Mar 3, 2024

As a new mother, it’s sometimes scary to think about raising my children to be strong disciples of Jesus Christ. I often wonder how I can possibly teach them everything they will need to know to navigate an increasingly confusing world. 

However, I find guidance from the way that Nephi taught his family. In 2 Nephi 25:26 he wrote, “And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.”

Nephi didn’t hope that his children would be perfect or get through life without sorrow or without sin. Instead, he wanted to offer them hope in the midst of trials and temptation. That hope is Jesus Christ. 

“If parents instill righteous principles in the minds of their children, those children will be affected by them throughout all their lives,” Wilford Woodruff counseled. 

One thing is certain: when we focus our homes and our hearts on the Savior, those around us, especially our family members, will be affected. They will receive the hope for a remission of their sins and an eternity of joy with Christ.

Elder Neil L. Andersen asked, “Are there images of the Savior in our homes? Do we talk often to our children about the parables of Jesus?” He then instructed, “When your children ask you questions, consciously think about teaching what the Savior taught.” 

As we “talk of Christ” and “rejoice in Christ” with our loved ones, we can bless their lives and continuously improve our own. I pray each day to be the best mother I can be to raise my own children unto the Lord. Although I often feel inadequate, I trust that God will guide me as I rely on Him. I know He will guide us all to be instruments in the hands of God in bringing our loved ones to Him. 

Lyndie is working toward a degree in Public Relations at Brigham Young University. Originally from Idaho Falls, Idaho, she enjoys running, spending time with her husband and family, and reading. Lyndie served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Hermosillo, Mexico, where she developed a love for the Spanish language and the people there. She was drawn to the Wilford Woodruff Papers out of a desire to learn more about Church history and enjoys being part of the organization’s efforts to touch lives with Wilford Woodruff’s words.