Life seems so much simpler in the Old Testament. Obey God = get blessed. Don’t obey Him = expect trouble. It’s a simple theology that satisfies our craving for justice.
The story of King Asa offers a textbook example of this apparent cause-and-effect relationship with God. Asa was an excellent leader who turned his people from worshiping false gods (2 Chronicles 15:8). But late in his reign, he depended on his own strength and judgment instead of on God (16:2-7). Eventually, Hanani the prophet told Asa: “The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him” (16:9). Asa’s heart was evidently not fully in tune with God, for the balance of his life was marked by war and disease (v.12).
It’s easy to look at this story and say that people get what they deserve. But we don’t always see that happen in life. Good people often suffer. Bad people sometimes get away with murder.
A closer look at Scripture reflects these deeper nuances accurately. Even in the Old Testament, we see how the wicked seem to prosper while heroes of the faith suffer terribly. Joseph, an innocent man, languished in prison for years (Genesis 39:19–41:1). Asaph lamented that the ungodly seemed to prosper, before concluding that justice would eventually prevail (Psalm 73). In raw honesty, Jeremiah actually accused God: “You misled me” (Jeremiah 20:7).
Does God care? Yes, He does! The greatest injustice in all of history took place when Jesus suffered and died on the cross. God permitted His innocent Son to pay the horrid penalty for our sins. Is there justice in that?
“God helps those who help themselves,” some say, But the truth is, God helps those who are fully dependent on Him.
More:
• John 16:33
• 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
• James 1:2-4
Next:
In what ways have you been too self-sufficient to ask God for His help? How is pride keeping you from a deeper relationship with Jesus?
R R Kelkar on July 1, 2010 at 4:47 am
Both these sayings, “God helps those who help themselves” or “God helps those who are fully dependent on Him” are not found in the Bible. Perhaps they are derived from experience, and that is why both could be partially true in different times or circumstances. Christian living can be made either naively simple or mysteriously complex depending upon how we live it and how we look upon God. The choice lies with us. The comparison of Old and New Testament times will not lead us anywhere or make us happier. .
timc611 on July 1, 2010 at 8:18 am
did you read the context of the comment… god helps them that help themselves??…did he , or did he not quote… some say??….did you assume he was referencing scripture?…. its clear that he was not quoting scripture is it not?.. and for the comment,.. the truth is god helps those who are fully dependent on him, is all that it is ..a comment.. no scripture was given in either comment….. i noticed no scripture was quoted in your comment?….and in ending, no scripture was quoted here… just my own comment, .. i hope this clears any possible future comments .
Brianbenyosef on July 1, 2010 at 7:23 am
Some say “GOD helps those who help themselves”, but I believe we should say “GOD helps those who help others”! (charity)…
jeinme10 on July 1, 2010 at 9:24 am
I agree tim; God helps those who help who become dependent on him. That is why God allows trouble and trial in our lives, just to grow our faith in him. From James 1:2-3, trials teach us through faith to wait, trust, and depend on God. The problem is that some choose to depend on God and others continue to try and depend on their own strength to get through trials. It’s a sacrifice that we must continually make because after all, he made the greatest sacrifice of all!
tim gustafson on July 1, 2010 at 10:23 am
I used to believe that as I grew older I would naturally come closer and closer to some sort of “Christian ideal.” But the older I get, the more I realize that — in this life — I will never “arrive.” I am more dependent on God now than ever before. And, ironically, I have fewer answers!
purestrength on July 1, 2010 at 10:50 am
I have heard it said that – the Lord helps those who seek His help. There is no direct scripture that says this however King David repeatedly in the psalms cries out to God for help. ” I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2″ A friend once told me, when I was really having some troubles to simply pray – Lord help me. I did and the Lord did help me.
He loves us and wants to help us. I pray that God will help you with what ever your troubles are today. In Jesus name – Amen
hello on July 1, 2010 at 11:16 am
Hi there, I think in many circumstances we will pray that God will help us through all the trial and challenges. But, after that we will still live lifes in the normal way and expecting God will lead us. Therefore, I think it consider as God help those who seek him and dependant on him. I think we will still do something with our own ability but I dont think it means that we dont rely on God. If we do nothing in certain scenario, it might lead to wrong faith sometimes.
I’m not sure about this, but this is my little thought here. Can someone clarify for me please. Thanks.
tim gustafson on July 1, 2010 at 8:48 pm
Wow, hlim, you have a great and honest take! I think what is clear is that God is good, and He keeps His word. C. S. Lewis said, “The older I get, the more and more certain I am of fewer and fewer things.” I’m certain of this: Jesus died for me. He promised His Holy Spirit to guide and sustain me. He is preparing a place for me. And in this world, I will have trouble.
That, I am learning, is more than enough!