Taking the initiative in good deeds brings Allah's pleasure and improves the lives of others.
The Holy Quran places significant emphasis on the importance of doing good deeds and taking the initiative in this regard. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah reminds believers that righteousness is not solely about facing towards the Qiblah, but true goodness lies in faith in Allah, the Day of Resurrection, the scriptures, and the prophets, and subsequently in benefitting close relatives, orphans, the needy, and travelers. This verse makes it clear that Allah expects us to take the initiative in good deeds and help others. Additionally, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 92, we find: 'Never will you attain good until you spend from that which you love, and whatever you spend, indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.' This underscores that genuine good deeds require sacrifice and effort. In Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 32, it is further emphasized that saving a life is akin to saving all of humanity. The value of performing good deeds is thus emphasized greatly. Therefore, by taking the lead in doing good deeds, we can not only distance ourselves from the wrath of Allah but can also create positive changes in the lives of others. This act not only brings about Allah’s pleasure and satisfaction but also fosters an environment where we become better human beings alongside each other.
Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets and gives his wealth, in spite of his love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; and [those who] establish prayer and give zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.
Never will you attain good until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend, indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.
Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely. And already there came to them Our messengers with clear signs. Then indeed, many of them, even after that, throughout the land were transgressors.
One day, a young man named Hossein recalled the Quranic verses and realized how taking the initiative to do good could change his life and others. He decided to help orphans in his neighborhood. On his first day, he took some food and books to the orphans' house. When he saw the shining faces of the children looking at him with joy and smiles, he felt a warmth in his heart. From that day onwards, Hossein became engaged in charitable activities and continued to help the needy. He realized that with every small act, he was brightening another world.