Throughout the biblical narrative, God frequently employs unlikely instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. These instruments, often unexpected and seemingly inadequate by human standards, serve to highlight God's sovereignty, wisdom, and power. By choosing the improbable, God demonstrates that His ways are higher than human ways and that His strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Gideon and the Midianites

One of the most striking examples of God using an unlikely instrument is found in the account of Gideon. In Judges 6-7, God calls Gideon, a man from the weakest clan in Manasseh and the least in his family, to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. Despite Gideon's initial hesitance and doubt, God assures him, "Surely I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites as one man" (Judges 6:16). God further reduces Gideon's army to just 300 men, ensuring that the victory would be attributed to divine intervention rather than human might.

David and Goliath

The account of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 is another powerful illustration. David, a young shepherd boy, faces the Philistine giant Goliath with nothing but a sling and five smooth stones. Despite his youth and inexperience in battle, David declares, "The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37). David's victory over Goliath underscores the theme that God often chooses the weak and humble to confound the strong and proud.

Rahab the Prostitute

In the book of Joshua, Rahab, a prostitute in the city of Jericho, becomes an unlikely instrument in God's plan to give the Israelites victory over the city. By hiding the Israelite spies and acknowledging the God of Israel, Rahab secures her family's safety and becomes part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). Her account is a testament to God's grace and His ability to use those whom society deems unworthy.

The Donkey of Balaam

In Numbers 22, God uses a donkey to convey His message to the prophet Balaam. When Balaam is on his way to curse the Israelites, the donkey sees the angel of the LORD and refuses to proceed, ultimately speaking to Balaam after being struck. This unusual event serves as a reminder that God can use any means, even a speechless animal, to fulfill His purposes and communicate His will.

The Widow of Zarephath

In 1 Kings 17, during a severe famine, God sends the prophet Elijah to a widow in Zarephath, a Gentile region. Despite her dire circumstances, the widow obeys Elijah's request to make him a small cake with her last bit of flour and oil. God miraculously provides for her household throughout the famine, demonstrating His provision and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan.

The Apostle Paul

The conversion of Saul of Tarsus, later known as the Apostle Paul, is a profound example of God using an unlikely instrument. Once a zealous persecutor of Christians, Paul becomes one of the most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. In Galatians 1:15-16, Paul acknowledges, "But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles..." . Paul's transformation highlights God's ability to redeem and repurpose even the most ardent opponents of His work.

Conclusion

The biblical accounts of unlikely instruments in God's plan serve as powerful reminders of His sovereignty and the unexpected ways in which He accomplishes His purposes. These accounts encourage believers to trust in God's wisdom and to remain open to His calling, regardless of their perceived limitations or societal status.