EGW → Biblical Foundation
Select an Ellen White book from the sidebar to see each passage mapped to the Bible verses it amplifies, cites, or echoes.
Scripture Index
Ellen White & Bible Cross-Reference
Proverbs 23:2
"And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite."
"of too large quantities of food, and of too great a variety at one meal. Some are reformers in name only. They have no rules by which to regulate their diet, but indulge in eating fruit or nuts between their meals, and thus impose heavy burdens upon the digestive organs. GW 229.3"
Both passages address the issue of overeating and self-control. Proverbs 23:2 uses strong imagery to warn against excessive appetite, while the EGW passage discusses the dangers of eating too much food or too frequently. The EGW passage provides a specific example of the principle discussed in Proverbs.
"Carefully consider your diet. Study from cause to effect. Cultivate self-control. Keep appetite under the control of reason. Never abuse the stomach by overeating, but do not deprive yourself of the wholesome, palatable food that health demands. MH 323.2"
This verse advises putting a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite, which is a strong warning against overeating and aligns with the idea of keeping appetite under control.
Proverbs 23:3
"Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat."
"Persons who have accustomed themselves to a rich, highly stimulating diet have an unnatural taste, and they cannot at once relish food that is plain and simple. It will take time for the taste to become natural and for the stomach to recover from the abuse it has suffered. But those who persevere in the use of wholesome food will, after a time, find it palatable. Its delicate and delicious flavors will be appreciated, and it will be eaten with greater enjoyment than can be derived from unwholesome dainties. And the stomach, in a healthy condition, neither fevered nor overtaxed, can readily perform its task. MH 298.3"
Both passages warn against the dangers of rich, stimulating, or 'deceitful' foods. The EGW quote elaborates on the process of adapting to a simpler diet, while Proverbs warns against desiring dainties. There's a clear thematic parallel regarding the dangers of unhealthy food.
Proverbs 23:4
"Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom."
"Says the wise man, “Labor not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.” “He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.” Proverbs 23:4 ; 15:27 . And the apostle Paul declares, “They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.” 1 Timothy 6:9 . PP 168.2"
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 23:4 in this passage.
"mind constantly strained upon business affairs will injure the health of both mind and body. CE 167.2"
Both passages warn against excessive focus on wealth and business, suggesting it can be detrimental. EGW focuses on the health consequences, while Proverbs advises against striving for riches.
Proverbs 23:4-5
"Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven."
It is frequently the case that aged persons are unwilling to realize and acknowledge that their mental strength is failing. They shorten their days by taking care which belongs to their children. Satan often plays upon their imagination and leads them to feel a continual anxiety in regard to their money. It is their idol, and they hoard it with miserly care. They will sometimes deprive themselves of many of the comforts of life, and labor beyond their strength, rather than use the means which they have. In this way they place themselves in continual want, through fear that sometime in the future they shall want. All these fears originate with Satan. He excites the organs which lead to slavish fears and jealousies which corrupt nobleness of soul and destroy elevated thoughts and feelings. Such persons are insane upon the subject of money. If they would take the position which God would have them, their last days might be their best and happiest. Those who have children in whose honesty …
Both passages warn against striving for riches and the fleeting nature of wealth. The EGW passage illustrates this principle in the context of elderly individuals excessively worrying about their finances.
Proverbs 23:7
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee."
"Always act from principle, never from impulse. Temper the natural impetuosity of your nature with meekness and gentleness. Indulge in no lightness or trifling. Let no low witticism escape your lips. Even the thoughts are not to be allowed to run riot. They must be restrained, brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. Let them be placed upon holy things. Then, through the grace of Christ, they will be pure and true. MH 491.2 We need a constant sense of the ennobling power of pure thoughts. The only security for any soul is right thinking. As a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Proverbs 23:7 . The power of self-restraint strengthens by exercise. That which at first seems difficult, by constant repetition grows easy, until right thoughts and actions become habitual. If we will we may turn away from all that is cheap and inferior, and rise to a high standard; we may be respected by men and beloved of God. MH 491.3"
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 23:7 in this passage.
"When the thought of evil is loved and cherished, however secretly, said Jesus, it shows that sin still reigns in the heart. The soul is still in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. He who finds pleasure in dwelling upon scenes of impurity, who indulges the evil thought, the lustful look, may behold in the open sin, with its burden of shame and heart-breaking grief, the true nature of the evil which he has hidden in the chambers of the soul. The season of temptation, under which, it may be, one falls into grievous sin, does not create the evil that is revealed, but only develops or makes manifest that which was hidden and latent in the heart. As a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he;” for out of the heart “are the issues of life.” Proverbs 23:7 ; 4:23 . MB 60.1"
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 23:7 in this passage.
"By Faith to Conquest The truth that as a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he” ( Proverbs 23:7 ), finds another illustration in Israel's experience. On the borders of Canaan the spies, returned from searching the country, made their report. The beauty and fruitfulness of the land were lost sight of through fear of the difficulties in the way of its occupation. The cities walled up to heaven, the giant warriors, the iron chariots, daunted their faith. Leaving God out of the question, the multitude echoed the decision of the unbelieving spies, “We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.” Numbers 13:31 . Their words proved true. They were not able to go up, and they wore out their lives in the desert. Ed 149"
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 23:7 in this passage.
"Disease is sometimes produced, and is often greatly aggravated, by the imagination. Many are lifelong invalids who might be well if they only thought so. Many imagine that every slight exposure will cause illness, and the evil effect is produced because it is expected. Many die from disease the cause of which is wholly imaginary. MH 241.2"
The proverb states that a man is as he thinks in his heart. EGW directly applies this principle to health, stating that imagination and expectation can produce or aggravate disease. This is a direct application of the proverb's principle.
"There are many invalids today who will ever remain so because they cannot be convinced that their experience is not reliable. The brain is the capital of the body, the seat of all the nervous forces and of mental action. The nerves proceeding from the brain control the body. By the brain nerves, mental impressions are conveyed to all the nerves of the body as by telegraph wires; and they control the vital action of every part of the system. All the organs of motion are governed by the communications they receive from the brain. 3T 69.3"
Both passages connect thoughts/mind with physical well-being. Proverbs speaks of the heart's influence on a person's character and actions, while EGW speaks of the brain's influence on the body's health. The connection is thematic, not direct, but meaningful.
"The stomach is closely related to the brain; and when the stomach is diseased, the nerve power is called from the brain to the aid of the weakened digestive organs. When these demands are too frequent, the brain becomes congested. When the brain is constantly taxed, and there is lack of physical exercise, even plain food should be eaten sparingly. At mealtime cast off care and anxious thought; do not feel hurried, but eat slowly and with cheerfulness, with your heart filled with gratitude to God for all His blessings. MH 306.1"
Both passages connect thoughts/heart with eating habits. Proverbs 23:7 speaks to the insincerity of a person's hospitality if their heart isn't genuine, while EGW discusses the importance of a positive mental state during meals for proper digestion. There is a thematic parallel between the mind/heart and the act of eating.
"It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought, that is needed. Moral purity depends on right thinking and right acting. Evil thoughts destroy the soul, while a right control of the thoughts prepares the mind to labor harmoniously for the Master. Every thought should be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. GW 126.3"
Proverbs 23:7 states that a person is as they think in their heart. EGW echoes this principle by stating that moral purity depends on right thinking and acting, and that evil thoughts destroy the soul. The connection is a direct application of the proverb's principle.
"Those who obey the laws of health will give time and thought to the needs of the body and to the laws of digestion. And they will be rewarded by clearness of thought and strength of mind. On the other hand, it is possible for one to spoil his Christian experience by abuse of the stomach. Those things that derange the digestion have a benumbing influence on the finer feelings of the heart. That which darkens the skin and makes it dingy also clouds the spirits and destroys cheerfulness and peace of mind. Every habit that injures the health reacts upon the mind. That time is well spent which is directed to the establishment and preservation of sound physical and mental health. Firm, quiet nerves and a healthy circulation help men to follow right principles and to listen to the promptings of conscience. CT 298.2"
The connection is weak, but Proverbs 23:7 touches on the connection between the heart/mind and physical actions (eating). EGW elaborates on how diet affects mental clarity and Christian experience. The link is not strong enough for a 'thematic parallel' but there is a possible connection.
"Teachers should understand these things, and should instruct their pupils in these lines. Teach the students that right living depends on right thinking, and that physical activity is essential to purity of thought. Ed 209.4"
Both passages connect thoughts and actions/character. However, Proverbs 23:7 focuses on hypocrisy, while EGW focuses on the general principle of right thinking leading to right living. Therefore, it's a thematic parallel rather than a direct principle.
Proverbs 23:20
"Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:"
"As children emerge from babyhood, great care should still be taken in educating their tastes and appetite. Often they are permitted to eat what they choose and when they choose, without reference to health. The pains and money so often lavished upon unwholesome dainties lead the young to think that the highest object in life, and that which yields the greatest amount of happiness, is to be able to indulge the appetite. The result of this training is gluttony, then comes sickness, which is usually followed by dosing with poisonous drugs. MH 384.1"
The EGW quote warns against allowing children to overindulge in food, leading to gluttony. Proverbs 23:20 directly advises against associating with 'riotous eaters of flesh,' which aligns with the principle of avoiding excessive indulgence in food. The connection is clear and direct.
"eating. Some eat too much at their meals, and some eat between meals whenever the temptation is presented. CT 297.3"
Both passages address overeating. Proverbs warns against being among 'riotous eaters,' while EGW speaks against eating too much at meals or between meals.
"Many who discard flesh meats and other gross and injurious articles think that because their food is simple and wholesome they may indulge appetite without restraint, and they eat to excess, sometimes to gluttony. This is an error. The digestive organs should not be burdened with a quantity or quality of food which it will tax the system to appropriate. MH 306.2"
Both passages address the dangers of overeating and gluttony, although the EGW passage focuses more broadly on dietary habits while the proverb specifically mentions 'riotous eaters of flesh'.
"Every day men in positions of trust have decisions to make upon which depend results of great importance. Often they have to think rapidly, and this can be done successfully by those only who practice strict temperance. The mind strengthens under the correct treatment of the physical and mental powers. If the strain is not too great, new vigor comes with every taxation. But often the work of those who have important plans to consider and important decisions to make is affected for evil by the results of improper diet. A disordered stomach produces a disordered, uncertain state of mind. Often it causes irritability, harshness, or injustice. Many a plan that would have been a blessing to the world has been set aside, many unjust, oppressive, even cruel measures have been carried, as the result of diseased conditions due to wrong habits of eating. GW 229.2"
Both passages warn against overindulgence in food and drink. Proverbs 23:20 specifically mentions winebibbers and riotous eaters of flesh, while the EGW passage discusses the negative consequences of improper diet on decision-making and mental clarity. There is a clear thematic parallel.
"Here is a suggestion for all whose work is sedentary or chiefly mental; let those who have sufficient moral courage and self-control try it: At each meal take only two or three kinds of simple food, and eat no more than is required to satisfy hunger. Take active exercise every day, and see if you do not receive benefit. MH 310.1"
This verse warns against being among riotous eaters of flesh, which supports the idea of simple eating habits for better health.
"In the time of John the Baptist, greed for riches, and the love of luxury and display had become widespread. Sensuous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were causing physical disease and degeneracy, benumbing the spiritual perceptions, and lessening the sensibility to sin. John was to stand as a reformer. By his abstemious life and plain dress he was to rebuke the excesses of his time. Hence the directions given to the parents of John,—a lesson of temperance by an angel from the throne of heaven. DA 100.5"
The EGW passage discusses the excesses of John the Baptist's time, including feasting and drinking, which aligns with the Proverb's warning against being among 'winebibbers' and 'riotous eaters of flesh.' While not a direct quote, the thematic connection is present.
I have said to myself: I do not wonder at it. It is your manner of preparing food that makes it so unpalatable. To eat such food would certainly give one the dyspepsia. These poor cooks, and those who have to eat their food, will gravely tell you that the health reform does not agree with them. The stomach has not power to convert poor, heavy, sour bread into good; but this poor bread will convert a healthy stomach into a diseased one. Those who eat such food know that they are failing in strength. Is there not a cause? Some of these persons call themselves health reformers, but they are not. They do not know how to cook. They prepare cakes, potatoes, and graham bread, but there is the same round, with scarcely a variation, and the system is not strengthened. They seem to think the time wasted which is devoted to obtaining a thorough experience in the preparation of healthful, palatable food. Some act as though that which they eat were lost, and anything they could toss into the stomac…
Both passages address the importance of moderation and avoiding unhealthy eating habits. Proverbs 23:20 warns against being a 'riotous eater of flesh,' while EGW's passage discusses the negative effects of poorly prepared food and unhealthy diets.
"Diet and Mental Development The relation of diet to intellectual development should be given far more attention than it has received. Mental confusion and dullness are often the result of errors in diet. Ed 204"
While Proverbs 23:20 warns against overindulgence, EGW makes a more direct connection between diet and mental clarity. The connection is possible, but not a strong direct principle.
Proverbs 23:20-21
"Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags."
"Abstemiousness in diet is rewarded with mental and moral vigor; it also aids in the control of the passions. Overeating is especially harmful to those who are sluggish in temperament; these should eat sparingly and take plenty of physical exercise. There are men and women of excellent natural ability who do not accomplish half what they might if they would exercise self-control in the denial of appetite. MH 308.2"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of abstemiousness leading to health and self-control, while overeating leads to negative consequences, as described in Proverbs 23:20-21.
"And overeating, even of the most wholesome food, is to be guarded against. Nature can use no more than is required for building up the various organs of the body, and excess clogs the system. Many a student is supposed to have broken down from overstudy, when the real cause was overeating. While proper attention is given to the laws of health, there is little danger from mental taxation; but in many cases of so-called mental failure it is the overcrowding of the stomach that wearies the body and weakens the mind. Ed 205.2"
Both passages address the dangers of overeating and its negative consequences. Proverbs focuses on poverty and drowsiness, while EGW focuses on physical and mental impairment. The core theme of avoiding excess is present in both.
"Selection of Food Those foods should be chosen that best supply the elements needed for building up the body. In this choice, appetite is not a safe guide. Through wrong habits of eating, the appetite has become perverted. Often it demands food that impairs health and causes weakness instead of strength. We cannot safely be guided by the customs of society. The disease and suffering that everywhere prevail are largely due to popular errors in regard to diet. MH 295"
Both passages warn against overindulgence and its negative consequences. The EGW passage discusses how a perverted appetite can lead to health problems, while Proverbs warns against being a 'riotous eater of flesh' and the resulting poverty and drowsiness. The shared theme is the danger of uncontrolled appetite and its detrimental effects.
"Scanty, ill-cooked food depraves the blood by weakening the blood-making organs. It deranges the system and brings on disease, with its accompaniment of irritable nerves and bad tempers. The victims of poor cookery are numbered by thousands and tens of thousands. Over many graves might be written: “Died because of poor cooking;” “Died of an abused stomach.” MH 302.2"
Both passages link poor diet to negative consequences. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns against gluttony leading to poverty, while the EGW passage attributes disease and poor health to inadequate and poorly prepared food. Both highlight the importance of proper nourishment.
"Regularity should be the rule in all the habits of children. Mothers make a great mistake in permitting them to eat between meals. The stomach becomes deranged by this practice, and the foundation is laid for future suffering. Their fretfulness may have been caused by unwholesome food, still undigested; but the mother feels that she cannot spend time to reason upon the matter and correct her injurious management. Neither can she stop to soothe their impatient worrying. She gives the little sufferers a piece of cake or some other dainty to quiet them, but this only increases the evil. Some mothers, in their anxiety to do a great amount of work, get wrought up into such nervous haste that they are more irritable than the children, and by scolding and even blows they try to terrify the little ones into quietude. CE 163.1"
Both passages address the dangers of overindulgence and its consequences. The EGW passage focuses on the negative effects of children eating between meals, while the Bible verse warns against being among winebibbers and riotous eaters. The connection is thematic, as both relate to the importance of moderation and self-control in eating habits.
"Again, when we eat immoderately, we sin against our own bodies. Upon the Sabbath, in the house of God, gluttons will sit and sleep under the burning truths of God's word. They can neither keep their eyes open, nor comprehend the solemn discourses given. Do you think that such are glorifying God in their bodies and spirits, which are His? No; they dishonor Him. And the dyspeptic—what has made him dyspeptic is taking this course. Instead of observing regularity, he has let appetite control him, and has eaten between meals. Perhaps, if his habits are sedentary, he has not had the vitalizing air of heaven to help in the work of digestion; he may not have had sufficient exercise for his health. 2T 374.1"
Both passages address the dangers of gluttony. EGW describes the consequences of immoderate eating, such as drowsiness and inability to comprehend spiritual truths, which aligns with the warning in Proverbs about the glutton's path to poverty and drowsiness.
"Many eat at all hours, regardless of the laws of health. Then gloom covers the mind. How can men be honored with divine enlightenment, when they are so reckless in their habits, so inattentive to the light which God has given in regard to these things? GW 241.2"
Both passages address the negative consequences of overeating and unhealthy habits. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns against gluttony leading to poverty, while the EGW passage connects unhealthy eating habits to mental gloom and a lack of divine enlightenment. The theme of negative consequences from poor eating habits is present in both.
I was shown that there is a much greater work before us than we as yet have any idea of, if we would ensure health by placing ourselves in the right relation to life. Dr. A has been doing a great and good work in the treatment of disease and in enlightening those who have all their lives been in ignorance in regard to the relation that eating, drinking, and working sustain to health. God in His mercy has given His people light through His humble instrument that in order to overcome disease they must deny a depraved appetite and practice temperance in all things. He has caused great light to shine upon their pathway. Shall those who are “looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works,” be behind the religionists of the day who have no faith in the soon appearing of our Saviour? The peculiar people w…
Both passages address the importance of avoiding overindulgence in food and drink, and the negative consequences that can result.
"The habit of overeating, or of eating too many kinds of food at one meal, frequently causes dyspepsia. Serious injury is thus done to the delicate digestive organs. In vain the stomach protests and appeals to the brain to reason from cause to effect. The excessive amount of food eaten, or the improper combination, does its injurious work. In vain do disagreeable premonitions give warning. Suffering is the consequence. Disease takes the place of health. 7T 257.3"
EGW describes the consequences of overeating and improper diet, which parallels the warning against gluttony in Proverbs 23:20-21. Both passages highlight the negative effects of excessive eating.
Proverbs 23:21
"For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags."
"We may give to the poor, and harm them, by teaching them to be dependent. Such giving encourages selfishness and helplessness. Often it leads to idleness, extravagance, and intemperance. No man who can earn his own livelihood has a right to depend on others. The proverb “The world owes me a living” has in it the essence of falsehood, fraud, and robbery. The world owes no man a living who is able to work and gain a living for himself. MH 195.1"
Both passages link negative behaviors (drunkenness/gluttony and idleness/extravagance) with poverty. While the specific behaviors differ slightly, the overall theme of negative choices leading to poverty is present in both.
Proverbs 23:22
"Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old."
"I again plead a mother's claim, a mother's love. There can be no baser ingratitude than that which marks the sin of disobedience to a Christian mother. In the days of your helpless infancy she watched over you; her prayers and tears were witnessed of heaven as she affectionately cherished you. For her children she has toiled and planned, thought, prayed, and exercised self-denial. Through your whole life her true heart has been anxious and earnest for your welfare. And yet now you choose your own course; you follow your own blind, stubborn will, irrespective of the bitter harvest you will reap and the sorrow you will bring upon her. 5T 125.2"
The EGW passage aligns with the principle in Proverbs 23:22, which advises against despising one's mother when she is old. EGW expands on the reasons why a mother deserves respect and obedience, especially considering her sacrifices and love.
Children who are Christians will prefer the love and approbation of their God-fearing parents above every earthly blessing. They will love and honor their parents. It should be one of the principal studies of their lives, how to make their parents happy. In this rebellious age, children who have not received right instruction and discipline have but little sense of their obligations to their parents. It is often the case that the more their parents do for them, the more ungrateful they are, and the less they respect them. Children who have been petted and waited upon, always expect it; and if their expectations are not met, they are disappointed and discouraged. This same disposition will be seen through their whole lives; they will be helpless, leaning upon others for aid, expecting others to favor them and yield to them. And if they are opposed, even after they have grown to manhood and womanhood, they think themselves abused; and thus they worry their way through the world, hardly a…
Both passages emphasize the importance of listening to and respecting parents, particularly as they age. EGW elaborates on the practical implications of this respect, while Proverbs 23:22 provides a concise command.
Proverbs 23:23
"Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding."
"In all cases educate the conscience, enlist the will, supply good, wholesome food, and the change will be readily made, and the demand for flesh will soon cease. MH 317.1"
The passage emphasizes educating the conscience and enlisting the will, which aligns with the idea of seeking truth and wisdom.
Proverbs 23:26
"My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways."
"Jesus calls to every wanderer, “My son, give Me thine heart.” [ Proverbs 23:26 .] “Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.” [ Jeremiah 3:22 .] The youth cannot be truly happy without the love of Jesus. He is waiting with pitying tenderness to hear the confessions of the wayward, and to accept their penitence. He watches for some return of gratitude from them, as the mother watches for the smile of recognition from her beloved babe. The great God teaches us to call Him Father. He would have us understand how earnestly and tenderly His heart yearns over us in all our trials and temptations. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [ Psalm 103:13 .] The mother might sooner forget her child than God could forget one soul that trusts Him. GW 209.2"
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 23:26 in this passage.
"The greatest praise that men can bring to God is to become consecrated channels through whom He can work. Time is rapidly passing into eternity. Let us not keep back from God that which is His own. Let us not refuse Him that which, though it cannot be given with merit, cannot be denied without ruin. He asks for a whole heart; give it to Him; it is His, both by creation and by redemption. He asks for your intellect; give it to Him; it is His. He asks for your money; give it to Him; it is His. “Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20 . God requires the homage of a sanctified soul, which has prepared itself, by the exercise of the faith that works by love, to serve Him. He holds up before us the highest ideal, even perfection. He asks us to be absolutely and completely for Him in this world as He is for us in the presence of God. AA 566.1"
The EGW quote directly echoes the sentiment of Proverbs 23:26, urging the reader to give their heart (and by extension, all aspects of themselves) to God. The 1 Corinthians 6:19,20 reference further strengthens the connection.
Proverbs 23:29-30
"Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine."
"Intoxication is just as really produced by wine, beer, and cider as by stronger drinks. The use of these drinks awakens the taste for those that are stronger, and thus the liquor habit is established. Moderate drinking is the school in which men are educated for the drunkard's career. Yet so insidious is the work of these milder stimulants that the highway to drunkenness is entered before the victim suspects his danger. MH 332.2"
Both passages discuss the progression from moderate drinking to drunkenness and its negative consequences. The EGW passage explicitly states that moderate drinking leads to the liquor habit, while Proverbs 23:29-30 describes the woes and sorrows associated with those who tarry long at the wine.
"The Work of the Liquor Seller This scripture pictures the work of those who manufacture and who sell intoxicating liquor. Their business means robbery. For the money they receive, no equivalent is returned. Every dollar they add to their gains has brought a curse to the spender. MH 337"
Both passages describe the negative consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. Proverbs 23:29-30 lists woes associated with drinking, while EGW connects the liquor seller's business to misery and ruin.
"Thousands and tens of thousands might be working upon the soil who are crowded into the cities, watching for a chance to earn a trifle. In many cases this trifle is not spent for bread, but is put into the till of the liquor seller, to obtain that which destroys soul and body. MH 189.3"
The passage describes the destructive effects of alcohol consumption, mirroring the warnings against it in Proverbs 23:29-30.
"Condiments In this fast age, the less exciting the food, the better. Condiments are injurious in their nature. Mustard, pepper, spices, pickles, and other things of a like character, irritate the stomach and make the blood feverish and impure. The inflamed condition of the drunkard's stomach is often pictured as illustrating the effect of alcoholic liquors. A similarly inflamed condition is produced by the use of irritating condiments. Soon ordinary food does not satisfy the appetite. The system feels a want, a craving, for something more stimulating. MH 325"
Both passages address the negative consequences of intemperance. Proverbs 23:29-30 describes the effects of excessive wine consumption, while the EGW passage draws a parallel between the effects of condiments and alcohol, leading to a craving for more stimulation. The connection is thematic and relevant.
Proverbs 23:29-35
"Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things. Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast. They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again."
"This is the worst kind of robbery. Yet men in high positions in society and in the church lend their influence in favor of license laws! ...Thus society is corrupted, work-houses and prisons are crowded with paupers and criminals, and the gallows is supplied with victims. The evil ends not with the drunkard and his unhappy family. The burdens of taxation are increased, the morals of the young are imperiled, the property and even the life of every member of society is endangered. But the picture may be presented never so vividly, and yet it falls short of the reality. No human pen can fully delineate the horrors of intemperance.... GW 386.3"
Both passages vividly describe the negative consequences of alcohol consumption. Proverbs 23:29-35 details the woes and sorrows associated with heavy drinking, while EGW paints a picture of societal corruption, poverty, crime, and death resulting from intemperance.
"Every year millions upon millions of gallons of intoxicating liquors are consumed. Millions upon millions of dollars are spent in buying wretchedness, poverty, disease, degradation, lust, crime, and death. For the sake of gain, the liquor seller deals out to his victims that which corrupts and destroys mind and body. He entails on the drunkard's family poverty and wretchedness. MH 338.1"
The Proverbs passage vividly describes the negative consequences of excessive drinking, including woe, sorrow, contentions, wounds, and altered perception. The EGW passage echoes these consequences, listing wretchedness, poverty, disease, degradation, lust, crime, and death as results of alcohol consumption. The connection is strong and thematic.
"Day by day, month by month, year by year, the work goes on. Fathers and husbands and brothers, the stay and hope and pride of the nation, are steadily passing into the liquor dealer's haunts, to be sent back wrecked and ruined. MH 339.2"
The Proverbs passage vividly describes the effects of alcohol abuse, including woe, sorrow, contentions, wounds, and altered perception. The EGW passage echoes this by describing the ruin and wreckage caused by alcohol, aligning with the consequences detailed in Proverbs.
"Temperance work also came prominently to the front in the times of volume 4. Seventh-day Adventists, with Mrs. White as one of their leading speakers, were prominently in the front, often in association with established temperance organizations. The practical way in which they labored to stem the tide of intemperance is told by Mrs. White in her chapter, “Experience and Labors,” Found in the heart of this book. 4T 6.2"
The EGW passage mentions temperance work and Seventh-day Adventists' involvement in it. This thematically parallels Proverbs 23:29-35, which warns against the dangers of alcohol and its effects. Both passages address the issue of intemperance and its negative consequences.
Those who make a change and leave off these unnatural stimulants will for a time feel their loss and suffer considerably without them, as does the drunkard who is wedded to his liquor. Take away intoxicating drinks and he suffers terribly. But if he persists he will soon overcome the dreadful lack. Nature will come to his aid and remain at her post until he again substitutes the false prop in her place. Some have so benumbed the fine sensibilities of Nature that it may require a little time for her to recover from the abuse she has been made to suffer through the sinful habits of man, the indulgence of an acquired, depraved appetite, which has depressed and weakened her powers. Give Nature a chance, and she will rally and again perform her part nobly and well. The use of unnatural stimulants is destructive to health and has a benumbing influence upon the brain, making it impossible to appreciate eternal things. Those who cherish these idols cannot rightly value the salvation which Chri…
Both passages describe the negative effects of addictive substances and the withdrawal symptoms experienced when one tries to quit. Proverbs 23 focuses on wine, while EGW broadens the scope to include other stimulants, but the underlying principle of addiction and its consequences is the same.
"Often intemperance begins in the home. By the use of rich, unhealthful food the digestive organs are weakened, and a desire is created for food that is still more stimulating. Thus the appetite is educated to crave continually something stronger. The demand for stimulants becomes more frequent and more difficult to resist. The system becomes more or less filled with poison, and the more debilitated it becomes, the greater is the desire for these things. One step in the wrong direction prepares the way for another. Many who would not be guilty of placing on their table wine or liquor of any kind will load their table with food which creates such a thirst for strong drink that to resist the temptation is almost impossible. Wrong habits of eating and drinking destroy the health and prepare the way for drunkenness. MH 334.1"
This passage describes the progression of intemperance and its effects, mirroring the description of how intemperance begins in the home and leads to stronger cravings.
Proverbs 23:31
"Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright."
"Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, When it giveth his color in the cup, When it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, And stingeth like an adder.” Proverbs 20:1 ; 23:29-32 . MH 330.2"
EGW directly quotes Proverbs 23:31.
"The Milder Intoxicants Persons who have inherited an appetite for unnatural stimulants should by no means have wine, beer, or cider in their sight, or within their reach; for this keeps the temptation constantly before them. Regarding sweet cider as harmless, many have no scruples in purchasing it freely. But it remains sweet for a short time only; then fermentation begins. The sharp taste which it then acquires makes it all the more acceptable to many palates, and the user is loath to admit that it has become hard, or fermented. MH 331"
Both passages warn against the dangers of alcohol, specifically focusing on the temptation and potential harm associated with it. The EGW passage expands on the specific example of cider, while Proverbs warns against looking at wine.
"In relation to tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcoholic drinks, the only safe course is to touch not, taste not, handle not. The tendency of tea, coffee, and similar drinks is in the same direction as that of alcoholic liquor and tobacco, and in some cases the habit is as difficult to break as it is for the drunkard to give up intoxicants. Those who attempt to leave off these stimulants will for a time feel a loss and will suffer without them. But by persistence they will overcome the craving and cease to feel the lack. Nature may require a little time to recover from the abuse she has suffered; but give her a chance, and she will again rally and perform her work nobly and well. MH 335.3"
Both passages advocate abstaining from intoxicating substances. Proverbs 23:31 warns against even looking at wine, while EGW applies a similar principle to tea, coffee, and alcohol, urging complete avoidance.
Proverbs 23:32
"At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder."
"Because of these results, many suppose that their tea or coffee is doing them great good. But this is a mistake. Tea and coffee do not nourish the system. Their effect is produced before there has been time for digestion and assimilation, and what seems to be strength is only nervous excitement. When the influence of the stimulant is gone, the unnatural force abates, and the result is a corresponding degree of languor and debility. MH 326.2"
The EGW passage describes the initial exhilarating effect of stimulants followed by a crash, which directly parallels the warning in Proverbs 23:32 about the eventual negative consequences of indulgence. The 'biting like a serpent' is a strong metaphor for the after-effects described by EGW.
"Prohibition The man who has formed the habit of using intoxicants is in a desperate situation. His brain is diseased, his will power is weakened. So far as any power in himself is concerned, his appetite is uncontrollable. He cannot be reasoned with or persuaded to deny himself. Drawn into the dens of vice, one who has resolved to quit drink is led to seize the glass again, and with the first taste of the intoxicant every good resolution is overpowered, every vestige of will destroyed. One taste of the maddening draft, and all thought of its results has vanished. The heartbroken wife is forgotten. The debauched father no longer cares that his children are hungry and naked. By legalizing the traffic, the law gives its sanction to this downfall of the soul and refuses to stop the trade that fills the world with evil. MH 344"
The proverb describes the eventual destructive consequences of alcohol, which aligns with EGW's description of the drunkard's state.