Mehboob e Ilahi Khawaja Nizam ud din auliya (Allah have mercy on him) said,

‘An individual (Muslim) is obedient even when he is in a sinful state for three reasons,

Firstly, he is aware that whatever (sinful activity) he is doing is impermissible.

Secondly, he knows that Allah is aware and observant (of his activities).

Lastly, he aspires for forgiveness (from Allah).

All these are understanding of obedient individuals.
Moreover, as he does not aspire to remain involved in sinful activities forever, he is not punished.’

Jawahir al Hikam, Selection from Fawaid al Fuad, Dr Ghulam Mohammad Sulemani (Allah have mercy on him)