Istikhara in the Smallest Decisions
In the last post we explored how Istikhara is not just for major life choices but a lifestyle. Let us take this further and reflect on the everyday moments where Istikhara can change the way we approach life.
We often think only of the big crossroads in life: marriage, career, moving cities. Yet most of our lives are made up of the smaller steps, the little decisions that fill our days. And it is often these small decisions that, when added up, shape who we are and the direction of our lives.
Istikhara is for those moments too. For example, when you are undecided about whether to attend a gathering or not. It may seem like such a simple yes or no, but Allah knows whether that gathering will bring you peace or leave you drained. He knows whether you will meet someone there who will benefit your dunya or your deen, or whether attending could pull you into something harmful.
Think of choosing a school for your child. You may visit a few options and feel unsure. On the surface, they may look the same. Yet Allah knows which teachers will nurture your child, which environment will influence their heart, and which place will protect them from harm.
It can even be as small as deciding which colour to paint your room, or which outfit to buy. You may think, why would I bother Allah with something so small, so insignificant, even a little silly? But nothing about you is insignificant to Allah. He knows how a colour can affect your mood every morning when you wake up. He knows what you will feel happy with long-term and what might leave you with regret. He knows which choice will give you comfort and ease, even if you cannot imagine it.
Consider when you are choosing a gift for someone. You may be torn between two options, both seemingly good. But Allah knows which one will touch that person’s heart in a way that builds love, heals a relationship, or strengthens a bond.
Even things like deciding whether to travel on a particular day, which route to take, which job application to submit, or which doctor to consult. These are all matters we can place before Allah. Because in His knowledge, what seems like a minor choice could be the very thing that leads to ease, protection, or a new opportunity.
Sometimes what feels small is not small at all. That “small” decision could alter the tone of your day, the direction of your career, or even the state of your heart. We often only see what is right in front of us, while Allah sees the ripple effects that extend far beyond.
Istikhara is not about waiting for dreams or looking for signs. It is about pausing, placing the matter before Allah, and trusting that whichever path unfolds is the best path for you. By doing so, you train your heart to rely on Allah in every step, and you carry much less regret, confusion, and heaviness.
So let us bring Allah into the “ordinary” choices. Whether it is choosing a course, a holiday destination, a business deal, a friendship, or even the colour of your walls. When Allah is included, the decision carries light. And when Allah chooses for you, you can be sure it is always what is best.