Have you ever felt out of control? Many times in our lives, we can feel like life is controlling us.
The good news is, the Bible offers verses that remind us God ultimately has sovereignty over our lives and He truly provides peace and comfort throughout any struggle.
Today, we’ll look at the top Bible verses about control to help us stay grounded in times of chaos.
Bible Verses About Control
God’s Control
The Bible teaches that God has control over everything, which means He has ultimate power and authority. This power can be seen in many aspects of scripture, such as His ability to control events, human actions, and even nature itself.
For believers, the concept of God’s control is very comforting because it assures us that God has a plan for our lives and the world. By accepting God’s control, believers can find peace knowing we are part of a bigger divine plan.
This belief is particularly helpful in difficult situations, where trusting in God’s wisdom helps us grow in our faith.
Despite His control over all things, humans still have free will according to the Bible. We have the ability to make choices and are responsible for their own actions. Understanding this dynamic relationship between divine control and human choice is central to understanding the biblical narrative and our daily lives.
Psalm 103:19
“The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all.”
Proverbs 16:9
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
Isaiah 46:10-11
“I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’ From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that I will bring about; what I have planned, that I will do.”
Daniel 4:35
“All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: ‘What have you done?'”
Romans 9:19-21
“One of you will say to me: ‘Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?’ But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’ Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?”
Also Read: 25 Bible Verses About Perfection (With Commentary)
Self-Control
Self-control is a concept found in the Bible that refers to the ability to regulate one’s thoughts, emotions, and actions. This biblical theme is widely regarded as a key component of spiritual maturity because of its close association with the “fruit of the Spirit.” The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Self-control is essential for living a God-centered life. It enables believers to resist temptations and make wise choices that promote spiritual growth. In the Bible, developing self-control requires discipline and self-denial as individuals pursue holiness. By exercising self-control, we can show our commitment to following God’s will and embodying Christ-like character.
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
1 Corinthians 9:25-27
“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Titus 1:7-9
“Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.”
Control of Tongue
The Bible emphasizes the power of words , and controlling our speech is crucial. The Bible teaches us that our words can either bless or curse and that we must use them wisely. It’s important to be conscious of how our words can impact others.
Throughout the Bible, especially in the books of Proverbs and James, there are many verses emphasizing the importance of controlling our tongues. We’re encouraged to speak truthfully, kindly, and with wisdom, which can help build positive relationships, avoid conflicts and promote a peaceful environment.
Proverbs 10:19-21
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense.”
James 1:26
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
James 3:2-6
“We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.”
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Also Read: Did Jesus Have a Tattoo? (Explained)
Control of Thoughts
Keeping a pure and focused mind is an important aspect of the biblical teaching. The Bible explains that thoughts have a strong influence on a person’s actions and spiritual well-being. Therefore, it is essential for believers to control their thoughts, replacing sinful or negative thoughts with those God desires.
In addition, the Bible highlights the significance of protecting one’s mind as it is where spiritual battle takes place. By keeping our thoughts under control and focusing on the Word of God, we can resist the enemy’s influence and grow in faith.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
2 Corinthians 10:5
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Control of Emotions
The Bible teaches us that controlling our emotions is very important. We are allowed to have feelings, but we need to make sure that they do not control our actions and decisions. If we let them, our emotions can lead us down the wrong path. This is why we need to learn how to manage them wisely.
The Bible advises us to rely on God when dealing with our emotions so we can learn how to process and manage them properly. It teaches us that this will help us deal with difficult situations, maintain good relationships and grow spiritually stronger.
Further, learning how to manage our emotions allows us to better understand God’s will for our lives so we can handle life’s challenges with wisdom and grace. By practicing emotional self-control as a believer, you will find great peace of mind and spiritual growth in your journey with God.
Proverbs 29:11
“Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.”
James 1:19-20
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
Proverbs 16:32
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.”
Galatians 5:19-23
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Also Read: 30 Important Bible Verses About Cooking
What Does the Bible Say About Control?
The Bible addresses the concept of control in various ways, highlighting the importance of surrendering control to God, exercising self-control, and avoiding the urge to manipulate or dominate others.
Surrendering Control to God
The Bible often emphasizes the idea of surrendering control to God. It teaches that God is sovereign and has ultimate control over all things. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises believers to trust in the Lord and lean not on their own understanding, acknowledging God in all their ways. This implies a relinquishing of personal control to God’s guidance and wisdom.
Exercising Self-Control
The Bible places a strong emphasis on self-control as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This involves controlling one’s impulses, desires, and reactions. Proverbs 25:28 states that a person without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls – vulnerable to external forces. The Bible encourages believers to exercise self-discipline in all areas of life, including thoughts, words, and actions.
Avoiding Manipulative Control
The Bible cautions against using control to manipulate or dominate others. In Ephesians 6:4, fathers are advised not to provoke their children to anger, highlighting the importance of nurturing and respectful guidance rather than tyrannical control. Additionally, Jesus taught servant leadership as opposed to wielding power over others (Matthew 20:25-28). Manipulative control is seen as contrary to the principles of love and humility taught in the Bible.
Trusting God’s Control in Difficult Times
Throughout the Bible, various figures face challenging situations that are beyond their control. Joseph, for example, faced betrayal and imprisonment but ultimately recognized that God was in control, using these circumstances for a greater purpose (Genesis 50:20). The Bible encourages believers to trust God’s control even in the midst of adversity.
Final Thoughts
The Bible discusses control in many ways, including God’s control, self-control, control over speech, thoughts, and emotions. All of these aspects of control are interconnected and vital to spiritual growth.
We are encouraged to trust in God’s sovereignty because He is ultimately in charge of everything and has a plan for each person’s life. At the same time, we should exercise personal responsibility and self-control by disciplining our actions, words, thoughts, and emotions.
Developing self-control in various areas enables us to reflect Christ-like character traits and better manage the complexities of life. By controlling speech, thoughts, and emotions, we can improve relationships with others, make wise decisions, and resist negative influences.