What does the Bible say about control?

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The Bible teaches that human control is limited, but God sovereignly rules all things and graciously calls His people to self-control, faith, and obedient trust. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that we plan our way, yet the Lord directs our steps, while Isaiah 41:10 and Psalm 46:1 assure believers of His present help in fear and trouble. Rather than being ruled by anxiety, anger, or temptation, Christians are renewed in mind through Romans 12:2 and strengthened by God's faithful provision in 1 Corinthians 10:13. The Spirit produces self-control as part of godly character in Galatians 5:22-23, enabling patient restraint and humble dependence on Christ.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 2 Timothy 1:7

    For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

  • Proverbs 25:28

    Like a city that is broken down and without walls Is a man whose spirit is without restraint.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13

    No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

  • Proverbs 16:9

    A man's heart plans his course, But Yahweh directs his steps.

  • Isaiah 41:10

    Don't you be afraid, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • Proverbs 16:32

    One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; One who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.

  • Psalms 46:1

    > God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.

  • Romans 12:2

    Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God.

  • John 14:26

    But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and will remind you of all that I said to you.

  • Galatians 5:22-23

    [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

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