Crafting a Faithful Legacy for Future Generations with Jeanne McMains

Apr 21, 2025

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“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children…” - Proverbs 13:22

That verse teaches that a life of faithful stewardship will enable you to leave something of great value to your heirs. How you do it can impact future generations. Jeanne McMains joins us today to talk about “intentional inheritance.”

Jeanne McMains has been a practicing attorney in estate planning, business succession, and non-profits since 1995. She currently serves as the Vice President of Gift Planning with The National Christian Foundation (NCF), where she assists families nationwide with achieving their charitable gift-planning goals.

What Is an Intentional Inheritance?

An intentional inheritance is more than the distribution of wealth. It’s a prayerful, purposeful plan for shaping the lives of those who will receive what we leave behind. Inheritance is one of the most significant stewardship decisions we make. It’s not just about how much but how—and why—we give.

This perspective calls for a deep shift. Before passing on wealth, we must first pass on wisdom. Otherwise, unmanaged or misunderstood wealth can do more harm than good.

Start with Prayerful Introspection

Ask yourself: What role does wealth play in my life? Reframe your mindset around money—not as a measure of success or security but as a tool for Kingdom work. Wealth is an entrustment from God, not an end in itself. That means laying it down at the cross daily, asking the Lord to help us steward it with humility and grace.

Three Types of Inheritance

To simplify this big task, here are three kinds of inheritance every Christian family should consider:

1. Inheritance to Spend

This is the traditional kind of inheritance—resources intended to provide opportunities, experiences, and essentials. Think of it as financial fuel to help your heirs live productive, content lives. But maturity matters. Consider using this inheritance to fund training, travel, or education before a large transfer, especially if the heir is still developing financial literacy or spiritual maturity.

2. Inheritance to Shape

This is where legacy comes to life. Instead of simply giving money, consider shaping character through shared experiences—like mission trips, retreats, or projects that reflect your family’s values.

3. Inheritance to Share

We’re blessed to be a blessing. Set aside a portion of your estate to fuel generosity in the next generation. This might include donor-advised funds, charitable trusts, or other giving vehicles your heirs can use to support ministries or causes close to their hearts. This is how we teach our children to reflect God’s love through giving.

Practical Steps to Craft an Intentional Inheritance

Here are four foundational steps to take:

1. Engage in Open Dialogue

Talk with your heirs about the purpose behind the inheritance. Focus less on how much and more on why. Share your values, your heart for the Kingdom, and how you hope the inheritance will be used to bless others. This conversation builds trust, understanding, and spiritual alignment.

It’s not about dollars and zeros; it’s about attitude, opportunity, and calling.

2. Work with Faith-Aligned Advisors

Choose financial and legal professionals who share your biblical worldview. Whether you're working with an estate attorney or a financial planner, the right team will help ensure your legacy is stewarded with wisdom and integrity. That’s why we recommend connecting with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). To find one near you, visit FaithFi.com and click “Find a Professional.”

3. Prepare Your Heirs

Don’t wait until the inheritance is distributed. Teach your heirs financial literacy and spiritual stewardship now. Let them stumble, learn, and grow while you’re still here to mentor and encourage them.

4. Use Strategic Tools

Leverage estate planning vehicles like wills, trusts, donor-advised funds, and charitable gift plans. These tools help ensure your assets are distributed in a way that promotes ongoing generosity and reflects your commitment to faithful living.

Even well-meaning inheritances can lead to confusion, entitlement, or spiritual drift without intentional planning. But with prayer, purpose, and preparation, your legacy can be a launching pad for generations of Kingdom impact.

Want to learn more?

Explore practical tools and gospel-centered resources at NCFgiving.com to help you build a legacy of generosity and faith. To read Jeanne’s full article, “Intentional Inheritance: Crafting a Faithful Legacy for Future Generations,” become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 or an annual gift of $400 at FaithFi.com/give.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I'm nervous about retiring in the next year and a half. I have a 457 retirement account with the state of Ohio, and I'm worried about the current economy. Should I move all my investments into stable value to protect what I've got while the economy is in flux?

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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