What is the wisdom behind the hardships of this world and the difficulties faced by those close to God, while the disobedient, even among Muslims, live in luxury and comfort? And what is the wisdom behind those who are far from God excelling academically compared to those who are close to Him, despite the latter taking the necessary means?

Many pieces of evidence indicate that a shortage of wealth and produce can be a sign of divine favor for a servant. Among these is the supplication of the Prophet, peace be upon him: "O Allah, whoever believes in You and testifies that I am Your Messenger, make the meeting with You beloved to him, ease Your decree for him, and diminish for him the [pleasures of this] world." The opposite is true for the disobedient. When calamities befall a believer, his heart becomes distressed with this world and does not settle in it, so it becomes like a prison for him, and his departure from it is the ultimate pleasure. The Prophet, peace be upon him, clarified that the poor among the Muhajirun will precede the rich on the Day of Judgment, and that if Allah loves a servant, He protects him from the [allure of this] world. The Prophet, peace be upon him, himself was ascetic in this world, because the good things of this world hasten a person's reward, thus diminishing his share in the Hereafter. As for the warrior in the path of Allah who acquires spoils, two-thirds of his reward are hastened, while he who does not acquire spoils receives his full reward. This shows that the reward varies according to the increase in hardships, and for this reason, Salman cried upon his deathbed over their abandonment of the Prophet's covenant regarding asceticism. As for the abundance granted to the disobedient, it is a gradual enticement for them. However, this does not mean that every righteous Muslim will have his sustenance restricted. As for the claim that one close to Allah will be delayed in his studies even if he takes the means, it is incorrect, for the reality is that the more Muslims strive to acquire knowledge, the more they surpass others.