How to make important decisions with reliance on God (Tawakkul)?

Making important decisions in life is one of the most challenging stages. Throughout our lives, we encounter crossroads and fateful choices that affect our future – from choosing a career and spouse to financial matters and immigration. In such situations, the teachings of the Holy Quran provide us with comprehensive and complete guidance that not only shows us the right path but also brings peace of mind and reassurance. This guidance is the sublime concept of 'Tawakkul' (reliance on God), which holds a special place in Islamic culture. Tawakkul means complete reliance and trust in God, but it should not be mistaken for inaction or passive surrender to fate. True Tawakkul is always accompanied by effort, careful planning, and the use of intellect and logic. The Holy Quran teaches us that, first and foremost, we must exert all our efforts to examine various aspects of a decision, gather necessary information, and consult with people of wisdom and experience. These steps are an integral part of proper Tawakkul, and without them, Tawakkul loses its true meaning. In other words, Tawakkul comes after making sincere efforts, not before. The belief that God is the best guide and supporter allows us to take our steps with confidence, despite uncertainties and ambiguities. The first step in making an important decision with Tawakkul is 'knowledge and research.' Before any action, we must conduct thorough research and investigation into the matter at hand. Gathering accurate information, identifying strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and evaluating the potential consequences of the decision are of paramount importance. The Holy Quran repeatedly invites humanity to reflect, ponder, and utilize their intellect. God has given us intellect to use in all aspects of life, including decision-making. Therefore, Tawakkul does not mean blindly ignoring facts and carelessly entrusting matters to God; rather, it means making maximum use of the tools that God has provided us. The second step is 'consultation,' or Shura. The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of consultation in several verses. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 159, it states: "...and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]." This verse explicitly states that after consultation, one must make a firm decision and then rely upon God. Consulting with experienced, knowledgeable, and benevolent individuals can illuminate hidden aspects of the issue and save us from potential errors. Collective wisdom is always stronger and more complete than individual opinion. Therefore, after gathering and analyzing information, consulting with specialists, parents, trustworthy friends, or anyone with sufficient knowledge and experience is vital. The third step is 'Istikhara.' Istikhara means seeking goodness from God, and it is not merely fortune-telling with the Quran or a rosary. True Istikhara is performed after thorough research and necessary consultations, and when one is in doubt and confusion about choosing between two or more legitimate solutions. At this stage, a person with a pure heart and sincere intention turns to God and asks Him to facilitate the good path if there is any good in it, and to avert evil if there is any. The Istikhara prayer and supplication are manifestations of this seeking goodness. This stage demonstrates that no matter how much effort and research a person puts in, they are ultimately in need of divine guidance, and it is at this stage that reliance on God reaches its peak. The fourth step is 'firm resolve and decision' (Azm). After going through the stages of research, consultation, and Istikhara, one must choose one of the options with firm and decisive resolve. Hesitation and procrastination after these stages are not permissible. As Surah Al-Imran, verse 159, states: "And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah." This means that once you have made the decision, then put your trust in God. This resolve demonstrates human will and the use of the power of choice that God has granted them. And the final step is 'complete reliance on God' (Tawakkul). After completing all the above steps and making a decision, one must entrust the outcome to God. This does not mean abandoning the outcome, but rather being free from anxiety and worry about it. The one who relies knows that their effort was a duty, and the outcome, whatever it may be, is the best destiny that God has decreed for them. This reliance gives a person an extraordinary peace of mind, because they know that they are under the protection of an infinite power. Even if the outcome is seemingly not to their liking, the person who relies considers it for their good and benefit, because they believe that God is more merciful to His servants than anyone else and orchestrates whatever is best for them. Tawakkul ensures that we do not despair when facing potential challenges and obstacles, and we continue our path with greater strength, for we know that God is our supporter and helper, and no power is greater than His will. This feeling of peace and assurance will accompany the person not only at the moment of decision-making but throughout the entire process of implementing the decision and facing its results, freeing them from worldly anxieties. Tawakkul is the cornerstone of a life of faith and tranquility, in which every event, even if seemingly unpleasant, is viewed with a trusting perspective as part of God's greater wisdom, leading the servant to the station of contentment and submission to the divine will. Ultimately, reliance on God in important decisions is an active and dynamic process that includes thinking, researching, consulting, seeking goodness, and finally, entrusting the outcome to the Creator of the universe. This approach not only leads to more mature and informed decisions but also brings psychological and spiritual peace to the individual, making them more resilient and confident on their life's journey. This inner certainty is the greatest achievement of Tawakkul, which holds immense value in today's stress-filled world.