We also know that some who face difficulties are punished for their sins. So, one may wonder how to distinguish whether a person is being simply tested by Allah or being punished for one’s sins. In this context, scholars have said that;
“(as Allah knows a person beforehand), the sign of calamity by way of punishment shows as signs of impatience and ingratitude in a person when a calamity befalls, and the sign of calamity by way of expiation and erasing of sins shows as contentment, acceptance, and patience in accepting the will of Allah until relief comes.”
Furthermore, if the one who is affected shows displeasure and panic, then it cannot be thought that his calamity is an honor from Allah to raise him in status, because Allah, (May He Be Glorified), knew that he would not be patient and accept it with contentment. So in this case it is most likely that it is a requital and punishment.
Also, if the Muslim is a devoted worshipper, obedient and righteous, and there is nothing between him and Allah but true ‘uboodiyyah (servitude), gratitude, praise, repentance and submission to Him, (May He Be Glorified), then it is most likely that this calamity is a kind of honor and raising in status, and people are the witnesses of Allah on earth. If they know him to be righteous, then they may give him the glad tidings of raised status before Allah if he is patient in bearing the calamity. (source: islamqa.info)
Regarding difficulties, in the following verse Allah compares the situation of the one who is steadfast in his faith and facing difficulties with those who are evil doers and are in a similar situation:
“… if you are suffering (hardships) then surely, they (too) are suffering (hardships) as you are suffering, but you have a hope from Allah (for the reward) that for which they hope not; and Allah is Ever All-Knowing, All-Wise”
[Quran (Surah An-Nisa:104)]
So, a true believer can face his difficulties with a positive state of mind hoping for rewards from Allah and such an attitude can provide true relief and happiness. Besides, if Allah lifts this calamity from the believer and saves him from the torment, then that can double the reward and happiness.
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“… and give glad tidings to As-Sabirun (the patient).”
* Who, when afflicted with calamity, say: “Truly! To Allah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return.”
* They are those on whom are the Salawat (i.e. who are blessed and will be forgiven) from their Lord, and (they are those who) receive His Mercy, and it is they who are the guided ones.”
[Quran (Surah Al-Baqara:155-157)]
– End