God is not interested in just saving us from hell and taking us to heaven. He wants to make us “like his Son” (ROM. 8:29 NLT). I heard someone once say that the Father was so pleased with Jesus that He wants to fill all of heaven with others just like Him.

When Jesus returns, “we shall be like him” (1 JOHN 3:2), but becoming like Him actually begins here and now. How does that happen? It is explained by the “all things” of “in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (ROM. 8:28).

This includes problems and issues; worries and stress. To become like Jesus, we must follow Him no matter what is going on—even though following Him often leads to trouble (HEB. 2:10).

Following Jesus means we must be willing to face our friends making fun of us because we love Him (JOHN 15:18-21). But following Him also leads us to a new life with God walking beside us every step of the way.

Paul said that those who follow Jesus will also share in His resurrection when we die (ROM. 6:5). And “if we endure, we will also reign with him” (2 TIM. 2:12). Yes, God uses “all things” to make us like Jesus.

By: M. R. DeHaan

To Pray About . . .

Father, teach me to trust in You during tough times. I want to have faith and adopt a lifestyle that makes me more and more like Jesus.