THE PROPHET AND HIS MISSION — From The Quran

his courage and determination, to turn disadvantageous situations to his advantage, and could continue with his activities with hope, even in times of great difficulty. The Prophet underwent great hardship. His experiences broadened his vision, making him more confident. Ironically, his opponents' false propaganda became the means of spreading his message far and wide. The followers of the Prophet of Islam should also inculcate this same mentality among themselves. They should develop within themselves the capacity to turn minuses into pluses and to convert hardship into ease. The Sustenance of God Addressing the Prophet of Islam, the Quran states: Do not strain your eyes towards the worldly benefits We have bestowed on some of them, for with these we seek only to try them. Your Lord's provision is better and more lasting. Enjoin prayer on your people and be diligent in its observance. We demand nothing of you: We shall Ourself provide for you. Blessed shall be the end of the devout. (THE QURAN 20: 131-132) The Prophet led a human life just like everyone else. However, where common men set their sights on accumulating worldly goods, the Prophet did not make this world his goal. He did not desire material benefits; rather, the world for him was a means of spiritual provision. In this world, those who adopt a life of faith and engage in the task of conveying the message of God suffer considerable hardship. On the other hand, those who do not devote themselves to discharging such responsibilities wallow in material comfort and pleasure. By highlighting this difference between a life of comfort and a life of hardship, and by creating the impression that a worldly life is far better than the godly life, Satan tries to tempt and mislead the believers. But a deeper examination shows that beyond this apparent difference there is another dimension, which is far worthier of consideration. It is that worldly possessions are for the purpose of putting human beings to the test, and as such, are of a temporary nature. Those who are preoccupied with material things have nothing in store for their eternal