Do Not Abandon the Messenger
[9:118] Also (redeemed were) the three who stayed behind. The spacious earth became so straitened for them, that they almost gave up all hope for themselves. Finally, they realized that there was no escape from GOD, except to Him. He then redeemed them that they may repent. GOD is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.
[9:119] O you who believe, you shall reverence GOD, and be among the truthful.
[9:120] Neither the dwellers of the city, nor the Arabs around them, shall seek to stay behind the messenger of GOD (when he mobilizes for war). Nor shall they give priority to their own affairs over supporting him. This is because they do not suffer any thirst, or any effort, or hunger in the cause of GOD, or make a single step that enrages the disbelievers, or inflict any hardship upon the enemy, without having it written down for them as a credit. GOD never fails to recompense those who work righteousness.
[9:121] Nor do they incur any expense, small or large, nor do they cross any valley, without having the credit written down for them. GOD will surely reward them generously for their works.
Who were the three people referenced in 9:118?
There is no escape except to God.
Happiness Now, and Forever
[22:15] If anyone thinks that GOD cannot support him in this life and in the Hereafter, let him turn completely to (his Creator in) heaven, and sever (his dependence on anyone else). He will then see that this plan eliminates anything that bothers him.
[72:8] “‘We touched the heaven and found it filled with formidable guards and projectiles. [72:9] “‘We used to sit there in order to spy. Anyone who listens is pursued by a powerful projectile.
What does it mean in 9:118 that “he redeemed them that they may repent.”
It is a blessing from God that we repent. Part of repenting is accepting we did something wrong. God is the One who opens our heart to His message and it is by His grace that we can see that we did something wrong and whole-heartedly repent.
These verses are a good example of positive reinforcement
What is our responsibility today in striving in the cause of God?
It is interesting that God created a system where believers would need to go through difficulty to grow. Since it is God He could have just as easily said “Be” and that would have toughen the believers without the difficulty.
[94:5] With pain there is gain. [94:6] Indeed, with pain there is gain. [94:7] Whenever possible you shall strive. [94:8] Seeking only your Lord.
http://www.npr.org/player/embed/484997893/485134950
God counts every single credit to make an impact no matter how small, and don’t don’t the long term impact of even the smallest effort we endure in our lives.
Regarding Margaret Mead’s quote, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. (r) Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
University of Texas at Austin 2014 Commencement Address – Admiral William H. McRaven
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxBQLFLei70
Quran Talk Blog 