Godparents

Godparents are individuals entrusted by parents to play a significant role in their child's spiritual upbringing and overall development.

Understanding the Role

Godparents are individuals (often a couple) asked by the parents of a child to take a special interest in, and responsibility to help raise their child in the Christian faith, also caring for the child should he or she be orphaned. These auxiliary guardians are often chosen because of their godly character and their compatible values to those of the parents of the child.

While godparenting is not mentioned in the Bible, Mordecai took this 'spiritual mentor in lieu of a parent' role. "Mordecai had a cousin named Hadassah [also known as Esther], whom he had brought up because she had neither father nor mother" (Est 2:7). When Esther was chosen to become Queen by King Xerxes, Mordecai encouraged her and guided her through the huge decisions concerning her people.

The godparent role assists helping raise up someone else's child to know, love, and serve God well – it is supporting the parents to teach the child the way in which they should go and is associated with a baptism or christening ceremony in some Christian denominations (Prov 22:6).

The intentional 'being present and involved' in the life of the godchild so they can have input into both the spiritual dimension but also in the everyday affairs of life which presents many challenges for those finding their way growing up.

A beneficial supportive role

For those who are godparents, pray much for the child and remember that your lifestyle has a major influence on their impressionable minds for much of a child's perspective of Christianity will come from how they see other Christians living.

Characteristics of Effective Godparents

Effective godparents demonstrate godly character through their daily actions and decisions. They serve as living examples of faith, showing children what it means to walk with Christ in practical ways. Their lives reflect the values and teachings they wish to impart to their godchild.

The relationship between godparent and godchild should be built on trust, consistency, and genuine care. Regular interaction, whether through visits, calls, or meaningful communication, helps strengthen this bond and provides the child with a reliable source of spiritual guidance and support.

Enlist all the assistance you can to raise your family

Godparents should also maintain a respectful partnership with the child's parents, supporting their decisions and reinforcing the values being taught at home. This collaborative approach ensures the child receives consistent messages about faith and life from all important adults in their life.

Practical Responsibilities

Godparents commit to praying regularly for their godchild, lifting up their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being before God. This prayer support is one of the most valuable and powerful aspects of the godparent relationship, providing spiritual covering and intercession throughout the child's life.

Beyond prayer, godparents often mark important milestones in the child's life with gifts, cards, or meaningful gestures that reinforce their spiritual significance. Birthdays, baptism anniversaries, and other special occasions become opportunities to remind the child of their identity in Christ and the special bond they share.

As the child grows, godparents can offer guidance during challenging times, serve as a trusted confidant, and provide perspective based on their own faith journey and life experience. This ongoing relationship adapts to the changing needs of the child through various stages of development.

Reflection and Application:

Consider the qualities you value in a spiritual mentor.
Evaluate your own readiness to be a godparent.
Reflect on Mordecai's example with Esther.
Commit to praying for children in your life.