Christian Estate Plan for First Baptist Dallas

The Bible provides invaluable guidance for the Christian on stewardship, legacy, and planning for the future—principles that align closely with estate planning. Here’s a summary of key verses that support responsible planning:

• Proverbs 13:22 – “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children…” This verse emphasizes the Christian value of leaving a legacy, both financially and spiritually, for future generations.
• 1 Timothy 5:8 – “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” This verse underscores the Christian duty to care for family, highlighting the responsibility to plan wisely for loved ones.

• Proverbs 21:5 – “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” This verse values diligent planning and thoughtful stewardship, ensuring resources benefit those who depend on us.
• Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” This passage reminds the Christian to use earthly resources to fulfill God’s purposes and reflect their faith, including charitable giving.
• James 4:14-15 – “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” This verse highlights life’s uncertainty, encouraging the Christian to prepare wisely for their family’s well-being.

These verses provide a Biblical foundation for the principles of stewardship, generosity, and careful planning, which are essential to estate planning. The Christian Estate Plan is crafted to help you structure your estate in a way that creates an eternal legacy.

What language is added to express my faith?

“In the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I write this document as an expression of my faith and love for my family. I recognize that my life, possessions, and blessings are gifts from God, entrusted to me to steward according to His will. It is my hope that, as you read this, you find comfort and assurance in the promises of Jesus Christ.

I acknowledge that salvation comes by faith alone in Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and was raised to offer us eternal life. I pray that you, my beloved family, will also trust in His love and grace. Through His death and resurrection, we have the hope of life beyond this world—a life that no hardship, loss, or separation can take from us.

As you remember me, please take heart in these truths and find comfort in the unchanging love of God. May this document serve as a testament to my faith, my love for each of you, and my prayer that you too may walk in the light of Christ, experiencing the peace and joy only He can give.”

What is a Last Will and Testament?

A Last Will and Testament is a legal document that outlines how a person wishes assets and property to be managed and distributed after death. The person who creates the Will is known as the Testator (or Testatrix if female). To carry out your wishes, you appoint an Executor, who ensures your instructions are followed, starting with a probate application. This legal proceeding allows the Executor to prove the validity of your Will in court.

During probate, the Executor presents evidence to a judge that the Will complies with Texas law and has not been modified or revoked. Once the judge is satisfied, they authorize the issuance of “Letters Testamentary,” which gives the Executor the legal authority to manage and distribute your estate according to your wishes.

What is a Trust?

A Trust is a legal arrangement where one party, the Grantor or Settlor, transfers assets to another party, the Trustee, who manages those assets for the Beneficiaries. Trusts are typically established while the Grantor is alive and outline how assets should be managed during the Grantor’s life and after their death. Often, the Grantor serves as the initial Trustee to maintain control over assets, with a Successor Trustee named to take over if the Grantor becomes incapacitated or passes away.

The key advantage of a Trust is that it allows for the seamless management of assets without court involvement, which can be particularly beneficial if the Grantor becomes incapacitated or dies.

Will vs. Trust: Key Differences

Both Wills and Trusts facilitate the transfer of assets to beneficiaries, but they operate differently. A Will only takes effect after a judge validates it through the probate process, meaning your assets cannot be distributed until the court has approved your Will. In contrast, a Trust is established and operational during the Grantor’s lifetime, allowing for the immediate management and distribution of assets without waiting for court approval.

One of the primary benefits of a Trust-based estate plan is that it keeps your financial and personal affairs private and out of the court system—a meaningful option for the person seeking privacy and continuity.

If you want an estate plan, but you are not a Christian, check out our Texas Family Will and Trust Plan.