Will Your Wealth Bless or Burden Your Loved Ones? 🤔
#WealthWednesday #FinanceInsight
TL;DR: If God called you home today, would your loved ones know how to access and steward your finances? This isn't fear talk — it's faith-fueled stewardship. Plan wisely, so what you've built doesn't get locked up, lost, or cause unnecessary pain. Don’t just grow wealth. Pass it on well.
“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children…” — Proverbs 13:22 (NIV)
The Bible doesn’t shy away from money, legacy, or death. In fact, Proverbs hints that generational planning isn’t just smart — it’s godly wisdom. Stewardship doesn’t end when we do.
Let’s be honest — this isn’t a fun topic. Most of us would rather not think about death, especially if we're young, healthy, or still making our way through this life. But we don’t know the day or the hour our Maker will call us home — and sometimes, it happens suddenly.
The real question is: What happens to what God entrusted you with... once you're not around to manage it?
Not married? No children? You’re not off the stewardship hook.
You may still have people who depend on you — siblings, aging parents, extended family, or causes dear to your heart. Stewardship isn’t just about who inherits your wealth, but how you honour the trust given to you.
As Jesus said: "...To whom much is given, much will be required." (Luke 12:48)
We've heard the stories...
Someone passes unexpectedly and their loved ones are stranded, unable to access their resources. Sometimes, assets end up with the Unclaimed Financial Assets Authority. Other times, family members face legal mountains that take months or years to climb. All while bills pile up, children need food, and life continues.
But here's the thing: you can do something about it now — not from a place of fear, but from a place of faith, love, and wisdom.
I'm still learning, but here are a few things I’ve discovered...
Ways to prepare:
✅ Catalog your accounts and assets.
Make a list. Include bank & mobile money accounts, investments, real estate, digital assets, etc. Consider other assets such as contact or network lists, intellectual property, and more. Let trusted loved ones know where it is and who to contact in your absence.
✅ Consider legal tools.
Wills and trusts help assign beneficiaries and reduce confusion. Trusts can even be active while you’re alive, with you (and others) benefiting — especially helpful for avoiding lengthy probate.
✅ Explore life insurance.
Some plans offer fast access to funds for emergencies or burial expenses — often faster than legal processes. Speak to a licensed insurance or estate planning pro for context.
✅ Use joint accounts or account mandates.
Joint ownership or authorized signatories can ease transitions. If you’re married, joint financial planning helps you prepare emergency access ahead of time.
✅ Name backup guardians or trustees for children/dependants.
In case both parents pass on, who steps in to care and manage what you leave behind?
✅ Agree on emergency access plans with your spouse (if married).
Discuss where records are, who to contact, and how things would run if one of you is gone. Yes, this takes wisdom, unity, and trust.
✅ Beyond finances, pass on values.
Your financial legacy is only part of the story. Teach your values, build godly relationships, and raise wise offspring. These are the true riches.
Legacy is bigger than wealth
Money matters, but it's not everything.
Your true legacy includes:
Wisdom
Godly values
Relationships and community
Skills that serve others
A life that pointed to God
If all you pass down are your financial assets—and not these—then your inheritance may crumble where your legacy could have stood.
So yes — plan your estate. But more importantly, shape your children's character, document your values, build godly relationships, and leave behind the kind of life that echoes in eternity.
Action Step
This week, pick one of these questions or actions and take the next step:
If you're married, agree on an emergency access system.
If you're single, document and share access with a trusted person.
If you already have something in place, review and update it.
Don’t know where to start? Start with prayer and a conversation.
Got a question or something you've found helpful on this topic? Contact me or share in the comments — you might bless someone else walking the same journey.