Why Do You Need To Set Intentions?

Lessons From A Recent Trial

Asalam Alaekum Waramatullahi Wabarakatu,

Trust you are well, striving and thriving.

The Prophet (SAW) said: "Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will get what was intended." (Bukhari & Muslim)

I remember how our guide calmly explained during the information session that it wasn’t the material or logistical details that mattered. The most important thing was our spiritual state, and a key part of that was our intentions. After the brief yet beneficial call, he asked us to write down 10 intentions for why we wanted to go on this trip.

I remember making my notes — many were private, but one that I’m comfortable sharing is this: to develop a deeper connection with our beloved Prophet (SAW). You see, I’m a visual person. Experiences stick with me ,so I love opportunities to see, and connect and I was hoping to experience that.

Fast forward a few days later: papers sorted, documents tidy, flights paid for, tour company booked — and the most important paper I needed got stuck. Not denied, not rejected, just stuck. Trust me, this is a test on a different level for someone who’s a planner-in-recovery. It’s the ultimate test of patience and tawakkul (trust in Allah). For me, it wasn’t about the money; it was about the joy being snatched away when I was so sure the key to that calm and peace was just one simple paper away. Alhamdulillah for even recognizing it as a test.

That is the test, but there are blessings.

I’m writing this because I want to share the ease.

Let us start off with that intention setting exercise! Oh boy, was I glad I set those intentions! They may not have reached the full 10, but they were written from the depths of my heart. And honestly, while writing them, I kept thinking of more! It was like something unlocked and I was clear on what more could be achieved on this trip. Knowing how incredibly generous Allah is and how He sees what’s truly in our hearts has given me a sense of peace in the midst of all this uncertainty.

There can never be too many conversations about intentions — how important and powerful they are. This experience unlocked a new benefit for me: the peace and trust that come from setting a deep intention. (Sincerity is a big, slightly scary lol — only Allah knows what's in our hearts, so cannot claim that it was), but having that intention helps you handle trials better. It’s a beautiful reassurance that keeps you going. It helps you behave(Cos Only Allah knows how I have not LOST IT) It reminds you to focus on the One you’re doing it all for.

While I was waiting, I also stumbled on this verse from Surah Al-Imran:

“Say, ‘Whether you conceal what is in your hearts or reveal it, Allah knows it. He knows whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth, and Allah is Most Capable of everything.’” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:29)

SubhanAllah! Soooo reassuring! What really is there to worry about when you know that He knows? I wanted to go on this trip for Him — and that’s what truly matters. I just pray that He accepts it from me and forgives any shortcomings along the way.

Also, there’s something so valuable about sharing with the right people — those whose hearts are attached to Allah. One of my sisters reminded me of how my experience reminded her of the disappointment the companions felt during the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. Honestly, it was a balm for my heart! I’ve always loved that story, but I’d never related to it on such a personal level until now. It all of a sudden made my problem feel SO SMALL! May Allah bless her for that reminder!

Is there anything we experience today that hasn’t already happened in our history? I think not! Our prophets and their stories are there for a reason, and we need to lean on that wisdom when life doesn’t go as planned.

So, my dear people, set your intentions. You never know which one might open the door to something beautiful, even in the middle of a test. Dig deep into your heart and pull them out. Trust me — it’s worth it.

And please keep me in your duas! Speaking of intentions, please get the ones for Ramadan started NOW! Let us not take it for granted and think we may be here to witness it. Let us use the time now to set those intentions. Also(again) ,please make the most of Sha'ban, o! It’s slipping away fast. May Allah grant us ease and allow us to reach Ramadan in good health and high Iman. Ameen.

All errors (and typos) are from me and all good is from Allah.

We leave you in Allah's care,

One Of Us at Ibadahplug.