Rethinking Faith: Unpacking the Truth Behind ‘God Helps Those Who Help Themselves'

Figure 1: Humility and Faith

Note: Image generated using Microsoft AI Designer from the prompt of a mountain or ladder analogy, where humility is the foundation that leads to the summit of strong faith.

Introduction: The Struggle Between Faith and Self-Reliance

Is self-reliance the path to spiritual strength, or does true faith require total dependence on God? This question has been central to my faith journey. While faith is often described as a journey, it is not a straightforward path. One of the  toughest challenges I’ve faced is learning to completely rely on God such that outside of God, I feel most vulnerable; but within Him, I feel safe, strong, sufficient and with purpose.

To a rational realist, this level of dependence might seem like a weakness. After all, aren’t we supposed to cultivate our own strengths and treat God’s support as a bonus or supplement? Sayings like "Faith without works is dead," and "God helps those who help themselves" suggest that we must combine faith with personal effort. But what do these phrases really mean? Let’s explore.

1.       “Faith Without Works Is Dead”: A Misunderstood Principle

The phrase "faith without works is dead" is rooted in James 2:26 (KJV). Many interpret this to mean that faith alone is insufficient; and must be accompanied by ‘realistic’ action. For instance, if I’m trying to acquire a property worth 2.5 million, I must have faith that I will acquire it. But, I also need to have the 2.5 million sitting in the bank, or a realistic plan to raise the amount before I can truly believe it is possible. But, doesn’t that make faith less fulfilling? Doesn’t it defeat the whole purpose of faith? This interpretation can reduce faith to an afterthought, rather than a foundational belief, and often leads to the belief that we must rely on our own efforts to bring about the results we desire, which can diminish the essence of faith.

A Deeper Understanding Through Different Translations

When we examine other translations, such as the Amplified Bible and Easy English Bible, James 2:26 takes on a richer meaning. These versions explain that faith must be active, and made effective by works. However, they clarify that these works are not our own efforts, but are actions inspired by God. In other words, we first have faith that God will provide, and then we act on or obey the instructions or steps He guides us to take. This is the work that brings life to our faith.

Therefore, if I am trying to acquire a property worth 2.5 million, I must have faith that I will acquire it, even before seeing or having the physical means to do so. True living faith means trusting that God will provide the resources, especially before they materialize, and then acting on the steps He reveals. As we pray for specific outcomes, it is crucial to ask God for direction. He may inspire us with ideas or actions to take, and in obedience, we must follow through. This is the true meaning of "faith without works is dead"—it’s not about self-reliance but about acting in obedience to God’s instructions.

2. God Helps Those Who Help Themselves: A Deeper Look

The phrase "God helps those who help themselves" is widely believed to be a biblical principle, but it is not found anywhere in the Bible. In fact, the saying traces back to ancient Greece, where it was initially phrased as "the gods help those who help themselves". It originated from Aesop's fable "Hercules and the Waggoner" and was later popularized by figures like Benjamin Franklin.

Biblical Teachings on Divine Assistance

This phrase promotes a sense of self-sufficiency, which can be contrary to the teachings of Jesus. The Bible emphasizes that God specializes in helping those who are helpless— those who cannot or do not rely on their abilities to help themselves.

  

These passages highlight that God delights in moments when we feel we can’t help ourselves, because these are the times when we truly rely on Him. God's assistance is most evident when we acknowledge our need for Him, rather than relying on our own strength.

1Peter 5:7 and Psalm 55:22 clearly illustrate that God's intention is not for us to solve our problems alone, but to bring them to Him in full dependence.

A Correct Perspective

A more accurate application of "God helps those who help themselves" could be that God helps those who seek His guidance and act in obedience to His instructions. The emphasis is on reliance on God, not on our abilities. The essence of true faith is not in doing everything by ourselves but in trusting God completely and following His lead.

The Role of Humility in True Faith

Humility is essential in the journey of faith. Pride often stands in the way of our dependence on God. We live in a culture that celebrates self-made success, but the Bible teaches us that "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble" (James 4:6, NIV). Pride is characterized by reliance on our abilities, leading to arrogance and a lack of acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. In contrast, humility is about recognizing our limitations and depending on God.

Praying for Humility

Praying for humility is one of the most challenging prayers you can offer because it invites God to break down the pride in your life. From my experience, when you ask God for humility, He provides opportunities for you to practice or engage it—often in ways that are difficult but necessary for spiritual growth. This process can be uncomfortable, but it ultimately leads to a deeper relationship with God, where you rely on Him even for the simplest needs. As you grow in humility, you learn to depend on God for everything, which is the essence of living by faith.

Internal Link: For a practical understanding of faith, please see this post: Biblical Solutions to Daily Situations

Conclusion: Embracing Total Dependence on God

This verse highlights the very thing we often resist—total reliance on God. Yet, it is in this dependence that we find our greatest strength. Living by faith means trusting God with every aspect of our lives, even when it’s uncomfortable or when the world tells us to rely on ourselves. It’s a journey of surrender, humility, and ultimately, spiritual empowerment. True strength comes from complete dependence on God. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is "God helps those who help themselves" a biblical statement?

No, this phrase is not found in the Bible. It originates from ancient Greek culture.

2. What does the Bible say about self-reliance?

The Bible teaches that we should rely on God rather than ourselves. Self-reliance is often linked to pride, which the Bible warns against. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

3. How should Christians understand "faith without works is dead"?

This phrase means that faith must be accompanied by actions that align with God's instructions or guidance, not just human or logical effort.

4. Why is humility important in the Christian faith?

Humility is crucial because it acknowledges our dependence on God and prevents the pride that leads to self-reliance.

5. How can I strengthen/deepen my faith in God?

You can deepen/strengthen your faith through daily practices like studying the Bible, praying, and practicing humility by surrendering your plans to God’s will. Surrounding yourself with a supportive faith community and reflecting on past experiences where God has guided you can also help reinforce your trust in Him.

6. What are practical ways to live by faith?

Living by faith involves trusting God in all circumstances, seeking His guidance in decision-making, being obedient to His instructions and waiting on His timing. See posts like Biblical Solutions to Daily Situations, R.E.S.T in God's Promises: Finding Peace, Trust- in God: Victory through Dependence

7. Is it wrong to rely on my own efforts?

Relying on your own efforts isn’t inherently wrong, but as a Christian you’ll achieve so much more relying on God instead and ensuring that your efforts align with His will for you. Remember the advise of Proverbs 3:5-6.

8. What does "God helps those who help themselves" really mean?

While this phrase isn’t found in the Bible, it is often used to suggest that God supports those who take initiative. However, a more accurate understanding would be that God helps those who seek His guidance and act in obedience to His instructions. It’s not about self-reliance but about relying on God’s wisdom and strength.

9. How do I know if I’m relying too much on myself and not enough on God?

If you find yourself feeling anxious, overburdened, or like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, it may be a sign that you’re relying too much on your own strength. Regularly check in with God through prayer, and ask for His guidance in your decisions. Trust that He will provide and make a way, even when it seems impossible.

Final Thoughts

In rethinking the phrase "God helps those who help themselves," we find that true faith isn’t about self-reliance but about trusting God completely. It is about believing that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness and that He will guide our steps if we seek His will. As you continue your own journey of faith, I encourage you to reflect on where you may be relying too much on your abilities and not enough on God’s guidance. Embrace the humility that comes with depending on God for all things, and discover the true strength that lies in surrendering to Him.

Call-to-Action (CTA)

What has been your experience with balancing faith and self-reliance? Share your experiences in the comments below and subscribe to Kora's Diary for more insights on navigating your faith journey.