James 3:3-5

So a perfect man is able to control himself. However, we are not perfect. Even though we are not perfect, James gives us some insight to the human condition. The ability to guide and control horses has to do with putting food in their mouths. This means that you can control them by their mouths. Horses are quite large and heavy creatures, but it is by their tiny mouths that you can control one. This kind of thing is similar to a ship. A ship may be controlled by its tiny rudder. Even though it may be quite big and strong winds may push against it, it is the rudder that can control where it goes. These are all to describe that the tongue is very small, yet it is able to guide and control the entire body. The point James is trying to make is with regards to the influence the tongue has on the entire body. He describes the tongue as being able to boast great things in contrast to its size. It must be dealt with very carefully to say the least.