How do I know if God has chosen me for growth?

Understanding how to discern if God has chosen you for spiritual and personal growth requires reflection on the verses of the Holy Quran and the signs that God places within our beings and lives. This 'choice' is not about a hidden or predestined selection that lies outside our will and effort; rather, Allah, in His infinite wisdom, has opened the path of growth for everyone. Those who sincerely and persistently strive on this path benefit from special divine guidance and blessings. Indeed, the very inclination and desire for growth, the questioning about it, and the search for ways to achieve it, are among the first signs of divine grace that steer the human heart towards perfection. One of the most prominent signs is the «feeling of tranquility and assurance in the heart» that comes from remembering God and adhering to divine teachings. The Quran states in Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28: «Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.» If, in difficult moments or after performing good deeds, your heart finds peace and is free from anxiety and distress, this is a sign of divine presence and guidance on your path to growth. Another sign is «divine facilitation and ease in performing good deeds». When God chooses someone for growth, obstacles are removed from their path, and performing acts of worship and good deeds becomes easier for them. The feeling of satisfaction and joy from praying, reciting the Quran, giving charity, and helping others can all be indications of this divine choice. This facilitation does not merely mean the absence of problems, but rather an inner strength to overcome challenges and adhere to the right path. «Striving and struggling in the way of God» is also one of the clearest criteria. Allah says in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 69: «And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.» If you consistently strive for self-improvement, acquiring knowledge, and acting upon divine commands, God will reciprocally aid and guide you on this path. This struggle includes battling the commanding self (nafs al-ammara), avoiding sins, and endeavoring to acquire noble virtues. Furthermore, «encountering trials and tribulations» can also be a sign of God's special attention for growth. Trials are not meant for punishment but for refining the soul and increasing the patience and resilience of believers. The Quran states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155: «And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.» If, after enduring hardships, you feel inner growth, an increase in faith, and reliance on God, this is a sign of success in the divine test and stepping onto the path of growth. «The inclination towards self-purification and repentance» is also a crucial sign of being chosen for growth. Allah states in Surah Ash-Shams, verses 9 and 10: «He has succeeded who purifies it. And he has failed who corrupts it.» If you are constantly seeking to rectify yourself, repenting from past mistakes, and striving to purify your soul and mind, this indicates a dynamic and growing spirit that has received divine favor. Ultimately, «the feeling of closeness to God and increasing love for Him» is the most prominent sign. The further you advance on the path of growth, the more your affection and love for the Creator will increase, and this love itself will become a driving force for greater effort in His way. This divine choice is not just a privilege but a great responsibility to perfect oneself and be an example for others. This path of growth is a continuous journey where, with every step, divine light and guidance become more apparent.