Contradiction with Job 3:1
Job curses his day of birth, demonstrating a lack of thanksgiving in his suffering.
Job 3:1: After this opened Job his mouth, and cursed his day.
Contradiction with Psalm 10:1
The psalmist questions God's presence, reflecting a struggle to give thanks amidst feeling abandoned.
Psalm 10:1: Why standest thou afar off, O LORD? [why] hidest thou [thyself] in times of trouble?
Contradiction with Lamentations 3:1-6
The author laments his affliction and suffering, which contrasts with giving thanks in such trials.
Lamentations 3:1-6: I [am] the man [that] hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 2:17-18
The speaker expresses hatred for life and labor, showing difficulty in finding gratitude in his pursuits.
Ecclesiastes 2:17-18: Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under the sun [is] grievous unto me: for all [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.
Contradiction with Jonah 4:3
Jonah expresses despair and wishes for death, indicating a lack of thanksgiving for his situation.
Jonah 4:3: Therefore now, O LORD, take, I beseech thee, my life from me; for [it is] better for me to die than to live.
Paradox #1
1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages giving thanks in all circumstances. A contradiction could arise when facing situations of suffering or injustice, where expressing gratitude might feel inappropriate or insincere. It can seem conflicting to be thankful during events of pain or moral wrongdoing, potentially clashing with feelings of anger or a desire for change.