As we entered the New Year, I heard a single word the Lord gave me a few years ago. The word was “Recalibration”. Instantly, I contacted a friend who is a manager of a Starbucks Coffee store and asked his take on the word. I knew “Calibration” was a word used in his workplace.

A Happy New year to you, Brother Bill. Yes, we calibrate our machines and our thermometers. Without calibrating the machines, the shots of espresso will not taste right and the milk would not be steamed at the proper temp (either too hot or too cold). This is something that can't just be done at the beginning of the day and then forgotten about. We check the timing of our shots every hour. Without doing this throughout the day, the morning customers would have great tasting espresso but the quality would go down as the day went on. The same goes with the thermometers. We have to check them, because they gauge or the check for the temp of the espresso machine.

Yes, calibration is very important in our business. Hmmmm. You could preach this very easy. We need to calibrate our lives throughout the day with God's Word. Preach on, my friend.

As you can see, “Calibration” is an important element to assure customers receive the quality of product they’ve grown to expect from Starbucks. Listen to the following definitions to find out more on how this important word applies to our leadership:

1. to determine, check, or rectify the graduation of (any instrument giving quantitative measurements).
2. to divide or mark with gradations, graduations, or other indexes of degree, quantity, etc., as on a thermometer, measuring cup, or the like.
3. to determine the correct range for (an artillery gun, mortar, etc.) by observing where the fired projectile hits.
4. to plan or devise (something) carefully so as to have a precise use, application, appeal, etc.: a sales strategy calibrated to rich investors.

Where many make New Year resolutions, Biblical leaders actually re-align or Re-calibrate their hearts, lives, beliefs, actions, attitude, character, leadership, etc. with God’s Word and His kingdom. One of the ways we can assure this re-calibration actually happens is to surround ourselves with godly relationships that keep us in check and be a cheerleader as well. Remember this: Every Timothy needs a Paul; and every Paul needs to a Timothy.

The Lord chose the dynamics within the confines of relationship to help us fulfill our destiny. Godly relationships keep us out of the ditches found on both sides of life’s road if we will listen to their godly counsel. This is the beneficial role of “Paul to Timothy”. On the other hand, these relationships keep godly leaders grounded and free from self-absorption, to remember where they came from and how they can help others. This is the beneficial role of “Timothy to Paul”.

Let us consider the need to re-calibrate as we enter this New Year. Remember: 2011 is the year to re-discover our destiny in God! God bless you. You know where to find us if and when you need us! Until then…we remain…

Yours for Christ’s sake and Kingdom,
Brother Bill