What are the factors that delay victory?

The primary cause of the defeats that have afflicted the Muslim nation is its deviation from the law of Allah, as confirmed by His words: "And whatever strikes you of disaster – it is for what your hands have earned; but He pardons much," and His words: "Say, 'It is from yourselves.'" From this root principle stem several causes, including: doctrinal and behavioral deviation, disunity and discord, insufficient preparation against the enemy, and a lack of sincerity in fighting for Allah, as confirmed by His words: "Allah has promised those among you who have believed and done righteous deeds that He will surely grant them succession [to authority] upon the earth," and His words: "And do not dispute, lest you lose courage," and His words: "And prepare against them whatever you are able of power," and His words: "If you support Allah, He will support you."