Is Leaving an Inheritance the Best Gift for Your Children?

As we grow older and think about the legacy we’ll leave behind, the question of inheritance often comes to the forefront. It’s a deeply personal and spiritual issue, one that touches on both our stewardship of God’s resources and our love for our children. The Bible offers wisdom on this subject, but it also invites us to consider the heart behind what we leave behind not just financially, but spiritually.

What Does the Bible Say About Inheritance?

Proverbs 13:22 declares, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.” While this verse is often interpreted as a command, it’s better understood as a general truth: a good and wise person is usually in a position to bless future generations. It is not a law that every Christian must leave a large financial inheritance, but rather a reflection of the natural fruit of a righteous life.

In other words, this proverb is more about the blessing of a godly life than about the size of the bank account we leave behind. After all, many wealthy individuals have left large inheritances that became a spiritual snare for their heirs. Jesus Himself warns that riches often pose significant dangers to the soul: “Only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:23).

Is Leaving a Large Inheritance Always Best?

The decision of whether to leave an inheritance and how much must be weighed carefully, especially when we consider the dangers of wealth. Quick and easy money, such as a sudden inheritance, can often harm more than help. Proverbs 20:21 warns, “An inheritance gained hastily in the beginning will not be blessed in the end.”

For some families, the greatest gift parents can leave is not a financial windfall, but rather the eternal riches of faith, wisdom, and love. A large sum of money left without careful thought can do more harm than good, particularly if children or grandchildren are not prepared to steward it wisely.

Five Biblical Principles to Guide Your Decision

1. Be Generous While You’re Alive.
Generosity is a mark of trust in God’s provision. Rather than waiting until death to pass along blessings, consider giving to your children while you can also give them wisdom and guidance on how to use it. This allows you to witness the impact and to meet real needs in the moment.

2. Remember the Spiritual Dangers of Wealth.
Wealth is not inherently evil, but it is spiritually dangerous. Instead of automatically passing along all assets, ask whether this will truly bless your children or create spiritual pitfalls. Consider leaving a portion for ministry or kingdom work that will continue to bear eternal fruit.

3. Avoid Making Wealth an Idol.
For some, leaving everything to their children stems more from cultural expectation than from biblical conviction. Scripture challenges us to see money as a tool for advancing God’s purposes, not just as a means to provide security for future generations.

4. Choose Specific Amounts and Direct the Rest to God’s Work.
Some Christian families choose to leave their children a reasonable, helpful sum enough to bless but not enough to spoil and direct the rest to ministries, missions, or charitable foundations. This approach prioritizes eternal investments while still caring for family.

5. Consider Special Needs.
If you have children or grandchildren with disabilities or special needs, providing for them with thoughtful trusts or financial planning can be an act of Christlike love. Stewardship includes making provision for those who are unable to provide for themselves.

The Legacy That Matters Most

While financial inheritance has its place, it is far less important than the spiritual inheritance we leave behind. A life lived faithfully before God, a testimony of grace, and the treasure of a Christ-centered home are worth infinitely more than any dollar amount.

In Deuteronomy 6, God commands parents to pass on His truth to their children to speak of His ways in their homes, on the road, at bedtime, and when they rise. The inheritance of faith, the example of integrity, and a life saturated with the love of Christ are treasures that will never fade.

The Eternal Perspective

Ultimately, we are stewards, not owners. Everything we have our homes, savings, properties, and possessions belongs to God. Our calling is to use these resources for His glory, whether by blessing our children, caring for the poor, or investing in the advancement of the gospel.

Prayerfully seek God’s guidance as you make these decisions. Ask not just, “How much should I leave?” but also, “What will best serve my children’s souls and God’s kingdom?” Sometimes, leaving less financially but more spiritually is the greater gift.

Leave behind a legacy of faith and generosity that reflects the heart of the Father who gave everything for us.

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates with someone you know who is making similar decisions about their legacy.