Q: When I was young, I used to follow the teachings of Islam. I used to offer Salah (Prayer) and perform the rest of the Pillars of Islam. When I obtained my intermediate degree, I joined the air force and was sent on a mission to the United States of America. When I arrived in the United States, I found that everything is different from our Islamic countries and Islamic teachings. I followed the wrong path and committed many sins. After a period of time, I stopped and returned to my country but I was not adhering to the Pillars of Islam. I returned to the right path, but sometimes I deviated. Thanks to Allah, I am now on the right path and I am afraid of Allah's punishment although I seek His forgiveness. Please, advise me. (Part No. 24; Page No. 322) What is the way I should follow so that I will not deviate again from the teachings of the Islamic Shari`ah (Islamic law)? May Allah reward you!

A: Firstly, you have to know that sincere and acceptable repentance that changes sins into good deeds should fulfill the following conditions: sincerity, abandoning sins, regret, and determination not to commit them again. Moreover, you must give back people's rights if possible. If all the previous points are met, we hope that Allah will forgive all your past sins.Secondly, a person should adhere to Islamic law and obey the commands of Allah and His Messenger, abstaining from what they have prohibited, seeking Allah's reward, and fearing His punishment. A person should increase supererogatory acts of worship such as: Salah (Prayer), Sadaqah (voluntary charity), reciting Qur'an, and avoiding bad company. May Allah grant us Istiqamah (integrity) and allow us to die while He is pleased with us. He, may He be Glorified and Exalted, is the Best Disposer of our affairs.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.