January 1
The Stoic Quote
“The chief task in this life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can clearly say to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control. Where then do I look for good and evil? Not to uncontrollable externals, but within myself to the choices that are my own.”
— Epictetus, Discourses, 2.5.4-5
Understanding Epictetus’s Wisdom
Epictetus articulates one of Stoicism’s core teachings: the dichotomy of control. According to this principle, our focus should be on what is within our power—our thoughts (perspectives and opinions of externals), actions, and choices—while letting go of what is not under our control, such as other people’s behavior, external circumstances, or outcomes.
He emphasizes that good and evil are determined by our choices, not by external events. Peace and virtue arise when we stop fixating on what we cannot control and focus instead on mastering our responses.
Biblical Parallels
The concept of focusing on what is within our control aligns closely with biblical teachings about surrendering external anxieties to God while remaining faithful and responsible for our choices.
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Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
“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.” - Connection: Paul teaches us to let go of worry about external matters and instead focus on our response—turning to God in prayer and thanksgiving. The result is inner peace, mirroring Epictetus’s call to shift focus from externals to what we can control.
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Matthew 6:27 (NIV)
“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” - Connection: Jesus highlights the futility of obsessing over external circumstances beyond our control, echoing Epictetus’s wisdom about focusing on what truly matters.
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Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” - Connection: While we are responsible for our choices and intentions, ultimate control lies with God. Recognizing this distinction allows us to release anxieties over outcomes we cannot determine.
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Galatians 6:4-5 (NIV)
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” - Connection: Paul reinforces the importance of focusing on our own choices and actions rather than being distracted by external comparisons or judgments.
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Romans 12:18 (NIV)
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” - Connection: This verse highlights the boundary between what we control (our actions, efforts, and attitudes) and what we cannot (others’ responses or behavior).
The Dichotomy of Control in Christianity
Epictetus’s dichotomy of control aligns with key biblical principles:
- Trust in God: Release control of outcomes to God’s sovereignty while focusing on faithful action.
- 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.”
- Focus on Inner Transformation: The Bible encourages believers to focus on their inner life—thoughts, actions, and faith—rather than being consumed by external circumstances.
- Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
- Peace Through Letting Go: Peace comes when we surrender what we cannot control and focus on what God calls us to do.
- 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Key Themes Bridging Epictetus and Scripture
- Control What You Can, Release What You Cannot
- Epictetus: Focus on your choices, thoughts, and actions.
- Scripture: Trust in God for the uncontrollable while being responsible for your behavior and faith.
- Inner Goodness Over External Circumstances
- Epictetus identifies good and evil as rooted in our choices.
- Scripture teaches that true virtue flows from the heart and one’s relationship with God (Matthew 15:18-19).
- Peace Through Proper Focus
- Both Epictetus and Scripture emphasize that inner peace comes from focusing on what is within your control (your responses, mindset, and faith) rather than being ruled by fear or external chaos.
- Freedom From Worry
- Epictetus sees freedom as mastery over one’s responses.
- Scripture encourages freedom through trust in God, freeing us from worry and fear (Philippians 4:6-7).
Conclusion
Both Epictetus and the Bible point to a profound truth: peace, freedom, and virtue arise when we distinguish between what we can control and what we must entrust to God (or accept as fate, in Stoic terms). By focusing on our choices, faith, and inner life, we cultivate wisdom and peace, regardless of external circumstances.
This timeless wisdom calls us to let go of futile worries and embrace what is truly within our power—our thoughts, actions, and trust in a higher purpose.