Legacy for Families

The journey of building a family legacy

I’m convinced God’s design for families includes thriving individuals united around a shared identity across multiple generations. That’s family legacy.

Here’s how families build a multigenerational legacy:

  1. Understand God’s purpose for family
  2. Define a family identity through shared vision, mission and values
  3. Shape a family culture of celebration and generosity

Let's talk about these phases.

 

Understanding the purpose of family

Throughout the big story of the Bible, we see that God intends for families to have a lasting influence for generations.

God ordained families as the first organized social unit. His purpose is for the members of the family to support each other, to teach the next generations God’s deeds and commands, and to impact their world.

Embracing this purpose leads families to pursue their unique calling, their family identity.

When a family is clear on their shared purpose, they live it out through intentional practices that shape their family culture.

Often, as a family digs into issues around legacy, they find it helpful to invite an experienced advisor to guide them through key conversations and equip them for success. Learn more about my legacy consulting approach.

Define your family identity

The family must know who they are, what they stand for, what they value. And then they need to align what they do—how they spend their time and money—with their values. This does not happen by default, so let's dig in to identifying values.

Create a family culture

Family culture is the way the members of the family tend to relate to each other, approach problems and work toward goals. Every family has a culture—either by default or through intentional planning and practice. I recommend investing in these key areas in your family.