Part 3 - Rooted Relationships: Faith, Friendship & Love in Colossians 1:7-8

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Part 3: Inspired to Serve—Be an Epaphras in Someone’s Life

Scripture: "You learned the good news from Epaphras ... a faithful servant who told us about your love in the Spirit." (Colossians 1:7-8, paraphrased)

Let’s Talk About Serving Others

Epaphras showed what real serving looks like. He didn’t just teach about Jesus—he cared, listened, and encouraged.

He was faithful whether people saw him or not. We can do the same, right where we are.

Sometimes serving is giving someone your time. Sometimes it’s praying quietly for someone. Other times it’s just saying, “I believe in you.”

How Can We Be an Encourager Like Epaphras?

• Cheer someone on in their faith—say, “God’s working in you!”

• Share good news about what you see God doing in their life.

• Offer a prayer, a kind word, or a helping hand.

You don’t have to be upfront or have fancy words. Just be real—listen, pray, and love with Jesus’ enabling grace.

Why Does Encouragement Matter?

• It builds up someone who might feel tired or unnoticed.

• It helps faith grow stronger, like watering a small plant.

• It helps remind us that God is working, even in small ways.

Let’s Journal Together

• Who needs encouragement from you this week? Write their name and pray for them.

• How did someone encourage you in your faith?Write a thank you note or just remember how it helped.

• When serving feels hard, what helps you keep going?Ask Jesus to give you strength and fresh hope.

Questions to Wonder About

• Why do you think Epaphras was remembered for being “faithful”?

• What stops us from encouraging others, and how can we change that?

• What’s one small way you can serve or cheer someone on this week?

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus,Thank You for people who encourage me and help me grow. Show me ways to serve and cheer others on, even with small words or quiet prayers. Help me be faithful like Epaphras, trusting You to use my life to bless others. Let Your love flow through my words and actions. Amen.

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