Life Supreme — Page 49
52. LIFE SUPREME vigilance at all times, whether or not one is fasting, extra special attention should be maintained while fasting for it is a time when one's sincere efforts are richly rewarded. . Sin of any kind results from the failure to resist evil temptations. . Fasting strengthens one's power of self-control and self-restraint; and thereby one becomes more fortified against the onslaughts of the devil. . Almighty God has promised that He will bless and reward those who are grateful to Him for the favour He has bestowed upon them: . . . And Allah will certainly reward the grateful. ' (3:145). . As fasting is a time when one is seeking and hankering after a good measure of divine blessings, a golden opportunity is presented to increase and express one's gratitude to God for all His bounties and favours. Self denial enables one to appreciate more fully the good things of life; and this realisation makes one more thankful to God for one's daily provision. Gratitude encourages charity which is another. Islamic virtue that should be exercised more freely and generously when fasting. Abstinence from food and drink creates a deeper feeling of understanding and sympathy for one's less fortunate brethren who are suffering on account of poverty, famine and other kinds of distress. . While every virtue is meritorious, perhaps the greatest of them all is patience. It is the key to self-mastery and the secret of success in every field of physical and spiritual life. Throughout the Holy Quran. Muslims have been exhorted to cultivate this cardinal virtue, for without this firm basis the edifice of righteousness cannot be properly constructed. Patience is an avenue through which the blessings of. God flow: 'And seek help with patience and prayer. ' (2:46). . Patience is a pre-requisite for spiritual prosperity: "O you who believe, be patient and enjoin patience and be firm and fear God that you may prosper. ' (3:199). Patience surmounts all obstacles and is the antidote for every affliction: 'And We will try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives, and fruits; but give glad tidings to the patient. ' (2:151). Impatience is a thorn in the flesh. It disturbs one's equilibrium and