Don’t Leave It to the Courts: Why Your Estate Plan Matters
Estate planning may not be the most exciting topic in ministry life, but it’s one of the most important—and most overlooked—parts of a solid financial foundation.
Too often, ministry leaders delay creating a will or trust, thinking they don’t have enough assets or that it can wait until “someday.” But without a plan, decisions about your estate will be made by the courts—not by you.
And that can leave your family with unnecessary stress, delays, and confusion.
In this post, we’ll walk through why estate planning matters, what should be included, and how you can start the process with clarity and purpose.
1. A Will Is the Foundation of Your Estate Plan
If you have a family, own property, or simply want to make sure your wishes are honored, you need a will. It’s that simple.
A will allows you to:
Designate who receives your assets
Appoint guardians for minor children
Name an executor to carry out your wishes
Without a will, your estate goes through probate, and the state makes these decisions for you. That often creates confusion and tension for the people you care about most.
Start here: If you don’t have a current will, make it your next financial goal. Even a basic will can offer protection and peace of mind.
2. A Trust Can Provide More Control and Less Stress
For many in ministry, a revocable living trust adds an extra layer of security and flexibility. While not everyone needs a trust, it’s worth exploring if you:
Own real estate or rental property
Want to avoid probate
Desire privacy around your estate
Support ministries or charitable causes through your estate
Have a special-needs dependent or complex family situation
Unlike a will, a trust can take effect during your lifetime and remain private after you pass. It also allows for more control in how and when your assets are distributed.
Pro tip: You can even designate portions of your estate to be given to missions, ministries, or legacy projects that reflect your calling.
3. Estate Planning Is About More Than Money
At its core, estate planning is legacy planning. It’s about making intentional decisions now that reflect your values and priorities later.
Beyond wills and trusts, consider:
Writing a personal letter or testimony to your family
Leaving a portion of your estate to a ministry or mission
Sharing the why behind your financial choices, not just the what
Estate planning gives you the chance to communicate your heart, your faith, and your vision—long after you're gone.
4. Estate Planning Brings Peace for You and Your Family
The goal of estate planning isn’t control—it’s clarity. By taking the time to make your wishes known, you relieve your family of the burden of guessing, debating, or navigating complicated legal processes.
When your plan is in place:
Your family knows exactly what to do
Your resources are distributed efficiently
Your spiritual legacy lives on with purpose
Remember: Peace doesn’t come from avoiding hard conversations. It comes from preparing well.
5. Where to Start With Your Estate Plan
If you haven’t started yet, don’t feel overwhelmed. You don’t need to do everything in one day, but you do need to take the first step.
Here are a few questions to guide you:
Do I have a current, legally valid will?
Have I named someone to make decisions if I’m unable to?
Is my spouse or family aware of my wishes?
Do I want to include any charitable giving in my estate?
You may also want to meet with a financial advisor or estate attorney who understands the unique aspects of ministry life. They can help you think through parsonage issues, ministerial income, or royalties from sermons, books, or other work.
Final Thoughts
You’ve spent your life investing in people, teaching God’s Word, and pointing others to eternity. Estate planning is one more way to live—and lead—with purpose.
Don’t leave it to the courts.
Don’t leave it to chance.
Make a plan that honors your family, reflects your faith, and continues your legacy.
👉 Need help getting started?
If you’re looking for trusted guidance from someone who understands ministry life, reach out here. I’d be honored to help you think through your next step.
