Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:3
While Ephesians 5:20 encourages giving thanks always, this verse suggests that sorrow is better than laughter, implying a focus on introspection rather than gratitude.
Ecclesiastes 7:3: Sorrow [is] better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. [Sorrow: or, Anger]
Contradiction with Job 3:1
In contrast to always giving thanks, Job curses the day of his birth, expressing despair rather than gratitude.
Job 3:1: After this opened Job his mouth, and cursed his day.
Contradiction with Lamentations 3:1-3
This passage contradicts the notion of constant thankfulness by expressing deep personal suffering and perceived abandonment by God.
Lamentations 3:1-3: I [am] the man [that] hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath.
Contradiction with Psalm 88:1-3
This passage represents a cry for help and a sense of overwhelming trouble, presenting a contrast to the idea of giving thanks always.
Psalm 88:1-3: [A Song [or] Psalm for the sons of Korah, to the chief Musician upon Mahalath Leannoth, Maschil of Heman the Ezrahite.] O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day [and] night before thee: [for the sons: or, of the sons] [Maschil...: or, A Psalm of Heman the Ezrahite, giving instruction]
Contradiction with Habakkuk 1:2-3
In these verses, the prophet questions God's justice in the face of suffering, which stands in tension with the idea of continuous gratitude.
Habakkuk 1:2-3: O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! [even] cry out unto thee [of] violence, and thou wilt not save!
Contradiction with Jeremiah 20:14
Similar to Job, Jeremiah curses his birth, feeling anguish that contradicts the notion of always giving thanks.
Jeremiah 20:14: Cursed [be] the day wherein I was born: let not the day wherein my mother bare me be blessed.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in thanking God for everything if bad or evil things happen. They might question why one should be thankful for negative experiences or events that seem to contradict a loving or just nature of God.
Paradox #2
Ephesians 5:20 emphasizes giving thanks for everything. A contradiction could arise if someone interprets this to mean being thankful for genuinely harmful or unjust situations, which might seem at odds with the notion of standing against wrongdoing or advocating for justice.