20 Bible verses about self-control
The Bible cautions us that if we do not exercise self-control, we shall end up becoming slaves to whatever it is that rules us. When it comes to things like our diet, our sexual desires, our financial situation, and the words we choose to use, the lack of self-control can lead to a situation in which we feel completely out of control. To live a life that is good and unselfish, one that reflects Jesus and brings glory to God, requires one to have excellent self-control as the basic foundation of such a life. Sins can be brought under control by our collective efforts.
It is time to go into the Word of God and enable Scripture to change your heart and mind if you or someone you know is battling with self-control. If this describes you, it is time to get into the Word of God. The Bible is a powerful book; if you reflect on it and learn verses by heart, you will be able to recall the facts when you are on the verge of giving up self-control. As a result, you will be able to make the best choice. Read these verses from the Bible that talk about having self-control, and then start taking steps every day to bring your thoughts and actions into alignment with the plan that God has for your life so that you can live a free and full of life!
What is Self-Control?
It is helpful to understand self-control as part of the “fruit of the Spirit” by looking at Galatians 5:22-23. These verses tell us that self-control is a fruit we bear, along with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness. Being connected to Christ is what brings about this effect. It is about much more than merely keeping one’s actions in check. Instead, it is an outward sign of the Holy Spirit at work within each of our hearts. The following are a few Bible verses that can remind you today of the need to exercise self-control.
20 Bible verses about self-control
1. 2 Peter 1:5-7
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith moral quality, to moral quality knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to piety brotherly friendship, to brotherly friendship love.”
2. 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. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
3. 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.”
4. 2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
5. Proverbs 25:28
“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.”
6. 1 Corinthians 9:27
“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.”
7. 2 John 1:8
Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we may receive a full reward.
8. Proverbs 16:32
“Slowness to anger is better than heroism; better to be in control than to take over cities.”
9. James 1:19
“So then, my beloved brothers and sisters, let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to be angry.”
10. Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.”
11. 1 Thessalonians 5:6
“Let us, therefore, not sleep like the others, but let us watch and be sober.”
12. Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God, the source of salvation for all men, has been revealed. It teaches us to renounce an unholy way of life and the lusts of this world and to live in the present time in accordance with wisdom, justice and godliness.”
13. Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the present world, but be transformed by renewing the mind to discern what is the will of God, what is good, pleasing and perfect.”
14. 1 Corinthians 9:25
“And every man that striveth for mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible.”
15. Proverbs 29:11
“The stupid man flaunts all his passion, while the wise puts a brake on it.”
16. 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.”
17. Ephesians 6:12
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
18. Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry, for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.”
19. Acts 24:25
“And as Paul reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the Judgment to come, Felix trembled and answered, “Go thy way for this time. When I have a convenient occasion I will call for thee.”
12. Matthew 6:33
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Remember that the ability to exercise self-control is a gift from God. It helps us better understand other people and keeps us grounded in reality. It is only fitting that we thank God for continually bringing this to our attention through the words written in the Bible. Discover it in your heart to pray for more self-control so that you can develop your spirituality if you find that you struggle with a lack of it.
