a divine gift bestowed upon ready hearts and sincere, active doers. By adhering to these Quranic principles, every individual can take effective steps toward gaining divine pleasure and performing good deeds, experiencing the sweetness of Tawfiq in their lives.