Gratitude protects the heart from negativity
“The purpose for us to look at those that have less than us and to look at their circumstances and to learn from them is to be grateful to Allah.”
A believer should deliberately perceive and speak about life with gratitude, hope, and positive expectation of Allah, especially during hardship, because this strengthens iman and protects the heart from jealousy and negativity.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- The Prophet’s hopeful praise of Allah during Uhud illustrates intentional positive perception.
- Gratitude grows by recognizing blessings and comparing oneself with those who have less.
- The Prophet modeled thankfulness in ordinary matters, including simple food.
- Positive expectations should shape marriage, family speech, and public conduct.
- During hardship, dhikr and reflection on Allah’s blessings can defeat negative thoughts.
In the khateeb's words
“He was very intentional In the way he perceived things And in the way he spoke about them”
“The purpose for us To look at those That have less than us And to look at their circumstances And to learn from them Is to be grateful to Allah”
“And you say Alhumdulillah To defeat That thought of shaitan To defeat That negative thought That is placed In your mind”
For the dinner table
Today’s khutbah reminded us to notice Allah’s blessings and speak with gratitude and hope. The khateeb described how the Prophet praised Allah during hardship and appreciated simple food, including bread with vinegar. He explained that comparing ourselves with people who have more can feed jealousy and make us overlook what we have. He also encouraged appreciation in marriage and reflection on the everyday blessings we often take for granted. When difficulties come, he urged us to remember and glorify Allah, keeping hope in Him through our words and actions.
- What is one everyday blessing you noticed today that you usually forget about?
- How could you show appreciation to someone who prepares a meal for you?
- When something feels difficult, what words could help you remember Allah and hold on to hope?
More on Gratitude
ICI · Irving, TX · Oct 24, 2026Thank Allah in ease and hardship“Even in moments of difficulty, when it feels like there's nothing going your way, there is always something to be grateful for.”
Either we're receiving a blessing, which calls for shukr, or we're going through a hardship, which calls for sabr.13:29Al-Ittehad · Vista, CA · Sep 19, 2026Gratitude and patience carry believers through life
Real gratitude is not a feeling.16:14London Muslim Mosque · London, ON · Sep 11, 2026Gratitude means using blessings well