God helps those who help themselves

The phrase "God helps those who help themselves" is a motto that emphasizes the importance of self-initiative and agency. The expression is known around the world and is used to inspire people for self-help. The phrase originated in ancient Greece as "the gods help those who help themselves" and may originally have been proverbial. It is illustrated by two of Aesop's Fables and a similar sentiment is found in ancient Greek drama. Although it has been commonly attributed to Benjamin Franklin, the modern English wording appears earlier in Algernon Sidney's work. A humorous addition to the saying has, "God helps those who help themselves, but God help those who get caught helping themselves".

The phrase is often mistaken as a scriptural quote, though it is not stated verbatim in the Bible. Some Christians consider the expression contrary to the biblical message of God's grace and help for the helpless. A variant of the phrase is addressed in the Quran (13:11).