Control is a concept that is both deeply personal and universally relevant. In our daily lives, we often seek to control circumstances, emotions, actions, and even the behaviors of others. However, the Bible provides us with valuable insights on the topic of control, encouraging believers to exercise control in a way that honors God and promotes personal growth.
The Bible doesn’t just speak to the external control we may attempt to exert over situations, but it also addresses the internal struggles of control—how we manage our thoughts, feelings, and desires. True control, as taught in the Scriptures, isn’t about overpowering others or manipulating our surroundings. Rather, it’s about submitting our will to God and learning how to control our impulses, live according to God’s principles, and allow the Holy Spirit to work within us.
The Bible’s message about control challenges us to understand that, ultimately, God is in control of all things. While we may strive to maintain control over our lives, our hearts, and our minds, we are reminded that true control comes from a deep reliance on God’s wisdom and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
This article highlights 30 Bible verses that speak about control, both in terms of self-discipline and the sovereignty of God. These verses will encourage Christians to reflect on how they exercise control in their lives, how they surrender to God’s authority, and how they can trust in God’s perfect will.
1. Proverbs 16:32 (KJV)
“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”
This verse teaches that controlling one’s emotions, particularly anger, is far greater than exerting physical strength or conquering others. True power lies in self-control, especially in moments of frustration or anger.
2. Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
“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.”
One of the fruits of the Holy Spirit is self-control. This verse reminds us that self-control is a godly virtue that comes from the Spirit and reflects Christ-like character.
3. Proverbs 25:28 (KJV)
“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.”
Without self-control, we leave ourselves vulnerable to emotional turmoil and sin. Just as a city without walls is open to attack, a person without control over their spirit is defenseless to the attacks of the enemy.
4. James 1:19-20 (NIV)
“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.”
Control over anger is a significant theme in the Bible. This verse reminds us that our emotional reactions, particularly anger, should be controlled and measured if we want to reflect God’s righteousness.
5. 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
God does not give us the spirit of fear but rather empowers us with love and sound judgment. Control over our minds and emotions is possible through the Holy Spirit, who provides us with peace and clarity.
6. 1 Corinthians 9:27 (KJV)
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.”
Paul speaks about the importance of self-discipline in his life, even in his physical body. He recognizes that exercising control over one’s actions, desires, and habits is necessary to live out God’s calling effectively.
7. Proverbs 29:11 (KJV)
“A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.”
This verse highlights the wisdom of controlling our words. When we keep our emotions in check and choose our words carefully, we reflect wisdom and avoid hasty decisions or regrets.
8. Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“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.”
Exercising control over our thoughts and minds is essential for spiritual growth. Through the transformation of our minds, we align our desires with God’s will, rather than following the patterns of the world.
9. Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV)
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?…”
Jesus teaches about the control we need over worry and anxiety. Trusting in God’s provision and surrendering our concerns to Him helps us maintain peace and avoid the destructive power of anxiety.
10. Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Control is not only about what we do but also about learning to be still and recognize God’s sovereignty. In moments of chaos, this verse reminds us that God is in control, and we can find peace by submitting to His authority.
11. Titus 2:11-12 (NIV)
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
The grace of God empowers us to live self-controlled lives, resisting the temptations of the world. This self-control is a key aspect of the Christian life, enabled by the grace of God.
12. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Spiritual vigilance requires control over our thoughts and emotions. This verse encourages us to remain sober and alert, aware of the devil’s attempts to manipulate and deceive us.
13. Proverbs 12:1 (NIV)
“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.”
Discipline is a form of control over our actions, attitudes, and habits. Embracing discipline helps us grow in knowledge and wisdom, while resisting correction leads to foolishness.
14. Luke 21:19 (NIV)
“Stand firm, and you will win life.”
In times of persecution and hardship, we are called to exercise control over our emotions and remain steadfast in faith. Holding firm to our beliefs and trusting God through trials leads to victory.
15. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
The Bible encourages us to control anxiety and replace it with prayer. By bringing our concerns to God, we invite His peace to guard our hearts and minds.
16. Proverbs 15:1 (KJV)
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
Control over our speech can prevent conflict and maintain peace. This verse teaches us that gentle words can de-escalate situations, while harsh words provoke anger.
17. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
This verse challenges us to control our speech and use words that build up rather than tear down. Self-control in speech is an important part of reflecting God’s love and wisdom.
18. Romans 8:6 (NIV)
“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling our thoughts. When we allow the Holy Spirit to govern our minds, we experience peace and life, but when our minds are controlled by the flesh, we are led to destruction.
19. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
This verse speaks to the need to control the distractions and sins that hinder our spiritual growth. By focusing on Jesus and pursuing righteousness, we maintain control over our actions and stay on the path of faith.
20. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
This verse provides encouragement and hope in moments of temptation. God provides us with the ability to exercise control over temptation, and He offers a way out when we are faced with trials.
21. Matthew 7:24-27 (NIV)
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock…”
Exercising control means choosing to follow Jesus’ teachings and living according to His word. This results in a solid foundation that withstands life’s storms.
22. Matthew 5:29-30 (NIV)
“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away…”
This hard-hitting teaching emphasizes the need to control our desires and avoid anything that leads us into sin. Sometimes, drastic measures may be necessary to protect our spiritual well-being.
23. John 14:27 (NIV)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Jesus offers peace that controls our hearts and minds, allowing us to remain calm and confident in the face of challenges. We must choose to trust in His peace rather than succumb to fear.
24. Colossians 3:5 (NIV)
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature…”
Control over our desires and sinful tendencies is a key part of the Christian life. We are called to reject the things that lead us away from God and focus on pursuing righteousness.
25. Psalm 37:7 (NIV)
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”
This verse teaches us to control our impatience and trust in God’s timing. We are to remain calm and wait for His justice.
26. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV)
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.”
Self-control involves disciplining our minds and bodies to pursue godliness rather than indulging in sinful or unhelpful distractions.
27. Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…”
This verse emphasizes the need to control our past and not allow past mistakes or regrets to control us. We are to focus on the future with perseverance and hope.
28. Proverbs 19:11 (NIV)
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”
Control over our reactions to offenses and challenges is an expression of wisdom. Instead of responding in anger, we are encouraged to demonstrate patience and restraint.
29. Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have…”
This verse teaches us to control our desires for wealth and material things. Contentment is a key part of Christian self-control.
30. 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)
“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.”
Finally, this verse encourages believers to take control over their thoughts. By bringing our thoughts under submission to Christ, we can resist temptation and live according to God’s will.
Conclusion
Control is a powerful and vital theme in the Bible, covering a wide range of aspects from self-control to trust in God’s sovereignty. The verses listed above provide a comprehensive understanding of how Christians should manage their emotions, thoughts, and actions. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can learn to exercise control over our impulses and trust in God’s perfect will.
Ultimately, true control is not about dominating others or manipulating circumstances, but about surrendering to God’s authority and allowing His peace to govern our lives. Through prayer, discipline, and the application of Scripture, we can grow in the godly character of self-control, knowing that it is through God’s strength that we can live in alignment with His purposes.
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