Albert Barnes Commentary James 3:4

"Behold, the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by rough winds, are yet turned about by a very small rudder, whither the impulse of the steersman willeth." — James 3:4 (ASV)

Behold also the ships. This illustration is equally striking and obvious. A ship is a large object. It seems unmanageable due to its vastness, and it is also impelled by driving storms. Yet it is easily managed by a small rudder, and he who has control of that, has control of the ship itself.

So it is with the tongue. It is a small member compared with the body, its size not unlike the rudder compared with the ship. Yet the proper control of the tongue regarding its influence on the whole person is not unlike the control of the rudder in its power over the ship.

Which though they be so great. They are so great in themselves, and in comparison with the rudder. Even such bulky and unwieldy objects are controlled by a very small thing.

And are driven of fierce winds. These are winds that would seem to leave the ship beyond control. It is probable that by the "fierce winds" here impelling the ship, the apostle meant to illustrate the power of the passions in impelling a person. Even a person under impetuous passion would be restrained if the tongue is properly controlled, just as a ship driven by the winds is by the helm.

Yet are they turned about with a very small helm. The ancient rudder or helm was made in the shape of an oar. This was very small when compared with the size of the vessels, about as small as the tongue is compared with the body.

Whithersoever the governor listeth. As the helmsman pleases. It is entirely under his control.

(An alternative rendering for "governor listeth" is "pilot chooses.")