You Are Enough: Building Self-Love with Allah’s Words
There was a time when I truly believed that Allah didn’t love me. Toward the end of my previous marriage, I struggled to accept that Allah could love me and still allow such hardship to exist in my life. Looking back, I realize now, I didn’t truly know Allah then. That season of hardship pulled me away from my obligations. And the more time. I spent disconnected from prayer and worship, the deeper my sense of self-worth, self-esteem and self-love began to fade.
I didn’t know it at the time, but Allah is the Source of All Love.
The things Allah has made “obligatory” for me and all His creation are for our good. To forge a connection with him, develop a deep sense of love, and to be strong believers in the face of hardship.
“Indeed, humankind was created impatient: distressed when touched with evil, and withholding when touched with good, except those who pray consistently performing their prayers”
Surah Al-Ma'arj, 70:19-23
I wish I could say I know Allah fully, but I can’t. What I can say is that I know Him well enough now to understand that I am loved by Him. That He is willing to forgive me even before I’m ready to forgive myself. Most importantly, He has immense love and compassion for His creation. One verse that reassured my heart during this time was:
“We have certainly created man in the best of stature.”
Surah At-Tin, 95:4
When I first heard this verse, I couldn’t fully receive it. I couldn’t believe that despite my repeated mistakes, my lack of faith, and the direction my life was heading, Allah had created me with such honor and favor. It wasn’t until I began forming a raw, honest relationship with Him that things started to shift. I had been disconnected from my prayers and du’a. I honestly forgot how to begin.So, I started simply: by asking for forgiveness and speaking to Him aloud. Sometimes it was in my car on the way to work, lying in bed, or during quiet walks.These conversations were often interrupted by tears and followed by silence as I sat alone, navigating life. But in those moments, I accepted that Allah could forgive me. I even accepted that He would forgive me. What I hadn’t yet accepted was that Allah is with me.
Another verse that comforted me deeply was:
“Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive.”
Surah Hud, 11:61
Learning to build a relationship with Allah is a journey. One that takes time, patience, and vulnerability. If you take nothing else from this, take this:
Allah loves and values you, even when you don’t.
Allah forgives you, even when you’re not ready to forgive yourself.
Hardship doesn’t mean you’re disliked; it means you’re loved.
Allah wants you to rely on Him, to draw closer to Him. Even if you’re not ready.
Even when you feel you’ve strayed so far that you can barely face yourself.
Allah is waiting for you to turn back to Him.
And finally, this verse continues to reassure my heart:
