God helps those who help themselves is probably the most often quoted phrase that is not found in the Bible. This saying is usually attributed to Ben Franklin, quoted in Poor Richards Almanac in 1757. In actuality, it originated from Algernon Sydney in 1698 in an article titled Discourses Concerning Government. Whatever the original source of this saying, the Bible teaches the opposite. God helps the helpless! Isaiah 25:4 declares, 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... Romans 5:6 tells us, For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Apart from salvation, there is perhaps a way that the concept God helps those who help themselves is correct. As an example, if you asked me to help you move a piece of furniture, but then just watched me as I moved the furniture for you, I was not actually helping you. I would be doing the work for you. Many Christians fall into the trap of inactivity. Many Christians ask God for help, but then expect God to do everything Himself. They excuse this by pointing to the fact that God will provide according to His will and in His timing. However, this is not a reason for inactivity. As a specific example, if you are in need of a job, ask the Lord to help you find a job - but then be active in actually looking for a job. While it is in His power to do so, it is highly unlikely that God will cause employers to come looking for you! If a learner believes in God for passing his/ her studies but doesnt study , he /she will fail with crawling colors.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Mar 2014 14:56:33 +0000
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