As I think about it, I wonder if even our prayers of thanks and praise can make for a better future and give God more to work with since they necessarily make us more aware of our blessedness and give us a more positive, hopeful and trusting orientation, thus changing the world as it is and making a better world possible.

I think of Jesus comment on faith in Matthew 25:29, “to the one that has, more will be given.” I think gratitude and praise open us to even greater blessing.

And then there is this: “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6) It would seem that in some way it is appropriate to give thanks for blessings that we trust will be bestowed.

Your comment opens up several new possibilities in thinking about prayer. Thanks!