What If I Cannot Obey All of Islam’s Rules?

For Muslims, obeying Islamic law (sharia) is an obligation required by Allah.

However, people are weak and sinful. Maybe you feel shame or guilt because of your transgressions.

Do you struggle with fear because you cannot obey all of Islam’s rules? Will you still go to heaven? Is there a solution to our shortcomings? Email us your opinion.

The Many Obligations of Muslims

Muslims are required to pray five times a day their entire life. That’s a very difficult task.

“And establish regular prayers at the two ends of the day and at the approaches of the night . . .” (Qs 11:114).

Muslims are also obligated to fast for 30 days every year. If you miss a day, then you’re required to make up that day or make a donation (fidyah). What if your financial situation doesn’t allow you to pay the fidyah?

“. . . whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then let them fast an equal number of days after Ramaḍan. For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person for every day not fasted . . .” (Qs 2:184).

Another requirement is to go on the Hajj pilgrimage. But it’s very expensive. What if you aren’t able to take the trip?

“. . . Do not violate Allah’s rituals of pilgrimage . . . nor those pilgrims on their way to the Sacred House seeking their Lord’s bounty and pleasure . . . Allah is severe in punishment” (Qs 5:2).

There are many other obligations Muslims must follow. This can be a great burden. The more righteous you want to be, the more difficult life is.

Feeling Shame and Guilt from Not Fulfilling Islamic Law

Have you ever felt guilt or shame from your shortcomings? Or maybe you feel unworthy to receive Allah’s blessing? Even though our intentions are good, we still fall short sometimes.

Have you ever had difficulty fulfilling the demands of sharia? The high standards of the law can weigh us down. And that might make you scared about the afterlife.

Have you ever been afraid of being punished for your sins? How can we receive Allah’s mercy to help our weakness? Send us your answer here.

Allah’s Solution for Our Insufficiencies

“. . . no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin” (Injil, Romans 3:20).

Allah’s Word teaches the problem is with our hearts. It says, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Book of the Prophets, Jeremiah 17:9). Therefore, Allah offers help.

 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Gospels, Matthew 11:28). Allah helps us on this earth and shows us the way to heaven. The Gospels state this clearly.

“. . . apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ [Isa Al-Masih] to all who believe” (Injil, Romans 3:21-22).

Isa Al-Masih is the bridge between us and Allah. We can still be saved despite our weakness and sin. Believe in Isa to receive Allah’s guidance and blessing!

Say this prayer if you want to be saved: Allah, I ask for forgiveness for all of my sins. I believe Isa Al-Masih can take away my sins. I trust in Isa and ask for His guidance in my life.

SOME QUESTIONS FOR THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW 

We encourage our readers to comment on the article above. Comments that don’t directly relate to the topic will be removed. Please start a dialogue with us by focusing on one of the following questions:

1. Do you know how many different laws you are required to follow in Islam? Can you obey them all? Explain your answer.
2. Are you certain you will go to heaven despite your shortcomings and sin?
3. How do you feel about Isa being the bridge between people and Allah?

[We invite you to visit us at http://www.isaandislam.com/way-of-salvation to learn more about God’s gift of Salvation. God loves you and waits to hear from you. Jesus clearly said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (Injil, John 14:6). For a deeper understanding of Jesus, we suggest you subscribe to “Isa, Islam, and Al-Fatiha” at this link.]