Are a penitent, after years of sin, and a doer of good who spent his life in obedience, equal in rank before God, especially given the multiplication of reward for the doers of good, and the missed opportunities to attain ranks for those who wasted a part of their lives?

Allah the Almighty does not wrong people in the slightest, and deeds are not lost with Him. A person may perform little work and be greatly rewarded, as in the story of the man who embraced Islam, then fought and was killed. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "He worked little and was rewarded much." Allah's bounty is immense, and the sincere penitent may surpass one who has not sinned due to his sincerity and diligence. Ranks with Allah vary due to many factors, including the abundance of good deeds. However, one with a short life may surpass others through good deeds and intense striving. The servant should strive to walk towards Allah, ask Him for a long life accompanied by good deeds, and be sincere to Him, for it is through sincerity that high ranks are attained. The servant should not despair over lost time, as that is from the embellishment of Satan. Rather, he should have good expectations of his Lord and rely upon Him, for Allah multiplies good deeds and grants a great reward.