By nature, we are impatient and rebellious when things do not go as we want, proud and self-praising when things go well, and anxious and fearful when thinking of an unknown future. This is natural, because fallen man sees himself as the center of all things as God. That which does not go according to my desires is most upsetting, what serves my honor and glory is most important, and that which will happen in the future is in my weak hands or it will be determined by unknowns - more powerful people or forces. Therefore, I am fearful.

Only God the Holy Spirit can produce the three precious jewels of patience, thankfulness, and trust. Only experiential religion can produce true humility, submission, and patience when experiencing adversities, hardships, and disappointments. Only seeing God's providential hand, trusting that He has His good purpose, and knowing that, as a sinner, I do not deserve anything but the results of sin, can truly give peace and submission in times of affliction and trial.

Only Spirit-worked grace in our hearts can produce true thankfulness in prosperity. This grace will show us that any abilities we have are God-given. The health, capabilities, and opportunities to exercise them are from God, and the blessing of our efforts is also graciously given by Him. Only this truth can produce a truly humble thankfulness in times of prosperity. Despite how we may compare to others, the seeing of God's expectation for us in His law, will keep us humble.

Finally, only true, experiential faith in God will produce a calm trust for the future. Trust in God is trusting in the Almighty. Everything lies in His providential hands. The future may be unknown, but if we know the God of the future, we have everything.