Gratitude is inclusive
Brennan Manning said in his book Ruthless Truth - The Ragamuffin's Path to God that gratitude is inclusive:
Yes, gratitude is inclusive. As psychoanalyst Eric Erikson once noted, there are only two choices: integration and acceptance of our whole life story, or despair. Thus, the apostle Paul writes, "For all things give thanks to God, because this is what God expects you to do in Christ Jesus" (1 Thess. 5:18)
I think it's important to note that Paul says "all things" and not just the good stuff. Job (in the midst of incredible suffering) said "If we take happiness from God's hand, must we not take sorrow too?" (Job 1:10)
I would like to think that my acceptance of Jesus as my Lord and Savior completely shields me from hardship. Instead, I realize my relationship with Christ is meant to help through the pain and suffering, not avoid it altogether.
Being grateful in suffering certainly isn't a natural human response. But as I come to know Jesus in a deeper way, through prayer and reading scripture, I realize that He is with me all of the time and His love for me is so infinite that I my human brain can't comprehend its breadth and depth.
Until next time, take care...