The saying "God helps those that help themselves" is one that has been passed down for generations. Many Christians believe it is a principle found in the Bible to encourage hard work and self-reliance. However, this exact phrase does not appear anywhere in Scripture.

The phrase is usually credited to Ben Franklin in Poor Richard's Almanac of 1757. Others say it can be traced back to Algernon Sydney in 1698, found in an article named Discourses Concerning Government. Still others say it is a paraphrase of an apocryphal work. 

So, while the pithy saying "God helps those who help themselves" is not directly from the Bible, the underlying principle of working hard and being a good steward of your skills, talents, and resources is very biblical. Scriptures like Proverbs 13:4, 2 Thessalonians 3:10, and Colossians 3:23 call Christians to diligence, industry, and doing all things for the glory of God.


At the same time, the saying can promote an unhealthy self-reliance and pride if taken to an unbiblical extreme. But that must be done in the context of Biblical truth. Isaiah 25:4 says, "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."


 Christians should absolutely strive for excellence, working as if for the Lord. But our works flow from a heart of faith and gratitude for all that Jesus has done. So by all means, be diligent and disciplined. But also be dependent on God, giving Him all the glory. With His power working through us, He helps us accomplish far more than we ever could on our own.