consecutively, and then refrain from fasting for fifteen consecutive days, considering this a substitute for fasting one day and breaking the fast the next.

From this we derive a benefit: a person should not judge his future self by his present state. At the beginning of worship, he may be energetic and think himself capable, but later boredom, weakness, and fatigue may overcome him, and then he regrets it. Therefore, one should be moderate in one’s deeds. For this reason, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, instructed his ummah: “Undertake such deeds as you are able to sustain.” (1) That is, do not burden yourselves. He also said: “Seek help by setting out in the morning, in the afternoon, and during a portion of the night; and be moderate, be moderate, and you will reach your destination.” (2) And he said: “The one who drives his mount relentlessly neither crosses the land nor leaves his mount spared.” (3) The relentless traveler is one who journeys day and night.

Thus, one should take the future into account. He should not say: “I am energetic now; I will memorize the Quran, the sunnah, Zād al-Mustaqniʿ, and Ibn Mālik’s Alfiyyah—all within a few days.” This is not possible. So give yourself its due. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “The deeds most beloved to Allah are those done consistently, even if they are few.” (4) Many people have