Physical surroundings can make a big difference. In the end, though, what our children and husbands need most from us is not a perfect home or perfect training or a perfectly spiritual role model or a wife without faults — but a mother and wife who is committed to doing whatever it takes to love them and make a home for them.

They need to know that they are cherished by someone who is a champion for their cause, a cheerleader for their lives — someone they can always count on in the light and dark times of life. Accepting the responsibility of being the overseer of our domain with all of the heart and energy and faith we can muster is what nurtures our families best and provides our children with the sense of security and stability they need.

Attitude is ultimately what makes a house a peaceful haven. And because we can only accomplish this by leaning on the Lord, it is our relationship with Him that ultimately will provide a nurturing environment for the people we love.

Read more about this in The Mission of Motherhood.