A will is a legally executed document that distributes an individual’s property according to their stated desires. Wills can be short, long, clear, or complicated. Not having a valid will can lead to a costly, time-consuming, and relationship-damaging process. Every adult should have a valid, up-to-date will. But there are additional reasons for a Christian to have a will.
With stewardship as our motivation, Christians make distribution decisions differently. We consider that an important part of our lifestyle is a relationship with God and the property that He entrusts to us. Christians understand ownership differently.
The Earth belongs to God, and He entrusts property to us as caretakers, trustees, and stewards. We are given the responsibility to wisely manage what He has given us during our lifetimes and to distribute it wisely at the time of our death.
Financial stewardship is all about using our God-given abilities to manage our God-owned resources to accomplish God-ordained results. Christian stewards, therefore, aim to write their wills in a way that will reflect God’s plan for the property entrusted to them. In Scripture we see two clear principles for distribution:
Principle #1: Dependence
Paul gave Timothy guidance for determining the support of widows in 1 Timothy 5. As part of this instruction, he clearly states,
“If anyone does not provide for his own family, especially for his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever”
1 Timothy 5:8 CSB
Those who are financially dependent upon us must receive priority in our distributions.
Principle #2: Love
God himself is the example, for He “so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16 NIV). He set a pattern for us to follow. If we have cared for those who depend upon us, we are free to make distributions based upon love.
Applying the principles
In light of these two principles, the first practical step in creating a will is defining the people who are financially dependent on you. This could be your husband, wife, minor children, aged parents, or other individuals. Now add to this list those you would like to give to out of love, which can include your church and the ministries you support. You can give to them out of love to support their service and ministry.
The second practical step is to inventory the resources God has entrusted to you:
- What are your resources?
- How are they titled?
- When did you acquire them and at what cost?
- What are the values today?
Your list, of course, will contain a variety of assets. If you can picture the total value as a stack of cash, you may find it easier to determine your distribution plan.
Your next task is to allocate the assets (or, if you’re visualizing the assets as a stack of cash, the individual bills) to the list of people you made in step #1. Be sure to consult the Owner before you draw your conclusions. What will you give to each of those you have listed because of dependence? What will you give to each of those you have listed because of love?
Since the only valid will is the one that is in effect at the time of death, don’t put off the third practical step—creating (or updating) your last will and testament. As you follow these biblical principles and execute these practical steps, you are practicing good stewardship that honors the Lord and cares for your loved ones.
