Throughout the biblical narrative, God frequently employs unexpected instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. This theme underscores the sovereignty of God and His ability to work through unlikely means, often confounding human expectations and wisdom.

Gideon and the Midianites

One of the most striking examples is the account of Gideon, found in the Book of Judges. Gideon, a man from the weakest clan in Manasseh and the least in his family, was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. Despite his initial hesitation and doubt, God assured Gideon of His presence, saying, "Surely I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites as one man" (Judges 6:16). God further reduced Gideon's army to just 300 men, ensuring that the victory would be attributed to divine intervention rather than human might (Judges 7:2-7).

David and Goliath

The account of David and Goliath is another powerful illustration. David, a young shepherd boy, was chosen by God to defeat the Philistine giant Goliath. Armed only with a sling and five smooth stones, David declared, "The battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into our hands" (1 Samuel 17:47). David's victory over Goliath demonstrated that God can use the seemingly weak and insignificant to triumph over formidable foes.

The Prophet Balaam and His Donkey

In the Book of Numbers, God used an unexpected instrument in the form of a donkey to convey His message to the prophet Balaam. When Balaam was on his way to curse Israel, God opened the mouth of the donkey to speak, rebuking Balaam and revealing the angel of the LORD standing in the way (Numbers 22:28-31). This unusual event highlighted God's control over all creation and His ability to communicate His will through any means He chooses.

The Widow of Zarephath

During a severe famine, God sent the prophet Elijah to a widow in Zarephath, a Gentile region, to provide for his needs. Despite her dire circumstances, the widow obeyed Elijah's request for food, and God miraculously provided for her household. As Elijah promised, "The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain on the face of the earth" (1 Kings 17:14). This account demonstrates God's provision through unexpected and humble means.

The Apostle Paul

In the New Testament, the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, later known as the Apostle Paul, serves as a profound example of God using an unexpected instrument. Once a fierce persecutor of Christians, Paul encountered the risen Christ on the road to Damascus and became one of the most influential apostles in spreading the Gospel. Paul himself acknowledged this transformation, stating, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:10).

Conclusion

These accounts, among others, reveal a consistent biblical theme: God often chooses the unexpected to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating His power and wisdom. Through these accounts, believers are reminded of God's sovereignty and the assurance that He can use anyone or anything to accomplish His divine will.