“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
Bible Verses About Being Controlling
The Nature of Control
We often find ourselves in situations where we desire to control every aspect of our lives or the lives of those around us. This stems from our innate human desire for security and predictability. However, the Bible teaches us that true control and peace come from God alone. We are reminded that being controlling can hinder our relationships and our own spiritual growth. By trusting God rather than grasping for control, we embrace the freedom He offers to focus on love, compassion, and understanding instead.
Proverbs 21:1
“In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.” – Proverbs 21:1
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” – Isaiah 41:10
The Dangers of Control
We may think that being controlling is a good way to manage our lives or help others, but the Bible warns us about the dangers of this mindset. Control can lead to anxiety, stress, and broken relationships. In our attempts to hold onto control, we can become blind to God’s purpose and the beauty of surrendering to His will. When we recognize the harm that control can do, we are encouraged to release our grip and allow God to lead us. Trusting in Him frees us from the burden of trying to control everything.
Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28-30
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
John 8:36
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36
Proverbs 29:25
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” – Proverbs 29:25
1 Corinthians 10:13
“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.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Letting Go of Control
Letting go of control can be one of the hardest things for us to do, especially when we desire certain outcomes. Yet the Bible teaches us to submit our plans to God, trusting that His path is far better than ours. Surrendering control is an act of faith. God wants us to relinquish our burdens to Him and have faith that He is working all things together for our good. When we yield our desire to control, we open the door for God to work miracles in our lives and the lives of others.
Psalms 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalms 37:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” – Matthew 6:34
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Building Healthy Relationships
Being controlling can strain our relationships with loved ones. The Bible encourages us to cultivate love and respect in our interactions. True relationships flourish in an environment of mutual trust and understanding. When we focus on being kind and compassionate, rather than controlling, we create space for open dialogue and connection. It’s through these healthy relationships that we experience true community and can grow in our faith together.
Ephesians 4:2-3
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2-3
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.” – Colossians 3:13
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Romans 15:7
“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” – Romans 15:7
Faith and Trust in God
When we place our faith in God, we recognize that He is ultimately in control. We can trust that His plans for us are good and are filled with hope. By surrendering the need for control, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and His faithfulness. This trust not only brings us comfort but strengthens our relationship with God. We learn to lean on His promises rather than our expectations, leading to a job well done and a heart full of peace.
Psalms 139:16
“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” – Psalms 139:16
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
God’s Sovereignty
Understanding God’s sovereignty helps us confront our desire to be controlling. He is all-powerful and has a perfect plan that covers all aspects of our lives. When we grasp the truth of His sovereignty, we become secure in our faith and can relinquish control. This realization allows us to surrender our worries and fears, trusting that God is at work even when we cannot see the bigger picture. Embracing His sovereignty brings us peace amidst uncertainty.
Psalms 115:3
“Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” – Psalms 115:3
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Isaiah 46:10
“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.'” – Isaiah 46:10
Job 42:2
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” – Job 42:2
Proverbs 19:21
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” – Proverbs 19:21
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the topic of being controlling, we realize that relinquishing control is both a challenge and a blessing. Trusting God not only enhances our love for others but also brings us peace. Let us remember to foster healthy relationships built on respect and love, while faith in God’s sovereignty frees us from the burdens of wanting to control every little detail. We can be assured that He is working behind the scenes for our good.
Each verse we’ve studied offers us invaluable insight into overcoming the urge to control. It’s a journey we undertake with God’s guidance, steadily leaning on His promises and embracing His will. This is what gives us strength as we grow together in His love.
As we continue our exploration of biblical wisdom, I encourage you to look into topics on spiritual growth, like understanding conflict in relationships from James 4:1-10 or gaining insights on wisdom in choosing a companion from Proverbs 31:3.