Striving to follow Allah's Orders and abstaining from His Prohibitions

Q 1: How can a Muslim be sure that their deeds are performed with the required sincerity for Allah (Exalted be He), to avoid them reproaching themselves too much? Doing this persistently can lead to invoking the evil insinuations that Islam prohibits. In his treatises, Imam Ibn Rajab recognized different conditions in relation to this issue. He said: "This is a subtle form of Riya' (showing-off) that is only recognized by those who are protected by Allah." Is it then obligatory for us to stop reading about issues that make us upset and confused, and if so, what is the substitute? Is paying careful attention to obedience crucial for preserving sincerity?

A: Muslims should do their utmost to comply with Allah's Commands and to avoid (Part No. 1; Page No. 770) His Prohibitions, hoping for His Reward and fearing His Punishment. If they are in doubt regarding any of their religious affairs, they should seek the help of knowledgeable scholars, because Allah (Exalted be He) says: So ask the people of the Scripture, if you do not know. No one but Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) knows whether deeds will be accepted or not. Therefore, Muslims should strive hard to perfect their deeds and have good thoughts about their Lord, asking Him to accept their deeds and forgive their sins. Allah (Exalted be He) says: ...certainly We shall not make the reward of anyone who does his (righteous) deeds in the most perfect manner to be lost. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.