Invisible Coyotes

By Heidi McLaughlin –

There are coyotes out there dad”, said the three year old boy, “They are going to come into the house and hurt us.” The dad walked to the window, looked for a long time and then said, “OK then I better go and get my gun and get rid of them for you.” The dad came back with a gun and pretended to shoot the coyotes. When he was done, he said to his boy, “There, they are all gone now, you can go out and play. “Thanks dad!” with a huge smile on his face the little boy got his toys and ran outside to romp in the back yard.”

When my husband and I heard this story, we were not sure it was true, but we continue to use it to remind us about our own coyotes-imagined fear. We all hear things that stop us from receiving the joy of pursuing the passions and purpose that God has given each of us.

We may hear:

1. Why would you even try; you might fail and then feel stupid.
2. This marriage is never going to work; might as well walk away.
3. This friendship is over; it’s too much work so why bother.
4. Your mother was fat; you’ll be fat all your life.
5. Alcoholism runs in our family.
6. Don’t tell anyone about the sexual abuse; it will be our secret.
7. You’re just not smart enough.
8. Look at you, why would anyone want to marry you?

If we believe these lies, we will continue to be afraid to step out with courage and determination to follow our heart’s yearnings. God places desires and purpose in our hearts to fulfill us with the plan He has for each one of our lives. He has a plan for you and me, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 TLB).

God’s plans for each of our lives are good! So what do we do about the lies we have heard? “Let’s go shoot some lies…or coyotes!”

1. You are not fat; skinny or ugly-you are God’s Masterpiece. (Ephesians 2:10).
2. You are not stupid; you have been given the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16b).
3. You are not a mistake; you were chosen before the foundations of the earth were formed. (Ephesians 1:4)
4. You can do anything with God’s help. (Phil. 4:13)
5. You are not a child of alcoholism, sexual abuse, or anything bad that has happened to you. God can restore anything in your life and make it new. (2 Cor. 5:17)
6. God is not out to condemn you; He is always here to help you. (Romans 8:1)
7. You do not need to worry about your future; God can help you with your anxiety. (Phil 4:6-7)

There you go! Now use the passions and gifts God has given you to give you fulfillment, pleasure and make a difference in your life and this world.

How’s that for shooting some coyotes?

Heidi McLaughlin lives in the beautiful vineyards of the Okanagan Valley in Kelowna, British Columbia. She is married to Pastor Jack and they have a wonderful, eclectic blended family of 5 children and 9 grandchildren. When she is not working, she loves to curl up with a great book; or golf and laugh with her husband, family and special friends. You can reach her at: www.heartconnection.ca