The time is going and the way is difficult

They asked to Shaikh Mohammed Saleh al Uthaymeen ( Rahimahu Allah) : What is your advice for an individual has just started to practice Islam?

He answer: My advice to this individual recently practitioner is:

1. You should constantly ask Allah that makes you strong.
2. Should increase the recitation of the Quran with meditation. It is because the recitation has a greater effect (positive) in the heart, specially when accompanied by meditation and reflection.
3. Should be diligent in being obedient to Allah, and should not be bored or lazy. This is because the Messenger (Salla Allahu alayhi wa sallam) seeking refuge from incapacity and laziness.
4. Must be diligent  in friendship with good companions and away from bad company.
5. Should also be advised when he find himself into thinking:  The time is very long and the way is too long, at this point, he should be advised and be firm. This is because Jannah (Paradise) is surrounded by trials and difficulties, while Hellfire is surrounded by desires.
6. Should stay away from bad company , even if they (the partners) are people he met in the past. This is due to the fact that evil/ bad company influences an individual. Because of this the Messenger of Allah (Salla Allahu alayhi wa sallam) said:

   "The example of  a bad companion is an example of a hammerman ,eithern because he burns your clothes or because notes that  has a foul odor."

                                                (Bukhari 5534- Muslim 2628)

SOURCE:  Liqaa al Bab al Meftu 3/530