God is not interested in just saving us from hell and taking us to heaven. He wants to conform us "to the image of His Son" (Romans 8:29). Someone has said that the Father was so pleased with His Son that He has determined to fill all of heaven with others just like Him.

When Jesus returns, "we shall be like Him" (1 John 3:2), but the process of becoming like Him begins here and now. How does that happen? It is explained by the "all things" of "all things work together for good to those who love God" (Romans 8:28). This includes testings and trials, chastenings and purifications, denials and suffering. To become like Him, we must follow Him, and that is the path of sacrifice and trial (Hebrews 2:10).

Following Jesus means we must be willing to go with Him to the Garden of Gethsemane and the hill of Calvary. We must be willing to endure suffering and rejection by those who reject Him (John 15:18-21). But following Him also leads us to the empty tomb and the place at the right hand of God. The apostle Paul said that those who follow Him will also share in His resurrection (Romans 6:5). And "if we endure, we shall also reign with Him" (2 Timothy 2:12).

Yes, God uses "all things" to make us like Christ.    — M.R. De Haan