Allah ﷻ has entrusted every human being with a priceless gift and a profound responsibility: life. It is not something given without purpose. Our existence is a trust (amanah), and we are accountable for how we live it. Throughout the Qur’an, Allah reminds us that we were created to worship Him and to live according to His guidance.
One of the most critical stages of life is youth. It is a period filled with energy, ambition, emotions, and opportunities. Yet it is also a time when many people become distracted by temporary pleasures and worldly attractions. Entertainment, social gatherings, status, and material success can easily consume the hearts of young people, causing them to forget their true purpose.
Allah warns us in the Qur’an:
“And fear the Day when you will be returned to Allah. Then every soul will be compensated for what it earned, and they will not be wronged.”
— Al-Qur’an 2:281
This powerful verse reminds us that every action—whether done openly or secretly—will be accounted for. Nothing escapes the knowledge of Allah. The choices we make in our youth, whether good or bad, shape not only our future in this world but our eternal life in the Hereafter.
Youth is a time when emotions can overpower wisdom. Desires, ambitions, and the pursuit of worldly success often take priority over spiritual growth. Many young people chase wealth, fame, or recognition without considering whether their path aligns with Allah’s guidance. At this stage, advice from parents and elders may seem outdated or restrictive, even though it is often rooted in care and experience.
One of the greatest challenges facing today’s youth is the misunderstanding of love and relationships. Modern media frequently portrays romantic relationships outside of marriage as pure and admirable. However, Islam sets clear boundaries to protect dignity, honor, and society from harm. What is often presented as “love” can sometimes be driven more by desire than sincerity. Islam encourages pure, lawful relationships built on commitment and responsibility, not temporary emotions.
Similarly, many forms of entertainment dominate young lives today. Music, parties, and social trends can distract from meaningful goals and spiritual development. While enjoyment in life is not forbidden, a believer must remain mindful of limits and avoid anything that distances the heart from Allah. Life is not merely for amusement; it is a test and a preparation for the Hereafter.
Another concern is the intense focus on material achievement. Becoming a doctor, engineer, or successful businessperson is honorable—but success should not be measured only by career status or wealth. True success lies in being a sincere and obedient servant of Allah. Parents and society must encourage young people not only to excel professionally but also to grow spiritually and morally.
Today, moral and ethical values are gradually weakening in many communities. To protect themselves, young Muslims must reconnect with the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Reading the Qur’an with understanding, reflecting on its message, and following the life example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ provide guidance, balance, and peace.
The message for youth is clear: recognize the value of your time, guard your actions, and remember your ultimate return to Allah. Youth is a gift that will not last forever. Use it to build strong faith, good character, and righteous deeds. By doing so, you will achieve success not only in this world but, more importantly, in the everlasting life of the Hereafter.