Words of the Wise: Michael Hedenskog
As we are in our “A Word to the Wise” series, we thought we would take some time and ask some of the amazing people in our community to share their thoughts on the book of Proverbs and what it means to live with wisdom.
Q: So Michael, you are often seen online and at our Table View PM congregation, but why don’t you tell us a bit about yourself?
As you mentioned, my name is Michael and I am married to the amazing Krystle Hedenskog (God is good). I am one of the pastors at Life Changers and I love the local church, as well as good coffee – taste and see the Lord is good.
Q: As a pastor, is there a certain proverb that stands out to you?
Get Wisdom at Any Cost
Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction;
pay attention and gain understanding.
2 I give you sound learning,
so do not forsake my teaching.
3 For I too was a son to my father,
still tender, and cherished by my mother.
4 Then he taught me, and he said to me,
“Take hold of my words with all your heart;
keep my commands, and you will live.
Q: Why this particular proverb, and what about it stands out to you?
I love this proverb because the writer first establishes our identity: we are sons. We all have the mantle of son-ship through Jesus, as we have been drawn near, by our Father. Our Father doesn’t leave us to fend for ourselves, or to navigate the impacts of daily life on our own. He gives us instruction; He teaches and guides. His spirit leads and his Word instructs.
Q: I love that you touched on the aspect of our identity. How does being a child of God change the way you live your life?
It is up to me to take hold of His word and His ways. Our Father in Heaven has given us everything for daily living, but we have to respond to His gifts. As believers, we each have that responsibility – to take hold of what is given us – not in part, but with all our heart. We are promised life, we are promised fullness, so keep pressing on, keep striving to take hold of His commands, and keep seeking Him.
Q: As a young leader, why would you encourage people to read the Proverbs?
Reading the Proverbs daily again has been a stark reminder of how much we need Jesus and how lost we would be without him. It causes me to re-evaluate how I am living, whether it is according to my own will, or God’s ways.