Kiat kiat Syukur Nikmat oleh Ir Hj. Ingke Susilawati

Summary

This sermon highlights the importance of gratitude and how to properly appreciate Allah's blessings. It outlines several key practices for showing gratitude, such as acknowledging the abundance of Allah's gifts, helping others in need, remembering death, and being mindful of how we use our resources. The speaker emphasizes the significance of using blessings for worship, being creative and productive in earning, avoiding excessive debt, and practicing contentment with what we have. Ultimately, the message calls for constant remembrance of Allah, both in word and action, to cultivate a heart full of gratitude.

Takeaways

• 😀 Acknowledge and appreciate the numerous blessings from Allah, including those related to family, health, wealth, and other gifts.
• 😀 Gratefulness leads to further blessings, as expressed in the Quran (Surah Ibrahim Ayah 7), where Allah promises to add blessings when we express gratitude.
• 😀 The importance of using Allah's blessings in ways that align with His will, such as in acts of worship and righteousness, is emphasized.
• 😀 Every small blessing should be acknowledged with gratitude, like saying 'Alhamdulillah' after eating or drinking.
• 😀 When feeling blessed, compare your situation with those less fortunate to inspire deeper gratitude and the practice of charity.
• 😀 Allah's blessings are not just about quantity, but their barakah (blessing and goodness), which grows when one stays close to Allah.
• 😀 Reflecting on the inevitability of death can help foster a sense of gratitude and detachment from material wealth, reminding us of the temporary nature of life.
• 😀 Being creative, independent, and productive with one's skills to contribute to family finances also nurtures gratitude for the provisions Allah has given.
• 😀 Managing and saving wealth wisely, including through investments, ensures security during difficult times and is a form of gratefulness.
• 😀 Avoiding excessive debt is important, as it often leads to stress, ingratitude, and a lack of appreciation for the blessings one has.
• 😀 Practicing qana'ah (contentment) and feeling satisfied with Allah’s provisions leads to a generous heart, capable of sharing with others, especially in times of need.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speech?

The main theme of the speech is about expressing gratitude for the blessings of Allah and adhering to the teachings of Islam. It discusses the importance of using the blessings in the right way and strengthening faith through practices such as charity, remembering Allah, and avoiding ingratitude.

How does the speaker suggest we show gratitude towards Allah?

The speaker suggests several ways to show gratitude to Allah, such as using His blessings for good purposes, praising Him through words like 'Alhamdulillah,' remembering those less fortunate, reflecting on the shortness of life, and maintaining a content and humble heart.

What role does remembering death play in showing gratitude?

Remembering death is important because it reminds individuals that material possessions cannot be taken with them. This reflection encourages gratitude for what one has and emphasizes the importance of using one's blessings for good deeds and spiritual growth.

What does the speaker say about wealth and material possessions?

The speaker mentions that wealth and material possessions are not the ultimate measure of success. Instead, it is the barakah (blessings) in what one possesses that matters. Wealth should be used responsibly, and one should focus on using it for good purposes, such as helping others and securing a better future.

Why does the speaker emphasize looking at those less fortunate?

The speaker emphasizes looking at those less fortunate as a way to develop gratitude for what we have. By comparing ourselves to others who may not have enough, we are reminded not to take our blessings for granted and to share our wealth and resources with those in need.

What does the speaker say about avoiding debt?

The speaker advises against accumulating excessive debt, as it can lead to a negative mindset, causing people to feel ungrateful and stressed. Debt can also encourage dishonesty and broken promises. Therefore, it is better to avoid it whenever possible and be grateful for what Allah has provided.

How does the speaker describe 'qanaah' (contentment)?

'Qanaah' is described as being content and satisfied with what Allah has given. The speaker explains that a person who is content with their blessings will also be generous, sharing their wealth with others in need, particularly in times such as Ramadan.

What is the significance of 'barakah' in wealth?

Barakah refers to the divine blessing and increase in goodness that comes from Allah. The speaker emphasizes that it is not the quantity of wealth that matters, but rather its barakah. A small amount of blessed wealth can be more valuable than a large amount without barakah.

How does the speaker recommend using one's skills or knowledge to show gratitude?

The speaker encourages individuals to use their skills, whether in teaching, cooking, sewing, or business, to contribute to their family’s well-being or to help others. This is seen as a way to be creative, productive, and independent, which are all ways to show gratitude for Allah's blessings.

What is the relationship between faith and gratitude in the speech?

The speaker connects faith and gratitude by emphasizing that true gratitude is tied to following Allah's commands and using His blessings in ways that align with Islamic teachings. Gratitude leads to spiritual growth and a closer connection to Allah, which is the ultimate purpose of human existence.