Gratitude is a lifelong act of worship
Ramadan fasting is meant to cultivate taqwa and lifelong shukr, expressed through recognizing Allah's blessings, praising Him, thanking people, and using every blessing in obedience.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- The Qur'an presents fasting and Ramadan as means of taqwa, guidance, ease, and gratitude.
- Shukr is defined as more than saying alhamdulillah; it involves the heart, tongue, and limbs.
- Listeners are urged to recognize Allah as the source of blessings, thank people, and use their bodies and wealth properly.
- The khutbah categorizes blessings as worldly, religious, and hereafter blessings, emphasizing that faith and worship are especially valuable.
- The imam concludes that gratitude brings increase, while praying for peace, security, and relief for suffering communities.
In the khateeb's words
“You have not truly thanked Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala Until you thank the people”
“Every limb Brothers and sisters Every organ Needs to be used Correctly That is how you do shukr”
“Shukr As you have seen Brothers and sisters Is an act of worship Shukr Is a lifestyle Not simply A statement”
“If you are grateful I will certainly give you more If you are grateful I will give you more However If you are ungrateful Surely My punishment is severe”
For the dinner table
Today’s khutbah taught that fasting is meant to grow taqwa and gratitude. The imam explained that shukr is more than saying alhamdulillah: we recognize that blessings come from Allah, speak gratitude, and use our bodies and possessions in good ways. We should thank the people who help us and notice ordinary blessings such as safety, water, health, faith, and the ability to worship. Gratitude is a lifelong practice, and Allah promises increase for those who are grateful. We can begin by thanking someone, avoiding one misuse of a blessing, and doing one good deed.
- What is one blessing you usually overlook?
- Who did something helpful for you today?
- How can one part of your body help you do good this week?
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