How can I see God in everyday moments?

Perceiving God in the ordinary moments of life is not a physical act of seeing with the eyes, but rather a profound spiritual and heartfelt experience – a deep awareness of His omnipresence, power, wisdom, and boundless mercy in every facet of existence. The Holy Quran repeatedly invites us to contemplate and reflect upon the divine signs (Ayat) both within ourselves and throughout the surrounding world. These signs serve as bridges, guiding us towards a profound understanding of God's constant presence in our lives. The first step to discerning God in everyday moments is through “reflection and contemplation” (Tafakkur) on creation. The Quran is replete with verses that urge us to look deeply at the heavens, the earth, the phenomena of night and day, rain, the growth of plants, the creation of humanity, and the diversity of living beings. Each of these is a sign (Ayah) of God’s unparalleled power, infinite knowledge, and unmatched wisdom. When we observe the sunrise and sunset, the astonishing order of stars at night, the falling raindrops that revive dead earth, or even ponder the intricate harmony of our own bodies, we are, in essence, perceiving the signs of God. This is not a superficial glance but a profound, reflective gaze that leads us from the beauty and order of the universe to its Creator. Every leaf on a tree, every drop of water, every breath we take, can be a manifestation of divine power and mercy, if only we look with the eye of the heart. This perspective constantly reminds us that nothing in this world is without purpose or a creator, and that at every moment, the powerful and wise hand of God is at work. The second path is through “constant remembrance” (Dhikr) of God. Dhikr is not merely the repetition of words; it signifies the presence of the heart and consciousness of the Lord in all states. When our hearts find tranquility in the remembrance of God, we are, in fact, feeling His presence in the depths of our being. The Quran states: “Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured” (Ar-Ra'd: 28). This tranquility is the outcome of connection and attachment to the true source of peace. In moments of joy, gratitude, and in times of hardship, patience and reliance upon God (Tawakkul) are forms of practical dhikr. When, at the height of happiness, we feel that this blessing comes from Him, and in the depths of sorrow, we seek refuge in Him, we are witnessing His presence. Remembering Him in every action, from starting a daily task to completing it, from eating food to sleeping, can transform every ordinary moment into one brimming with spirituality. Even moments of silence and solitude with oneself are opportunities to immerse in His remembrance and behold His signs within our own selves. The third dimension is “gratitude” (Shukr). When we perceive the myriad blessings, both small and great, in our lives as gifts from God and are thankful for them, we explicitly experience His presence. This includes everything from health and sustenance to family, friends, opportunities, and even challenges that strengthen us. The Quran proclaims: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Ibrahim: 7). Gratitude is a gateway that opens us to divine abundance and blessings, helping us to observe His benevolent hand in all aspects of our lives. When, while drinking a glass of cold water, or smelling the fragrance of flowers, or seeing the smile of our loved ones, we recall that these are all His gifts, we are indeed seeing Him in these everyday details. This habit of gratitude trains our minds and hearts to recognize the divine presence in every moment, transforming our view of life from a series of random occurrences into an organized and purposeful network of divine grace. The fourth way is to “observe divine attributes” in our own actions and those of others. God possesses countless attributes: The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful, The Just, The Wise, The Generous, The All-Knowing, and so forth. When we uphold justice, compassion, forgiveness, or wisdom in our lives, or observe them in others, we are witnessing the manifestation of divine attributes. Serving humanity, aiding the needy, visiting the sick, and striving to establish peace and friendship are all ways we can perceive God’s presence in our intentions and actions, and those of others. It is here that we understand: “Wherever you turn, there is the Face of Allah” (Al-Baqarah: 115) – not merely in the Kaaba or the prayer niche, but in every place and time when our hearts are turned towards Him and our actions bear the imprint of His pleasure. Even facing difficulties and calamities can be an opportunity to witness divine patience, wisdom, and destiny. In such moments, reliance and submission to His will allow us to perceive His hidden hand in the management of affairs. Finally, the fifth aspect is “worship and commitment to divine commands.” The five daily prayers, fasting, zakat, and Hajj are all bridges for direct connection with God. These acts are not merely religious duties but daily practices that enhance our awareness and consciousness of God in our lives. When we pray, we are essentially conversing with God and sensing His presence. When we fast, the feeling of deprivation and empathy for the needy leads us to a deeper understanding of divine mercy and His role as Sustainer. These acts are not just a series of movements or rituals but exercises for nurturing the soul and intellect so that we can maintain our connection with the Creator of the universe at all times. This is why a true believer, even in the marketplace, at work, or at home, keeps their heart with God, seeing every moment as an opportunity for connection with Him. This perspective helps us to see life not merely as a collection of worldly duties, but as a staircase, with each activity being a step towards divine proximity and perceiving His presence in every stride. Thus, seeing God in everyday moments is not a sudden discovery, but a continuous journey of awareness, reflection, remembrance, gratitude, and action, with each step illuminating the light of divine presence in our lives more brightly and imparting deeper meaning to existence.