Friday Sermon
13 February 2026

Patience and Trust in God: Two Shields of the Muslim

Eyüp Sultan Camii İmamı

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Today we reflect upon two essential shields that protect the believer: patience (sabr) and trust in God (tawakkul). Allah says: "O you who believe! Seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient." (Al-Baqarah, 2:153)

Life is filled with trials and tribulations. Every soul will taste difficulty, loss, and hardship. But what distinguishes the believer is their response to these challenges. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for all of it is good. If something good happens to him, he is grateful, and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he is patient, and that is good for him." (Muslim)

The Power of Tawakkul

Tawakkul does not mean sitting idle and waiting for things to happen. It means doing our best, taking all necessary measures, and then placing our trust in Allah for the outcome. As Allah says: "And whoever puts their trust in Allah, He is sufficient for them." (At-Talaq, 65:3)

When we combine patience with trust in Allah, we become unshakeable. Difficulties become opportunities for spiritual growth, and hardships become a means of drawing closer to our Lord. Let us arm ourselves with these two powerful shields and face life's challenges with faith and determination. May Allah grant us all beautiful patience and unwavering trust. Amin.