9 Essentials for Crafting a Last Will and Testament

Preparing a will is a powerful way for Christians to honor God by stewarding everything he has provided and entrusted to us. Here are nine essentials to help you craft a last will and testament that clearly reflects your faith and values.  

1. Begin with Prayer

Although a will is a legal document, for Christians, preparing a will is also a spiritual endeavor. Take time to prepare your heart and mind through prayer. Ask God for wisdom (James 1:5) to make decisions with an eternal perspective.

2. Practice Faithful Stewardship

Scripture calls believers to be faithful stewards (1 Corinthians 4:2). Your will offers a final opportunity to honor God with what he has entrusted to you. It’s a vehicle not only to bless your family, but also to invest in the advancement of the gospel.

3. Include Your Testimony

The greatest legacy you can leave is your faith. Including a brief testimony in your will is a meaningful way to remind loved ones of God’s grace and your eternal hope in Christ.

4. Acknowledge the Emotional Process

Preparing a will often stirs up difficult emotions because it forces us to reflect on our mortality and our relationships. These emotional hurdles often cause people to delay the task. However, facing them brings peace of mind - knowing your affairs are settled for the sake of your loved ones.

5. Use Provision’s Free Resources

Provision offers several free online tools to support your estate planning journey—all available on our Wills and Estate Planning page:

• Free Online Will Planner – Create a simple last will and testament, financial power of attorney, and advance medical directives.

• A Christian’s Guide to Preparing an Effective Will – Use this document to gather and record your assets before completing the online tool.

• The Personal Records Book – Organize your financial details, life insurance information, charitable giving records, and digital assets. Place this book alongside your estate planning documents for your executor and family.

6. Discuss It with Your Family

Open, intentional conversations about your will may feel awkward at first—but they are incredibly helpful. Clear communication now can reduce confusion or conflict later and provide peace of mind for those you love.  

7. Make It Official

To ensure your will is legally valid, your signature must be properly notarized. Overlooking this step or completing it incorrectly can create serious complications for your family. Don’t leave this detail to chance.

8. Store It Securely

Keep your will and related documents in a safe, accessible place, such as a fireproof lock box. Inform your executor and trusted family members of its location and how to access it, including any keys or codes.

9. Review It Periodically

Revisit your will every 3–5 years, or whenever you experience significant life changes, such as a marriage, birth, death, or major financial shift. Keeping your will up to date ensures it continues to reflect your intentions.

Writing a last will and testament is more than a legal task; it’s an act of worship, wisdom, and love. Many people avoid thinking about it because it feels uncomfortable or even frightening, but delaying only increases the burden on loved ones. By preparing a will, you show care for your family, lift unnecessary burdens, and create a legacy that points to what you value most. Don’t let fear keep you from taking this important step. With thoughtful preparation and prayerful intention, your will can become a powerful testimony of faithful stewardship, honoring God with what he has entrusted to you and impacting lives long after you’re gone.