Precision

pre·ci·sion

[prēˈsiZH(ə)n]

NOUN

1. the quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate:

Of all the words one could use to describe me, precise would not be unbelievable, there are flashes of it in my work and interests, but it would not be a top 10 type of quality. I recognize the value of precision in certain arenas of life. Accountants, brain surgeons, finish carpenters probably are meant to be people with that disposition as a primary descriptor.

Precision is about diving into the details. Don Shula (coach of the only perfect NFL Season, Miami Dolphins) was once asked, “is there ever a benefit to overlooking one small flaw?” His response; “Which one is the small one?” Good question, but it’s like asking which gear should not be machined well? Years of coaching brings up other illustrations as well. Anytime you are successful at something it will get copied, after all, “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” Witnessing people try to imitate our “fly sweep” in football was observed that three-four details were not part of the imitation. Three-four reasons why it’s not going well for them, the details matter.

There are moments where precision is an absolute necessity.

Anytime fire and fuel is involved, precision seems pretty important. How do you control the flame, better yet, can you turn it off? Knobs must work, gears can’t stick, precision is at work all around us. It’s pretty impressive. People talk about certain companies or certain regions of the world that over engineer things, things of super high quality. That is differentiated from the planned obsolescence in our world today. Make things not last as long, get the consumer to buy another one, maybe in a different color this time.

The Bible says you and I are the handiwork of God. Other places use the word craftsmanship. Someone who takes their work seriously. If we were to pass that phrase on about a friend it would be a real compliment. That person is a craftsman.

Psalm 139 “I praise you(God) because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. You works are wonderful, I know that full well… I was woven together.” A weaver takes their time to do it right, do it well.

Ephesians 2: “We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” His workmanship is movingus forward to the plans he has for us.

Phillippians 1:6: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Reminds me of the fake add for “Couple More Days Construction Company.” Tag line: Always Almost Done. The homeowner that never really finshes the project, just needs a couple more days!! God new the completion date before the foundation of the universe.

So let me be the first to tip my hat to the Maker of you. He’s done, He’s doing a great job!!