Say, "O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world is good, and the earth of Allah is spacious. Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account." - Q39:10

Man has been given free will. A freedom he could put to use in any way he feels. To pass the test of this dunya, man must restrict the use of this freedom. This is no easy feat and requires a lot of self control and patience. The month of Ramadan is also known as the month of patience. Patience is a virtue every Muslim must possess.

Fasting is a means of self-control, a way to develop piety and resist worldly desires. Secondly, fasting provides an opportunity for reflection, worship and thankfulness to Allah. Believers turn away from vices during the month of Ramadan and can be found in Masjid reciting the Qur'an and immersed in dua. We becomes less attached to world activities and focus on the reason behind our creation - praising our Creator.

Self control and patience are needed to experience closeness to Allah. They make the fertile ground upon which the tree of dua is grown.

"And seek assistance through patience and prayer, and most surely it is a hard thing except for the humble ones" - Q2:45