Why do some people reach God sooner?

The path to drawing near to Almighty God is a profound spiritual journey that each individual traverses at their own pace and in their own unique way. The concept of 'reaching God sooner' does not imply a race or a competition for preferential treatment, but rather points to the quality and depth of one's heartfelt connection, the purity of intention, and the extent to which one responds to the divine call. This accelerated proximity is not merely dependent on chronological time, but is more influenced by one's spiritual states, sincere inner actions, and continuous efforts towards achieving divine proximity. The Holy Quran, the unparalleled guide for humanity, subtly points to factors that can lead an individual to their destination on this path more swiftly and profoundly. These factors pave the way for attracting divine mercy, guidance, and special favor, placing the servant within the sphere of God's closeness. One of the most fundamental and crucial of these factors is 'Ikhlas' or sincerity. Sincerity means purifying one's intention from any non-divine impurities, performing all actions, both acts of worship and daily endeavors, solely for the pleasure of Allah. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 2, Allah states: "So worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion." When a person performs every action with a pure intention for God, it is as if they are building a direct bridge to Him. This sincerity imbues human actions with added weight and value, removing the veils between the servant and the Lord. A small act performed with a great intention can lead to higher ranks than a grand act performed with impure intentions, and this itself is the true accelerator on the path of proximity. Another vital factor is 'Taqwa' or God-consciousness and piety. Taqwa signifies self-restraint and constant vigilance over one's soul against sins, while diligently fulfilling divine obligations. The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of Taqwa in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 189, it states: "And it is not righteousness to enter houses from their backs, but righteousness is [in] one who fears Allah." Those who possess Taqwa are always mindful of Allah, knowing that He observes all their deeds. This constant remembrance grants them discernment and the ability to distinguish right from wrong, illuminating their path to God. Allah says in Surah Al-Anfal, verse 29: "O you who have believed, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion (to judge between right and wrong)." This discernment helps a person choose the right path amidst life's complexities and move more quickly towards God. 'Striving and struggling in the way of Allah' is also a significant factor in accelerating this journey. This struggle (Jihad) does not exclusively refer to warfare; it encompasses battling one's inner desires (jihad al-nafs), resisting satanic whispers, and making continuous efforts to perform good deeds and spread justice and kindness in society. Allah gives a clear promise 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." This verse indicates that the more one strives in self-purification and serving creation, the more Allah will reveal the paths of guidance to them, bringing them closer to Him. 'Constant remembrance of Allah' is another key factor. A heart that continuously remembers God becomes purified and finds tranquility. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, it is stated: "Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." This spiritual tranquility liberates a person from worldly concerns, allowing them to turn wholeheartedly towards their Creator. Remembrance is not merely uttering words but involves acknowledging God's constant presence in all moments of life and paying attention to His commands and prohibitions. The deeper and more continuous this spiritual presence, the shorter the spiritual distance between the servant and God. Furthermore, 'Tawbah and Inabah' (repentance and turning to God) – a swift and sincere return after every transgression – is another accelerating factor. A person who quickly acknowledges their sin, feels sincere remorse, and returns to God with pure intention receives special divine forgiveness and mercy. The Quran in Surah Al-Imran, verse 133, commands believers: "And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is the heavens and the earth, prepared for the righteous." This haste in repentance signifies a living, eager heart that does not wish to remain distant from divine grace for even a moment. Ultimately, 'patience and gratitude' in the face of adversities and blessings, as well as 'love for Allah and His Messenger' which takes precedence over all other loves, are all factors that place a person within the sphere of divine proximity. Individuals who live with these characteristics seem to be on a rapid spiritual trajectory, and Allah, due to their efforts and sincerity, makes the paths of proximity smoother and swifter for them. This is a universal invitation, and whoever turns wholeheartedly to God will receive His positive response and draw near to Him, regardless of time or place, but solely based on the quality of their relationship and the depth of their heartfelt devotion.