Grand Mosque imam prays for Saudi Arabia’s safety and stability

Sheikh Dr. Maher bin Hamad Al-Muaiqly, imam and preacher of the Grand Mosque, urged Muslims to fear God, purify their intentions in words and deeds, and seek reward and blessings in all aspects of life.

Delivering the Friday sermon at the Grand Mosque, Al-Muaiqly stressed that sincere intention is among the greatest causes for multiplying good deeds, and that seeking reward from God elevates actions and transforms permissible habits into acts of worship. He noted that the reward of the Hereafter is better and more lasting than the fleeting pleasures of this world.

He explained that, out of His mercy, God has opened many doors to reward and made good deeds easy. A Muslim may earn multiplied rewards through sincerity, and even small actions are greatly rewarded if done with pure intention, while major deeds may lose their reward if the intention is corrupt. He also pointed out that God records the reward for a person’s regular good deeds even if prevented by illness or travel.

Al-Muaiqly added that worship is not limited to visible acts like prayer and fasting, but encompasses all of a Muslim’s life if done seeking God’s pleasure. He cited the understanding of the Prophet’s companions, who considered even their daily habits as acts of devotion when done with the right intention.

He emphasized that one of the highest forms of seeking reward is selflessness in times of need, recalling the story of the Ansari who prioritized the Prophet’s guest over himself and his family. The doors to seeking reward, he said, include spending on one’s family, good companionship, kind words, and striving for the well-being of loved ones.

Al-Muaiqly warned against neglecting to seek reward in good deeds or seeking people’s praise, and called for renewing intentions and trusting that God does not let the good deeds of anyone go unrewarded.

Patience and seeking reward in times of trial

In the second part of the sermon, Al-Muaiqly spoke about the virtue of patience and seeking reward during hardships, explaining that believers are commanded to be patient and accept God’s decree. Any fatigue, illness, or worry that befalls a Muslim can expiate sins if endured with patience and hope for reward.

He encouraged those facing difficulties to maintain good expectations of God and to take practical steps toward relief, reaffirming that the reward of the Hereafter is greater and everlasting, and that its blessings never end.

Prayer for the Kingdom and Muslims

Concluding the sermon, Al-Muaiqly prayed for God to protect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership, security, and stability. He also prayed for the success of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince, for the safety of security and defense personnel, and for guidance, piety, and forgiveness for all Muslims.