Foreword by Rick Warren
Family Legacy by Design
Family Legacy by Design Family Legacy by Design
TOM CONWAY
TOM CONWAY
Introduction: What Will Your Legacy Be?
Part 1: The Heart of Legacy
CHAPTER 1 | What Is Legacy?
• Legacy defined: More than money—it’s about values, character, and memories.
• Legacy received vs. legacy given.
• “Legacy by Design” vs. “Legacy by Default.”
CHAPTER 2 | The Purpose of Family
• God’s vision for multi-generational families (Psalm 78:5-8).
• Building strong family bonds through interdependence.
• Creating a foundation of shared faith and values.
CHAPTER 3 | Why Legacy Matters
• How daily life reflects your legacy.
• Avoiding common pitfalls like lack of communication or clarity.
• Embracing successful practices: open communication, shared values, and intentional modeling.
CHAPTER 4 | Biblical Stewardship
• Stewardship as managing God-given resources (1 Chronicles 29:11-12).
• The five uses of money: giving, living expenses, debt repayment, taxes, and saving.
• Keys to financial success: spending wisely, avoiding debt, building liquidity, setting goals, and acknowledging God as the source of all.
Part 2: Structuring and Living Your Financial Legacy
CHAPTER 5 | Building a Financial Legacy by Design
• Practical steps for financial stability:
• Budgeting, saving, and eliminating debt.
• Creating a vision for your legacy aligned with values and priorities.
CHAPTER 6 | Goal Setting and Financial Planning
• The importance of setting faith-based goals.
• Developing a financial roadmap:
• Net worth analysis, cash flow management, and saving strategies.
CHAPTER 7 | Investing Wisely and Protecting Assets
• Biblical principles of investing:
• Long-term horizons, diversification, and seeking wise counsel.
• Life insurance as provision for the family
• Managing taxes with integrity and wisdom.
CHAPTER 8 | Tools for Financial Legacy
• Worksheets for evaluating net worth, cash flow, and debt.
• Practical action steps for estate planning:
• Understanding wills, trusts, and wealth transfer strategies.
• Checklists for preparing heirs and fostering family discussions.
Part 3: Passing on a Godly Legacy
CHAPTER 9 | The Art of Wealth Transfer
• Biblical principles of inheritance (Proverbs 13:22).
• Avoiding pitfalls in wealth transfer:
• Overburdening heirs or causing division.
• Passing on both wealth and wisdom.
CHAPTER 10 | Preparing the Next Generation
• Evaluating spiritual, financial, and relational health.
• Preparing heirs through communication and shared decision-making.
• Teaching generosity and stewardship.
CHAPTER 11 | Building a Family Culture of Generosity
• The importance of giving (Acts 20:35).
• How generosity strengthens family bonds.
• Practical ways to model and teach generosity.
INTRODUCTION :
CHAPTER 1
What is
What Will Your Legacy Be?
Legacy?
It’s not an easy question to answer, is it? It’s one of those things we know we should think about, but life has a way of distracting us. There’s always something urgent, something immediate that draws our attention away from what really matters most. But let’s pause for just a moment—because this question is bigger than your bank account or even your to-do list. It’s about who you are, what you stand for, and how the people who love you will carry your life forward long after you’re gone.
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
Most people think legacy is about money. Sure, money plays a part—but let’s be honest. None of us want to be remembered just for the size of a check or the assets in a trust. When your family gathers around the table years from now, do you think they’ll be talking about your stock portfolio or the kind of person you were? Legacy is about so much more. It’s about the wisdom you pass on, the values you live out, and the relationships you build every day.
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
In my work with families, I’ve seen two kinds of legacies: those that happen by design, and those that happen by default. A legacy by design is intentional. It starts with clarity—clarity about who you are, what you believe, and what you want for the people you love. But a legacy by default? That happens when you let life lead you instead of the other way around. It’s unintentional, often messy, and sometimes even painful.
Here’s the truth: Every family has a legacy. The only question is whether you’ll choose to shape it—or let it shape itself. This book is here to help you design your family’s legacy. You don’t need an advisor, a lot of money, or a perfect plan to get started. What you do need is the willingness to think deeply, ask tough questions, and take intentional steps forward.
I’ve spent years helping families just like yours navigate this journey, and let me tell you—it’s not about perfection. It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about having the courage to take ownership of your life and the impact it will leave behind.
By the end of this book, you’ll have a roadmap for building a family legacy that goes beyond finances. You’ll discover how to define your family’s values, communicate across generations, and create practical plans for everything from stewardship to wealth transfer. You’ll learn how to build trust, foster generosity, and prepare your loved ones not just for financial inheritance, but for the responsibility and wisdom that comes with it.
And most importantly, you’ll understand that legacy isn’t just something you leave behind—it’s something you’re living every single day.
This book is your guide. Not to perfection, but to purpose. Let’s get started.
Family Legacy by Design PART 1 The Heart of Legacy CHAPTER 1 What is Legacy?
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families
Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
TOM CONWAY
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 1
What is
What is Legacy?
Legacy?
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• Legacy defined: More than money—it’s about values, character, and memories.
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• Legacy received vs. legacy given.
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• “Legacy by Design” vs. “Legacy by Default.”
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families
Legacy is more than just money—it encompasses values, character, and memories. To understand legacy fully, we must view it from two perspectives: what we receive and what we give. To paraphrase both the Bible and Webster legacy is defined as “something received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” While this definition focuses on the perspective of the recipient, let’s shift our view to that of the predecessor—the one passing something on. Legacy is not only what we inherit; it’s also what we leave behind. This book focuses on the latter: the legacy we create and pass on to future generations.
Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
LEGACY: RECEIVED VS. GIVEN
While we have no control over the legacy we receive, we have full control over the legacy we give. The legacy we inherit may be good or bad, shaped by the actions, values, and circumstances of our ancestors. For some, this may include painful elements like broken relationships, conflict, or even abuse. These are challenging legacies to carry, but they are not the end of the story. God has the power to redeem even the most difficult legacies and turn them into something good.
On the other hand, the legacy we pass on to our descendants is ours to shape. This is where we can be intentional. Whether we mean to or not, we will leave a legacy. The key question is whether it will be a “Legacy by Design” or a “Legacy by Default.” everything you have for a reason.
A LEGACY BY DESIGN: WISDOM AND WEALTH
Many people equate legacy with money, but it is far more than that. While financial wealth may be part of what we leave behind, few of us want to be remembered solely for the size of our bank accounts. The most meaningful part of our legacy often has nothing to do with finances. I believe legacy is about passing on wisdom, values, and a godly example—these are the elements that endure.
The book of Ecclesiastes highlights this beautifully through King Solomon’s wisdom. Solomon teaches that an inheritance paired with wisdom is a powerful gift. He explains that both money and wisdom provide protection, but wisdom also preserves the life of those who possess it (Ecclesiastes 7:11-12). What a blessing it is to pass on not only the material security of wealth but also the enduring protection and advantage of wisdom rooted in godly principles. Wisdom, Solomon shows us, preserves and enhances life in ways money alone cannot.
PRACTICAL INSIGHTS: TRANSFERRING WISDOM AND WEALTH
This idea has practical implications. One of my clients, a business owner worth $500 million—with $400 million tied to his company—faced a critical question in his estate planning: Can he simply distribute his wealth to his descendants? My answer was an emphatic “no.” Without wisdom, that wealth could do more harm than good. As Solomon advises, wealth must be paired with wisdom. Just as my client spent a lifetime building his fortune, he must also invest in transferring the wisdom gained during that journey.
At a certain point in life, many of us begin to recognize the need to plan how we will pass on what we’ve built. There are countless professionals ready to assist with wealth transfer, but few focus on the equally important task of transferring wisdom. Yet it is the combination of these two—what I call the twin Ws of a godly legacy, wealth and wisdom—that creates a lasting impact.
A LEGACY OF INTENTIONALITY
The legacy we pass on is shaped by intentionality. Whether we plan it or not, we will leave something behind for those who come after us. The question is: will it be a legacy of purpose, rooted in godly wisdom and meaningful values, or one left to chance? A “Legacy by Design” ensures that what we pass on—both materially and spiritually—will enrich the lives of our descendants for generations to come.
The byline our advising firm uses is highly intentional: “Legacy by Design.” Most people create legacy by default, meaning they’re not doing anything either way to influence what their ancestors receive in their legacy. Some people live this way because they’re too caught up in the busyness of daily life to think about the future. Others avoid it because it’s uncomfortable to face the reality that one day, they won’t be here. But a “legacy by default” doesn’t pass on intentional wisdom
to future generations or make any effort to shape what’s left behind.
The good news we like to focus on with our clients is that you have control over your legacy. There are steps and choices that you can make today that contribute to your legacy being one made “by design.”
I’ve advised many people on the topic of what kind of legacy they hope to leave, and many of them begin by saying, ”I’m just going to leave my estate to my kids, and they can figure out how to use it.“ I don’t want to sound harsh or to offend, but that kind of mentality does not express love to your children. There are ways to leave a legacy behind that does communicate love, care, and, yes, wisdom. I hope that you will begin thinking about how to be intentional with your legacy starting today. Putting thought and planning into your legacy while you’re still able to is one of the most loving things you can do for your children.
IT STARTS TODAY
The first way to be intentional about your legacy is to realize that it actually starts while you’re still living. Even today, people are watching how you live, and while I understand this thought might make you uncomfortable, the way you live is an example, for good or for bad. Your family is watching you, and so are people in your business, your church, and your customers or employees.
With all of these people paying attention, it doesn’t really matter what you say if you don’t live what you say. As a person who cares about integrity and legacy, I believe that you want to be the same person on the inside as you are on the outside. We all know the rules of life and how to put on a good front to look like we have everything together. Whenever someone asks how your day has been, my guess is that you respond with “fine.” You have a lovely house, and a nice car, and as far as everyone outside the four walls knows, the kids are all “fine” too.
But if you’re like many other “fine” people, when you get home, your kids see a completely different story compared to the last customer you had for the day. You’re not alone in this reality. Not only is there a good chance that your neighbor behaves in the same way, but this double personality action is played out dozens of times on the big screen and on pages of books. These make the best plots because we can all see ourselves in the conflicted characters.
Our spouse and kids see how we act when our guard is down, our emotions are raw, and we are comfortable. These at-home moments are where our legacy is built. Our moment-by-moment actions of living, speaking, and interacting daily are bricks in what we call a legacy. How consistent is your inside with your outside? Are you a person who looks “fine” on the outside? You have money, a successful career, and a smiling family, but are you secretly hiding that behind closed doors, everything is not as rosy as it seems?
Decide today that your legacy will be by Design and not by Default. Decide that your inside and outside will gradually begin to match up. Decide that the legacy you leave your children is you and everything you stand for. Decide to live in such a way that they will want to be like you and to teach their children to be like you.
5 Questions for Reflection
1. How does the Bible and Webster’s definition of legacy differ from the concept of “Legacy by Design”? What are the key elements of a legacy that goes beyond material wealth?
2. In the context of King Solomon’s teaching in Ecclesiastes 7:11-12, why is pairing wisdom with wealth crucial for a meaningful legacy? What practical steps can we take to pass on both?
3. How do our everyday actions and behaviors— especially those observed by our family—contribute to the legacy we are building?
4. What is the difference between a “Legacy by Design” and a “Legacy by Default”? Why is intentionality so important in shaping the legacy we leave behind?
5. What steps can you begin to take to make sure you are leaving a legacy by design?
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 2
The Purpose of Family
What is Legacy?
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• God’s vision for multi-generational families (Psalm 78:5-8).
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• Building strong family bonds through interdependence.
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families
• Creating a foundation of shared faith and values.
GOD’S VISION FOR MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAMILIES
Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
When God began the process of building His people, He didn’t focus solely on individuals. Instead, He worked through families and generations, establishing a pattern for how His truth and wisdom should be passed down. After freeing the Israelites from Egypt, God used Moses to teach them how to live as His people. Among His instructions was this charge:
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-7)
This command shows how intentional God is about families. He designed them as the primary means of passing down truth, wisdom, and faith. His plan has always been multi-generational, ensuring His works and ways are preserved through time.
Psalm 78:5-8 emphasizes this further:
“For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children, That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments.” (NKJV)
God desires every generation to know Him, trust Him, and keep His commandments. This responsibility—to teach and model faithfulness—begins when children are young and continues throughout their lives. The gospel is always one generation away from being forgotten, and there is no better way to secure its future than by intentionally passing it down through family.
STRONG FAMILY BONDS THROUGH INTERDEPENDENCE
Independence is a hallmark of modern culture, especially in America. We value raising children to become self-sufficient and celebrate when
they “make it on their own.” But this was never God’s ultimate plan for families. His design is not rooted in independence but interdependence—a mutual reliance that strengthens family bonds and promotes multi-generational blessing.
Consider God’s promise to Abraham:
“I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and your descendants after you.” (Genesis 17:6-7)
This covenant demonstrates God’s vision of interconnected families that pass down faith, wisdom, and blessing. Each generation benefits from the guidance and support of the previous one while contributing to the next.
Interdependence doesn’t mean stifling individuality or growth; rather, it fosters a family dynamic where members love, serve, and support one another. This biblical view contrasts sharply with modern independence, which often isolates family members and diminishes their ability to thrive collectively. Families are not just units for survival—they are God’s chosen means of preserving His truth and shaping character across generations.
INVESTING IN YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN
When our youngest daughter, Ruth, was born, I believed that my parenting journey would end when we paid her last college tuition bill. I thought raising her would be complete once she had a job and could support herself. But as Ruth graduated, started her career, and built her life, I realized how wrong I was.
Parenting doesn’t end when children leave the house. It enters a new phase. While I no longer provide Ruth’s daily schedule or material provisions, I still have influence over her life. That influence, grounded in love and godly wisdom, is as important now as it was when she was a child. And now, with grandchildren in the picture, my role as a parent has expanded to include helping shape the next generation.
When children are young, we teach them through direct guidance and discipline. As they grow, our influence shifts from authority to relationship. This transition requires us to model faithfulness and offer godly counsel, ensuring our legacy is passed on not only through words but through example.
The Bible underscores this principle. Teaching children to “set their hope in God, not forget His works, and keep His commandments” (Psalm 78:7) is not a one-time task—it is a lifelong commitment. And the results of this investment extend far beyond our immediate family, impacting future generations.
THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF FAMILY
God’s design for family is clear:
• Faith is central. Families are called to build their foundation on shared faith and values. These are the anchors that keep them rooted in God’s truth.
• Interdependence is embraced. Family members support one another through the highs and lows of life, fostering a sense of connection and unity.
• Multi-generational influence thrives. Wisdom, love, and godly living are intentionally passed down, ensuring each generation grows stronger in faith and character.
One of the most powerful examples of this design is found in the
legacy of Jonathan Edwards. A prominent preacher and theologian of the 18th century, Edwards and his wife, Sarah, prioritized faith, prayer, and godly living in their home. The results? Their descendants included over 100 lawyers, 80 public officeholders (including a U.S. vice president), 13 college presidents, 65 professors, and numerous pastors, missionaries, authors, and leaders. Their intentionality created a ripple effect that influenced generations.
In contrast, Max Jukes, a contemporary of Edwards, left a vastly different legacy. Known for his lack of faith and poor moral character, his descendants included criminals, alcoholics, and individuals who cost the state significant resources. While some details of these studies may be debated, the broader lesson is clear: intentional living and godly values have lasting, positive effects, while neglect and poor choices can lead to generational harm.
A LEGACY BY DESIGN
Building a strong family legacy requires intentionality. A “legacy by default” allows circumstances or busyness to dictate what we pass on, while a “legacy by design” is purposeful, rooted in faith, and focused on shaping future generations spiritually and relationally.
Decide today that your family will reflect God’s design. Build bonds of interdependence. Teach and model faith and values. Commit to leaving a legacy that impacts generations—not just materially, but spiritually and relationally. As we move forward, the next chapters will explore practical steps to ensure your family’s legacy is one of purpose, faithfulness, and love.
5 Questions for Reflection
1. How does God’s command in Deuteronomy 6:4-7 and Psalm 78:5-8 emphasize the importance of multi-generational faithfulness? What steps can you take to ensure that your family continues to pass on faith and values?
2. What is the difference between independence and interdependence in the context of family? How does God’s vision for family challenge modern cultural norms?
3. Jonathan Edwards left a legacy of faith and intetionality, while Max Jukes left a legacy of neglect and poor choices. What specific actions can you take to create a godly, intentional legacy for your descendants?
4. Think about your current role in your family— whether as a parent, grandparent, sibling, or child. How are you influencing those around you? Are there areas where your influence could be more intentional?
5. When you reflect on your family’s legacy, what do you hope future generations will say about you? What steps can you begin today to align your actions with that vision?
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 3
What is Legacy?
The Legacy of Daily Life
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• How daily life reflects your legacy.
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• Avoiding common pitfalls like lack of communication or clarity.
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families
• Embracing successful practices: open communication, shared values, and intentional modeling.
Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
Building a strong family legacy isn’t just about saving money or making good investments. It’s about how we live every day. It’s in how we talk to each other, the choices we make, and the example we set for future generations. Sadly, many families lose their way, and it’s often for the same reasons: they stop talking, they don’t trust each other, or they don’t prepare the next generation to carry the family’s vision forward.
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
Most family legacies fail not because of financial problems but because of what happens inside the family. In fact, in my personal experience, 60% of the time, family legacies fail because of poor communication and a lack of trust. When families don’t talk openly or when trust is broken, things quickly fall apart. Another 25% of the time, failure happens because heirs—children or grandchildren—aren’t ready to take on the responsibility of managing the family legacy. And surprisingly, only 5% of failures come from financial mistakes like bad investments or tax problems.
The truth is, the biggest risks to a family legacy aren’t money problems. They’re relationship problems.
COMMON REASONS FAMILIES STRUGGLE
There are several common reasons why families fail to pass their legacies to the next generation. One of the biggest is poor communication. When families avoid important conversations or don’t make time to talk, misunderstandings grow, and relationships suffer.
Another issue is a lack of clarity. Many families never take the time to define what their legacy is. Is it just about money? Or is it about values, faith, and making an impact in the world? Without a clear vision, the next generation doesn’t know what’s expected of them.
Families also struggle when they’re too busy to focus on what matters most. Modern life is full of distractions, and it’s easy to let day-to-day demands take priority over building something lasting. But if families don’t make time for these conversations, their legacy begins to fade.
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes families make is failing to prepare the next generation. Parents and grandparents often assume their children will figure things out on their own. But without guidance, future generations may not have the skills, character, or faith they need to handle the family’s resources and responsibilities.
HOW DAILY LIFE REFLECTS YOUR LEGACY
The good news is that a family’s legacy isn’t built all at once—it’s built in the little things you do every day. The way you treat each other, the values you live by, and the traditions you keep all shape the legacy you leave behind. For example, if your family values generosity, you might volunteer together or set aside time to give back. If communication is important, you might hold regular family meetings to talk about goals and challenges.
Every choice you make sends a message about what matters most to your family. By living intentionally, you can show future generations what a strong legacy looks like.
WHAT STRONG FAMILIES DO DIFFERENTLY
Families that successfully pass on their legacy focus on a few simple but powerful practices.
First, they make time for open and honest communication. These families talk regularly about their goals, challenges, and values. They create an environment where everyone feels heard, which helps build trust.
Second, successful families live by shared values. They decide what’s most important—like faith, kindness, or hard work—and make sure those values guide everything they do.
Third, parents and grandparents in strong families lead by example. Instead of just telling the next generation what to do, they model the behavior they want to see. When kids see adults living out their values, they’re more likely to carry those lessons forward.
Finally, these families take the time to prepare their children for the future. They teach them about money, relationships, and leadership.
They also focus on building their character and helping them grow spiritually.
AVOIDING COMMON PITFALLS
If you want to protect your family legacy, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes. Don’t avoid tough conversations just because they’re uncomfortable. Instead, make communication a priority. Be clear about what your family stands for and take time to define your vision. And most importantly, don’t assume the next generation will just “figure it out.” Be intentional about preparing them to succeed.
PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION
Building a lasting legacy means looking at the big picture. It’s not just about whether your kids can handle money—it’s about how they’re doing in every area of life. Are they growing spiritually? Are they managing their finances wisely? Do they have healthy relationships with family and friends? Are they pursuing meaningful work? Are there any health challenges they need help with?
Asking these questions helps you see where the next generation might need support. A strong legacy isn’t just about wealth; it’s about helping your family grow into the people they’re meant to be. The Bible reminds us of this in 3 John 2-4: “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
That’s what a successful legacy looks like—not just passing on wealth, but seeing your children and grandchildren live with faith, purpose, and joy. By focusing on communication, shared values, and intentional preparation, your family can build a legacy that lasts for generations.
5 Questions for Reflection
1. Why do most family legacies fail? How does a lack of communication and trust impact your family relationships?
2. How does daily life reflect your family’s legacy? What do your habits and choices say about the values you hope to pass on to the next generation?
3. What role does intentional preparation play in equipping the next generation? How can you ensure your children or heirs are ready to carry forward the family’s values and vision?
4. What’s one specific conversation you can have this week to clarify your family’s vision or expectations?
5. Identify one small change in your daily life—such as a tradition, habit, or act of generosity—that will better reflect your family’s values starting today.
CHAPTER 1
CHAPTER 4
What is
Biblical Stewardship
Legacy?
• Defining legacy beyond money: Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
• The connection between wisdom and wealth in building a legacy
• Stewardship as managing God-given resources (1 Chronicles 29:11-12).
• God’s charge to His people: A Biblical vision for families
• Legacy by design vs. legacy by default
• The five uses of money: giving, living expenses, debt repayment, taxes, and saving.
• Understanding the role of a Legacy Coach in guiding families Legacy. Have you thought about yours? Have you helped your clients think about theirs? Maybe you want to step back even further and consider: what does that word specifically mean? Let’s start with a definition that the Bible and Webster can agree on. Legacy is, ”something that is received from someone who has died, something transmitted from an ancestor or predecessor.” This definition is given from the descendent’s perspective.
• Keys to financial success: spending wisely, avoiding debt, building liquidity, setting goals, and acknowledging God as the source of all.
THE REALITIES OF LIFE?
Life brings with it some undeniable truths, and among the most significant is this: we will all die. This simple but sobering reality has implications that shape how we live and prepare for the future.
I want to spell this out here, so let’s look at it from the other angle, which is that of the predecessor. From the ancestor’s perspective, legacy is something
• You will die, likely at a time you don’t anticipate.
• You will take nothing with you.
• Someone else will get your possessions.
• The only time you can decide who gets your “stuff” is before you die.
As the saying goes, “There will be a family meeting—it’s just a matter of whether you will be there or not.”
This brings us to the concept of stewardship, which is essentially the management of what God has entrusted to us. Stewardship is not just about money—it’s about managing all the resources God has placed in your care for His purposes.
Jesus told several parables in the course of His ministry on earth concerning the stewardship of our money. One of them was the parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30. In the story, a master goes on a journey and entrusts his servants with varying amounts of money (“talents”)—five, two, and one, respectively. The first two servants invest and double their master’s money, while the third, out of fear, buries his talent in the ground.
When the master returns, he rewards the first two servants, saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.” But the third servant faces harsh judgment for his inaction. His excuse? He was afraid and chose to play it safe, missing the opportunity to honor his master’s trust.
The lesson is clear: God owns it all, and we are stewards. He gives us different resources based on our abilities, but what matters is not how much we are given—it’s what we do with it. Faithful stewardship means using what God has entrusted to us for His purposes, whether
it’s our money, time, skills, or influence.
There will be a day of accountability. The question is: will you hear “Well done,” or will you have buried your talent? Stewardship isn’t just about managing resources—it’s about faith, obedience, and honoring God with what He’s given you. The stakes are eternal.
The principle of stewardship applies to everything we’ve been given—not just money. Stewardship is about managing what God has entrusted to us for His purposes, and that includes every resource in our lives. Whether it’s our health, our time, our influence, our skills, or our relationships, we are called to be faithful stewards.
StewardShip of health
Our bodies are not our own. The Bible calls them temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are accountable for how we care for them. Stewardship of health means treating our bodies as tools for God’s work. Eating well, exercising, resting, and avoiding harmful habits aren’t just good ideas—they’re acts of obedience. When we neglect our health, we limit our ability to serve others and fulfill the purpose God has for us. Stewardship of health is about honoring God with the body He’s given us.
StewardShip of time
Time is one of the most valuable and limited resources we have. You can always earn more money, but you can never get back lost time. Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:16 to “redeem the time,” making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil. Stewardship of time means prioritizing the things that matter most: our relationship with God, time with our families, meaningful work, and serving others. Every minute we waste on things that don’t matter is a minute we can’t get back. Stewardship of time means living intentionally, with eternity in mind.
StewardShip of influence
Every one of us has influence, whether we realize it or not. We all have people watching how we live—our families, friends, coworkers, and even strangers. Jesus calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), using our influence to point people toward Him. Stewardship of influence means using our words and actions to encourage, guide, and inspire others toward truth. Whether you have a large platform or a small circle, God has given you influence for a reason. It’s not about how much influence you have; it’s about how faithfully you use it.
StewardShip of SkillS and abilitieS
God didn’t give us talents to waste or hide. The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25 makes it clear that we are accountable for how we use the abilities He’s entrusted to us. Whether your skill is teaching, organizing, leading, creating, or problem-solving, God gave it to you for a reason. Stewardship of skills means using your God-given abilities to serve others and glorify Him. Sitting on your talents or using them only for yourself is a missed opportunity to honor the One who gave them to you.
StewardShip of relationShipS
Relationships are one of the greatest gifts God gives us. Whether it’s family, friends, coworkers, or neighbors, the people in our lives are not there by accident. Stewardship of relationships means investing time, love, and energy into the people God has placed around us. It means forgiving quickly, serving selflessly, and reflecting Christ’s love in how we treat others (John 13:34-35). A faithful steward builds others up and leaves a legacy of love and encouragement.
StewardShip iS a way of life
Stewardship is not just about money—it’s about managing everything we’ve been given. When we see our health, time, influence, skills, and relationships as resources entrusted to us by God, it changes the way we live. Every decision becomes a spiritual decision. Every resource becomes a tool for His kingdom.
Here’s the reality: one day, you and I will stand before God and give an account for how we managed what He gave us. Stewardship isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about faithfulness. It’s about aligning our lives with God’s purposes and living in a way that glorifies Him.
Are you managing what God has given you in a way that reflects His priorities? Stewardship is about more than making good decisions— it’s about trusting the Giver and using what He’s given us for His glory. And when we do that, we position ourselves to hear the words we all long to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
SIX TRUTHS ABOUT GOD AND MONEY
While it’s true that we are called to steward more than just money, stewarding money is a major part of our role as stewards, and it is one of the hardest to get right. In 1 Chronicles 29:11-12, we find six key principles that define our relationship with money and resources: God owns it all. Everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to Him (see also Psalm 24:1).
1. God is in control of everything. Nothing happens outside His sovereignty (Job 42:2).
2. God is the source of all wealth. It is He who gives us the ability to produce income (Deuteronomy 8:18).
3. God determines how resources are distributed. Both riches and honor come from His hand.
4. God knows your needs. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:32 that our heavenly Father is fully aware of what we require.
5. God promises to provide. In Philippians 4:19, Paul declares that God will meet all our needs according to His riches in glory.
These truths frame a biblical perspective on wealth, reminding us that we are stewards, not owners.
Biblical stewardship is the use of God-given resources—whether money, time, or talents—to accomplish God-given goals and objectives. It’s about living with the mindset that everything we have is ultimately His. This has profound implications:
• The way we spend money reveals our priorities and commitments (Matthew 6:19-21).
• Every financial decision is a spiritual decision.
• We will one day give an account of how we managed what God entrusted to us.
HOW MONEY IS USED
When it comes to money, Scripture gives us both clear guidance and practical principles. At its core, money is a tool—a resource entrusted to us by God to manage wisely. In practical terms, there are only five ways we can use money: giving, living expenses, debt repayment, taxes, and saving. Let’s look at each one through the lens of biblical stewardship.
1. GivinG
Giving is the highest and most God-honoring use of money. Scripture calls us to give cheerfully and generously, reminding us that everything we have ultimately belongs to God. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Giving is a tangible way to express trust in God as our Provider. It shifts our focus from clinging to what we have to acknowledging God’s ownership over it all. It’s also an act of worship, aligning our hearts with His purposes. Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Faithful stewardship begins with a spirit of generosity. Whether we’re giving to our church, supporting missionaries, or helping those in need, our giving reflects the heart of God.
2. livinG expenSeS
Providing for our families and meeting basic needs is a biblical mandate. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 5:8, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
Living expenses cover the essentials—food, housing, clothing, and other necessities. Stewardship in this area means living within our means. It requires contentment and self-discipline, avoiding the trap of overspending or chasing materialism.
Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11), reminding us that God is our ultimate Provider. Stewardship of living expenses involves balancing our needs with gratitude and trusting God for what we lack.
3. debt repayment
The Bible warns us about the dangers of debt. “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). While debt is sometimes unavoidable, especially for major expenses like a home or education, Scripture emphasizes the importance of borrowing wisely and repaying what we owe.
“The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously” (Psalm 37:21). Faithful stewardship means honoring our financial obligations and paying off debts as quickly as possible. It’s about living with integrity and ensuring that we’re not burdening others with what we owe.
Debt repayment is a spiritual matter—it reflects our character and our commitment to managing resources responsibly.
4. taxeS
Taxes are an unavoidable part of life, and Scripture is clear on our responsibility to pay them. When asked whether it was right to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus replied, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Luke 20:25).
Paul also writes in Romans 13:6-7, “This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes.”
Paying taxes is not just a legal obligation—it’s a biblical principle. While we may not always agree with how taxes are used, our faithfulness in this area reflects our obedience to God’s Word.
5. SavinG
Saving is a wise and responsible use of money, rooted in biblical principles of preparation and foresight. “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest” (Proverbs 6:6-8).
Saving creates a margin of financial security, allowing us to handle emergencies, plan for the future, and avoid unnecessary debt. Proverbs 21:20 reinforces this: “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Stewardship of saving involves balance. We are called to plan and prepare, but not to hoard. Our trust is in God, not in the size of our bank account. Saving should always serve God’s purposes, ensuring we are ready to meet needs, support others, and respond to unforeseen circumstances.
STEWARDSHIP IN ACTION
When we align our money with God’s purposes, it becomes a powerful tool for His kingdom. Each of these five uses—giving, living expenses, debt repayment, taxes, and saving—requires intentionality and faith. How we handle money reflects our priorities, our trust in God, and our commitment to living as faithful stewards.
The question isn’t just how much money we have, but how we’re using it to honor the One who entrusted it to us. Are we managing His resources in a way that reflects His priorities? Stewardship is about more than good financial practices—it’s about living with an eternal perspective. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
KEYS TO FINANCIAL SUCCESS
Managing finances well isn’t complicated, but it requires discipline and trust in God. Here are five guiding principles:
1. Spend less than you earn. Proverbs 13:11 reminds us that wealth gained gradually through diligence grows, while hastily gained wealth often disappears.
2. Avoid debt. Debt enslaves (Proverbs 22:7). Live within your means and save for what you need.
3. Build a financial cushion. Proverbs 6:6-8 uses the example of the ant to encourage us to plan ahead and build reserves.
4. Set long-term goals. As Philippians 3:14 reminds us, keeping our eyes on the goal helps us press forward with purpose.
5. Recognize God’s ownership. Remembering that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1) shifts our perspective from control to stewardship.
STEWARDSHIP AS A REFLECTION OF FAITH
Stewardship is ultimately about trust. When we acknowledge that God owns everything and controls how resources flow, we are freed from the pressure to cling too tightly to what we have. Instead, we can use our money, time, and talents to align with His purposes, knowing He will provide.
The way we manage God’s resources speaks volumes about our priorities and faith. Stewardship is not about perfection; it’s about intentionality. Every dollar spent, every decision made, is an opportunity to honor Him.
In the end, you won’t take anything with you—but you can leave be-
hind a legacy of faithfulness, generosity, and wisdom. Let us steward well what God has entrusted to us, living with eternity in view.
5 Questions for Reflection
1. What does 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 teach us about God’s role in stewardship?
2. Reflect on how the truths that God owns everything and God is in control should shape your attitude toward managing the resources He has entrusted to you. Make a list of your resources (money, time, skills, etc.) and identify one area where you can acknowledge God’s ownership more fully.
3. How does the way we use money reflect our priorities and trust in God?
4. Consider the five uses of money (giving, living expenses, debt repayment, taxes, and saving). Which of these do you manage well, and which could you improve to align more closely with biblical principles?
5. Why is stewardship not limited to finances? Identify one non-financial area of stewardship (e.g., your time or health) where you can take a specific step toward honoring God this week.
“I have spent a lifetime, equipping and encouraging advisors to faithfully steward the families God has entrusted in their care. Legacy By Design provides a simple, transferable and proven system and strategy to turn this vision into a reality.”
Rick Warren
Family Legacy by Design
The Legacy By Design main course and curriculum is a six week overview of the principles and practices needed to help a Christian financial advisor lead their families by design and not by default. Once they complete the main Legacy By Design course, they could study any one of the follow up series in any order they choose. In addition, if they complete the Legacy By certification similar to the Kingdom Advisor certification.
TOM CONWAY
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BRETT EASTMAN
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