Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their whole body as well.4 Look at the ships too: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are nevertheless directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot determines.
James 3:3-4
James 3 deals with the words we use in everyday life. The words we say have power. Our words have the power to destroy and the power to lift up. Christians would be wise to understand the nature of even small words which can do damage or bring healing.
The tongue, though small like a ship’s rudder or a horse’s bit, can drive the direction of our lives. If we use words of hate and destruction we will leave a path of destruction. If we use words of edification we will build up those around us for their good. The choice is ours.
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 