Understanding The Prophet's Life
From Issue: 663 [Read full issue]
Encourage
Bukhari and Muslim report from Ibn Masud that God's Messenger said: "A man (or woman) is with him (her) whom he (she) loves." This hadith is a source of hope and consolation for those unable to adhere completely to the Divine Commandments. Those who love the Prophets and pious people will be in their company in the Hereafter. Therefore, whoever desires this should love them sincerely and follow them as best as they can. Those who love the enemies of God will be with them in Hell.
Nuayman, a Companion, could not stop drinking alcohol. He was punished several times. Whet yet another Companion reproached him, God's Messenger warned that Companion: "Don't help Satan against your brother! I swear by God that he loves God and His Messenger." [Bukhari] Thus, those who are trying their best to reform themselves, as long as they continue to perform their obligatory duties and try to refrain from major sins, should be encouraged, not reprimanded. This is a prerequisite of their love for God and His Messenger.
Compiled From:
"The Messenger of God: Muhammad" - Fethullah Gulen, pp. 101. 102