Woes of the World’s Wealthiest Man: The Missing Possession We All Need

January 6, 2022
STEWARDSHIP 01062022

Once deemed the world’s wealthiest man, Howard Hughes seemingly had it all. But at the time of his passing, one missing possession unraveled a lifetime of accumulation.

Howard didn’t have a will.

Valued at nearly $12 billion in today’s dollars, Howard’s estate became the decades-long legal battleground for distant relatives, complete strangers and numerous charities claiming to be objects of his affection. In the end, it took more than 34 years to determine how Mr. Hughes’ wealth should be divided.

Howard’s story is not unique. Pablo Picasso, Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin and even Abraham Lincoln are just a few of the famous names among those who have left their heirs woefully unprepared.

What a pity for all who are caught in the crosshairs! What a waste of time and potential impact!

You don’t have to be the world’s wealthiest person to secure a fruitful legacy.

When you have a will or trust, you buy yourself peace of mind and lasting impact. You ensure your God-given resources will continue to be used in a way that reflects your character and values. 

Through a properly executed will, you can also:

  • Minimize family disputes.
  • Protect your loved ones from unnecessary taxes and legal fees.
  • Establish guardianship for minor children.
  • Provide for children or loved ones with special needs.
  • Give in a profound way to CMDA and other ministries close to your heart.

By having a will in place, you fulfill and model your lifetime commitment to biblical stewardship. Turns out, you don’t need to have it all to devote it all to God’s glory.

Ready to put your plan in place? Request your free copy of “The Roadmap to Your Completed Will” by calling Paul Montgomery at 423-844-1011 or email paul.montgomery@cmda.org.

Christian Medical & Dental Associations®

About Christian Medical & Dental Associations®

The Christian Medical & Dental Associations® (CMDA) is made up of the Christian Medical Association (CMA) and the Christian Dental Association (CDA). CMDA provides resources, networking opportunities, education and a public voice for Christian healthcare professionals and students. Founded in 1931, CMDA provides programs and services supporting its mission to "change hearts in healthcare" with a current membership of over 13,000 healthcare professionals. CMDA promotes positions and addresses policies on healthcare issues; conducts overseas medical education and evangelism projects; coordinates a network of Christian healthcare professionals for fellowship and professional growth; sponsors student ministries in medical dental, PA, and other healthcare training schools; distributes educational and inspirational resources; hosts marriage and family conferences; provides developing world missionary healthcare professionals with continuing education resources; and conducts academic exchange programs overseas. By being the "hands of Jesus" to needy people, CMDA seeks to fulfill His Great Commandment (Matthew 22:39; 25:36) and His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). The Christian Medical & Dental Associations® is a 501(c)3 and is governed by a Board of Trustees and House of Delegates. Policies of CMDA are interpreted and applied by the Board of Trustees, which also establishes the guidelines for the executive director and his staff. An elected House of Delegates assists the board with recommendations on courses of action. The House of Delegates is composed of graduate, student, resident and missionary members who are elected for three-year terms by district and meets annually at the CMDA National Convention. Approximately 75 employees currently make up the staff of CMDA in the national office and U.S. field offices.

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