It is incumbent upon a sensible person to make preparations….by Imaam Ibnul Jawzi
Ibnul Jawzee (rahimahullaah) said:
It is incumbent upon a sensible person that he makes preparations for his departure (from this world), for indeed he neither knows when the command of his Lord will descend nor when he will be called back. Indeed, I see many people deceived by youthfulness, forgetful of the loss of companions and infatuated with prolonged expectations.
And it may be that a scholar who is solely interested in himself would say: ‘’I will seek knowledge today and act upon it tomorrow.’’ So he becomes lackadaisical with regards to committing mistakes due to comfort and is withheld by the hope that he will accomplish repentance. He neither keeps away from backbiting nor keeps away from listening to it. And he forgets that death will descend unexpectedly.
Therefore, the sensible person gives every moment its due right with regards to what is obligated on him, so that when death suddenly arrives he is considered prepared. And if the (things) hoped for are received, then this is increased goodness. [Abridged: Source: Saydul Khaatir: page18]
Abu Mu’aawiyah (Abdullaah al-Gambi)