35 Important Bible Verses About Not Having Control (With Commentary)

Jamie Wilson

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life? It’s easy to think we should have everything under control, but sometimes, things just don’t go as planned. We might worry about our future, our relationships, or school. The truth is, life can be unpredictable, and knowing we aren’t in charge can be scary. But there’s good news! The Bible offers comforting verses that remind us it’s okay to let go and trust in God.

Today, we’ll look at some Bible verses about not having control. These verses can help us find peace when we feel anxious or uncertain. They remind us that God is always with us and has a plan for our lives, even when things feel out of hand. Let’s find encouragement in these powerful words!

Bible Verses About Not Having Control

Trusting God in Uncertain Times

When we talk about not having control, it often leads to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. However, trusting God in these moments is essential. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly, promising that He will direct our paths. We might not see the entire plan laid out before us, but we can find peace in knowing that God is in control, guiding us each step of the way. Trusting God means that we don’t have to have all the answers right now, and that’s a relief.

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

This verse speaks to the importance of completely relying on God rather than our own understanding. It reassures us that if we lean on Him, He will direct our journey, especially during uncertainty.

Isaiah 41:10

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

Here, God reminds us that He is always near, even when life feels out of control. This assurance calms our hearts and helps us find strength during tough times.

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

These words remind us that even when we cannot see the future clearly, God has a beautiful plan for us. Trusting in His plan eases the burden of feeling the need to control every aspect.

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. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Instead of being anxious, we are encouraged to pray and give thanks. This act not only calms our minds but allows God’s peace to envelop us, reminding us that it’s okay to relinquish control.

Matthew 6:34

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34

Jesus encourages us to take each day as it comes. Worrying about tomorrow steals our joy today. Learning to focus on the present allows us to trust God more fully.

Embracing Our Limitations

Admitting that we cannot control everything is an important step in our walk with Christ. While it can be challenging, recognizing our limitations can lead to spiritual growth. Philippians 4:13 encourages us by reminding us that we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. Even amid chaos and unpredictability, we are empowered to move forward when we lean on Him and acknowledge that we don’t have to do it alone.

Philippians 4:13

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

This verse assures us of the strength we receive from Christ. We can rely on Him when we feel small and our control feels limited. This empowerment builds faith.

2 Corinthians 12:9

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

When we acknowledge our weaknesses, we allow God’s power to shine through us. Embracing our limitations enables us to experience His grace more deeply.

James 4:14

“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” – James 4:14

This verse serves as a reminder of life’s fleeting nature. Accepting that we lack control over the future helps us appreciate each moment while we trust God’s timing.

Psalm 46:10

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10

Being still before God allows us to acknowledge His sovereignty. We can find comfort in His presence and let go of the urge to control everything around us.

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

This powerful scripture reassures us that God is always working for our good. Even in situations where we feel we have lost control, He is there, bringing good from it all.

Finding Peace in Surrender

Surrendering control might feel daunting, but it brings deeper peace. Looking to Jesus as our example, we see how He surrendered to God’s will even in the most challenging moments. By submitting our concerns to Him, we open the door to lasting peace. This act of surrender doesn’t mean giving up but rather choosing to trust God wholeheartedly, leading us to a calm heart.

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” – Matthew 11:28-30

This scripture invites us to come to Jesus with our burdens. He promises rest and peace, teaching us that surrender brings soul-deep comfort.

1 Peter 5:7

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7

God invites us to bring our worries before Him, reassuring us of His care. Surrendering our anxiety allows us to experience His love in a real, tangible way.

Luke 22:42

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” – Luke 22:42

Jesus’ prayer exemplifies perfect surrender. Even in the face of suffering, He chose God’s will, reminding us that surrender can be a pathway to peace.

Romans 12:1

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1

Offering ourselves as living sacrifices implies trusting God with our lives. By surrendering to Him, we express our worship and commitment.

Colossians 3:2

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2

When we focus on God and His ways, we can surrender our earthly worries. This shift in perspective helps us detach from our need for control.

The Importance of Prayer

In moments of chaos and uncertainty, turning to prayer can be our refuge. Talking to God keeps us connected to Him and reassures us of His presence. It allows us to express our fears and anxieties while receiving His peace in return. Through prayer, we learn that we don’t have to rely solely on our understanding, and it prepares our hearts to trust Him more fully.

Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6

We are urged to turn our worries into prayers. This practice helps us reset our perspectives and lean into God’s care for us, letting go of control.

Matthew 21:22

“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” – Matthew 21:22

Jesus assures us of the power of prayer and belief. It encourages us to reach out, trusting that God hears our requests, showing us we need not carry burdens alone.

James 1:5

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5

Asking God for wisdom helps us make sense of confusing situations. Our prayers invite His guidance, relieving the pressure of needing to control every outcome.

John 14:13

“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” – John 14:13

This promise reassures us that our prayers matter. When we pray with faith, we can trust that God acts in accordance with His will, which is always for our good.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Prayer is not just for tough times; it’s a way to stay connected with God consistently. Expressing gratitude and joy in all situations opens our hearts to His peace.

God’s Sovereignty Over All

Understanding that God is in control can bring us peace in our lives. He created the heavens and the earth and knows every detail of our existence. We often struggle with our need to control, but by recognizing God’s sovereignty, we can learn to let go. Romans 11:36 reminds us that everything is from Him, through Him, and to Him, shedding light on the bigger picture of His plans.

Romans 11:36

“For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” – Romans 11:36

This verse points us to the reality that God is the center of everything. Understanding His sovereignty helps us move away from our need to have control, leading us to worship.

Proverbs 16:9

“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9

Though we may make plans, it’s God who guides our path. Trusting His leadership helps us relinquish the illusion of control and find confidence in His direction.

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

God’s omniscience reminds us that He knows our future. When we understand that His purpose will prevail, we can calm our hearts and let go of worries about control.

Psalm 115:3

“Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” – Psalm 115:3

This verse highlights God’s absolute authority. Realizing that He has the ultimate power frees us from the burden of trying to be in charge of everything.

Job 42:2

“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” – Job 42:2

In Job’s acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty, we find comfort. His purposes cannot be derailed, reassuring us that His plans are at work even in our uncertainties.

The Gift of Community

During times when we feel out of control, having a supportive community is essential. Scripture emphasizes the importance of fellowship and bearing one another’s burdens. Connecting with others can relieve the pressures we experience, reminding us we were never meant to navigate life alone. Community serves as a source of encouragement, helping us lift our eyes toward God together.

Galatians 6:2

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2

This verse calls us to uplift one another. Sharing our worries and fears can lighten our load, allowing us to experience God’s grace in a tangible way through others.

Hebrews 10:24-25

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25

In community, we find encouragement to continue pressing forward. Coming together strengthens our faith and reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Encouragement is vital in overcoming life’s unpredictability. Lifting each other up cultivates a sense of peace and belonging, reinforcing our shared hope in God.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

This passage highlights the importance of companionship. Together, we can support and uplift each other, helping to ease feelings of losing control.

Proverbs 27:17

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

We sharpen one another through shared experiences and challenges. Community enhances our strength and faith, encouraging us to trust God amidst uncertainty.

Final Thoughts

In our lives, we often find that the desire to control everything can lead to anxiety and overwhelm. However, the Bible provides us with wonderful verses that invite us to relinquish that control and trust in God. Trusting Him, embracing our limitations, and finding peace in surrender are key aspects of our faith journey. Through prayer, we communicate with God and feel His presence as a source of comfort. Additionally, recognizing God’s sovereignty helps us let go of worries while relying on Him. By leaning on our community, we can find support and encouragement every step along the way.

As we reflect on these powerful verses, we are reminded that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Together, let’s keep seeking God’s peace in our uncertain moments. If you’re feeling anxious, consider exploring Bible Verses About Not Having Anxiety or if you need to accept not getting your way, check out Bible Verses About Not Getting Your Way. We can always find encouragement and strength in God’s Word.