Why Has God Withheld Certain Things from Me?

The feeling that God has withheld something from a person is an experience almost everyone encounters during their life. This question reveals the depth of a person's relationship with their Creator and their understanding of divine wisdom and power. From the perspective of the Holy Quran, the answer to this question is not only comforting but also provides a deeper and more comprehensive view of life, destiny, and the purpose of creation. The Quran teaches us that everything that happens in the world, including what appears to be 'withholding' or 'deprivation,' is part of a divine plan and is accompanied by infinite wisdom that may not initially be comprehensible to the limited human mind. Allah, the Almighty, introduces Himself in the Quran with names such as 'Al-Hakeem' (the All-Wise) and 'Al-Alim' (the All-Knowing). These names remind us that our knowledge is limited, and we cannot fully grasp all dimensions of every event. Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216, explicitly addresses this: "But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah Knows, while you know not." This verse is the heart of the answer to your question. Sometimes, what we desperately desire, if obtained, might be detrimental to us; perhaps it would distance us from God, or lead to arrogance, pride, or emotional and physical harm. On the other hand, what is taken from us or not given to us might be beneficial; perhaps it lays the groundwork for growth, learning, or receiving a greater blessing in the future that we are currently unaware of. Another significant reason for these 'withholdings' is divine testing. This worldly life is a place of trial and examination, as stated in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 35: "Every soul will taste death. And We test you with evil and with good as a trial; and to Us you will be returned." These tests are tools to gauge our faith, patience, gratitude, and reliance on Allah. When a person shows patience in the face of deprivation and adversity, instead of despairing and complaining, they seek refuge in God and rely on Him, thereby successfully passing the test and attaining higher degrees of closeness to God. The story of Prophet Moses and Al-Khidr (peace be upon them both) in Surah Al-Kahf is an unparalleled example of hidden divine wisdom. Al-Khidr performs actions that seem outwardly objectionable, even unjust: damaging a boat, killing a young boy, and rebuilding a wall without wages. However, in the end, Al-Khidr explains that each of these actions had a profound wisdom behind it. Damaging the boat was to prevent its confiscation by a tyrannical king, killing the boy was to save his believing parents from his future wickedness and disbelief, and repairing the wall was to preserve the treasure of orphans. This story clearly demonstrates that we humans only see a small part of reality, and the wisdom behind events is beyond our comprehension. Allah gives us what is good for us and withholds what is not, even if we do not understand. Sometimes, this withholding is an opportunity for repentance, a return to the right path, or even an appreciation of existing blessings. When a person experiences hardship, they remember God more, pray, and see themselves as needy of Him. This spiritual awakening has far greater value than any material blessing. In Surah Al-Inshirah (The Relief), verses 5 and 6, Allah emphasizes twice: "For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease." These verses promise that behind every 'withholding' and every difficulty, there is ease and relief that will become apparent in its due time. Therefore, when something is withheld from you, instead of feeling a loss, see it as a sign of divine providence. Be patient, rely on God, be grateful for what you have, and know that Allah is your absolute well-wisher. He knows better than anyone else what is necessary for your well-being in this world and the hereafter. This perspective is not only comforting but also guides a person towards increasing faith, patience, and gratitude. With such insight, everything that appears to be withheld can actually be a hidden blessing, a great lesson, or a bridge to a better destination.