Paul exhorts the Colossians to let their practice conform to their position in Christ. We have been raised with Christ, who is seated at the right hand of the Father.
God fulfills His promises and accomplishes His purposes. We should cling to Him no matter the circumstances of life and trust that He will do what He's said He will do.
Jesus is enough. We don't need to seek secret knowledge (gnosticism) or false piety through asceticism, which gives the only appearance of righteousness. Jesus is our righteousness.
If one of the wisest men who walked the earth turned away from God, then who are we to think we are immune from such a danger? We must cling to God all the days of our lives.
God wants us to depend on Him and His power through the circumstances of life. Material wealth and fame will not bring us satisfaction and hope. The only enduring hope we have is in the LORD.
Paul, who was previously a Pharisee, counts his accomplishments, his zeal, and his holiness as "rubbish" compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus Christ our Lord.
The Ark of the Covenant represented the glory and presence of God to the people of Israel. After finishing the temple, Solomon has the rk brought in to the inner chamber.