How to Trust God in Important Decisions?

Trusting in Allah (God) in important life decisions is one of the most fundamental and comforting concepts in Islamic teachings. It is not merely a belief of the heart but encompasses a set of practical actions and procedures that assist an individual in the decision-making process, ultimately bringing peace of mind and reassurance. Tawakkul, or reliance on God, does not mean abandoning effort and planning; rather, it means that after exerting all one's intellectual and practical capabilities, the final outcome is entrusted to Divine will and wisdom. The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of Tawakkul, presenting it as a path to success and tranquility in the face of life's adversities. The first step in relying on God is to correctly understand its concept. Many people mistakenly believe Tawakkul means giving up work and expecting a miracle, whereas it is quite the opposite. True Tawakkul involves three essential stages: first, careful deliberation and planning, using intellect and logic to examine all aspects of the decision; second, consulting with knowledgeable and experienced individuals (Shura); and third, performing Istikhara and seeking goodness from Allah. After completing these stages and utilizing all material and spiritual resources, one surrenders their heart to Allah, knowing that their ultimate well-being and benefit lie in whatever Allah decrees for them. In essence, Tawakkul is the pinnacle of effort and hope, not the beginning of passivity and lethargy. One of the main keys to Tawakkul in the Quran is the concept of 'Akhdh bil Asbab' or employing the means. Allah Almighty asks us to utilize all our resources and capabilities to achieve our goals and to exert our utmost effort. This effort includes research, consultation, planning, and even trial and error. For example, if someone intends to migrate or start a new business, they must thoroughly research laws, the job market, costs, and opportunities, consult with experts, and then proceed with reliance on Allah. This means Tawakkul should occur after maximum effort has been expended, not before. The Holy Quran states in Surah Al-Imran, verse 159: "Faidha azamta fatawakkal alallahi innallaha yuhibbul mutawakkileen," meaning "And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him]." This verse clearly indicates that Tawakkul should follow 'Azm' – a firm decision based on necessary considerations. The next stage is the importance of consultation (Shura). The Quran, in the very same verse (Al-Imran 159), advises consultation before commanding reliance: "Wa shawirhum fil-amr," meaning "And consult them in the matter." Consulting with wise, experienced, and benevolent individuals opens up new perspectives and prevents potential mistakes, especially crucial in major decisions with widespread implications. Consultation helps one see hidden aspects of an issue and act with greater discernment. After consultation and necessary deliberations, it is time for Istikhara. Istikhara means seeking goodness from Allah. This does not imply leaving decision-making to random numbers or guesswork. Rather, Istikhara is a prayer in which one asks Allah that if the decision is good for them in this life and the hereafter, He should make it easy and remove obstacles, and if it is harmful, He should avert it and turn one's heart away from it. The peace that settles in one's heart after Istikhara and their inclination towards one direction can be a divine sign, but more importantly, it is the trust that Allah will determine the best path for His servant. Finally, the most crucial part of Tawakkul is accepting the outcome. Sometimes, despite all efforts and reliance, the result is not what we expected. It is at this stage that true faith and Tawakkul become evident. A true believer knows that Divine will encompasses everything, and there might be good in what did not happen for them, and harm in what they wished for. Accepting divine decree (Qadar) and submitting to His wisdom not only brings inner peace but also strengthens one to face future challenges. In Surah At-Talaq, verse 3, Allah says: "Wa man yatawakkal alallahi fahuwa hasbuhu innallaha balighu amrihi qad ja'alallahu likulli shay'in qadra," meaning "And whoever relies upon Allah – He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent." This verse is a divine guarantee of Allah's sufficiency for those who rely on Him. This reliance, coupled with patience and prayer as mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, are the main pillars of tranquility and steadfastness in life's journey. With this comprehensive approach, Tawakkul not only lifts a burden from a person's shoulders but also grants them strength and insight to take firm and confident steps in life, relying on the Creator of all existence.