I work in a medical fitness center. Many of the people I help have graduated from physical therapy and are looking to address their general fitness.

I knew a great physical therapist, Jared, a few years ago. I altered my approach because I saw how effective he was. I watched him and borrowed some of his expressions and ideas because I could be better if I became more like him.

Sports are like that too. We have role models we try to imitate because if we can be more like them, we will be better. This is why most kids in the universe are trying out Stephen Curry’s and Klay Thompson’s form.

Role models show us the right way to do things. We often need a better way than our own, and others can supply that.

Jesus came to die for our sins and to be our role model too. He not only wants us to know Him as Savior, but to live like He did. Live like He did.

We might read the 1 John verse and think, “Woe is me! I’m not even close to living like He did. I’m such a sinner.”

Of course you are, but look at the verse. The verse is not trying to make us beat ourselves up. It’s telling us to imitate Jesus.

After getting to watch Jared, I changed my approach. Witnessing the greatness of others, including Jesus, inspires and moves us. God knows this. So God provides Himself and others as role models for us.

But choose carefully whom you admire and imitate. Just like we can be moved to change by good models, we can be persuaded by bad ones too.

Athlete, be on the lookout for qualities in others that will help you become better. Don’t be afraid to emulate and imitate. God made us to be imitators.