Al-Madinah Academy

And never say of anything, "Indeed, I will do that tomorrow," Except [when adding], "If Allaah wills." And remember your Lord when you forget [it] and say, "Perhaps my Lord will guide me to what is nearer than this to right conduct." [18:23-24]

And never think that Allaah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them for a Day when eyes will stare [in horror]. Racing ahead, their heads raised up, their glance does not come back to them, and their hearts are void. [14:42-43]

If Allaah speaks of the punishment of certain crimes (i.e. stealing, adultery, etc...) think of why it is so severe

O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones, over which are [appointed] angels, harsh and severe; they do not disobey Allaah in what He commands them but do what they are commanded. [66:6]

When reading verses speaking of Paradise, try to picture yourself there, try to hear the sounds and smell the fragrances. Imagine how wonderful it is and you will be driven to work for it. When reading verses of punishment and descriptions of the grave and Hell, try to picture and imagine them so you will be driven to do what is in your means to avoid the punishment. For example, try to imagine what it would be like to be branded on your forehead and sides with a hot iron! Most of us have been burned before, imagine a heat at least 70 times that.

And when adversity touches man, he calls upon his Lord, turning to Him [alone]; then when He bestows on him a favor from Himself, he forgets Him whom he called upon before, and he attributes to Allaah equals to mislead [people] from His way. Say, "Enjoy your disbelief for a little; indeed, you are of the companions of the Fire." Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing [in prayer], fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, [like one who does not]? Say, "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding. Say, "O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world is good, and the earth of Allaah is spacious. Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account." [39:8-10]

Allaah would not say anything in vain, so pay close attention to each word of the verse (especially the Arabic)