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At a TriCity Church bible study of Philippians, the following verse was provided in regard to the Christian walk and the need for thankfulness by the follower.
Philippians 4: 6
English Standard Version (ESV)
6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Courson theologically connects staying at a place of joy in Christ with staying in prayer. (1292). In context he explains that prayer here is being in communication with God, while supplication is prayer made for specific requests. (1292).
Ephesians 5: 20 also came to mind.
Ephesians 5:18-21
English Standard Version (ESV)
18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Courson opines that the believer will be blessed and productive when giving thanks to God for all things in Christ. (1256).
In the last few month especially, I have focused on Matthew 6 and living one day at a time. I attempt to live a day at a time as far as problems are concerned, and I make certain that I focus on past and present blessings, which are substantial.
From a Reformed perspective (and personally my PhD/MPhil research forward) it can be understood that God wills all things as a primary cause, whether by perfect or permissible, divine will. Being thankful during suffering, especially, can be difficult. Biblically a believer needs to trust in the sanctification process as an aspect of salvation (Romans 6-8).
COURSON, JON (2005) Application Commentary, Thomas Nelson, Nashville.
