Imitation Is Not Inherently Bad

So that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and endurance inherit the promises.

Hebrews 6:12 (NASB)

The Bible tells us nothing about Joshua's attitude when he saw Moses return from his flight to become the leader of Israel after killing the Egyptian soldier. Perhaps he was pleased to have someone who knew Egyptian customs and traditions so well and who dared to confront them, and perhaps he rejected him for fear that Moses would use the situation to ask for forgiveness. But whatever his initial reaction, he eventually accepted him and followed his example, maintaining his faith even in the face of giants.

It is true that Joshua may have been afraid at first sight of the giants, but Moses's attitude in the face of adversity gave him the strength and faith necessary to return with the good news. He saw ordinary men whom Israel could overcome, not giants whom human strength could not defeat. The author of the Epistle to the Hebrews may have drawn inspiration from this example to encourage those on the verge of giving up to follow the example of people of faith.

He doesn't simply ask us to take them as models, but to imitate them. Imitating someone with unwavering faith will give you the strength to persevere through trials. Their example will inspire you with patience and perseverance, for you will say to yourself, "If they succeeded, you can too." Perhaps you yourself have a role model who inspires you to grow; don't hesitate to ask them questions, to learn from them, for imitation cannot be done from a distance; it requires knowing the person being imitated. There is nothing wrong with imitating someone, provided their example helps to strengthen our faith.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.