I have the impression that "God helps those who help themselves" is much less trotted out in non-evangelical Christian circles than it used to be. I am not sure why. I don't think it is because it is known to be non-scriptural.

I wonder is its former prevalence in Catholic circles had anything to do with the former battle over "Good Works vs Justification by Faith Alone"?

Ben Franklin bon mot sure is seductive. Utterly brilliant propaganda. It is the implications, the subtext that is pernicious, not the literal meaning. Taken at face value, Why would God not help those who strive?