Does God Really Help Those Who Help Themselves?

*This well known saying originated in Greece. The expression is known around the world and is used to inspire people for self-help. The phrase originated in ancient Greece as "the gods help those who help themselves" and may originally have been proverbial. It is illustrated by two of Aesop's Fables and a similar sentiment is found in ancient Greek drama.

What does the Bible say?

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Col 3:23

"For You have been a defense for the helpless, a defense for the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat..." Isaiah 25:4

"For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." Rom 5:6

There is some truth to the statement but not where the “gods” are concerned! Just another ancient pagan thing, that has been cleaned up and Christianized! But is there any truth to the Christian version? First of all, it’s not in the Bible! But there is truth in doing what you can to help yourself and invite God into every aspect of your life, not just in areas you can’t handle yourself.

Let’s take for instance, being 100 pounds over weight and smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. Should this person pray for supernatural loss of weight and healing for their damaged body? Yes and no! God is not going to take 100 pounds of weight off of you supernaturally! He will help you when you make up your mind to help yourself by dieting and exercising. He will help you with your will-power, or even perhaps take away the desire, but it starts with our desires and our choices and then allowing Him to help us in them or lead us in the way that we should go. Like in what diet to go on, perhaps what doctor to see. What exercise program to engage.

Today, help yourself by inviting the Lord Jesus into everything you do! Say “Lord, Thank you that I have freedom to choose and I choose YOU! Lead me today and the way that YOU want me to go and help to obey.”

Blessings


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