The pagan blanket
Many know Venus Cote. Whether it's from watching Tribal Trails, hearing her speak at churches, prisons, and schools, or being welcomed into her home, Venus is known for her outpouring of love and testimony of God's power.
I had the privilege of visiting with Venus at her home in St. Mary's First Nation, just outside of Fredericton. She told me stories of her life and her community, and woven throughout was always God, clear and strong, even in the most tragic moments.
Venus Cote
What's evident is that God has worked in and through Venus. Through God, she forgave a murderer, conquered an addiction, got off skid row, and now has brought the Good News to thousands of people. Google 'Venus Cote', and you will find an incredible testimony.
I would like to add a story to that archive. It is one of God's power and protection.
During Venus' days in Bible School, she did a 10-day ministry outreach. While getting to know the people in the small community, she noticed a woman, watching her from a distance. Eventually that woman came up to her and struck up a conversation. She invited Venus to her house for a cup of tea.
As they approached the house, God put it upon her spirit that she should not be there. Something was off about this place, but it seemed rude to leave, so she prayed for God's protection.
The woman had an odd-looking blanket hung on her wall. She described to Venus how something had instructed her on how and when to make it. Venus knew it was made with demonic forces. She told Venus to put her hand on this blanket. Not knowing what else to do at that moment, she did, and as she placed her hand, she prayed.
The woman was confused and asked her if she felt anything. "No, what am I supposed to feel?" Venus responded. She asked Venus to put her hand on the blanket a second time. Once again, Venus obeyed but prayed that God would cover her in His protection. And once again, she felt nothing from touching this blanket.
The woman shook her head, looked at Venus and said, "You are a Christian. You have Jesus living in you." That's why the blanket's powers didn't work! She explained to Venus how the blanket was supposed to draw out information and clairvoyantly tell the creator of the blanket about the one who touched it. She knew Venus was a Christian because the Christian God wouldn't allow this demonic force to pass through.
"One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: Power belongs to you God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love." Psalm 62:11-12a
Venus' story is a reminder that we can always pray and trust that God will give us the power we need when difficult situations arise. We don’t need to fear what God has already had victory over!
