Moms are one of the most important individuals in our lives. They have the awesome responsibility of preparing children for success in life. Unfortunately, there aren't courses that prepare you for the joys, challenges, heartache, and laughter motherhood brings. If you are a mother, soon-to-be mom, or hope to be, here is some advice to help you along the way.

4 Tips for Establishing Your Child's Success

Lynette Hagin

Acquaint your children with the Heavenly Father. A scripture my parents instilled in me—"Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matt. 6:33)—has been the guiding force of my life. I am so thankful they emphasized that principle to me over and over again. The repetition reminded me constantly that God must have first place.

Begin training your children at birth. Much of the foundation of a child's spiritual and character development happens during infancy. Fifty percent of their character and personality is formed by age 3, and 75 percent by age 5. Those startling facts remind us that we must begin early to guide our children.

Show your children love. Child specialists agree that every human being needs love, and meeting that need is basic to proper development. A parent's love is more important to a child than wealth, education, or material possessions. Your love is the most significant when your children are the least lovable. You should not condition your love upon their good behavior. God's love is unconditional. It's important to love your kids simply because they are yours—not because they are talented or gifted.

Prepare your children for their roles as adults. The only course on marriage most children take is the one taught in their own home. Young people learn by imitation. So make sure you give them the right things to imitate. Teach your kids how to make good decisions, and train them in financial affairs. Believe in them and speak positive words into their lives. Remind them that with God, they can succeed in life. When a crisis involves your children, look to the Lord for direction. Trust Him to give you the right words to say and actions to take that will turn the situation around.

What Matters Most

Denise Hagin Burns

Moms do many tangible things for their kids every day. However, the most important lessons they can teach them are often unseen. In the midst of everyday life, don't just concentrate on doing the dishes or laundry, making sure the house is clean, and putting away the toys. While those responsibilities are necessary, they are not what matters the most.

What counts is being there for your kids. When a question pops up, use it as a teachable spiritual moment. Take those moments to talk and spend time with them. No one can teach your children about God the way you can. You are their greatest teacher.

Your kids won't remember how clean and organized your house was or if the meals were home cooked. They will remember how you treated them, what you modeled in front of them, and if you took the time to interact with them. Choose to focus on teaching your children godly life lessons. They will remember them for a lifetime.