In the biblical narrative, God often employs unexpected instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. These instruments, whether people, objects, or circumstances, serve as reminders of God's sovereignty and creativity in fulfilling His will. The use of unexpected instruments underscores the theme that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

People as Unexpected Instruments

1. Gideon: Gideon was an unlikely hero chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Despite his initial fear and doubt, God used him to lead a small army of 300 men to victory. Judges 6:15-16 records Gideon's hesitance: "But Gideon replied, 'Please, Lord, how can I save Israel? Indeed, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the youngest in my father’s house.' 'Surely I will be with you,' the LORD replied, 'and you will strike down all the Midianites as one man.'"

2. David: As the youngest son of Jesse, David was not the obvious choice to be king. Yet, God saw his heart and anointed him to lead Israel. His victory over Goliath with a sling and a stone (1 Samuel 17) further exemplifies how God uses the unexpected to achieve His purposes.

3. Rahab: A Canaanite prostitute, Rahab played a crucial role in the Israelite conquest of Jericho by hiding the spies sent by Joshua. Her faith and actions led to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5).

Objects as Unexpected Instruments

1. The Rod of Moses: A simple shepherd's staff became a powerful tool in God's hands. It was used to perform miracles, such as parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16) and bringing water from a rock (Exodus 17:5-6).

2. The Jawbone of a Donkey: Samson used the jawbone of a donkey to slay a thousand Philistines, demonstrating that God can use even the most humble of objects for His purposes (Judges 15:15).

3. The Ark of the Covenant: While the Ark was a sacred object, its role in the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) and the crossing of the Jordan River (Joshua 3) highlights how God uses physical symbols to manifest His power and presence.

Circumstances as Unexpected Instruments

1. Joseph's Imprisonment: Sold into slavery and later imprisoned, Joseph's circumstances seemed dire. However, God used these events to position him as a leader in Egypt, ultimately saving many lives during a famine (Genesis 50:20).

2. The Babylonian Exile: Though a period of suffering for Israel, the exile served as a time of purification and renewal. It led to the preservation of Jewish identity and the eventual return to Jerusalem, as prophesied by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:10-14).

3. The Cross: The crucifixion of Jesus, a method of execution reserved for the vilest criminals, became the instrument of salvation for humanity. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:18 , "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."

Throughout Scripture, the use of unexpected instruments reveals God's ability to work beyond human expectations and limitations. These examples encourage believers to trust in God's wisdom and providence, knowing that He can use anyone or anything to fulfill His divine plan.