Introduction
In life, every person faces difficult times — regardless of whether they are pious, sinful, practicing, or neglectful. When these hardships come to an end and relief begins, Allah (SWT) often shows clear signs. These signs are both spiritual and emotional, signaling that a person’s situation is about to improve.
Why Does Allah Test People?
Hardship and trials are a natural part of life, and no one is exempt from them. The pious and righteous people are tested to assess their patience and devotion, while the sinful are tested as a wake-up call, inviting them back to Allah’s mercy.
Tests for the Pious
When a person who prays, fasts, and lives a righteous life faces difficulties, it is a divine test from Allah. It’s not a punishment but an opportunity for elevation in rank and a chance to prove one’s sincerity. Allah wants to see whether His servant remains steadfast, continues worship, makes supplications, and humbles themselves before Him during tough times.
Tests for the Sinful
On the other hand, when those who neglect prayers and righteous deeds face hardships, it is due to their sins. Allah uses these difficulties to shake them from heedlessness and draw them back towards His mercy. The signs of such a call include inner restlessness, an urge to seek forgiveness, and sudden opportunities to turn to Allah.
Signs That Difficulties Are About to End
When hardships begin to fade and relief draws near, Allah shows some beautiful and reassuring signs. Recognizing these signs can strengthen a believer’s faith and patience.
1. Growth in Patience and Inner Calm
The first and most important sign is that the heart starts feeling calm and accepting. The person stops complaining, avoids blaming fate, and instead holds firmly to patience. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah is with those who are patient.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:153)
Patience is the key to overcoming trials. Those who remain patient, avoid unnecessary complaints, and place their trust in Allah will soon see their situation improve.
2. Commitment to Prayer and Worship
Another clear sign is an increased connection with Allah. Even in difficulty, a person begins offering regular prayers, reciting the Qur’an, making Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and seeking forgiveness. Many people think they will start worshiping after their problems are resolved — but relief comes quickly when one strengthens their bond with Allah during hardship.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that in times of trial, the believer should rush towards prayer and seek Allah’s help through patience and worship.
3. Acceptance of Duas and Easing of Hardships
A vital sign that the difficulty is about to end is the gradual acceptance of supplications. The heart starts inclining towards Allah, and sincere, heartfelt prayers begin to flow naturally. The person feels spiritual softness, and small, positive changes start appearing in life — indicating that relief is near.
As Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, with hardship comes ease.”
(Surah Ash-Sharh 94:6)
This is a divine promise that no difficulty lasts forever, and ease inevitably follows.
What Should a Believer Do in Times of Difficulty?
When tested by hardships, a Muslim should adopt three essential actions:
1. Hold Firm to Patience
Avoid complaints, excessive worry, and despair. Patience doesn’t mean passive suffering but trusting Allah’s wisdom and timing. Stay composed, keep hope alive, and avoid speaking negatively about your situation.
2. Continue Worship and Good Deeds
Never abandon prayers, Qur’an recitation, or good deeds during difficult times. Some people distance themselves from worship when facing problems — a grave mistake that prolongs their hardships. Instead, increase acts of kindness, charity, and voluntary prayers.
3. Make Sincere Dua and Seek Forgiveness
Keep supplicating to Allah with humility and persistence. Ask for strength, patience, and deliverance from difficulties. Recite duas taught by the Prophet (PBUH) for distress and consistently seek forgiveness (Astaghfirullah) to wipe away sins.
Consequences of Neglecting Patience and Worship
Many people worsen their situation by complaining excessively, neglecting prayers, and losing hope. Their hardships linger because they fail to turn towards Allah and embrace patience. Those who sincerely want their problems to resolve and wish for Allah’s mercy must remain patient, pray regularly, and constantly seek help through supplication.
Conclusion
Both righteous and sinful people face hardships in life. Allah tests the pious to increase their rank and test their sincerity, while He tests sinners to invite them towards repentance and His mercy. When times are about to change for the better, Allah shows signs such as growth in patience, increased inclination towards worship, and gradual acceptance of duas.
Whoever wishes for relief should hold firmly to patience, prayer, and supplication. These are the three keys to success in times of trial. And surely, as promised in the Qur’an — “Indeed, with hardship comes ease.”