One Stick at a Time

"Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow 
will be anxious for itself.  Each day has enough trouble 
of its own  (Matthew 6: 34)

"I compare the troubles which we have to undergo in the 
course of the year to a great bundle of sticks, far too large 
for us to lift.  But God does not require us to carry the whole 
load at once.  God mercifully unties the bundle, and gives us
first one stick, which we are to carry today, then another, 
which we are to carry tomorrow, and so on.  This we might easily
manage, if we would only take the burden appointed for us each day.  
But we choose to increase our troubles by carrying yesterday's 
stick over again today, and adding's tomorrow's burden to our load, 
before we are required to bear it" (John Henry Newton)
As I read this passage again I notice that God gives me only
one stick at a time.  I am not required to carry  more.
What is it about this image that appeals to me?
I  pray  "Give us today our daily bread"  
As I pray do I continue to be concerned about the past or the future?
Why do I burden myself with these cares?
Each day I wait on the Lord knowing:  "The Lord is good to those who 
wait for him, to the person who seeks him"  (Lamentations 3: 25)
What does this waiting feel like for me?
I speak to God about the stick I have been given just for today. 
I imagine it as my walking stick wnich will support and guide me
throughout the day.
I remember to offer it back to God as the day ends.
I  believe God will give me a different stick tomorrow which will direct me!
YESTERDAY IS GONE, TOMORROW IS A MYSTERY  TODAY IS A BLESSING