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