“Then He said to him, ‘I am the Lord, who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to inherit it.’”
—Genesis 15:7 NKJV
In Romans 4:20–22, Paul reflects on Abram’s story:
“He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. And therefore ‘it was accounted to him for righteousness.’”
—Romans 4:20–22 NKJV
Paul makes it clear: Abram’s faith rested not in himself but in God’s ability to fulfill His promises. Abram trusted because he had been persuaded by God—the same God who brought him out of Ur and established for him an inheritance.
This inheritance was not simply about land; it was about legacy. God was setting Abram up to bless generations after him. In the same way, estate planning today is about more than finances—it is about legacy, stewardship, and faith in action.
Faith and the Act of Preparing
Over the years Abram walked with God, he grew in confidence that God was trustworthy. His faith was built by looking back at God’s provision and deliverance. In the same way, when we prepare for the future, we are acknowledging that God has provided and continues to provide.
Estate planning is not simply about dividing assets—it is an act of stewardship, rooted in faith. Just as Abram believed God for promises that extended beyond his lifetime, so must we think generationally about what God has entrusted to us.
God as the Great Persuader—and Our Role as Stewards
Ephesians 2:8–10 reminds us that faith itself is a gift from God. The wisdom to steward resources well is also a gift from Him. Estate planning allows us to:
- Provide for our loved ones with clarity and care.
- Reduce potential conflicts and burdens after we are gone.
- Ensure that the values God gave us continue to guide the next generation.
- Extend generosity through charitable giving or kingdom work.
It is not boasting in our ability—it is humbly acknowledging that God gave us everything, and we are simply arranging it wisely for His glory.
Practical Principles of Estate Planning
To bring these truths into action, here are some estate planning steps every believer can prayerfully consider:
- Create or Update a Will – Clearly outline how your assets should be distributed. This protects your family from confusion and ensures your wishes are honored.
- Establish a Trust (if appropriate) – A trust can help manage assets, reduce taxes, and provide long-term financial security for loved ones.
- Appoint Guardians and Executors – If you have children, name guardians to care for them. Appoint an executor or trustee you trust to carry out your wishes faithfully.
- Plan for Charitable Giving – Set aside a portion of your estate for ministry, missions, or causes close to your heart, leaving a legacy of generosity.
- Review Beneficiaries – Ensure that your life insurance, retirement accounts, and other assets list the correct beneficiaries.
- Communicate Your Intentions – Talk with your loved ones about your plans. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings later.
- Seek Godly Counsel – Work with wise advisors—both legal and spiritual—who understand your faith, values, and goals.
Conclusion: Building a Legacy of Faith
God persuaded Abram that His promises could be trusted, and Abram responded with faith. In the same way, we are persuaded that God’s faithfulness reaches beyond our lifetimes. Estate planning is one way we put that faith into action—by preparing for those who will come after us.
We plan because we believe.
We prepare because we trust.
We leave a legacy because we know the God who provided for us will continue to be faithful.
Amen.
