I suppose it depends on which God (or Goddess) you are talking about, but the Gods of native Northern European tradition (Germanic Paganism, Asatru, Norse tradition) are very much the help yourselves type. The Gods are not going to fight our battles for us, but They will be there to give a little strength, wisdom, and inspiration when you need it. What is left of the writings of the ancient Germanic Pagans (what Asatruar often call the lore) contains values and principles that we try to live by. Yes it is not perfect, it was written by men (maybe women too, but in those days probably mostly men), and it is 1000 years out of date, but much of it still applies. Values that I believe in, things like honor, loyalty, and hospitality, are the same things that they believed in, and the same things that our Gods encourage us to incorporate into our lives.
These are the Gods who give the greatest rewards to those who fight, so yes They are definitely the "help those who help themselves" type. Personally I've found faith in the Gods of the North to be much more helpful with "life's ups & downs" than I did with Christianity. I think that answers your question. Be glad to elaborate if you want =)
