50+ Bible Verses About Chains (And What They Mean)

Chains can symbolize many things in the Bible, from physical bondage to spiritual freedom. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that mention chains, offering a range of perspectives and insights.

Whether you're looking for inspiration, comfort, or a deeper understanding, these verses provide a rich tapestry of meanings. Each one sheds light on the different ways chains are used in biblical texts.

What Does the Bible Say About Chains

The Bible uses chains as a powerful symbol, representing both physical and spiritual states. These verses offer a range of insights, from the burdens of sin to the promise of freedom. They remind us that chains can be broken, and liberation is always within reach.

One key theme is the breaking of chains. Verses like Isaiah 58:6 and Acts 12:7 show that divine intervention can free us from any form of bondage. These passages encourage us to trust in a higher power to lift our burdens and offer hope when we feel trapped.

Another theme is the chains of sin. Verses such as Romans 6:6 and John 8:34 highlight how sin can entrap us, making us feel like prisoners. But they also remind us that recognizing our mistakes is the first step toward breaking free and finding peace.

Chains of bondage are also a recurring theme. Verses like Exodus 6:6 and Psalm 68:6 speak of physical and emotional captivity. They offer reassurance that even in our darkest moments, there is a promise of deliverance and redemption.

Lastly, the Bible speaks of spiritual chains. Verses like Ephesians 6:12 and 2 Corinthians 10:4 remind us that our struggles are not just physical but also spiritual. They encourage us to stay vigilant and rely on divine strength to overcome life's challenges.

50 Bible Verses About Chains

10 Bible Verses on Breaking Chains

1) Isaiah 58:6

“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?”

Meaning: True fasting isn't just about abstaining from food; it's about liberating others from their struggles and injustices. It's a call to action, urging us to make a tangible difference in the lives of those burdened by oppression.

2) Acts 12:7

Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands.

Meaning: While the world often tells us that our circumstances define us, this verse shows that divine intervention can break any chain. It's a powerful reminder that no matter how trapped we feel, there's always hope for liberation.

3) Psalm 107:14

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, And broke their chains in pieces.

Meaning: What if the darkness you feel isn't the end, but the beginning of a profound transformation? This verse invites you to see liberation where you once saw only despair.

4) Nahum 1:13

For now I will break off his yoke from you, And burst your bonds apart.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're carrying a weight that's not yours to bear? This verse speaks directly to you, promising a release from those burdens that have held you back.

5) Jeremiah 30:8

‘For it shall come to pass in that day,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘That I will break his yoke from your neck, And will burst your bonds; Foreigners shall no more enslave them.’

Meaning: Feeling weighed down by life's pressures? This verse reassures you that those burdens won't last forever. Embrace the freedom that comes from trusting in a higher power to lift those weights off your shoulders.

6) Psalm 116:16

O Lord, truly I am Your servant; I am Your servant, the son of Your maidservant; You have loosed my bonds.

Meaning: What does it mean to be truly free? Sometimes, real freedom comes from choosing to serve a higher purpose, rather than being bound by worldly desires.

7) Luke 4:18

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a rut? This verse is a reminder that there's always a way out, and sometimes, it's about finding the strength to help others find their freedom too.

8) Acts 16:26

Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a situation with no way out? This verse reminds us that sometimes, change comes in the most unexpected ways, offering a burst of hope and freedom just when we need it most.

9) John 8:36

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Meaning: True freedom comes from within and is a gift that transcends circumstances. It's a reminder that liberation is not just physical but also spiritual, offering peace in the midst of life's challenges.

10) Galatians 5:1

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

Meaning: We often find ourselves slipping back into old habits and constraints. What if we embraced the freedom offered to us and chose to live unburdened?

10 Bible Verses on Chains of Sin

11) Romans 6:6

knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.

Meaning: It's like a torch passed down through generations, reminding us that we don't have to be bound by our past mistakes. Embrace the freedom that comes from letting go of old habits and stepping into a new life.

12) John 8:34

Whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a cycle you can't break? This verse reveals that true freedom comes from breaking away from the chains of our own making.

13) Proverbs 5:22

His own iniquities entrap the wicked man, And he is caught in the cords of his sin.

Meaning: Ever felt like your own actions are pulling you down? This verse vividly shows how our missteps can ensnare us, urging us to break free from the cycle of wrongdoing.

14) Romans 7:23

But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Meaning: Embrace the truth that internal struggles are part of the human experience. Recognizing these battles can be the first step toward overcoming them and finding peace.

15) James 1:14-15

But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

Meaning: Sometimes, the challenges we face come from within, but recognizing this can be the first step toward finding peace and strength. It's a gentle reminder that understanding our own hearts can lead to true freedom.

16) 2 Peter 2:19

While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.

Meaning: True freedom isn't found in empty promises but in breaking free from what holds us back. It's a powerful reminder that real liberation comes from within, not from those who are themselves bound.

17) Galatians 5:19-21

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Meaning: Ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of life? This verse reminds us that true peace and fulfillment come from steering clear of destructive behaviors and embracing a higher path.

18) Ephesians 2:1-2

And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience.

Meaning: Like a gentle whisper, this verse reminds us that no matter how lost we feel, there's always a path back to life and light. It's a beautiful reassurance that transformation and renewal are always within reach.

19) Colossians 3:5-6

Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience.

Meaning: Take a moment to reflect on the power of letting go of harmful habits. Embracing this truth can lead to a life of renewal and deeper faith, transforming your journey in profound ways.

20) 1 John 3:4

Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.

Meaning: When we stray from the path, it can feel like we're lost in a maze. This verse gently nudges us to recognize our missteps and find our way back to a place of peace and order.

10 Bible Verses on Chains of Bondage

21) Exodus 6:6

Therefore say to the children of Israel: ‘I am the Lord; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that there's a promise of deliverance and redemption. Hold onto the assurance that you are not alone, and that strength and freedom are within reach.

22) Leviticus 26:13

I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright.

Meaning: Sometimes, we need a reminder that we are meant to live free and unburdened. Embrace the strength and love that have always been there to lift you up.

23) Judges 16:21

Then the Philistines took him and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza. They bound him with bronze fetters, and he became a grinder in the prison.

Meaning: Sometimes, the lowest points in life can be the beginning of a profound transformation. It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there's potential for renewal and growth.

24) 2 Chronicles 33:11

Therefore the Lord brought upon them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze fetters, and carried him off to Babylon.

Meaning: God's promises of justice and redemption are unwavering. Even when we face the consequences of our actions, His enduring love offers a path to restoration and hope.

25) Psalm 68:6

God sets the solitary in families; He brings out those who are bound into prosperity; But the rebellious dwell in a dry land.

Meaning: Ever felt isolated or stuck? Reflect on how embracing community and faith can lead to unexpected blessings and freedom.

26) Isaiah 52:2

Shake yourself from the dust, arise; Sit down, O Jerusalem! Loose yourself from the bonds of your neck, O captive daughter of Zion!

Meaning: When life feels heavy, remember that God's promises are unwavering. Trust in His words and find the strength to rise above your challenges, knowing that freedom and renewal are assured.

27) Jeremiah 40:1

The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord after Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard had let him go from Ramah, when he had taken him bound in chains among all who were carried away captive from Jerusalem and Judah, who were carried away captive to Babylon.

Meaning: In a time of exile and despair, this verse offers a surprising shift in perspective. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is a divine plan at work, challenging us to see beyond our immediate circumstances and trust in a greater purpose.

28) Ezekiel 19:9

They put him in a cage with chains, and brought him to the king of Babylon; they brought him in nets, that his voice should no longer be heard on the mountains of Israel.

Meaning: When life feels like a series of unending struggles, this verse reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is a greater plan at work. It's a call to find strength and hope, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

29) Lamentations 3:7

He has hedged me in so that I cannot get out; He has made my chain heavy.

Meaning: What if the challenges you're facing are shaping you for something greater? Embrace the possibility that even in confinement, there's a purpose and a path to growth.

30) Zechariah 9:11

As for you also, Because of the blood of your covenant, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a dry, hopeless place? This verse reassures you that God's promises are unwavering, and His love will lift you out of any despair.

10 Bible Verses on Spiritual Chains

31) Ephesians 6:12

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Meaning: The word "wrestle" highlights the intense, personal struggle we face. It's like trying to navigate through a dense fog; you can't always see the obstacles, but you feel their presence and must stay vigilant to find your way through.

32) 2 Corinthians 10:4

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds

Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, remember that God's power is your anchor. His love and grace equip you to overcome any challenge, offering peace and assurance when you need it most.

33) Colossians 2:15

Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

Meaning: There's a profound hope in knowing that true victory doesn't come from worldly power but from divine strength. This verse flips the script, showing that humility and faith can overcome even the greatest challenges.

34) 1 Peter 5:8

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're constantly on guard? This verse reminds you to stay alert and strong, knowing that your awareness and resilience are your best defenses.

35) 2 Timothy 2:26

and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.

Meaning: The certainty of liberation shines through this verse, offering a vivid reminder of the power of awakening and breaking free from spiritual traps. Its poetic language beautifully captures the journey from darkness to light, making it both profound and relatable.

36) Revelation 20:1-2

Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.

Meaning: In every season of life, this verse reminds us that ultimate power and control rest with the divine. It's a timeless assurance that no matter the struggle, there is a greater force working for our good.

37) Matthew 16:19

And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

Meaning: Remember, you have the power to make a difference. Whether it's through acts of kindness or standing up for what's right, your actions resonate far beyond what you can see.

38) Luke 13:16

So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?

Meaning: Isn't it amazing how God's grace can break even the longest chains? This verse reassures us that His mercy knows no bounds, offering freedom and healing when we need it most.

39) Acts 26:18

to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.

Meaning: God's love is transformative, inviting us to step out of darkness and into His light. It's a powerful reminder of His endless patience and the boundless grace He offers to all who seek Him.

40) Romans 8:2

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, this verse serves as a steady anchor, reminding you that there's a greater power at work. It's a gentle nudge to lift your eyes beyond the present struggles, knowing that freedom and hope are always within reach.

10 Bible Verses on Chains of Freedom

41) Galatians 5:13

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Meaning: Embrace the freedom you have, but let it guide you to love and serve others. It's a powerful reminder that true liberty is found in selfless acts of kindness.

42) 2 Corinthians 3:17

Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Meaning: In our search for freedom, it's comforting to know that true liberty comes from a higher power. It's a timeless reminder that embracing God's presence brings a sense of peace and release from life's burdens.

43) John 8:32

And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Meaning: There's a profound sense of liberation in understanding and embracing the truth. Trust in God's promises, knowing they are a reliable source of strength and freedom.

44) Romans 6:18

And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're finally breaking free from old habits? This verse reassures you that true freedom comes from embracing a life of purpose and integrity.

45) Isaiah 61:1

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound

Meaning: The timeless truth of this verse invites you to embrace the freedom and healing that faith offers. Step into this promise and let it transform your life, bringing hope and renewal.

46) Psalm 146:7

Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The Lord gives freedom to the prisoners.

Meaning: Faith brings a profound sense of security, knowing that God's love and protection are unwavering. His steadfast presence assures us that we are never alone, no matter the challenges we face.

47) 1 Corinthians 7:22

For he who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise he who is called while free is Christ’s slave.

Meaning: God's presence in our lives brings a profound sense of purpose and freedom, no matter our circumstances. This verse encourages us to embrace humility and service, reminding us that true liberty comes from living a life dedicated to higher principles.

48) Hebrews 2:15

and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

Meaning: There's a profound joy in knowing that freedom from fear is possible. Embrace the beauty of living unburdened, finding peace and courage in every moment.

49) Romans 8:21

because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God

Meaning: Embrace the truth that freedom and renewal are within reach. Let this verse inspire you to live with hope and purpose, knowing that transformation is possible through faith.

50) 1 Peter 2:16

as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.

Meaning: Ever felt like freedom comes with a responsibility? This verse gently reminds us that true liberty is found in serving a higher purpose, not in indulging every whim.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Chains

Applying Bible teachings about chains to daily life can bring profound change and spiritual growth. These verses offer guidance and hope, helping us navigate life's challenges with faith and resilience.

• Daily Reflection: Start your day by reading a Bible verse about chains. Reflect on its meaning and how it applies to your current situation.
• Prayer: Incorporate prayers that ask for strength to break free from personal struggles. Simple prayers can make a big difference.
• Community Involvement: Join a local church group or Bible study. Sharing experiences and insights can provide support and encouragement.
• Acts of Kindness: Practice small acts of kindness. Helping others can remind you of the freedom and love that faith brings.
• Mindful Living: Be mindful of your actions and thoughts. Recognize when you're falling into old habits and consciously choose a different path.

Remember, God is always with you, offering strength and guidance. Faith-driven transformation is possible, and these verses can be a source of hope and inspiration.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or use our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.