When You Do not Know What is Next: Staying Steadfast in Life's Storms. 

I do not know.

I do not know what is next.

I do not  know when it will end.

I do not  know when His promise will come.

I do not  know how events are unfolding.

I do not  know what I have no knowledge of.

These are the answers my heart repeats in the thick of trials, when life becomes a fog of uncertainty.

But amidst all the unknowns, I know two things.

First, I know I can choose.

I can let my thoughts drown me in despair, or I can rise. I was created with free will, and so I choose life. I choose not to let my happiness depend on the trials, but on how I respond to them. That is where my success lies.

Second, I know His words are true.

I know His promise never fails. I am calling upon Al-Mujeeb, the One who answers. I am dealing with a Lord who is Al-Kareem, Most Generous; Ar-Raḥeem, Most Merciful.

So, I turn to Him when things feel unbearable.

I silence the voices of doubt and discouragement, and I focus on hope. I focus on giving. I redirect my energy into learning, teaching, and serving. And suddenly, the burden lifts. It feels like relief is near.

This reminds me of the powerful verse:

“Do you think you will enter Paradise without being tested like those before you? They were afflicted with suffering and adversity and were so shaken that even the Messenger and the believers with him cried out, ‘When will Allah’s help come?’ Indeed, Allah’s help is near.”

(Sūrat al-Baqarah 2:214)

I remember the story of Umm Sulaym, the noble companion who bore immense loss with grace. She turned a night of pain into one of reward. Allah compensated her with blessings beyond her imagination.

And I remember the words of the Prophet ﷺ to young Ibn ʿAbbās (raḍiyallāhu ʿanhu):

“Be mindful of Allah, and He will protect you… Know that if the whole world gathers to benefit you, they cannot benefit you except with what Allah has already written for you…”

(At-Tirmidhī)

I know I am not alone. I know that du’a can change Qadar, so I keep asking, hoping, turning. Because Allah listens, always. 

To every soul that is still waiting, still persevering. Be inspired. You are not forgotten. You are not being punished. You are being shaped. And remember you will never be burdened more than you can bear.

When life feels uncertain and overwhelming, staying grounded in faith becomes both a shield and a compass. Here are spiritual practices that can help you remain steadfast, even when the winds are strong:

1. Cultivate Faith in Allah’s Plan

Trust that Allah’s wisdom surpasses your understanding. What may feel like a setback could be a setup for growth or unseen blessings. Anchor your heart in the belief that every moment joyful or painful unfolds by divine design.

“Perhaps you dislike something which is good for you…” Qur’an 2:216

2. Seek Guidance in Scripture

Let the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ be your lifeline. These timeless words are filled with reassurance, examples of resilience, and the stories of those who endured and triumphed with tawakkul (trust in Allah).

Make it a habit to reflect on the lives of Prophets like Yusuf, Ayyub, and Musa (peace be upon them), who faced immense trials yet remained deeply rooted in faith.

3. Practice Mindful Supplication

Dua is not just asking it is connecting. Pour your heart out to Allah with sincerity. Know that your whispers are heard, even when you feel invisible to the world.

Let every moment of pain be transformed into a moment of prayer. Call on Al-Fattah (The Opener), Al-Hakeem (The Wise), and Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful).

4. Reflect on Past Blessings

When doubt creeps in, pause and look back. Revisit times when Allah carried you through what you once thought you would never survive. Recognising His past mercy fuels present resilience.

Keep a journal of gratitude and divine interventions, it can become a source of light when the skies feel grey.

5.  Plea for Divine Wisdom through Istikhara

When faced with tough decisions or unclear paths, seek Allah’s guidance through Salat al-Istikhara. It is a Sunnah that brings clarity and peace, reminding you that Allah will guide you to what is best even if the answer is not immediate. Istikhara does not always result in a “sign.” Sometimes, it is a quiet unfolding of events with ease, or a calm conviction that settles in your heart.

These practices are not just rituals they are lifelines. The storm may not pass quickly, but with Allah, you can stand firm in it. Let your faith be the anchor, your du’a the sail, and your trust in Him the wind that carries you through.

To the soul that is patiently waiting and persevering, be Inspired, you and I will not be burdened more than what we can bear. Indeed, Allah’s help is near.

O Allah, make for us from every worry a relief, from every tightness a way out, and from every trial wellbeing. Ameen