In 1980, a woman hopped on a bus during the Boston Marathon. No big deal—except for one small detail. She was supposed to be running in the marathon! Later, she jumped back in the race—much too early, as it turned out, for she finished well ahead of the other female competitors. Questions soon arose when it became apparent that she didn’t look like someone who had just run a marathon. In fact, she didn’t look like a runner!

In an ancient battle, the army of Judah didn’t look like they had just won a great battle. But they had. Messengers came and told King Jehoshaphat: “A vast army from Edom is marching against you” (2 Chronicles 20:2). The king was “terrified by this news” (2 Chronicles 20:3). What he did next might not look like strong leadership. But it was.

First, he called on the people to fast and pray. Then he acknowledged God’s history with the Jewish people and His supremacy (2 Chronicles 20:6), and he reminded God of His promise “Did You not give this land forever to the descendants of Your friend Abraham?” (2 Chronicles 20:7).

Second, he admitted his need. “We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help” (2 Chronicles 20:12). Finally, the king was ready to lead his people into battle. He chose not mighty warriors but singers to go before the army, belting out songs of God’s love (2 Chronicles 20:21). The result was startling. Their would-be attackers suddenly turned on each other (2 Chronicles 20:22-23). Not a foe was left for the army of Judah to fight (2 Chronicles 20:24). The happy result? “Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side” (2 Chronicles 20:30).

Things aren’t always as they seem. Our great God is always reliable, but never predictable.

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: John 15:1-16