We continue the series “1/2 Truths” where every week we will explore and analyze a common Christian phrase. Last week we considered the phrase “Everything Happens for a Reason” and this week we move on to the phrase “God Helps Those Who Help Themselves.”
On one hand, this makes sense. A similar expression I’ve heard of this idea is: “You can’t pray to win the lottery without buying a ticket.” This fits with common sense. It doesn’t make sense to pray for a new job without also updating your resume and applying for work. On the other hand, this kind of mentality can be used as an excuse to avoid helping those in need. Is that the purpose?
Psalm 10:14,17-18 (CEB)
14But you do see! You do see troublemaking and grief, and you do something about it! The helpless leave it all to you. You are the orphan’s helper. 17Lord, you listen to the desires of those who suffer. You steady their hearts; you listen closely to them, 18to establish justice for the orphan and the oppressed, so that people of the land will never again be terrified.Psalm 18:6,16 (CEB)
6In my distress I cried out to the Lord; I called to my God for help. God heard my voice from his temple; I called to him for help, and my call reached his ears. 16From on high God reached down and grabbed me; he took me out of all that water.Psalm 121:1-2 (CEB)
1I raise my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? 2My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.
Consider these questions:
- Can everyone “help themselves” out of their predicaments?
- Does God care about those in dire straits who cannot help themselves? Do you believe that God helps those who, for whatever reasons, cannot help themselves?
- Have you ever felt helpless? Has God ever helped you in your own helplessness?
- Who are some of those in our community who are in tough situations and who are helpless or virtually helpless?
- Have you ever done anything to help them and felt that God was working through you?