We understand that in concert with many factors, a rudder helps a vessel make a turn. It’s a complicated set of tools that coordinate the smooth turn – ailerons, sails, engines, and a host of other tools are used to make a turn and the rudder is simply a part of the equation.
However, there are other thoughts about the use of a rudder that keeps me contemplating the power of this device.
One, in turbulent conditions, a rudder can keep you headed in a correct direction by applying opposite control against the rough weather you might find yourself in…
Two, you will have to trust me on this, but an airplane can use a banking maneuver with opposite rudder control to lose altitude or fight against a sidewind that is trying to push it the wrong way. Notice. Opposite rudder control. Sometimes the forces are so strong to push you one way that it requires some special training to slip the airplane through the wind.
Three. No matter the size of a rudder, if you do not have the proper power, leverage or fulcrum to direct it, then it is a useless piece of equipment.
Four, a rudder can help you in turns without over-stressing the amount of power needed to make a direction change. More rudder and less power required. And, you can easily set a trim tab that keeps the rudder in a constant position without you having to wield constant pressure.
Think about it like this… In turbulent conditions, we need something to keep our direction appropriately set. Emotions, turmoil, political climate, finances, family, career… You name it. Life creates many challenges, and without a rudder, our commitment to a certain direction is very difficult. Having the power of a rudder to keep us on the true path should require less power exertion.
It’s almost like having an automatic directional control device focusing us on the correct path with minimal effort! A pilot may call it autopilot!
When I was learning to fly, the mantra of any trip was Plan your Flight and Fly your Plan. Share on XThat way, should you not return on time then it might be easier to locate you should there be an emergency. An emergency. Lost. Not easily found. Have you ever felt that way? Lost. Turned around. Not sure where you are, nor which way to go? The Psalmist cries out to God from the Cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 22:1-2, Psalms 57:1-11)
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path… (Psalms 142:3 NKJV)
Notice his declaration – “…You knew my path…” Now. He may not have filed a flight plan, but God always knows where you are. A rudder may help keep you pointed in the correct direction, but other forces may twist your vessel into the wrong direction. You have to be situationally aware of your surroundings!
While it is true God knows where you are no matter what is going on, there is comfort in him knowing that where we are is where we are supposed to be… On the right path! And there is the comfort that our pathway is known by those around us! He looks to the left and right (verse 4) and there was NO ONE there… Only God…
That rudder is very important! It helps us keep focused even when we are driven by the winds and waves even when we feel lost. A ship without a rudder is powerless to keep focused. An airplane without a rudder is almost certainly doomed.
Just remember. Keep your focus forward. Know your surroundings. Even if you feel lost. God knows where you are. He always knows, even when you have no clue!