Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala said to His Prophet Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam (Translation): And by the Mercy of Allah, you dealt with them gently. And had you been stern and hard-hearted, they would have broken away from you; so over look (their faults), and ask (Allah's) forgiveness for them, and consult them in the conduct of (important) affairs. Then when you have resolved, put your trust in Allah. Certainly! Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him). (Ale 'Imran 3: 159)