August is recognized nationwide as Make a Will Month. It’s a simple reminder to pause and think about your legacy, your family, and how you steward what God has entrusted to you.
At Grace Christian University, we talk often about living with purpose. But what about after we’re gone? Who will carry forward the resources God has placed in our hands? That’s where a will comes in.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. It does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult your attorney, financial advisor, or estate planning professional to determine what is best for your situation.
Most Americans Don’t Have a Will
Let’s start with the facts. Caring.com’s 2024 studies show that about 66% of Americans don’t have an estate plan. That includes wills, trusts, or any legal documents to transfer assets to their chosen beneficiaries. Without a will, decisions about your estate, home, bank accounts, retirement savings, and other assets end up in the hands of court-appointed strangers. State rules take over, and the process can become long, expensive, and stressful for those you love most.
Having a will isn’t only for the wealthy. It’s for anyone who wants to steward their resources wisely and care well for their family, friends, and the ministries they love. Without one, the court decides who receives your assets. Distant relatives or unrelated parties could file claims. Your loved ones may face delays, unexpected legal fees, and even family tension in an already emotional time.
Famous figures like Abraham Lincoln, Howard Hughes, and Pablo Picasso died without a will, leaving their families to navigate years of legal battles. While their estates were large, the principle remains the same for all of us. Planning now prevents conflict later.
Why Do People Avoid Making a Will?
If creating a will is so important, why do so many people avoid it? For many, it feels overwhelming or uncomfortable to think about end-of-life decisions. Others believe they don’t own enough to justify a will, or they plan to “get to it later.” But life rarely follows our timelines. Accidents and illness can come unexpectedly, leaving families without direction.
Taking the time now to put your wishes on paper is one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones. It provides clarity and peace during a season of grief. It also ensures the resources God has entrusted to you continue making an impact for Christ according to your desires.
Don’t Wait to Plan for Tomorrow
It’s easy to put off estate planning for “someday.” But Make a Will Month is a timely reminder that creating or updating your will doesn’t need to wait until later in life. Life circumstances change, marriage, new children or grandchildren, retirement, health events, or moves to new states with different laws. Each season is an opportunity to review your plans.
Setting aside time this August to review your will, or create one for the first time, is a practical way to care for your family, express your faith, and prepare your household for the future..
A will is often the first and most important step. But it’s also helpful to understand what other documents might support your will and ensure your intentions are fully carried out.
What Documents Do You Need?
Estate planning often begins with a few key documents. A will or trust is the legal foundation. A will states your wishes for how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. A trust can direct certain assets under specific conditions while you’re living or after death. Trusts are often beneficial for those with larger estates or unique family circumstances, but it’s wise to talk with an estate planning attorney or specialized financial advisor. Estate law is complex, and professional guidance ensures your intentions are carried out clearly.
Alongside your will or trust, make sure you have beneficiary designations updated on accounts like life insurance and retirement funds. These designations ensure those specific accounts go directly to your chosen recipients. You will also want a power of attorney for finances, appointing someone you trust to manage your financial affairs if you become unable to do so, and a medical power of attorney to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable.
Including Ministries You Love in Your Will
Many faithful supporters choose to include their favorite ministries in their estate plans. This decision allows them to continue making an impact for Christ beyond their lifetime. There are a few ways to do this. Some designate a percentage or tithe of their estate to Grace Christian University or other ministries close to their heart. Others use what is called a “child named charity” approach, treating their charity as an additional child. For example, if you have four children and one charity, each receives 20% of your estate.
Some donors choose to give business interests, IRAs, or real estate to ministry. These types of gifts can also provide significant tax benefits to your estate and heirs while leaving a powerful legacy of generosity.
Where Can You Start?
Getting started can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. There are trusted resources available to help you create or update your will.
GiftWise is one such resource. Grace has partnered with GiftWise to provide free will creation tools for supporters. Using GiftWise costs you nothing. You are under no obligation to leave money to Grace, and your information remains private.
FreeWill is another helpful platform. It allows you to create a legally valid will online at no cost. Many ministries partner with FreeWill to help their supporters steward their resources well.
For those looking for biblical guidance alongside financial advice, the National Christian Foundation offers resources and donor-advised fund options. Their team specializes in helping Christians give wisely and impactfully.
Final Thoughts
At Grace Christian University, we believe in living for what matters most. Preparing a will is one way to ensure that your life’s resources continue to support your family and ministries making an impact for Christ. It is an act of stewardship and care for those you love, a tangible way to reflect your values and faith even after your life on earth is complete.
If you would like to talk about legacy giving opportunities, please reach out to petetilden@gracechristian.edu. We are here to walk with you as you steward what God has entrusted to you with wisdom, courage, and purpose.
