The Role of Hard Work and Perseverance in Achieving Goals

In the Holy Qur’an, Almighty Allah says:

“And that man can have nothing but what he strives for.”
(Surah An-Najm, Ayah 39)

In the exegesis of this verse, scholars explain that every person will reap the results of their own deeds. No one can achieve anything without effort and striving. (Al-Qurtubi)

Throughout history, every memorable person has worked diligently in their respective fields. They have pursued relentless effort to achieve success. For example, Einstein humbly said:

“I am not so smart; I just stay with the problems longer.”

He also said:

“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”
*(Source: Los Angeles Times article, It’s A Gray Area: Einstein’s brilliant thoughts pertinent to today’s woes)

In other words, persistent, focused effort and dedication brought him success.

In the regional language of Noakhali, there is a saying: “Lagi thakle bhagi hoy”, meaning, if you stay committed to something, you will achieve something.

This is not just a regional proverb; it has an Islamic basis. Generally, nothing is obtained without effort. Even to attain Allah, one must strive according to His prescribed methods. Those who make an effort to seek Allah will be guided by Him. Almighty Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Indeed, those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”
(Surah Al-Ankabut, Ayah 69)

Those who sincerely strive for Allah’s pleasure are not left to their own devices; rather, Allah guides them and opens the path to Him. He instructs them at every step on how to attain His satisfaction. In the exegesis of this verse, Fudayl ibn ‘Iyad states that for those devoted to acquiring knowledge, Allah makes the effort easy for them. (Al-Baghawi)

Indeed, Allah treats His servants according to their intentions and efforts. Whoever wishes to act righteously, Allah facilitates it for them. In Hadith Sharif, Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri (RA) narrated that once the Prophet (SAW) gave some Ansari companions what they asked for. They asked again, and he gave them again. This continued until his wealth was exhausted. He then said:

“If I had wealth, I would not hoard it from you. Whoever wishes to be pure, Allah makes them pure; whoever wishes to be patient, Allah grants patience. There is no gift greater than patience.”
(Abu Dawood, Hadith 1644)

Therefore, a believer seeking success in any matter should place trust in Allah and pursue the path of effort according to the guidance of the Qur’an and Hadith, prioritizing success in the Hereafter. Allah says:

“And those who believe and strive for the Hereafter with due striving – their striving is appreciated.”
(Surah Al-Isra, Ayah 19)

Success comes through consistent effort, trust in Allah, and adherence to His guidance, with ultimate focus on achieving rewards in the Hereafter.