When it comes to estate planning, most people focus on the technicalities—drafting wills, setting up trusts, and minimizing taxes. However, what if there was a more fulfilling way to approach it, one that involves purpose, values, and faith?
Stewardship Planning, as outlined by Jay Link in his books like Heart of the Matter and The Steward’s Way, offers a unique and transformative approach to managing wealth. Unlike traditional estate planning, which often feels transactional, Stewardship Planning emphasizes the deeper purpose behind wealth management. It’s about using your resources to serve others, build a legacy, and further the work of God’s Kingdom.
The first step in the Stewardship Planning process is understanding that you own nothing. As Jay Link teaches, God is the true owner of everything, and we are merely caretakers of His resources. This perspective changes how we view our wealth and how we make decisions regarding it. Instead of thinking about how much we can accumulate or pass down, we begin to focus on how our resources can reflect God’s values and serve His purposes.
The next step is to create a comprehensive plan that aligns with our faith and values. This involves asking deep questions about what we want our wealth to accomplish, both in our lifetime and beyond. It’s not just about securing an inheritance for our children; it’s about leaving a legacy that reflects our commitment to God’s work and blessing others in meaningful ways.
Stewardship Planning also emphasizes generosity. It encourages families to think beyond themselves and consider how they can use their wealth to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s through charitable giving, funding ministries, or supporting causes close to our hearts, Stewardship Planning helps us ensure that our resources are used to further the Kingdom of God.
Finally, Stewardship Planning creates peace and clarity. By aligning our estate plans with our values and faith, we can approach our financial decisions with confidence, knowing that we are managing God’s resources in a way that honors Him. It removes the stress of uncertainty and allows us to focus on what truly matters—living a life that reflects our faith and love for others.
