What are the matters that aid in steadfastness in faith and in strengthening it, and how does one deal with obsessive doubts (waswas) in acts of worship? Is waswas a trial in religion for which its owner is rewarded, and does it indicate a lack of God's love?

Worrying (waswasah) is an ailment with which Allah afflicts some of His servants for a reason. It does not signify His displeasure with the afflicted, but rather it may be for the elevation of their ranks. The effective cure for worrying is to disregard it and pay no attention to it. Striving against it and being patient with it bring immense good.

As for the means of remaining steadfast in faith in the face of trials, the most important are: 1. Seeking Allah's help and supplicating Him for steadfastness and guidance. 2. Observing the obligatory duties and increasing in supererogatory acts of worship. 3. Constantly remembering Allah Almighty. 4. Keeping company with the righteous. 5. Striving diligently in seeking knowledge. 6. Avoiding the causes of trials and shunning evil people.