The writer of the letter to the Colossians was encouraging them to stand firm in the faith they had been taught. Other teachers had confused the people, so the writer set out the basics of Jesus' teaching and encouraged them not to wander from these principles of the faith. This can also happen to us if we listen to the various voices claiming to know the truth. We must stand firm in our faith in Jesus Christ, knowing that God has forgiven our sins and made us alive in Christ.

Before choosing His Apostles, Jesus went up to the mountain to spend time alone in prayer. Jesus knew that He needed a few faithful people whom He could trust to continue His mission. Once He had chosen the twelve from among the many, He joined the others down on the plain and began ministering to the people. People knew that power flowed from Jesus, so they hurried to touch Him. We, too, have access to Jesus' power when we pray to Him. Have you ever felt the power of the living Christ when you prayed?