Steered By a Very Small Rudder

Boats in Friday Harbor, Washington stateI never cease to be amazed at the indications of character in what a person says.

I never cease to be amazed at the devastation that can be caused in a few words.

I never cease to be amazed at the power of a kindly, encouraging word, and how it can be remembered through a lifetime.

I never cease to be amazed at how withholding words can have the same positive or destructive effects as uttering words can have.

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.

Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.

Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.

James 3:3-5 (NIV)