James 3:4 KJV
[4] “Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.”
James continues to talk to us about controlling our tongue. In the previous verses, he has given two illustrations concerning the bridle and the bit. He is now using a boat to emphasize this truth. He mentions the size by saying that they can be great vessels. He mentions the struggle as the vessel may face fierce winds when out at sea. He then mentions the steering and how a simple rudder allows the captain to guide it in the desired direction.
The truth of our text is that we all have the opportunity, and responsibility, to control our tongues and guide our vessels in the direction that would be pleasing unto the Lord. We need the Holy Spirit to help us surrender our tongues unto Him and not allow the fierce winds of the world to toss our vessel around. Think about it, what we say with our tongues can lead us in either the right or the wrong direction. We must always be careful in what we say because our words will often determine the outcome of our circumstances.
Dear reader, ask the Lord to stand at the helm of your boat and guide your vessel. Our prayer each day should be, “Lord, I surrender both my words and my will to Thee.” Our tongues can be used to guide us and other vessels in the right direction. It is amazing how such a small member of the body can make such a vast difference. “Lord, help me in guiding my tongue today.”