Dr. Yousry Gaber, a scholar from Al-Azhar, stated that a wise believer plans with his mind but places his heart in the hands of God. Excessive worry about livelihood and the future only brings exhaustion, for sustenance is written and guaranteed. What matters is striving with effort while leaving outcomes to the Creator.
He explained that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Be keen on what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not give up.” The hadith teaches that reason drives planning and diligence, while faith brings calmness and trust. When both coexist, life becomes peaceful and purposeful.
Dr. Gaber emphasized that true reliance on God (tawakkul) does not mean abandoning effort, but rather combining intelligent action with inner acceptance. To think that hard work alone guarantees provision is arrogance; to rely without effort is negligence. Real faith lies between them.
He added that some people worship God only when things go their way — a mistake the Quran warns about: “And among people is he who worships Allah on an edge.” True believers worship out of love and surrender, content with God’s decree in all circumstances.
Certainty in God, he noted, grows through good deeds, remembrance, lawful sustenance, righteous company, and frequent prayers upon the Prophet ﷺ. These nourish the heart and strengthen faith against life’s uncertainties.
Dr. Gaber concluded: “Work with your mind, rest with your heart. The mind handles causes, the heart accepts outcomes. When you unite the two, peace fills your life, and worry fades away.”
