I too see it like that. The 'inner jihad' is continuous but it's not a case of having and maintaining control of ones nafs 'at all times'. Constant defeats are a sign that our hearts are minds are not in the right condition. We could also say that not preparing for battle is a sign that our inner struggle is not up to par. It all depends on the what we're prepared to sacrifice.
Agreed completely on all points.
والمبادرة إلى التكفير إنما تغلب على طباع من يغلب عليهم الجهل - ابن تيمية رحمه الله - بغية المرتاد
"Rushing towards takfir is an attitude which is dominant over those who are defeated by ignorance." - Ibn Taymiyyah Rahimahullah [Bughyatul Murtaad, page 354]
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