ThinkOnIt...Chosen

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:1-2 NKJV

Paul is always pointing to Christ and to God. Paul did not boast about himself, though he could have. Remember his list of accomplishments? Philippians 3:4-6 "though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so:
circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless." Paul had plenty to brag about, but he didn't because he no longer depended on those things to define who he was. Instead he lived according to Psalm 44:8 "In God we boast all day long, And praise Your name forever." Paul says he;s an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, meaning he did not choose Christ, but Christ chose him. We have been chosen too. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 "But we are bound to give thanks to God
always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth..." In the last part of today's verse, notice how Paul uses words like brother, saint and faithful brethren in Christ, Paul's reference to these words is confirming that we are all one in Christ ( Romans 12:5 ). He
belong together. Now, who wouldn't be encouraged if they were called "faithful brethren" in a greeting? Grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ seems to be Paul's unique opening in his letters. Again, he points to the only source of grace and peace -- God and Jesus Christ.