Fate

​Some say that "God helps those who help themselves." It is a vision of faith that fits in neatly in our culture, which rewards people who show initiative, take matters into their own hands, and solve their own problems. But how neatly does it fit with the teachings of Jesus? When we're experiencing persistent pain, frustration, and injustice, and it doesn't seem to be going away, is the truth that God is just waiting to help us help ourselves? If not, what is God waiting for?