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 55:6
"And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest."
"Naturally of a timid and shrinking disposition, Jeremiah longed for the peace and quiet of a life of retirement, where he need not witness the continued impenitence of his beloved nation. His heart was wrung with anguish over the ruin wrought by sin. “O that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears,” he mourned, “that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people! O that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them.” Jeremiah 9:1, 2 . PK 419.2"
Both passages express a longing for escape from difficult circumstances and a desire for peace and solitude. The emotional resonance is strong.
"After I came out of vision, everything seemed changed; a gloom was spread over all that I beheld. Oh, how dark this world looked to me! I wept when I found myself here, and felt homesick. I had seen a better world, and it had spoiled this for me. LS 67.3"
Both passages express a longing for escape from earthly troubles and a desire for a better, more peaceful place. The sentiment of wanting to "fly away" and feeling "homesick" for a better world connects the two.
"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 express a longing for rest and escape from suffering. EGW looks to the grave as a resting place, while the Psalmist desires to fly away like a dove to find rest. The shared theme of seeking respite from hardship connects the two passages.
"Grieved in spirit beyond measure, I remained at home, dreading to go anywhere among the church for fear of being wounded. Finally, as no one made an effort to relieve my feelings, I felt it to be my duty to call together a number of experienced brethren and sisters, and meet the reports which were circulating in regard to us. Weighed down and depressed, even to anguish, I met the charges against me, giving a recital of my journey east, one year since, and the painful circumstances attending that journey. 1T 580.2"
Both passages express a desire to escape from a distressing situation. EGW describes being grieved and dreading to face the church, while Psalm 55:6 expresses a longing to fly away and find rest.
Psalms 55:12
"For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him:"
"What were the feelings of the father and king, so cruelly wronged, in this terrible peril? “A mighty valiant man,” a man of war, a king, whose word was law, betrayed by his son whom he had loved and indulged and unwisely trusted, wronged and deserted by subjects bound to him by the strongest ties of honor and fealty—in what words did David pour out the feelings of his soul? In the hour of his darkest trial David's heart was stayed upon God, and he sang: PP 741.4"
The EGW passage describes David's betrayal by his son and subjects, leading to a moment of deep distress. While it doesn't directly quote Psalm 55:12, the verse's sentiment about the pain of betrayal by someone close aligns with the context of David's situation described by EGW.
Psalms 55:12-14
"For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company."
"August 29, 1854, another responsibility was added to our family in the birth of Willie. About this time the first number of the paper falsely called The Messenger of Truth was received. Those who slandered us through that paper had been reproved for their faults and errors. They would not bear reproof, and in a secret manner at first, afterward more openly, used their influence against us. This we could have borne, but some of those who should have stood by us were influenced by these wicked persons. Some whom we had trusted, and who had acknowledged that our labors had been signally blessed of God, withdrew their sympathy from us, and bestowed it upon comparative strangers. 1T 95.3"
The EGW passage describes being betrayed by those who should have supported her, similar to the lament in Psalm 55 about a trusted friend turning against the speaker. The parallel is strong, focusing on the pain of betrayal by someone close.
I was visiting Battle Creek in company with a person of commanding manner and dignified deportment. In my dream I was passing around to the houses of our brethren. As we were about to enter, we heard voices engaged in earnest conversation. The name of my husband was frequently mentioned, and I was grieved and astonished to hear those who had professed to be our firmest friends relating scenes and incidents which had occurred during the severe affliction of my husband, when his mental and physical powers were palsied to a great degree. I was grieved to hear the voice of the professed brother from New York before mentioned, relating in an earnest manner, and in an exaggerated light, incidents of which those at Battle Creek were ignorant, while our friends in Battle Creek, in their turn, related that which they knew. I became faint and sick at heart, and in my dream came near falling, when the hand of my attendant supported me, and he said: “You must listen. You must know this even if it …
This is a strong thematic parallel. Psalm 55:12-14 speaks directly to the pain of being betrayed by a close friend, which is precisely what the EGW passage describes. The emotional impact and the nature of the relationship are very similar.
"When God has spoken, my husband has hearkened to His voice; but to bear the condemnation and reflection of his friends who do not seem to discriminate has been a great trial. When his brethren shall have stood under the same circumstances, and borne the responsibilities that he has borne with as little encouragement and help as he has had, then they may be able to understand how to sustain, how to comfort, how to bless, without torturing his feelings by reflections and censures which he in no way deserves. 3T 509.3"
Both passages deal with the pain of being reproached by those close to you, rather than enemies. The Psalm speaks of a trusted friend, while EGW speaks of brethren. The core theme of betrayal and undeserved criticism from those expected to be supportive is present in both.
"him so great perplexity and distress as he now experienced. From the professed friends of the Reformation had risen its worst enemies. The very truths which had brought him so great joy and consolation were being employed to stir up strife and create confusion in the church. GC 187.4"
Both passages highlight the pain and distress caused by betrayal from within one's own group. Psalms 55 speaks of a close friend turning against the speaker, while EGW describes Luther's distress at being opposed by 'professed friends of the Reformation.' The emotional and relational dynamic is strikingly similar.
I came home to Battle Creek like a weary child who needed comforting words and encouragement. It is painful for me here to state that we were received with great coldness by our brethren, from whom, three months before, I had parted in perfect union, excepting on the point of our leaving home. The first night spent in Battle Creek, I dreamed that I had been laboring very hard and had been traveling for the purpose of attending a large meeting, and that I was very weary. Sisters were arranging my hair and adjusting my dress, and I fell asleep. When I awoke I was astonished and indignant to find that my garments had been removed, and there had been placed upon me old rags, pieces of bedquilts knotted and sewed together. Said I: “What have you done to me? Who has done this shameful work of removing my garments and replacing them with beggars’ rags?” I tore off the rags and threw them from me. I was grieved, and with anguish cried out: “Bring me back my garments which I have worn for twent…
The EGW passage describes being received with coldness by brethren, which caused grief. Psalms 55:12-14 speaks of betrayal by a close acquaintance, causing pain. The thematic parallel lies in the pain caused by those who should have been supportive.
Psalms 55:17
"Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice."
"Arriving at home, I spent most of the long hours of darkness in prayer and tears. One reason that led me to conceal my feelings from my friends was the dread of hearing a word of discouragement. My hope was so small, and my faith so weak, that I feared if another took a similar view of my condition, it would plunge me into despair. Yet I longed for someone to tell me what I should do to be saved, what steps to take to meet my Saviour and give myself entirely up to the Lord. I regarded it a great thing to be a Christian, and felt that it required some peculiar effort on my part. 1T 16.1"
Both passages relate to prayer. The EGW passage mentions spending long hours in prayer, while Psalms 55:17 describes a regular prayer schedule. The connection is thematic, but not a strong or direct link.
Psalms 55:21
"The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords."
"The South have strengthened themselves greatly since their rebellion first commenced. If active measures had then been taken by the North, this rebellion would have been speedily crushed out. But that which was small at first has increased in strength and numbers until it has become most powerful. Other nations are intently watching this nation, for what purpose I was not informed, and are making great preparations for some event. The greatest perplexity and anxiety now exists among our national men. Proslavery men and traitors are in the very midst of them; and while these are professedly in favor of the Union, they have an influence in making decisions, some of which even favor the South. 1T 267.3"
The EGW passage describes individuals who outwardly profess loyalty but harbor treachery, which aligns with the sentiment expressed in Psalms 55:21, where words are smooth but the heart is full of war. The parallel is reasonably strong.
"In this work of disaffection there was greater union and harmony among the discordant elements of the congregation than had ever before existed. Korah's success with the people increased his confidence and confirmed him in his belief that the usurpation of authority by Moses, if unchecked, would be fatal to the liberties of Israel; he also claimed that God had opened the matter to him, and had authorized him to make a change in the government before it should be too late. But many were not ready to accept Korah's accusations against Moses. The memory of his patient, self-sacrificing labors came up before them, and conscience was disturbed. It was therefore necessary to assign some selfish motive for his deep interest for Israel; and the old charge was reiterated, that he had led them out to perish in the wilderness, that he might seize upon their possessions. PP 398.1"
The EGW passage describes how Korah's followers used smooth words and accusations to undermine Moses' authority, despite his past service. This aligns with the sentiment in Psalm 55:21, which speaks of deceptive words that conceal malicious intent. While not a direct quote, the thematic parallel is strong, as both passages highlight the use of deceitful language to achieve harmful goals.
Psalms 55:22
"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."
"***** Men in positions of responsibility are in danger of becoming crushed under the many burdens that they bear, but the Lord does not press on anyone burdens too heavy to be borne. He estimates every weight before He allows it to rest upon the hearts of those who are laborers together with Him. To every one of His workers our loving heavenly Father says: “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee.” Psalm 55:22 . Let the burden bearers believe that He will carry every load, great or small. 7T 297.2"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 55:22 in this passage.
"Do not depend upon human aid. Look beyond human beings to the One appointed by God to bear our griefs, to carry our sorrows, and to supply our necessities. Taking God at His word, make a beginning wherever you find work to do, and move forward with unfaltering faith. It is faith in Christ's presence that gives strength and steadfastness. Work with unselfish interest, with painstaking effort, with persevering energy. MH 153.3"
Both passages encourage reliance on God rather than human aid, particularly in times of difficulty. The EGW passage elaborates on how this reliance translates into action and perseverance.
"presence sustain them in their sufferings.” MH 229.2"
Both passages speak of God sustaining individuals during suffering. While not a direct quote, the thematic connection is strong and relevant to the context.
"On this journey my husband's mind was much exercised upon the subject of spiritualism, and soon after our return he engaged in writing the book entitled, Signs of the Times . He was still feeble, and could sleep but little, but the Lord was his support. When his mind was in a confused, suffering state, we would bow before God, and in our distress cry unto Him. He heard our earnest prayers, and often blessed my husband so that with refreshed spirits he went on with the work. Many times in the day did we thus go before the Lord in earnest prayer. That book was not written in his own strength. 1T 92.1"
The EGW passage describes casting their burdens upon the Lord in prayer and receiving support, directly echoing the sentiment of Psalm 55:22. The connection is strong and thematic.
"The next morning, while at family prayer, I was taken off in vision, and was shown concerning these matters. I saw that my husband must not give up the paper; for such a step was just what Satan was trying to drive him to take, and he was working through agents to do this. I was shown that we must continue to publish, and that the Lord would sustain us; that those who had been guilty of casting upon us such burdens would have to see the extent of their cruel course, and come back confessing their injustice, or the frown of God would be upon them; that it was not against us merely that they had spoken and acted, but against Him who had called us to fill the place He wished us to occupy; and that all their suspicion, jealousy, and secret influence was faithfully chronicled in heaven, and would not be blotted out until everyone who had taken a part in it should see the extent of his wrong course, and retrace every step. 1T 89.2"
The EGW passage speaks of the Lord sustaining them in their work despite opposition, echoing the sentiment of casting burdens on the Lord and being sustained. The connection is more than just a passing similarity.
"Do we well to be thus unbelieving? Why should we be ungrateful and distrustful? Jesus is our friend; all heaven is interested in our welfare. We should not allow the perplexities and worries of everyday life to fret the mind and cloud the brow. If we do we shall always have something to vex and annoy. We should not indulge a solicitude that only frets and wears us, but does not help us to bear trials. SC 122.1"
Both passages encourage trusting in God to alleviate burdens and anxieties. The EGW passage speaks against unbelief and worry, while the Psalm encourages casting burdens on the Lord. The connection is more than superficial.
"“About two weeks before our camp meeting the disease from which I had been suffering was checked, yet I gained little strength. As the time for the meeting drew near, it seemed impossible that I could take any part in it.... I prayed much over the matter, but still remained very feeble.... In my suffering condition I could only fall helpless into the arms of my Redeemer, and there rest. LS 264.1"
The EGW passage describes a situation where she felt weak and relied on God, which echoes the sentiment of casting one's burdens on the Lord as described in Psalm 55:22. The parallel is clear and meaningful.
"use in exhortation when they feel just like it; but they will never make good, burden-bearing laborers. When the work moves hard and everything assumes a discouraging aspect, the excitable and those dependent upon feeling are not prepared to bear their share of the burdens. In times of discouragement and darkness how important to have calm-thinking men, who are not dependent on circumstances, but who trust God and labor on in the darkness as well as in the light. Men who serve God from principle, although their faith may be severely tried, will be seen leaning securely upon the never-failing arm of Jehovah. 1T 444.3"
The EGW passage speaks of trusting God in times of discouragement and leaning on the 'never-failing arm of Jehovah,' which parallels the sentiment of Psalm 55:22, urging believers to cast their burdens upon the Lord for sustenance. Both passages emphasize reliance on God during difficult times.
"Comforting Assurances Those were days of sadness. I looked upon my three little boys, soon, as I feared, to be left fatherless, and thoughts like these forced themselves upon me: My husband will die of overwork in the cause of present truth; and who realizes what he has suffered? Who knows the burdens he has for years borne, the extreme care which has crushed his spirits and ruined his health, bringing him to an untimely grave, leaving his family destitute and dependent? I often asked myself the question: Does God have no care for these things? Does He pass them by unnoticed? I was comforted to know that there is One who judgeth righteously, and that every sacrifice, every self-denial, and every pang of anguish endured for His sake, is faithfully chronicled in heaven, and will bring its reward. The day of the Lord will declare and bring to light things that are not yet made manifest. LS 157"
The EGW passage expresses anxiety and burden, followed by comfort in knowing God sees and rewards sacrifices. This aligns with the theme of casting burdens on the Lord and finding sustenance in Psalms 55:22. The connection is thematic, focusing on finding solace in God during times of hardship.
"Said the angel: “God will be glorified in the restoration of His servant to health. God has heard the prayers of His servants. His arms are beneath His afflicted servant. God has the case, and he must, although afflicted, dismiss his fears, his anxiety, his doubts and unbelief, and calmly trust in the great yet merciful God, who pities, loves, and cares for him. He will have conflicts with the enemy, but should ever be comforted with the remembrance that a stronger than the enemy has charge of him, and he need not fear. By faith rely on the evidences which God has been pleased to give, and he will gloriously triumph in God.” 1T 617.2"
Both passages emphasize trusting in God during affliction and casting burdens upon Him. The EGW passage expands on this theme with specific encouragement to dismiss fears and anxieties.
"such scenes in our early experience, and had suffered so much from unruly, untamable spirits, that we dreaded to be brought in contact with them. I sent in a request for the church at Battle Creek to pray for my husband, and at our family altar we earnestly sought the Lord in his behalf. With brokenness of spirit, and many tears, we tried to fasten our trembling faith upon God's promises, and we had the evidence that He heard us pray and that He would stand by my husband and impart to him counsel and wisdom. 1T 244.2"
Both passages address the idea of casting burdens on the Lord and finding sustenance and support. The EGW passage describes a situation where the author is casting her burden on the Lord through prayer.
"Our old, hard-riding carriage had been well-nigh killing us and our team. Long journeyings with it, the labor of meetings, home cares and labors, were too much for us, and I feared that my work was done. My husband tried to encourage me and urged me to start out again to fill our appointments at Orange, Greenbush, and Ithaca. Finally I resolved to start, and, if I was no worse, continue the journey. I rode ten miles kneeling in the carriage on a cushion and leaning my head upon another in my husband's lap. He drove and supported me. The next morning I was some better and decided to go on. God helped us to speak in power to the people at Orange, and a glorious work was done for backsliders and sinners. At Greenbush I had freedom and strength given me. At Ithaca the Lord helped us to speak to a large congregation whom we had never met before. 1T 599.3"
The EGW passage describes a time of physical and emotional burden, and the verse from Psalms speaks of casting burdens on the Lord for sustenance. While not a direct quote or allusion, the theme of relying on God during hardship connects the two.