In the name of Allah, the most gracious and the most merciful. It is inevitable not to face trials and tribulations in our lives. While some people struggle with relationships and family responsibilities, others suffer from poverty and poor health. Consequently, we all go through physical or mental turmoil at one point or another.

During such moments when our mind is tired of dealing with unfortunate fallouts, the questions that swamp us sometimes start distancing us from Allah (SWT). Among these troubling questions, the one that unsettles our souls is ‘Why is Allah testing me?’

The question keeps repeating itself in a loop until we start believing in disturbing thoughts – like “Whatever Allah has planned for me is just unfair” or “Maybe Allah doesn’t love me anymore.” However, we must reflect on our lives and see the things that we are already blessed with on such occasions. Indeed, Allah is Al-Adl and Al-Rahman – The Just and The Most Merciful. There is wisdom behind every plan and obstruction He lays down upon our path. All we need to do is trust Him and be patient. 

Here are four reasons why Allah tests us and why we should even be grateful for such happenings in our lives:

1. Tests Are the Means to Bring Out the Best In Us

Instead of believing that the tests you’ve been handed out are a struggle, take them as blessings. Testing you is Allah’s way of giving you the chance to prove yourself as someone who channels their emotions and brings out the best version of themselves.

Allah (SWT) says in the Quran: “Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe” and they will not be tried? But We have certainly tried those before them, and Allāh will surely make evident those who are truthful, and He will surely make evident the liars.” (Surah Al-Ankabut: 2-3)

2. Striving to Pass the Tests Purifies Our Souls

Tests are not a punishment from the Almighty. Instead, they are a part of Allah’s merciful planning. Through these tests and trials, He eliminates some of the mistakes and sins done in negligence.

3. Tests Save Us From Unfortunate Outcomes

Similarly, it may be that the trials you’re suffering through are actually a blessing in disguise. If only we knew the misfortunes Allah protects us from by pushing us through these tests, we may never complain about them ever in our life. Our temporary troubles may just be another form of protection for us – from something far worse that has befallen us. It is said in the Quran: “Perhaps you dislike a thing and Allāh makes therein much good.” (Surah An-Nisa: 19)

4. With Tests Comes Faith

Lastly, trusting in Allah (SWT) during the hard times, knowing and believing He will protect you from the harshness of the world, strengthens your faith the most. It is in Allah we believe, and indeed, He is the Most Merciful of all.