God uses this stuff

I heard this song on the radio today.  It not only has a catchy tune, but the lyrics really spoke to me. It probably caught my attention because of the word STUFF.  I've got stuff on the brain.  I can't believe how many times little things like losing my keys or my cell phone can throw me into a full-on, cussing, anger-spewing melt-down.  Seriously, keys.  I am so blessed in my life.  When I read the posts from bloggers who are missionaries in other countries and they tell about the joy the people in those churches have for Jesus.  When they tell how far the people walk to gather together to worship.  When they tell about the dangers people face just by saying they are christians.  I am humbled.  More times than I care to admit, I get to the end of my blog post and struggle with my list of gratitudes.  How can that be?  I have so much to be grateful for.  Am I struggling because of the embarrassment of riches I have.  I can pray, "give me this day my daily bread," but what I should be saying is "Thank you for all the ways you've blessed me, and, btw, I could stand to loose a few pounds, so hold the bread."  I am so glad I heard this song on the radio today.  I'm looking forward to uploading it from iTunes and being able to listen to it often.

My list of 1000 gratitudes
184.  My car and the radio in it
185.  Christian radio stations playing Christ-honoring music
186.  YouTube videos of music I want to hear again and share with others
187.  A heart soft enough to be humbled by stories from missionaries
188.  A spirit generous enough to give to the work of God in the world
189.  A comment from a Christian blogger I admire so much (I cannot believe he read my blog)
190.  Walking hand in hand with my husband after work

This Is The Stuff, by Francesca Battistelli

I lost my keys in the great unknown

And call me please 'Cuz I can't find my phone

This is the stuff that drives me crazy

This is the stuff that's getting to me lately

In the middle of my little mess

I forget how big I'm blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin

But I gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing

It might not be what I would choose

But this is the stuff You use

45 in a 35, Sirens and fines while I'm running behind, Whoa

(chorus)

So break me of impatience

Conquer my frustrations

I've got a new appreciation

It's not the end of the world

Oh Oh Oh

(chorus)

Oh Oh Oh Oh, This is the stuff You use