God helps those that help themselves
This statement is used to emphasize the importance of individuals exercising self-initiative. It continues to be extremely popular throughout the world, particularly encouraging people in the self-help sector. At the same time, many ascribe it to Benjamin Franklin, the origins of this concept date back to ancient Greece. Though the remark has ancient origins, the modern English translation was first penned by Algernon Sydney, an English statesman from the 1600s.
Why Is This Quote Controversial?
Many people believe this concept is enshrined in Scripture because it appears to be a nice notion on the surface. Doesn't it make sense that if I'm going to seek God's assistance...Should I attempt to assist myself first? After all, some may reason that God is holy and cannot accept me in this state. The reason: I'll need to first take care of myself. God will recognize my efforts and then assist me.
Regrettably, this is not true. Indeed, man's attempts to live up to God's standards were a failed experiment. Keep the Old Testament and the law in mind. God outlined for his people Israel how he desired and required them to live in the law. He enacted rules and decrees to regulate their lives. However, Israel had the same dilemma as you and I do: they could not live up to and comply with the law's standards. Their sinful nature left them significantly deficient.
The issue with this notion is that you become your primary source of assistance and strength. God is incidental. Not only is this out of sequence, but the pages of Scripture reveal that this was never God's intention. And it all started with your redemption.
God's Assistance Does Not Absolve You of Responsibility
You have prayed for God's assistance. You have come to the throne of grace and done what the Bible commands. What are your options now? Put yourself to work. Praying and seeking God's assistance does not imply that you become a slothful do-nothing. God's assistance often manifests itself after we have prayed and frequently as we put our faith into action. This, of course, does not apply to our salvation. We are saved alone by his grace. However, once the matter of our salvation is resolved solely by grace, God comes beside us to assist us in living for him and carrying out his calling.
How Does God's Assistance Work?
The fascinating aspect of God is that he will assist you if you ask. This is demonstrated in Revelation 3 when Jesus describes himself as standing at the door and knocking. That is, God provides you the option of accepting or rejecting his assistance. Those who reject it will become lost in the struggle to attempt to improve and live a better life. You will struggle to assist yourself and frequently discover that your power alone is insufficient.
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jackfragolinii
1 year ago
God's help does not depend on our own efforts or merit, Scripture on grace and favor reminds us. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not of your own free will; it is the gift of God, not of works, so that no one... Show moreGod's help does not depend on our own efforts or merit, Scripture on grace and favor reminds us. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not of your own free will; it is the gift of God, not of works, so that no one may boast." This passage emphasizes that salvation and God's favor are not earned by our works, but are given to us as a gift by grace. The saying "God helps those who help themselves" is often attributed to the Bible, but it is not actually found anywhere in Scripture. It is a popular saying that emphasizes the importance of taking action and responsibility for one's life. Self-reliance and diligence are certainly important virtues, but it is important to remember that we are not entirely self-sufficient beings. We rely on God for our very existence as well as for guidance, wisdom, and strength in all aspects of our lives.
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