Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. Philippians 3:17-21

In a society in which moral failures abound, it is difficult to find a single soul to emulate. Even when you do find someone who appears exemplary, I’m inclined to cast a jaundiced eye until absolutely proven otherwise. Even if you are circumspect about “hero worship,” it’s easy to catch yourself admiring those who likely deep down hate the cross of Christ. It may be a movie star or athlete, politician or business icon, or even a pastor.

My rule of thumb is whether a man or woman sincerely gives glory to God when all the world’s their stage. If they do, there’s at least a hint that their minds are not totally fixated on earthly things, if indeed the testimony is genuine.

My heroes are those who are like Paul, who have expended themselves fully in the cause of Christ. These souls are a rarity. So, if you happen upon one of these fellow citizens of glory, latch on!