Personally, I look to the Bible when I need words of encouragement or direction. My mother was a single, working parent for almost ten years and although times were often rough she remained a woman of her word. She often spoke character-building words to us just like her father did to her as a child. Mom understood the importance of planting those seeds in our hearts as young kids.

I thank God that mom laid that foundation in us. When I became a teenager, I'd go out with friends and honestly there were times we'd be out and I'd hear my mother's voice in my head saying whatever was needed in that moment. In those instances, I heeded whatever came to mind...who knows what disaster was avoided because of my obedience to the words she had engrained in me. Granted, I made mistakes along the way (who doesn't) but the principles she taught us laid a framewok for my actions. If I did something wrong, I would have no peace until I confessed because that was what we were taught as well as the lifestyle mom lived before us. She is still that way to this day--there are very few people I know who will keep their word and walk in integrity the way she does especially when it's easier to lie and not be accountable for our words or actions.

Now that I am a mother, I look to the Word for insight and wisdom on how to raise my kids as well as for every other concern I may have in life since the Bible covers it all. Here are some of the quotes I grew up hearing and others that I've picked up along the way:

Choose your friends wisely

(For) whatever you surround yourself with, you'll become

Don't borrow from someone what you cannot replace especially if the object has sentimental value (which can never be replaced)

Don't be quick to make a promise but if you do, make sure you follow through or else explain why you can't

When you do something, do it to the best of your ability

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

Be honest

Always stay humble

Parenting (even those that aren't yours) is such an important job! Our words have the power to create, heal and direct one into greatness or to tear down, destroy and hinder one from their destiny.