FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK ~ How many people at some point in time have set their sights on becoming like one of their
heroes or idols? Whether it is to be the next Peyton Manning, Dolly Parton or maybe Elon
Musk, they begin to study their habits and character traits to determine what made them
successful. They must also realize that part of their makeup is one of natural ability or gift. This
information will help those individuals to plan for how much more time and effort they need to
apply as they strive to be more like those that they have come to respect or admire so much.

Christ followers are challenged to do the same as we strive to be more like our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ. He should be the one we need to emulate. We find Jesus’ habits and character
traits as we spend time studying and meditating on God’s Word. Mark 5:16 says of Jesus, “Yet
he often withdrew to quiet places and prayed.” If Jesus needed to withdraw to a quiet place,
how much more should we? In this fast paced world, it takes a concentrated effort on our part
to disengage from the challenges of life and seek out a place to be quiet. If Jesus needed to
pray to His Heavenly Father, how much more do we? His practice was always one of petitions
as well as one of listening. We all would do good to learn from His example. Luke 2 says His
parents found Him in the Temple listening to the teachers and asking questions. If Jesus
needed to go the place of worship and listen to the teachers, how much more should we? It
needs to be our regular practice to attend worship services and receive from our teachers the
inspired Word. All through the Gospels, we see where the perfect man Jesus extended love,
compassion, mercy, grace, and forgiveness to those He encountered. If He, being perfect,
made this His habit and character, how much more should do so being as imperfect as we are?
May we as Christ followers desire and commit to do more to be like Jesus so that He may be
glorified. God’s blessings, protection, and favor to all.

Benny Nolen
Director
Joseph's Storehouse