While They Chase the World, You Choose the Hereafter

Sometimes, when you look at the world, you see how people run after it with passion, ambition, and urgency. More money, higher status, a better life… But you are different. Your heart knows that this world is temporary. You are not just trying to win in this life—you are striving for the hereafter. And that makes you truly strong.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“You prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more enduring.”

(Surah Al-A‘la, 16-17)

This world is just a temporary stop. No matter how much we accumulate here, we will leave it all behind one day. But the Hereafter… that is eternal. And because you understand this reality, you try to stay on the right path.

Sometimes You Feel Tired, But You Are Not Alone

The world constantly pushes people into a race. Everyone is striving to earn more, to live bigger. But sometimes, you feel alone in this struggle. You might wonder, “Am I the one doing it wrong?” But remember, the Prophet (peace be upon him) also lived in such a world and was abandoned by many. He could have chosen luxury, but he preferred simplicity. And he gave glad tidings to those who feel “strange” in this world: “Islam began as something strange and will return to being strange. So, glad tidings to the strangers!” (Muslim, Iman, 232)

Maybe you are one of these “strangers.” But this strangeness is beloved to Allah. Because you are not following the crowd—you are following the truth.

The World Will Follow You Just Set Your Heart Right

You might sometimes think, “But I need to work, I need to earn, or how will I survive?” Yes, of course, you should work. But even while working for this world, your intention should be for Allah. Because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever focuses only on the world, Allah will scatter his affairs, put poverty before his eyes, and he will receive nothing from the world except what was decreed for him. But whoever focuses on the Hereafter, Allah will gather his affairs, enrich his heart, and the world will come to him submissively.” (Tirmidhi, Qiyamah, 2465)

When you work for the Hereafter, the world follows you naturally. While others believe wealth will bring them happiness, you live with inner peace. Because you know that true richness lies in the heart.

Your Path Is a Special One

You may not live like everyone else. You may avoid certain entertainments, desires, or distractions. But remember, your path is not an ordinary one. You are choosing the path that pleases Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever leaves something for the sake of Allah, Allah will give him something better in return.” (Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Musnad, 5/363)

Perhaps you are sacrificing worldly pleasures, but in return, Allah grants you such peace and contentment that those chasing the world could never buy it—even with all their wealth.

You Are Among the Winners

In this world, everyone is chasing something. But you know who the real winners are. Your goal is Allah’s pleasure. And remember: “And whoever places his trust in Allah, He will suffice him.” (Surah At-Talaq, 3)

So keep walking this path. Sometimes you will feel lonely. Sometimes it will be difficult. But if you remain patient, you will be the one who truly wins in the end.

Because while they chase the world, you choose the Hereafter.