Living in an environment that opposes your viewpoints can be challenging, yet it is important to remember that this is not a new struggle. The early Muslims faced intense opposition and persecution for their beliefs, yet they persevered and continued to spread the message of good.

One key aspect of living as a Muslim is to be mindful of the company we keep.A is upon the religion of their friend, so let one of you look at whom s/he befriends. (Abu Dawood). We should be careful who we allow into our inner circle, as the people we spend time with can have a significant impact on our beliefs and actions.

It is also important to remember that trials and challenges faced in life are not necessarily punishments, but rather opportunities for growth and spiritual strength.  And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient (Quran 2:155). We may not understand why we are going through certain struggles, but it is important to have faith that Allah (SWT) knows best and that we can handle whatever comes our way.

One way to strengthen our faith in challenging times is through remembrance of Allah (dhikr) and seeking knowledge. In a Hadith-e-qudsi, it is mentioned: Allah says: I am as My servant thinks I am. I am with him when he mentions Me. If he mentions Me to himself, I mention him to Myself; if he mentions Me in a gathering, I mention him in a better gathering. If he draws near to Me a hand’s length, I draw near to him an arm’s length. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him at speed. (Bukhari).

We should also strive to be a positive influence on those around us, even if they don’t share our beliefs. As Allah says in the Quran, Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is guided (Quran 16:125).