Some people mistakenly believe that they can love whomever they wish without it having any effect on their faith. You may see them loving those who obstruct the law of Allah, who ally with the enemies of Allah against His servants, and who promote disobedience to Him—yet such individuals think that this love is merely a “private matter” that has nothing to do with Allah, as long as they pray, fast, perform Hajj, and give zakat. This reflects a poor understanding of Allah and a deep ignorance of the true nature of Islam, which governs not only outward actions but also the emotions and deeds of the heart. Let such people be aware that their faith is under serious question, based on Allah’s statement: “*You will not find a people who believe in Allah and the Last Day having affection for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger*” [Al-Mujadila: 22]. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said: “A person will be with those whom he loves”—meaning in the Hereafter. He further said: “The strongest bond of faith is loving for the sake of Allah, hating for the sake of Allah, loyalty for the sake of Allah, and disassociation for the sake of Allah,” and: “*Whoever loves for the sake of Allah, hates for the sake of Allah, gives for the sake of Allah, and withholds for the sake of Allah has completed their faith.”* Therefore, let these individuals examine their hearts before a day comes when regret will be of no benefit—“*The Day when neither wealth nor children will benefit, except the one who comes to Allah with a sound heart” [Ash-Shu‘ara: 88–89].*