Is it Necessary to Always Feel That God Is With Us?

In the life-giving school of Islam and the rich teachings of the Holy Quran, the concept of God Almighty’s presence and companionship with His servants is one of the most fundamental and comforting beliefs. This belief has deep roots in numerous Quranic verses where God introduces Himself as always near, aware, and accompanying humanity. However, the core question is whether this divine presence must always be a tangible, internal 'feeling' within us, or if merely an intellectual and faith-based acknowledgment suffices? The answer is that while God is inherently with us through His infinite knowledge and power, striving to 'feel' this presence is not only necessary but also one of the highest stages of faith and spiritual perfection that transforms human life. The Holy Quran explicitly states that God is “closer to us than our jugular vein” (Quran 50:16) and “He is with you wherever you are” (Quran 57:4). These and similar verses emphasize God's absolute, pervasive, and perpetual presence in every moment of our lives. This presence includes not only His knowledge and awareness of our actions and thoughts but also His existential presence; meaning, there is no moment of existence that is outside of His planning, power, and presence. Therefore, from a divine reality perspective, God is always with us, whether we feel it or not. He is the Witness and Observer of every atom and every action, and nothing is hidden from His knowledge. This awareness in itself is a deterrent from sin and an encouragement to do good. However, the 'feeling' of this presence is a stage beyond merely knowing an intellectual truth. This feeling is the result of self-purification, constant remembrance (dhikr), reflection on divine signs, and familiarity with the Quran and prayer. When a person reaches this level of consciousness and awareness, where they perceive God as present and observing them in every moment and every deed, their life takes on a new meaning. This feeling of presence has countless benefits: Firstly, it creates deep peace and tranquility of heart. When faced with life’s difficulties and challenges, knowing that God is watching and assisting never leads one to feel alone or despair. This feeling grants power and steadfastness, as God says: “Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured” (Quran 13:28). This remembrance of God is not just the repetition of words, but rather a heartfelt presence and a feeling of companionship with Him. Secondly, the feeling of God’s presence deters a person from committing sins and motivates them towards good deeds. How can someone who knows they are always in the presence of the Lord easily commit sin or neglect their duties? This feeling strengthens piety and God-consciousness within a person. As Imam Ali (AS) stated, “He who sees God present and observing him, distances himself from sins.” This feeling leads a person towards greater responsibility towards themselves, others, and the environment, as they know all their actions are recorded and will one day be accounted for in His presence. Thirdly, this feeling acts as a guide in daily decision-making. When an individual feels God is with them, it assists in choosing the right path and helps avoid satanic temptations and carnal desires. This tangible presence bestows insight and wisdom upon a person to make the best decisions in their individual and social life. Fourthly, the feeling of God’s presence fosters a stronger sense of gratitude and appreciation in a person. When one realizes that every blessing they possess has come from God, by His presence and planning, their heart overflows with thankfulness. This gratitude manifests not only in words but also in their behavior and actions, encouraging sincere servitude. Therefore, while it is true that God is always with us, the 'conscious effort' to feel this presence is a spiritual and educational necessity. This feeling must gradually become ingrained in a person through consistent righteous deeds, remembrance, contemplation, and self-observation. The life of a true believer is one in which God-centricity flows not only in belief but in every moment and detail of life, as a living and dynamic feeling. This is the ultimate goal of Quranic education: for a person to reach the 'station of Ihsan' – a station where one worships God as if they see Him, and if they do not see Him, they know that He sees them. This station is the pinnacle of peace and the perfection of servitude, transforming life into a paradise. To achieve this level of felt presence, practical methods are outlined in the Quran and Sunnah. One of the most important is 'Muraqabah' (self-observation) and 'Muhasabah' (self-accountability). A person should reflect on their actions and thoughts throughout the day and assess whether they perceive God as present and observing them at every moment. Furthermore, persistence in acts of worship, especially prayer with presence of heart, and recitation and contemplation of the Holy Quran, are significant factors in strengthening this feeling. Participating in gatherings of remembrance (dhikr) and reflecting on the greatness of God’s creation can also contribute. Finally, it must be understood that this feeling is a gradual journey, requiring patience, perseverance, and reliance on God. The stronger and more stable this feeling becomes, the richer and more fruitful a person's life will be spiritually, transforming into a source of peace and contentment.