Unfortunately, I think the role of Godparents may be fading in today’s world, and I hope that trend reverses.

For some reason, many people seem to think a Godparent’s responsibility is to take care of your child if something happens to you. I’m not sure if that scares people away from the idea or if it’s just never been explained well. But here is what a Godparent actually is.

The true definition of a Godparent is: “A person chosen by parents to mentor a child, particularly in the child’s religious or spiritual journey. They act as a spiritual guide, witness to the faith, and support to the parents, which can include praying for the child, teaching them about faith, and providing a Christian example.”

But if you’re lucky enough to have good Godparents — like I was — they are so much more than that. They become extended family, people you can always count on.

My Godfather, Uncle Steve, has been a role model in my life and someone I could always turn to for advice. He is always there for me, no matter what. I have countless memories of heart-to-heart talks with him in a deer stand — moments that still mean the world to me today.

My Godmother, Anita, has been a constant source of support as well. Every birthday, Christmas, or special event, I can count on her being there. She is also always just a text away with encouragement or a simple “I love you.” I can feel her prayers surrounding me constantly, and that means more than words can express.

One way I know my Godparents have had a significant impact on my life is that when I make choices or accomplish something, I often wonder if I am making them proud. This may sound simple, but take a moment to ask yourself: how many people do you do things for with the goal of making them proud? For most of us, that list is probably very short. Those few people are the ones who have not only influenced your life but have helped shape the person you have become.

Godparents are often able to communicate lessons or guidance in a way that parents sometimes can’t. Hearing things from them can resonate differently, helping you grow and take the steps you need to succeed. I often heard parents say, “They won’t listen to me — you tell them.” I never quite understood what that meant until I realized how sometimes I would take my Uncle Steve’s advice, even after my dad had given me the same guidance.

Being a Godparent comes with a significant responsibility. You are there for your godchildren not just in everyday life, but spiritually as well. It’s important that as children grow in their faith, they are surrounded by loved ones who also have a love for Jesus. A Godparent serves as a role model who lives out their faith, showing by example what it means to follow Him.

I know this from personal experience that when you look up to someone and hold them in high regard, you are more likely to listen to and follow their guidance. I am so grateful to my Godparents for helping me strengthen my faith.

If you are a Godparent, don’t take this role lightly — your influence can help your godchildren grow spiritually and walk closer with the Lord.

With all that being said, I am proud to announce that my friend Avery Eddy will be the Godfather of Lauren’s and my son. I have grown in faith alongside Avery through our Bible study, and I am so thankful for his friendship. I know he will be a wonderful Godfather, guiding and supporting him both in faith and in life.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” ~ Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)