by Control is a theme that runs through Scripture, challenging us to consider where our true source of authority lies. In a world where we often seek control over our circumstances, the Bible redirects our focus to God’s sovereignty, inviting us to trust in His divine plan.
These Bible verses highlight the importance of surrendering our control to God, understanding His greater wisdom, and learning how to walk in faith and obedience.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Minding Your Own Business
Bible Verses About Control
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”
Commentary: This passage encourages believers to relinquish their control by fully trusting in God. It reminds us that human understanding is limited, while God’s wisdom is infinite. By acknowledging Him in all things, we surrender our limited perspective and allow God to guide us on the right path, free of obstacles.
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.”
Commentary: These verses highlight God’s supreme knowledge and control over all creation. While we may not always understand His ways, we are called to trust that His perspective is higher than ours. This scripture teaches us the importance of surrendering our need to control outcomes, resting in God’s perfect wisdom.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Commentary: God assures His people that He holds their future in His hands, offering peace and hope. This verse is a powerful reminder that when we surrender our control to Him, we can rest assured that His plans for us are always good, even when circumstances seem uncertain.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].”
Commentary: These verses teach us to relinquish control over our worries and anxieties by placing them before God in prayer. In return, we receive His peace, which surpasses human understanding. By surrendering our fears to God, we find peace in knowing He is in control of every situation.
Matthew 6:33-34
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Commentary: Jesus calls us to release control over future concerns and focus on seeking God’s kingdom. By prioritizing God’s will and character, we trust that He will provide for our needs. This verse teaches us to live in the present, free from the burden of trying to control the unknown future.
James 4:13-15
“Come now [and pay attention to this], you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and carry on our business and make a profit.’ Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. What is secure in your life? You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air]. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and we will do this or that.’”
Commentary: This passage highlights the fleeting nature of human life and plans. It reminds us that, despite our best efforts, control over the future ultimately belongs to God. Instead of presuming on our own strength, we are called to submit to God’s will in everything we do.
Proverbs 16:9
“A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], but the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the balance between human planning and divine direction. While we may make plans for our lives, it is God who ultimately establishes our steps. This teaches us to hold our plans loosely, trusting that God’s guidance will lead us to where we need to be.
Romans 8:28
“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.”
Commentary: This verse reassures believers that even when situations seem out of control, God is orchestrating everything for their good. It calls us to trust in God’s ability to bring purpose from pain and order from chaos, knowing that He is sovereign over all circumstances.
1 Peter 5:7
“Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].”
Commentary: This verse is an invitation to relinquish control over our burdens and place them in God’s hands. In doing so, we acknowledge that God cares for us deeply and is more than capable of handling the things that overwhelm us.
Psalm 46:10
“Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.”
Commentary: God commands us to be still and recognize His sovereignty over all creation. This verse calls us to quiet our restless hearts and trust in God’s ultimate control, knowing that He will be glorified and that His purposes will prevail.
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].”
Commentary: Jesus teaches that discipleship requires surrender. To follow Christ is to give up our control over our lives, desires, and comfort, and to take up the cross of obedience and faith. True control is found in surrendering fully to God’s will.
Galatians 5:16
“But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts].”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the importance of yielding control to the Holy Spirit. When we walk in step with the Spirit, we are able to overcome the sinful desires that seek to control us. It’s a call to surrender to God’s leading rather than relying on our own impulses.
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him also and He will do it.”
Commentary: This verse calls us to commit our plans and actions to God, trusting in His ability to bring them to fruition. It reminds us that control is best left in the hands of the One who can accomplish all things according to His purpose.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy].”
Commentary: This passage reassures us that God is in control even in the midst of temptation. He will never allow us to face a trial beyond our ability to bear, and He will always provide a way of escape. It encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness when they feel overwhelmed.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Being A Man
Isaiah 41:10
“Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].”
Commentary: God promises His presence and support to those who trust Him. When we relinquish control over our fears and uncertainties, we receive God’s strength and victory. This verse is a powerful reminder that control over our lives is best placed in the hands of the Almighty.
Psalm 115:3
“But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes God’s absolute sovereignty. While we may desire control over our circumstances, it is ultimately God who has the authority to accomplish His will. Understanding this helps us to trust in His plan, knowing that He acts according to His perfect wisdom.
Job 42:2
“I know that You can do all things, and that no thought or purpose of Yours can be restrained.”
Commentary: Job acknowledges God’s ultimate control over all things. This verse reminds us that no plan of God can be thwarted, and His purposes will always come to pass. It encourages us to surrender to God’s power and trust in His unshakable plans.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.’ Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.”
Commentary: This verse teaches us that control is not about strength, but about allowing God’s power to work through our weakness. By surrendering our need for control and embracing our limitations, we open ourselves to the fullness of God’s grace and power in our lives.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble in dread before them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.”
Commentary: God commands His people to be strong and courageous, knowing that He is in control of the battle. This verse is a reminder that God’s presence with us is our source of strength, and when we trust in Him, we can move forward without fear, knowing He will never abandon us.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your burden on the Lord [release it] and He will sustain and uphold you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip, fall, fail).”
Commentary: This verse invites us to give up control of our burdens, trusting that God will sustain us. It reminds us that when we surrender our worries to God, He is faithful to uphold us, ensuring that we will not be overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light.”
Commentary: Jesus offers rest to those who are weary, calling them to relinquish control of their burdens and take on His yoke. This passage highlights the peace that comes from surrendering to Christ, knowing that His way is gentle and His burden is light, offering rest for our souls.
John 15:5
“I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for otherwise apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.”
Commentary: Jesus emphasizes the need to remain connected to Him in order to bear fruit. This verse teaches us that without surrendering control to Christ, we are powerless to accomplish anything of eternal value. True fruitfulness comes from abiding in Him and relying on His strength.
1 Thessalonians 5:24
“Faithful and absolutely trustworthy is He who is calling you [to Himself for your salvation], and He will do it [He will fulfill His call by making you holy, guarding you, watching over you, and protecting you as His own].”
Commentary: This verse assures us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. When we relinquish control over our lives, we can trust that God will complete the work He has begun in us. His faithfulness guarantees that He will protect and guide us every step of the way.
Psalm 127:1
“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the futility of human efforts apart from God. No matter how much control we think we have, all our work is in vain unless God is the one guiding and sustaining it. It is a call to depend on God’s control in every area of life.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”
Commentary: This verse teaches that the Holy Spirit empowers us to live with self-control and sound judgment. Rather than being controlled by fear or anxiety, we are given the strength and discipline to make decisions in accordance with God’s will, relying on His power.
Luke 9:23
“And He was saying to them all, ‘If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].”
Commentary: Jesus calls His followers to daily self-denial, a form of surrendering control over their desires and ambitions. This passage teaches that true discipleship involves a continuous commitment to yielding to Christ’s example, trusting in His strength for whatever trials come our way.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.”
Commentary: This verse assures believers that they can trust God for the wisdom they need in every situation. Instead of trying to control outcomes through their own understanding, they are encouraged to seek divine wisdom, trusting that God will provide generously and without condemnation.
Psalm 23:1
“The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want.”
Commentary: This beloved psalm reminds us of God’s loving control over every aspect of our lives. As our Shepherd, He provides for our needs, guides us, and protects us. It is a comforting affirmation that when we surrender to God’s care, we lack nothing essential for our journey.
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].”
Commentary: This verse assures us that when we fix our minds on God and trust Him, He grants us perfect peace. By surrendering control and focusing on God’s presence and promises, we can experience a deep and lasting sense of peace that comes from knowing He is in control.
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].”
Commentary: Paul urges believers to let Christ’s peace rule in their hearts, making it the deciding factor in their decisions. This verse teaches us to surrender our desire for control and allow the peace that comes from walking with Christ to guide us in all things.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven.”
Commentary: This verse reminds us that everything happens according to God’s appointed time. While we may desire to control the timing of events in our lives, this passage teaches us to trust that there is a divine order and purpose for every season we go through.
2 Peter 1:5-6
“For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises, make every effort] in [exercising] your faith to develop moral excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, understanding), and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, steadfastness, and in your steadfastness, godliness.”
Commentary: Peter highlights self-control as a crucial component of spiritual maturity. This passage teaches us that exercising self-control—one of the fruits of the Spirit—requires surrendering our impulses to God’s guidance, allowing His wisdom to direct our actions and decisions.
Proverbs 19:21
“Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand (be carried out).”
Commentary: This verse contrasts human plans with God’s ultimate purpose. While we may devise countless plans, it is God’s will that prevails. The passage calls us to surrender our agendas and trust that God’s plan for our lives will be fulfilled, even when it differs from our expectations.
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].”
Commentary: Paul calls believers to resist the patterns of the world and allow their minds to be transformed by God. This transformation requires surrendering control over our thoughts and values, letting God’s Word shape our perspective so that we can discern His will in every area of life.
John 3:30
“He must increase [in prominence], but I must decrease.”
Commentary: John the Baptist’s declaration is a model of humility and surrender. This verse teaches us to release our desire for control and self-promotion, allowing Christ to take the central place in our lives. As we decrease in our own self-importance, God’s power and purpose increase in us.
Isaiah 45:9
“Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker—A [worthless] piece of broken pottery among other pieces [equally worthless]! Shall the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you doing?’ Or does the thing say, ‘He has no hands’?”
Commentary: This verse warns against resisting God’s control and questioning His authority over our lives. Just as clay cannot question the potter’s shaping, we are called to trust that God, our Creator, is working for our good. Surrendering control means accepting God’s hand in shaping our lives, even when we don’t understand His ways.
Matthew 26:39
“And after going a little farther, He fell face down and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it is possible [that is, consistent with Your will], let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.’”
Commentary: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus models the ultimate act of surrender to God’s will. Even in the face of immense suffering, He relinquished control and submitted to the Father’s plan. This verse teaches us to follow Jesus’ example, trusting God’s will even when it leads through difficult circumstances.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Consistency
What Does the Bible Say About Control
Control is a word that means to have power over something, to direct it, or to make sure things go the way you want them to. Now, when we think about control, we often think about how we want to be in charge of our own lives, to make our own decisions, and to know what’s going to happen next. It feels good to think we can keep everything in order, but let’s be honest, how many times do things not go as we planned? We try our best to control our jobs, our families, and even our future, but life has a way of surprising us, doesn’t it?
You see, the message is clear that while we want to be in control, the truth is we are not meant to have all the power. We are invited to trust in something bigger, to let go of the constant need to handle everything ourselves. When we let go of trying to control every little detail, we find peace because we understand that we’re not walking alone. It’s not about sitting back and doing nothing, but rather realizing that our control has limits, and that’s okay.
It’s like this: instead of holding onto control so tightly, we should focus on doing our part and trusting that the bigger picture will come together. Control may give us a sense of safety, but real peace comes when we learn to release that tight grip and let go of the things we can’t change. That’s when we start to experience freedom, knowing that we are not alone in this journey and that things are being worked out for good. So, while we might want to be in charge of everything, there’s a greater power guiding our steps, and sometimes, the best thing we can do is to trust and follow that lead.