By: Evangelist James Adekola Iyanutisele

Introduction

There are moments in life when God redirects our steps into places we never imagined. For me, the journey from preaching in the church to stepping into social and political leadership is not a move of personal ambition, it is the unfolding of divine purpose. In every season, I hold tightly to Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you… I appointed you.”

My story is rooted in this truth.

A Shepherd’s Heart in a Complex World

As a church Shepherd and Evangelist, my heart has been shaped by compassion, service, and humility. I have stood with the broken, encouraged the weary, guided the lost, and celebrated with those God restored. These encounters have taught me that leadership begins with love, love for God, and love for His people.

1 Peter 5:2–3 commands us to “shepherd the flock of God… being examples to them.”

This scripture became the foundation

Called Beyond the Pulpit

My interest in politics did not come from chase of influence or recognition. It was birthed from a burden, an ache to see justice, righteousness, and compassion guiding national decisions. I realized that ministry is not limited to the pulpit; sometimes ministry is needed in the public square.

Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.”

Righteous leadership brings peace. Ungodly leadership brings pain. This truth awakened a fire in me to become a voice for the voiceless, a light in dark systems, and a defender of integrity.

1. God Calls Believers to Be Light Everywhere

“You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others.” — Matthew 5:14–16

A Christian does not stop being a light because they enter public service.

If anything, leadership needs people of truth, compassion, and righteousness.

2. Good Leadership Is a Blessing

“When the righteous rule, the people rejoice.” — Proverbs 29:2

This verse shows that righteous leadership is not only allowed, it is beneficial.

Godly values can influence society for good.

3. Many Biblical Figures Served in Government

Joseph served as prime minister in Egypt.

Daniel held top government roles in Babylon and Persia.

Deborah was a judge and national leader over Israel.

Their service was not sin, it was obedience to God’s purpose for them.

4. Christians Are Called to Seek the Good of Their Nation

“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… Pray to the Lord for it.” — Jeremiah 29:7

Seeking a nation’s good can include service, advocacy, or leadership.

Politics, when done with integrity, can be a form of service to God and community.

5. God Looks at Motive, Not the Position

Being in politics is not sin.

Using power wrongly is sin.

Serving with righteousness, compassion, and justice honors God.

Faith in the Public Arena

Many people believe politics corrupts, but I believe faithful leadership transforms. I hold firmly to Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:14–16, “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before men.”

Light was never meant to hide.

As I stepped into political spaces, I knew I was stepping into an environment that desperately needed godly examples. I do not walk there alone. Joshua 1:9 reminds me daily:

“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

This verse strengthens me when I face opposition, criticism, or misunderstanding.

Serving With Integrity

Leadership, whether spiritual or political, is a sacred responsibility. Micah 6:8 summarizes the mission clearly:

“Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

This scripture is my compass. It guides how I speak, how I serve, and how I lead.

In a world where many chase power, I choose service; where others seek recognition, I seek righteousness, where some lead with pride, I lead with humility.

A Life That Reflects Christ

My greatest desire is for people to see Christ in me, both in the church and in the public arena. I want my faith to be visible, not just in words, but through integrity, compassion, and courage.

At the end of every day, my heart returns to Psalm 19:14:

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord.”

This is my prayer as I serve God’s people and my nation.

Conclusion: A Leader With Purpose

I believe God calls His children into every sphere of society, not only into churches, but into governments, schools, communities, and nations. We are called to be salt and light wherever we go.

My story is still being written. Every step I take, every soul I serve, every decision I make is guided by God’s hand. With faith as my foundation and Scripture as my compass, I continue to walk forward believing that my presence in ministry and leadership is not accidental but ordained.

And through it all, I simply pray that the world will see Jesus in me.

Amen Amen Amen 🙏.

Evang. James Adekola Iyanutisele

26th November, 2025