And yet the Scriptures tell us to be like Jesus...
Agreed, which is why if you look back through my posts on this thread you will see that I consider the RCC position on praying to saints to be either unscriptural or potentially problematic. That said, Stephen's martyrdom calls us to stand firm for the gospel in the face of torture and death. Paul's tenacity and fearlessness in spreading the gospel is something I wish I had. These are examples of what the believer can do in Christ, supported by the power of the Holy Spirit, and within the will of God. Conforming one's life to the image of Christ does not mean ignoring the examples of faithful believers before us.