format_quote Originally Posted by
GodIsAll
I think the problem may be in the way I am saying what I am trying trying to relate. Zaria is right. I by no means hear a voice or see a burning bush that is unconsumed by fire. At certain times, things and people enter my day where it is obvious to me they could use some help.
Sharia law states it is unlawful to let a neighbor go hungry. (Lovely, by the way). Now, here is how I may word that: A Muslim becomes aware his neighbor and family are without food. I would say (quite possibly incorrectly) that this Muslim has been "called" to do God's will. He submits to what God would have him do which is pleasing to God.
Am I skewed in my perception? All replies are most welcome, as always.
By making use of the word 'call' could be interpreted/ lead others to believe that a person was
directly instructed by Allah (subhanawatáala) or 'led towards' the performance of a particular action.
Instead, in these cases, Allah Taa'la has placed
opportunities in your path to do good.
Whether or not we take up that opportunity is
our choice.
So, from this point of view, it is not a 'calling' as such, but rather
making a choice to do the right thing.
Having said this, I kind of understand why you may be tempted to feel in the above manner.
Even as muslims, we may sometimes get the feeling that we, specifically, were meant to be at an exact place, at an exact time - by the will of Allah.
Sometimes people may even tell us, e.g. "I am so glad to have met you.....it feels that God has sent you, specifically to see me today."
Indeed, whatever happens is by the plan and decree of Allah.
Still, we should try to
not view these occurrences in the above manner, as it opens the doors of pride and a sense of importance to enter our hearts.
We may feel that "I am someone 'special', whom Allah has 'chosen' for this particular task".
We should always bear in mind that we are only meager slaves/ servants of Allah.
And the fact that we may chose to do the correct thing in life, is ONLY as a result of Allah (subhanawataála)'s mercy and guidance.
In the very same way that He has guided us towards obeying His commands, in the same manner, He could turn our hearts away - should we not recognize this, appreciate it and remain humble in all that we do.
God bless