I recently read an article where the author noted that having money will give you influence, but politics will give you control. Being in a circle of decision makers gives you great leverage. When the lives of the apostles were at risk for preaching Jesus, Gamaliel, a member of the council, intervened. I have seen this play out on several occasions. One example was when our ministry newly acquired a property in Lagos, Nigeria. Neighbours raised eyebrows when we started making plans to move in for worship. I was afraid that if they reported us to the government, we might be in a dicey situation. I took to prayer, asking God to raise a “Gamaliel” among them for us.

Being in a circle of decision makers gives you great leverage…believers should not shy away from politics and administration at any level. It will give them control that can be used for kingdom effect.

It wasn’t long when a brother at the Citadel Global Community Church walked up to me and told me that he was aware of the challenge we were having. He assured me that I should not worry as the matter had been sorted out. It happened that he not only lives in a nearby estate, he was also the secretary of the residents association. When our matter was raised, he told them that he is a part of our church and they should not disturb us. There has not been any challenge since then. I learned three things from that episode. Firstly, God has His “Gamaliels” everywhere, and He can activate them when necessary. Secondly, God still answers prayers. Finally, believers should not shy away from politics and administration at any level. It will give them control that can be used for kingdom effect.