This article on storing up treasure in Heaven by John Piper is well worth a read. I think it can be applied not just to money and possessions, but to children too. Certainly, Adrian and I prayerfully gave our children to the Lord long before they were conceived. And during those few precious days I carried Two and Three, I dedicated them with all my heart to the Lord. Nothing we give to God is ever lost.
http://www.desiringgod.org/media/pdf/piper_tabletalk_article.pdf