We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. James 3:3 (NLT)
What do a rudder, a bit in a horse’s mouth and a small flame have in common?
They are all small things that hold immense power. Interestingly, James 3:3-6 compares the strength of our words to all three. Think about it. Today’s verse says if you control a horse’s mouth, you control the whole animal. A horse will turn wherever the bit directs it. And whoever is at the helm controls a ship’s rudder and decides the direction of an entire vessel as well.
In the same way, the words we speak determine the direction of our lives. Perhaps you’re wondering, “What am I supposed to do if I’ve got problems in my life? Deny them?” Not a chance! The Bible says to recognize the issue, then speak to it and deal with it. For example, if there’s a problem in your marriage, the first step in the right direction is to take control of your words. Stop yourself from saying things like, “We’re finished. This relationship is unfixable. It’s hopeless.”
Instead, start speaking life to that situation. Begin steering your words toward what God says. You might say, “God’s Word says that He’s involved in my marriage, and we can work things out with His help! Nothing is impossible with Him.”
Stand up and begin declaring God’s promises over that strained relationship or tough financial decision. Begin praising God and proclaiming what He says. Like a tiny spark or a ship’s rudder, your words may seem small, but they carry incredible power. So, choose to speak what God says over your life. It may seem like nothing, but the impact is far greater than you know!