16/11/2023
A person who is involved in the work of Deen, whichever branch it is, should not be carried away by the honour and hospitality that he receives. This is merely due the grace of Allah Ta'ala and the good thoughts of the people which he is favoured upon due the the Ta'lluq and Nisbah (connection and relation) that he serves to the Deen of Allah Ta'ala.
وَمَا بِكُم مِّن نِّعْمَةٍ فَمِنَ اللهِ ۖ ثُمَّ إِذَا مَسَّكُمُ الضُّرُّ فَإِلَيْهِ تَجْأَرُونَ
"And whatever favours you have, it is from Allah. Then, when harm reaches you, unto Him you cry aloud for help." [Nahl: 53]
This thought should never ever come in his heart that I'm getting all the honour and respect due to who I am or what I have become through my own efforts. Many people of the past were destroyed for this same reason. If Allah Ta'ala had to expose our sins, we would have no face left in front of the masses. Keep the following narration in your mind at all times:
إن الله ليؤيد هذا الدين بالرجل الفاجر
"Indeed Allah Ta'ala sometimes helps this Deen through a transgressor." [Bukhari & Muslim]
And also ponder on the verse:
فَلَا تُزَكُّوا أَنْفُسَكُمْ هُوَ أَعْلَمُ بِمَنِ اتَّقَى
"Do not regard yourselves to be pure. He is most knowledgeable of who truly fears Him." [Najm: 32]
Remember, it is the Deen of Allah Ta'ala that they are serving and not you, Allah Ta'ala put it in their hearts to revere you. Always keep a tab on your Nafs so that you are not decieved.