“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 3:4).

I imagine a big sailing ship with its many big sails. To this scene I add a powerful wind, driving this vessel across the ocean. Will the ship go wherever the wind compels it to go?

Only if it doesn’t have a rudder…attached to a helm…firmly held by a strong hand…directed by a purposeful mind.

Now my mind wanders somewhat to wonder — how easily does God steer me?

Do His gentle nudges suffice? Or must He exert greater force?

“…They are governed by a very small helm along the route he who governs them wants” (my translation of Reina-Valera 1960).