On Sunday, September 5 this year, I had the rare privilege to minister at the magnificent worship centre of the Citadel Global Community Church, Lagos. After the service, a brother who is one of the armour bearers to Dr Tunde Bakare walked up to me to give a most assuring news. Here is a background story. God gave a property to our church in Lagos. Shortly when we started preparing the place for use, some neighbours raised eyebrows. I understand from the story of Nehemiah that when you start building something that is significant, the adversary will start bullying! We made moves to write to the residents association, reassuring them that we are there to contribute to society, and not be a burden. Going by the reactions of some of the neighbours, I started to pray that God would raise a Gamaliel among them who would pick up our cause.

Secondly, believers should get involved in politics at every level. As little as the leadership of residents association might seem, you may be the man in council whom God will use to favour His kingdom.

The brother who walked up to me was the “Gamaliel”. Unknown to me, he lives in the estate behind the church. Besides, he is a member of the executive committee, serving as the secretary. When our matter was tabled, he told them point-blank that he has vested interest in the church, and dissuaded them from their belligerent attitude. When we met that Sunday, he told me to not be worried in any way. Two things are salient here. Firstly, God still answers prayers. When I was asking God to raise a Gamaliel for us, I did not think of this dear brother. You may not know how or when, but God will always come through for you. Pray the best way you can; and leave the answer in God’s hand to direct. Secondly, believers should get involved in politics at every level. As little as the leadership of residents association might seem, you may be the man in council whom God will use to favour His kingdom.