Ramadan trains believers in self-control and service
“The reward of fasting at its highest level is to be conscious of Allah, to win that consciousness war that Imam Jamil was talking about.”
Ramadan should be used as active training in taqwa, striving against the nafs, following the Prophet’s Sunnah, deepening worship, and serving others, so believers become more self-controlled, empathetic, and beneficial.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Listeners are urged to strive in Ramadan rather than passively presume forgiveness.
- Love for the Prophet is connected to following his Sunnah, especially during the last ten nights.
- Listeners are asked to assess their worship and spiritual condition before the Day of Judgment.
- Taqwa is explained as obedience, God-consciousness, and self-restraint against the nafs.
- Fasting is presented as training for empathy, feeding others, and community service.
- The khutbah closes with Quranic examples, prayers for oppressed communities, and encouragement to make the most of Ramadan.
In the khateeb's words
“The Sahaba understood the concept of striving. Even though the angels are fighting with us, we're still going to strive.”
“If I love someone, it means I would sacrifice for them, I would listen to them.”
“Also, the reward of fasting at its highest level is to be conscious of Allah, to win that consciousness war that Imam Jamil was talking about.”
For the dinner table
Both khutbahs reminded us that Ramadan is a chance to grow closer to Allah through sincere effort. The first khateeb used the companions at Badr to show that trusting Allah goes together with striving, and that loving Prophet Muhammad should shape our actions and words. He encouraged families to make the last ten nights meaningful through prayer, dua, and renewed intentions. The second khateeb explained taqwa as being mindful of Allah and practicing self-restraint, so fasting also means caring about our speech and behavior. He encouraged us to turn hunger into empathy, feed others, and help one another in ways our circumstances allow. Even if Ramadan has not gone as we hoped, we can begin again and make good use of the time remaining.
- What is one way your words could show love for Prophet Muhammad tomorrow?
- When you feel angry, what could help you practice the self-control discussed in the khutbah?
- Who could we help or share a meal with as a family this Ramadan?
More on Ramadan & fasting
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