Bible Question:
Is there anything in the bible that supports the statement I had heard many times: "God helps those that help themselves"? This may have been asked before, but I could find it. thanks, retxar |
Bible Answer: I disagree with the interpretation and answer of Tremere, Retxar. Read the Psalms to see God's care for the helpless orphans and widows. Ps 146:9 The LORD protects the strangers; He supports the fatherless and the widow, But He thwarts the way of the wicked. Read the Prophets to see God's condemnation for not defending those who don't have the means to defend themselves, the poor, the fatherless, and the widow. Is 1:23 Your rulers are rebels And companions of thieves; Everyone loves a bribe And chases after rewards. They do not defend the orphan, Nor does the widow's plea come before them. Being like God (godly) means coming to the aid of the helpless. Proverbs says: Prov 31:9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, And defend the rights of the afflicted and needy. To paraphrase Jesus, "It is not those who can help themselves who need help, but those who are helpless." Luke 5:31,32 The whole of our salvation is based on the fact of our moral helplessness. To quote Paul, "For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." Rom 5:6 No, God does not help those who help themselves. Prayer, then, is NOT an act of helping our selves. It is in the recognition our weakness and helplessness that we call upon God. Heb 4:16 Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Peace, |