One day Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessing of Allah SWT be upon him) noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel without tying it and he asked the Bedouin, “Why don’t you tie down your camel?” The Bedouin answered, “I put my trust in Allah.” The Prophet (PBUH) then said, “Tie your camel first, then put your trust in Allah” (At-Tirmidhi).This amazing hadith is so powerful, yet so simple. So many of us forget to do our part and take the approach that God will protect us even if we go about our day taking risks or making choices that may affect us negatively. We cannot walk about with blind faith, thinking that God will take care of us (and not let anything happen) when we are neglectful and careless and don’t do for ourselves.Not a day goes by that I don’t think about this hadith (not just because I adore camels!!) and try to act accordingly, InshaAllah.

And, if something happens to goes wrong…..well maybe I did or didn’t do something to prevent it from happening. And, if something does not go according to my plans, I remember that God is the best of planners and has better plans for me.

Alhamdulillah

This hadith can be compared to things people may do today such as:

Leaving the keys in the car and then being upset with God for their car being stolen!

Driving recklessly because “God is protecting me” and getting into an accident.

Sitting home and complaining about how bad life is, but not doing anything to better ourselves.

We MUST take an active role in our life! Then, and only then, should we be asking God to provide and protect us.

And, we must not forget to thank God for everything that has been provided to us.

I recently watched an epidose of Dr. Phil where he said to a guest on his show: “Pray to God, but row towards the shore.” I sat up and said. OMG…Dr. Phil is talking about Tying Your Camel!!