James 3:4

Again, think of ships. Large as they are, and even when driven by fierce winds, they are guided by a very small rudder and steered in whatever direction the man at the helm may determine.

Open English Bible (US)

In The King James Version

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.

In Context

3When we put bits into horses’ mouths to make them obey us, we can direct the whole animal.

5So it is with the tongue. Small as it is, it is a great boaster. Think how a tiny spark may set the largest forest ablaze!

Read all of James 3

Cross References

Psalms 107:25At his command rose a tempest, which lifted the waves on high.

Matthew 8:24Suddenly so great a storm came up on the sea, that the waves broke right over the boat. But Jesus was asleep;

Matthew Henry on James 3:2-13

Government of the Tongue. ( a. d. 61.) 1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 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,… Read the whole commentary →

This Verse In Other Editions

Study James 3:4