The importance of seeking knowledge for anyone who has been granted the time, inclination, and ability by Allah جل جلاله is perhaps surpassed only by the necessity of having sincere intent and purpose. Such a person should head out to remove ignorance, perhaps out of fear that the vicissitudes of life may result in the decline of opportunities in gaining knowledge.
Part of gaining knowledge is, seeking to remove ignorance, of oneself, and that of others - this entails aiding those who spread knowledge. The Prophet, صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم, is recorded to have said that Allah aids His servant as long as His servant is in the aid of others. Additionally, he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم, has remarked that the two things most lost out on by people are free time and good health. Here too, is an emphasis being laid on an important expectation of a Muslim, which is the hastening towards good and being of service to others. Additionally, it is reported that Abdullah ibn Abbas رضي الله عنه is reported to have remarked that no prophet was sent, except that he was young. The aspect of ensuring that we take advantage of our health - physical and mental - while we have it is underscored by this statement. After all, the likelihood that a young man with knowledge would apply the knowledge is higher.
The strong believer is better than a weak believer, although there is good in both. The strength has a more spiritual implication than a physical one, and therefore, it becomes prudent for any seeker of knowledge, to rely on Allah جل جلاله, whilst keeping a positive outlook. Additionally, a strong believer takes the means to attain the good, and where he finds a means, he follows it, ensuring that he is committed to doing the good, whilst not being stubborn in accepting sincere counsel. Conversely, the seeker of knowledge, in the spirit of sincere counsel, enjoins others to be more active in seeking knowledge.
This, again returns to one's intentions, for actions are by intentions; the foundations of one's actions are their intentions and a person's actions are realised through their intentions. It, therefore, becomes imperative for a seeker of knowledge, to be incessant in renewing their intentions.
Perhaps, the most neglected aspect of any good, is the aspect of supplications. One must not forget that seeking help from Allah jalla jalaluhu is in itself, an act of worship, and earns His pleasure. A good practice is to seek the Lord's help, generally and specifically.
And finally, like every successful endeavour, one should learn to manage time well. Prioritizing is important, and having morning heavy days is perhaps the most effective/ The Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم is reported to have said that there is a blessing for his nation in the early hours of the morning.
