If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:11, NIV)
We’ve talked a lot about giving gifts to your sponsored child in this blog series on sponsorship. We’ve talked about sending letters, crafts, and games. These are all things that can help you bond with your child, even though he or she lives far away.
But this month we’re focusing on how to give your sponsored child the best gift possible — encouragement to strengthen his or her relationship with God.
Just by becoming a sponsor you have already taken the first step in making sure your sponsored child has positive spiritual mentors and learns about the love of Jesus.
You’re already doing something amazing!
But if you want to take things a step further, here are three easy ways you can help your child grow a stronger relationship with the Lord.
1. Send a picture
Sometimes, the best way to remember a verse or scriptural truth is to see it every day. There are lots of printable Bible verse graphics online you can mail to your sponsored child to keep as a daily reminder of God’s love! Check out our Pinterest board for an easy option or try making one yourself in your child’s native language.
2. Share your devotionals
Chances are you’re learning more about your faith every day … and you can share the truths you’re learning with your sponsored child! Telling your child about your devotions is a great way to connect with him or her and provide a peek into your own spiritual life. If your child is old enough, you can even share in advance what passages you’ll be reading so he or she can read through them with you.
3. Trade prayer requests
I’m sure you already pray for your sponsored child, and he or she probably prays for you, too. Why not make those prayers part of your letters? Try including a section at the end of each letter that gives your child a few things he or she can pray for, and then ask your child for his or her prayer requests. Keep these requests light — discussing a death in the family or financial troubles may not be appropriate — but personal. These requests will help your sponsored child learn to pray regularly and will help him or her bond with you.
When you sponsor a child, you show them the love of God in a tangible, immediate way. Thank you for going the extra mile and giving a child a chance for a better future.
If you try these tips with your sponsored child, let us know how it goes by posting on our Facebook page. And if you have other ideas for how to connect with your sponsored child, we’d love to hear those, too!