He took up government during his father's the lifetime, and in 1720 and continued as a fair, gentle and pious regent until his death.

In 1713, a decree had been issued instituting primogeniture, that is, the Prince's oldest son would be his sole successor, rather than having to share sovereignty with his younger brothers, or dividing the principality.

He made an end to foreign sovereignty over various parts of his principality, thereby increasing its prestige.

The name of the lodge was derived from a poem by his half-sister Christiane Wilhelmine.

On 2 October 1712 Günther married Elisabeth Albertine (1693-1774), a daughter of Prince Charles Frederick of Anhalt-Bernburg.