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
Psalms 23:1
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
"“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.... Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1-4 . Ed 164.2"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 23:1.
"The Spirit of God rested upon me with such power that I was unable to go home that night. When I did return, on the following day, a great change had taken place in my mind. It seemed to me that I could hardly be the same person that left my father's house the previous evening. This passage was continually in my thoughts: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” My heart was full of happiness as I softly repeated these words. 1T 31.2 My views of the Father were changed. I now looked upon Him as a kind and tender parent, rather than a stern tyrant compelling men to a blind obedience. My heart went out toward Him in a deep and fervent love. Obedience to His will seemed a joy; it was a pleasure to be in His service. No shadow clouded the light that revealed to me the perfect will of God. I felt the assurance of an indwelling Saviour, and realized the truth of what Christ had said: “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” 1T 31.3"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 23:1.
"This figure the prophet Isaiah had applied to the Messiah's mission, in the comforting words, “O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! ... He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:9-11 . David had sung, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1 . And the Holy Spirit through Ezekiel had declared: “I will set up one Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them.” “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick.” “And I will make with them a covenant of peace.” “And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen; ... but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid.” Ezekiel 34:23, 16, 25, 28 . DA 476.3"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 23:1 in this passage.
The Spirit of God rested upon me with such power that I was unable to go home that night. When I awakened to realization, I found myself cared for in the house of my uncle, where we had assembled for the prayer meeting. Neither my uncle nor my aunt enjoyed religion, although the former had once made a profession, but had since backslidden. I was told that he had been greatly disturbed while the power of God rested upon me in so special a manner, and had walked the floor, sorely troubled and distressed in his mind. LS 38.2 When I was first struck down, some of those present were greatly alarmed, and were about to run for a physician, thinking that some sudden and dangerous indisposition had attacked me; but my mother bade them let me alone, for it was plain to her, and to the other experienced Christians, that it was the wondrous power of God that had prostrated me. When I did return home, on the following day, a great change had taken place in my mind. It seemed to me that I could hard…
Ellen White directly references Psalms 23:1 in this passage.
"Through song, David, amidst the vicissitudes of his changeful life, held communion with heaven. How sweetly are his experiences as a shepherd lad reflected in the words: Ed 164.1"
EGW connects David's experiences as a shepherd with the sentiment expressed in Psalm 23:1. While not a direct quote, the connection is clear and meaningful.
"Let us be hopeful and courageous. Despondency in God's service is sinful and unreasonable. He knows our every necessity. To the omnipotence of the King of kings our covenant-keeping God unites the gentleness and care of the tender shepherd. His power is absolute, and it is the pledge of the sure fulfillment of His promises to all who trust in Him. He has means for the removal of every difficulty, that those who serve Him and respect the means He employs may be sustained. His love is as far above all other love as the heavens are above the earth. He watches over His children with a love that is measureless and everlasting. MH 481.4"
The EGW passage explicitly uses the shepherd metaphor and connects it to God's care, directly alluding to Psalm 23:1 and expanding on the concept of God as a caring shepherd.
"God was teaching David lessons of trust. As Moses was trained for his work, so the Lord was fitting the son of Jesse to become the guide of His chosen people. In his watchcare for his flocks, he was gaining an appreciation of the care that the Great Shepherd has for the sheep of His pasture. PP 644.1"
The EGW passage directly connects David's shepherding experience to understanding God as the Great Shepherd, which is the central theme of Psalm 23:1. This is a clear and meaningful thematic parallel.
"“Let us be hopeful and courageous. Despondency in God's service is sinful and unreasonable. He knows our every necessity. He has all power. He can bestow upon His servants the measure of efficiency that their need demands. His infinite love and compassion never weary. With the majesty of omnipotence He unites the gentleness and care of a tender shepherd. We need have no fear that He will not fulfill His promises. He is eternal truth. Never will He change the covenant that He has made with those that love Him. His promises to His church stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellence, a joy of many generations.” Testimonies for the Church 8:38, 39 . LS 308.3"
The EGW passage uses the shepherd metaphor and the idea of God's care and provision, which is a clear thematic parallel to Psalm 23:1. The passage expands on the shepherd imagery, emphasizing God's love, compassion, and power.
"As an earthly shepherd knows his sheep, so does the divine Shepherd know His flock that are scattered throughout the world. “Ye My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord God.” Jesus says, “I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine.” “I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands.” Ezekiel 34:31 ; Isaiah 43:1 ; 49:16 . DA 479.2"
Both passages use the shepherd/sheep analogy. While Psalms 23:1 is a general statement, the EGW passage expands on the concept of God as a shepherd.
"When his services were not required at the court of Saul, David returned to his flocks among the hills and continued to maintain his simplicity of spirit and demeanor. Whenever it was necessary, he was recalled to minister before the king, to soothe the mind of the troubled monarch till the evil spirit should depart from him. But although Saul expressed delight in David and his music, the young shepherd went from the king's house to the fields and hills of his pasture with a sense of relief and gladness. PP 643.2"
The EGW passage describes David returning to his shepherding duties, which thematically aligns with the idea of God as a shepherd in Psalm 23:1. The connection is not a direct quote or explicit allusion, but a parallel in the role of a shepherd.
"David in his youth was intimately associated with Saul, and his stay at court and his connection with the king's household gave him an insight into the cares and sorrows and perplexities concealed by the glitter and pomp of royalty. He saw of how little worth is human glory to bring peace to the soul. And it was with relief and gladness that he returned from the king's court to the sheepfolds and the flocks. Ed 152.1"
The EGW quote describes David's relief in returning to the simplicity of shepherding, contrasting it with the complexities of court life. This thematically aligns with the sentiment of Psalm 23:1, which expresses contentment and security in God's care, similar to a shepherd's care for his sheep.
"Who can measure the results of those years of toil and wandering among the lonely hills? The communion with nature and with God, the care of his flocks, the perils and deliverances, the griefs and joys, of his lowly lot, were not only to mold the character of David and to influence his future life, but through the psalms of Israel's sweet singer they were in all coming ages to kindle love and faith in the hearts of God's people, bringing them nearer to the ever-loving heart of Him in whom all His creatures live. PP 642.1"
The EGW passage discusses David's experiences as a shepherd and how they shaped him and his psalms, which in turn inspire faith. Psalm 23:1, a famous shepherd psalm attributed to David, directly reflects this theme. The connection is valid and meaningful.
"“He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock. For the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he. Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.... I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow. And I will satiate the soul of the priests with fatness, and My people shall be satisfied with My goodness, saith the Lord.” PK 475.2"
While the EGW passage quotes Jeremiah extensively, the phrase 'shepherd doth his flock' evokes the imagery of Psalm 23:1. The connection is thematic, focusing on God's care and provision for His people, but not a direct quote or explicit allusion.
Psalms 23:1-4
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."
"“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.... Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1-4 . Ed 164.2"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 23:1-4 in this passage.
Psalms 23:2
"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters."
"“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.... Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1-4 . Ed 164.2"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 23:2.
"Why deprive patients of the health-restoring blessing to be found in outdoor life? I have been instructed that as the sick are encouraged to leave their rooms and spend time in the open air, cultivating flowers, or doing some other light, pleasant work, their minds will be called from self to something more health-giving. Exercise in the open air should be prescribed as a beneficial, life-giving necessity. The longer patients can be kept out of doors the less care will they require. The more cheerful their surroundings, the more hopeful will they be. Surround them with the beautiful things of nature; place them where they can see the flowers growing and hear the birds singing, and their hearts will break into song in harmony with the song of the birds. Shut them in rooms, and, be these rooms ever so elegantly furnished, they will grow fretful and gloomy. Give them the blessing of outdoor life; thus their souls will be uplifted. Relief will come to body and mind. 7T 82.4"
Both passages highlight the restorative power of nature. Psalm 23:2 speaks of green pastures and still waters, while the EGW passage emphasizes the benefits of outdoor life, flowers, and birdsong for healing and mental well-being. The connection is strong and meaningful.
Psalms 23:3
"He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake."
"comfort of His company, and be to us a perpetual guide. He does not despise, neglect, or leave behind the children of the flock. He has not bidden us move forward and leave them. He has not traveled so hastily as to leave us with our children behind. Oh, no; but He has evened the path to life, even for children. And parents are required in His name to lead them along the narrow way. God has appointed us a path suited to the strength and capacity of children. 1T 388.2"
Both passages speak of God leading individuals on a path. Psalm 23:3 refers to 'paths of righteousness,' while EGW speaks of 'the path to life' and a path suited to children. The shared theme of divine guidance makes this a thematic parallel.
Psalms 23:4
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."
"As physical health is regained, men and women are better able to exercise that faith in Christ which secures the health of the soul. In the consciousness of sins forgiven there is inexpressible peace and joy and rest. The clouded hope of the Christian is brightened. The words express the belief, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” “He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength.” Psalm 46:1 ; 23:4 ; Isaiah 40:29 . MH 267.6"
The EGW passage directly quotes Psalm 23:4, making it an explicit allusion.
"“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.... Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1-4 . Ed 164.2"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 23:4.
"This humble, trustful prayer by one who long had been a chosen vessel in the Master's service, was fully answered. Hers was the comfort that causes a child of the great Father of light and love to fear no evil, even while passing through the valley of the shadow of death. One Sabbath day, only a few short weeks before she breathed her last, she said to her son: LS 444.4"
The EGW passage explicitly mentions 'passing through the valley of the shadow of death' and connects it to the comfort received from God, directly alluding to Psalm 23:4.
"Not only was Balaam shown the history of the Hebrew people as a nation, but he beheld the increase and prosperity of the true Israel of God to the close of time. He saw the special favor of the Most High attending those who love and fear Him . He saw them supported by His arm as they enter the dark valley of the shadow of death. And he beheld them coming forth from their graves, crowned with glory, honor, and immortality. He saw the redeemed rejoicing in the unfading glories of the earth made new. Gazing upon the scene, he exclaimed, “Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel?” And as he saw the crown of glory on every brow, the joy beaming from every countenance, and looked forward to that endless life of unalloyed happiness, he uttered the solemn prayer, “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!” PP 447.3"
EGW's description of the righteous being supported through the valley of the shadow of death and ultimately resurrected with glory echoes the sentiment and imagery of Psalm 23:4. While not a direct quote, the thematic resonance is strong.
"“I am very weak. I am sure that this is my last sickness. I am not worried at the thought of dying. I feel comforted all the time, that the Lord is near me. I am not anxious. The preciousness of the Saviour has been so plain to me. He has been a friend. He has kept me in sickness and in health. LS 444.5"
The EGW passage expresses a similar sentiment of peace and comfort in the face of death, relying on the presence of the Lord, as Psalm 23:4. The phrase "I am not anxious" directly echoes the sentiment of fearing no evil because God is with her.
"“Heavenly Father, I come to Thee, weak, like a broken reed, yet by the Holy Spirit's vindication of righteousness and truth that shall prevail. I thank Thee, Lord, I thank Thee, and I will not draw away from anything that Thou wouldst give me to bear. Let Thy light, let Thy joy and grace, be upon me in my last hours, that I may glorify Thee, is my great desire; and this is all that I shall ask of Thee. Amen.” LS 444.3"
Both passages address God in a time of weakness and acknowledge the need for His presence and comfort. While Psalm 23:4 specifically mentions the 'valley of the shadow of death,' EGW's prayer reflects a similar awareness of mortality and reliance on God's support.
"Again my husband's health became very poor. He was troubled with cough and soreness of lungs, and his nervous system was prostrated. His anxiety of mind, the burdens which he bore in Rochester, his labor in the office, sickness and deaths in the family, the lack of sympathy from those who should have shared his labors, together with his traveling and preaching, were too much for his strength, and he seemed to be fast going down to a consumptive's grave. That was a time of gloom and darkness. A few rays of light occasionally parted the heavy clouds, giving us a little hope, or we should have sunk in despair. It seemed at times that God had forsaken us. 1T 96.2"
Both passages describe a time of darkness and potential despair, with the EGW passage echoing the sentiment of walking through a difficult period where hope seems distant. The Psalm offers comfort in God's presence, while the EGW passage expresses a feeling of God's absence, creating a contrasting yet related thematic parallel.
It was not given Elisha to follow his master in a fiery chariot. Upon him the Lord permitted to come a lingering illness. During the long hours of human weakness and suffering his faith laid fast hold on the promises of God, and he beheld ever about him heavenly messengers of comfort and peace. As on the heights of Dothan he had seen the encircling hosts of heaven, the fiery chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof, so now he was conscious of the presence of sympathizing angels, and he was sustained. Throughout his life he had exercised strong faith, and as he had advanced in a knowledge of God's providences and of His merciful kindness, faith had ripened into an abiding trust in his God, and when death called him he was ready to rest from his labors. PK 263.3 “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15 . “The righteous hath hope in his death.” Proverbs 14:32 . With the psalmist, Elisha could say in all confidence, “God will redeem my soul from the p…
Both passages deal with facing difficult circumstances (Elisha's illness and the 'valley of the shadow of death') and finding comfort and reassurance in God's presence. The connection is thematic.
"The light of the setting sun still lingers on the mountain top, and gilds with its fading glory the path they are traveling. But soon the light dies out from hill as well as valley, the sun disappears behind the western horizon, and the solitary travelers are wrapped in the darkness of night. The gloom of their surroundings seems in harmony with their sorrowful lives, around which the clouds are gathering and thickening. DA 419.2"
Both passages deal with darkness, sorrow, and a journey. The Psalm speaks of walking through the valley of the shadow of death, while the EGW passage describes travelers in the darkness of night with sorrowful lives. The connection is thematic, but not a direct quote or allusion.
"disease of the heart.” This did not startle me, for I had been aware that without speedy relief I must go down to the grave. Two other women who had come for counsel were suffering with the same disease. The physician said that I was in a more dangerous condition than either of them, and it could not be more than three weeks before I would be afflicted with paralysis. LS 151.2"
Both passages touch on facing death. EGW describes her awareness of impending death, while Psalm 23:4 speaks of walking through the valley of the shadow of death. The connection lies in the shared theme of confronting mortality.
"My experience has been singular, and for years I have suffered peculiar trials of mind. The condition of God's people, and my connection with the work of God, have often brought upon me a weight of sadness and discouragement which cannot be expressed. For years I have looked to the grave as a sweet resting place. In my last vision I inquired of my attending angel why I was left to suffer such perplexity of mind, and was so often thrown upon Satan's battleground. I entreated that if I must be so closely connected with the cause of truth, I might be delivered from these severe trials. There is power and strength with the angels of God, and I pleaded that I might be shielded. 1T 346.1"
Both passages address the experience of facing trials and potential danger, but with the assurance of God's presence and protection. EGW describes being on 'Satan's battleground' and pleading for shielding, while the Psalmist walks through the 'valley of the shadow of death' but fears no evil because God is with him. The shared theme of facing adversity with divine support connects the two passages.
"Total darkness settled upon me, and there seemed no way out of the shadows. Could the truth have been presented to me as I now understand it, much perplexity and sorrow would have been spared me. If the love of God had been dwelt upon more, and His stern justice less, the beauty and glory of His character would have inspired me with a deep and earnest love for my Creator. 1T 25.3"
Both passages deal with darkness and shadows, but the EGW passage focuses on a personal experience of spiritual darkness, while the Psalm speaks of the 'valley of the shadow of death.' The connection is thematic, but not strong enough to warrant a higher confidence.
to be found in the Sacred Record. With only the naked promise that his descendants should possess Canaan, without the least outward evidence, he followed on where God should lead, fully and sincerely complying with the conditions on his part, and confident that the Lord would faithfully perform His word. The patriarch went wherever God indicated his duty; he passed through wildernesses without terror; he went among idolatrous nations, with the one thought: “God has spoken; I am obeying His voice; He will guide, He will protect me.” 4T 524.1 Just such faith and confidence as Abraham had the messengers of God need today. But many whom the Lord could use will not move onward, hearing and obeying the one Voice above all others. The connection with kindred and friends, the former habits and associations, too often have so great an influence upon God's servants that He can give them but little instruction, can communicate to them but little knowledge of His purposes; and often after a time H…
Both passages address the idea of facing trials without fear because of God's presence. EGW mentions Abraham passing through wildernesses without terror, while Psalm 23:4 speaks of walking through the valley of the shadow of death without fear. The connection is thematic, revolving around trust in God's protection during difficult times.
"At length we came to a large chasm, at which our path ended. There was nothing now to guide the feet, nothing upon which to rest them. Our whole reliance must be upon the cords, which had increased in size until they were as large as our bodies. Here we were for a time thrown into perplexity and distress. We inquired in fearful whispers: “To what is the cord attached?” My husband was just before me. Large drops of sweat were falling from his brow, the veins in his neck and temples were increased to double their usual size, and suppressed, agonizing groans came from his lips. The sweat was dropping from my face, and I felt such anguish as I had never felt before. A fearful struggle was before us. Should we fail here, all the difficulties of our journey had been experienced for nought. 2T 596.2"
Both passages describe a difficult and potentially dangerous journey, with a sense of fear and reliance on a higher power. The valley of the shadow of death in Psalms parallels the chasm in EGW's vision.
Psalms 23:5
"Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over."
"During the three weeks that we were in Rochester, much of the time was spent in prayer. My husband proposed sending to Maine for Elder J. N. Andrews, to Olcott for Brother and Sister Lindsay, and to Roosevelt, requesting those who had faith in God, and felt it their duty, to come and pray for him. These friends came in answer to his call, and for ten days we had special and earnest seasons of prayer. All who engaged in these seasons of prayer were greatly blessed. We were often so refreshed with heavenly showers of grace that we could say, “My cup runneth over.” We could weep and praise God for His rich salvation. LS 171.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes "My cup runneth over" from Psalm 23:5 to describe the feeling of being blessed and filled with God's grace during a time of prayer. This is a clear and intentional reference.
Psalms 23:6
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."
"While we review, not the dark chapters in our experience, but the manifestations of God's great mercy and unfailing love, we shall praise far more than complain. We shall talk of the loving faithfulness of God as the true, tender, compassionate shepherd of His flock, which He has declared that none shall pluck out of His hand. The language of the heart will not be selfish murmuring and repining. Praise, like clear-flowing streams, will come from God's truly believing ones. “Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” “Thou shalt guide me with Thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but Thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee.” Psalm 23:6 ; 73:24, 25 . 6T 367.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes Psalm 23:6.