Let’s be honest: self-control can feel nearly impossible when you’re in the grip of addiction, even if you have a deep relationship with God. Whether it’s alcoholism, drug use, or destructive habits that started as ways to cope, the result is the same—your own body doesn’t feel like your own anymore.
If you’ve been asking “How do I find the strength to say no?” or “Is there anything in the Bible that can help me stop?”, you’re in the right place. There are many Bible verses about self-control that can bring comfort, clarity, and strength as you walk the road of recovery.
And if you’re looking for real help that aligns with your faith, Northbound’s Christian LINKS program is here to walk with you.
Get Help Today
Help and healing are possible through our Christian rehab programs.
If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about how a Christian rehab center can aid in your recovery, feel free to reach out to us at any time.
What Does the Bible Say About Self-Control?
Self-control isn’t just willpower. In the Bible, it’s part of the fruit of the Spirit—a sign that the Holy Spirit is alive and working in us.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22–23
That means self-control isn’t something we muscle our way through on our own. It’s something we receive, when we remain close to Jesus Christ and His word.
Bible Verses About Self Control
Here are some powerful Bible verses about self-control that you can pray with, reflect on, and return to as often as you need:
1. “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one.” – 1 Corinthians 9:25
Like an athlete training for a race, recovery requires focus and discipline. You’re not just running toward sobriety—you’re running toward eternal life with Christ Jesus.
2. “Like a city broken into and left without walls is a man who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
Addiction often leaves us exposed, vulnerable, and spiritually exhausted. But God wants to rebuild your defenses and restore you with divine power.
3. “The grace of God has appeared… training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” – Titus 2:11–12
God’s grace doesn’t just forgive—it trains. With His help, you can learn to exercise self-control in your thoughts, cravings, and choices.
4. “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue… and with virtue, knowledge, and with knowledge, self-control.” – 2 Peter 1:5–6
Here, we see that self-discipline is part of spiritual maturity. As you grow in God’s Word, your ability to resist evil desires will also grow.
When Worldy Willpower Isn’t Enough: Where Faith and Recovery Meet
If you’re stuck in a cycle of relapse or struggling to break free from addiction, our Christians Drug Rehab can help.
The LINKS program is a faith-based treatment path within Northbound Treatment Center that offers clinical excellence anchored in your relationship with the Savior Jesus Christ.
At LINKS, you’ll find:
A daily rhythm of prayer, Scripture, and Holy Spirit-led guidance
Support for alcohol and drug addiction through licensed therapy and spiritual care
Tools to replace evil desires with spiritual disciplines and healthy habits
A Christ-centered community focused on surrender, healing, and lasting self-control
We understand that recovery isn’t just about “stopping.” It’s about learning to walk in step with the Holy Spirit, day by day.
How to Build Self-Control in Sobriety
Here are a few practical ways to nurture self-control in recovery:
1. Spend time in God’s Word
Let God’s Word shape your thinking and remind you of your true identity in Christ Jesus.
2. Pray during temptation
Even a simple, “Lord Jesus Christ, help me say no right now,” can be a lifeline.
3. Recognize the triggers
Ask God to give you self-discipline and wisdom to know what situations or thoughts lead to relapse.
4. Stay connected
Whether it’s a church group, a sponsor, or others in the LINKS program, a Godly community matters. You were never meant to face this alone.
A Prayer for Self-Control
“Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, I admit that I can’t do this without You. Please fill me with the power of the Holy Spirit, so that I may walk in self-control. Help me resist evil desires, surrender my own glory, and live with focus, faith, and grace. Amen.”
You’re Not Alone
If you feel like your choices have taken you too far—there’s still hope. Through the divine nature of Jesus Christ, you can be made new. You can break the cycle. And with help, you can live a life that’s free, full, and grounded in faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Call LINKS today at (866) 434-1330 or reach out here to start your healing journey.
The path forward isn’t about perfection—it’s about perseverance. All the runners in this race are welcome, and the prize is more than sobriety—it’s life, restored.
Get Help Today
Help and healing are possible through our Christian rehab programs.
If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about how a Christian rehab center can aid in your recovery, feel free to reach out to us at any time.